View source for Cumulus oophorus

== Cumulus oophorus ==

'''Cumulus oophorus''' (pronunciation: /kyo͞oˈmyo͞oləs oʊˈɒfərəs/), also known as the '''egg cloud''' or '''discus proligerus''', is a cluster of cells that surround the [[oocyte]] both in the [[ovarian follicle]] and after [[ovulation]].

=== Etymology ===

The term "cumulus oophorus" is derived from Latin, where "cumulus" means "heap" or "pile", and "oophorus" means "egg-bearing". 

=== Function ===

The main function of the cumulus oophorus is to supply vital proteins to the oocyte during its growth and development. It also plays a crucial role in the process of [[fertilization]], as it aids in the binding of the [[sperm]] to the [[zona pellucida]], a glycoprotein layer surrounding the plasma membrane of the oocyte.

=== Related Terms ===

* [[Oocyte]]: The female germ cell involved in reproduction.
* [[Ovarian follicle]]: The basic unit of female reproductive biology which contains the immature oocyte.
* [[Ovulation]]: The process in which a mature oocyte is released from the ovarian follicle.
* [[Zona pellucida]]: The glycoprotein layer surrounding the plasma membrane of oocytes.
* [[Sperm]]: The male reproductive cell.

[[Category:Medical Dictionary]]
[[Category:Reproductive System]]
[[Category:Cell Biology]]

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