= Ovarian follicle
An <ovarian follicle> is an <oocyte> together with the surrounding supporting <cells> in an ovary. Follicle development changes both the <oocyte>'s environment and the organization of the surrounding <tissue>. Growing follicles acquire granulosa and theca <cell> layers; later stages can develop a fluid-filled cavity.<Anatomy and Physiology 2e by J. Gordon Betts and others>[Section 27.2, ovarian follicles and follicular development]{ref}
A follicle is thus more than an egg under another name. Its supporting <cells> participate in signaling and steroid production, while interactions with the <oocyte> support development. Following <ovulation>, remaining follicular <tissue> can become the <corpus luteum>. The <oocyte>'s fate and the supporting <tissue>'s fate therefore diverge during the same reproductive event.
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