Ontogeny of the cytoskeleton during mammalian oogenesis

Abstract

Mammalian oogenesis is a process which requires a variety of changes in the structure and function of the specialized female germ cell. Evidence suggests that the cytoskeleton may mediate several of these structural and functional changes. In this review we evaluate what is known of cytoskeletal function during oogenesis, with emphasis on specialized cytoskeletal features in mammals. Existing investigations suggest that the oocyte, as a highly specialized cell, contains unique cytoskeletal elements which exhibit functions restricted to the process of early development.