Role of the granulosa cells of the postovulatory follicle of the domestic fowl in oviposition

Abstract

Surgical removal of the granulosa cells, leaving the remainder of the postovulatory follicle (POF) intact (including the thecal interstitial cells), resulted in delays of oviposition of about 19 h; similar delays were obtained when the granulosa was left in situ but was damaged by the insertion of a silicone disc into the POF. The insertion of wax balls resulted in delays of 3-4 h but the granulosa appeared to be normal. It is concluded that the integrity of the granulosa is important for normal oviposition.