Theca Cells and Hormone Production in Ovaries

Ovaries play a vital role in producing hormones essential for the reproductive system, including androgens. Androgens are a group of sex hormones primarily associated with male development and function, although they also have roles in females' physiology. One of the key structures within ovaries that contribute significantly to this process is the theca cell.

Theca cells are specialized epithelial cells found in the cortex of the ovary. They are part of the follicle unit, which includes granulosa cells and other supporting cells around the developing egg inside the ovum. When a woman has her period, it means she is releasing mature eggs from one of these follicles each month.

Androgen synthesis occurs through two main pathways: testosterone synthesis via cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (P450scc) expressed by thecal interstitial cells and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) synthesized by theca cells. Theca cells make up a large proportion of the active tissue in the corpus luteum, contributing particularly to progesterone secretion. Progesterone plays a crucial role in pregnancy maintenance and menstrual cycling.

In summary, theca cells are important components of ovaries because they help produce critical hormones necessary for reproduction. Their activities contribute to both female and male hormonal processes, making them central elements of healthy reproductive systems.