Question

What would happen if the follicle could not produce Theca cells?

1) Ovulation would not occur.

2) Granulosa cells would not be able to produce androstenedione.

3) FSH would no longer be able to signal to granulosa cells.

4) All of the above.

Which of the following is TRUE?

1) Fatty acids released in response to increased levels of glucagon can be used as an alternative fuel source for muscles.

2) Cell membranes are very permeable to glucose, making it a good fuel source.

3) The SYN stimulates glucose diffusion into muscle cells.

4) Long exhaustive exercise causes reduced amino acid levels in the blood.

Answer 1

1. Theca cells of follicles are group of endocrine cells surrounding the follicles which have two layers of connective tissue, theca interna and theca externa.

These cells has significant role in folliculogenesis. They provide signal transduction between granulosa cells and oocytes, provide structure, nutrients, and support to the maturing follicles. Theca cells produce androstenedione, an endogenous androgen steroid hormone which helps in the synthesis of estrogen.

The granulosa cells covert the androgens which is secreted by the theca cells to estradiol under the influence of FSH. So if theca cells are absent, estrogen will not be produced.

Thus the answer is 1) ovulation would not occur.

2. When blood glucose level goes down, pancreatic alpha cell produce glucagon. Glucagon enhances lipolysis and release of fatty acid into the blood. This fatty acid under go beta oxidation, produce acetyl coA. This acetyl coA enters to the citric acid cycle and produce ATP. Hence fatty acid is good alternative source fuel for muscle tissue

Answer is 1) Fatty acids released in response to increased levels of glucagon can be used as an alternative fuel source for muscles.