Rediscovering the Rete Ovarii: A Structure That Might Aid Ovary Function

Recent studies have helped to clarify the functions of the rete ovarii. Yet this structure in female anatomy has languished under the radar for over a century now. Initially discovered back in 1870, this horseshoe-shaped piece of tissue has long been rejected as a useless evolutionary remnant. A new study published in 2024 in Scientific Data suggests that the rete ovarii plays a more significant role in ovarian function than previously thought.

The rete ovarii are a network of tubes, or curlicue of tissue, found beneath the ovaries. To do this, it has developed a long, tubular device that shoots a nanoliter-sized drop of protein-rich fluids straight into the ovary. Developmental biologist Jennifer McKey performed the first analysis. She found that the rete ovarii opens into the ovary, countering centuries-old hypotheses about its use.

McKey found this unusual shape of the rete ovarii while doing high-contrast imaging of whole, intact mouse ovaries. This surprising finding led to deeper inquiries into the structure’s many functions, and how it might be connected to fertility. Our researchers are constantly discovering new RNA within the rete ovarii. Their ultimate aim is to find out which genes are turned on or off at different points in the hormone cycle.

These results indicate that this structure, the rete ovarii, is likely regulated hormonally to produce functions that are vital to female fertility. Most prior studies were limited to biologically relevant sections of the ovary. Yet, with the recent reevaluation of the rete ovarii, new doors open to comprehending and treating the complexities of female reproductive health.

“I hope this encourages more investigation in reevaluating what we don’t already know about the ovary.” – Dilara Anbarci

The authors of this research underscore the importance of not to brimming with excitement to the rete ovarii in future studies. Its complex morphology and mysterious roles, however, warrant further exploration. By comprehensively studying them, we will hopefully reveal critical new information about ovarian biology and fertility.