[Growth factors--the new regulators of reproduction].

Experimental data on the role of growth factors in the processes of oocyte maturation and of proliferation and differentiation in the mammalian ovaries are reviewed. Evidence is provided that theca and granulosa cells can synthesize epidermal, fibroblast, insulin-like and transforming growth factors and have receptors to all of them. The regulation of oocyte maturation induction by the growth factors is analysed. A possible physiological influence of growth factors and inhibin on regulation of folliculogenesis and gametogenesis and also on selection of the dominant follicle in the mammalian ovaries is discussed.