For those trying to conceive, a new study has uncovered a hidden role for lipid droplets in fertility. Lipid droplets are small, round structures found within cells that are made up of fat and proteins. Scientists from the University of Edinburgh have found that these droplets are crucial for egg maturation and fertility in mice.

The researchers used a technique called super resolution microscopy to study ovarian tissue from female mice. They discovered that the lipid droplets were essential for the development of egg cells, and that their size and number increased as the eggs matured.

The findings could have implications for humans, as they suggest that lipid droplets play a similar role in human fertility. The research team hopes to investigate further and explore how this new information can be used to improve fertility treatments.

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source: Phys.org