Human oogenesis, the process of egg cell development, involves the formation of polar bodies. Polar bodies are small, nonfunctional cells that are produced during female gametogenesis. Let's explore the details of polar body formation in human beings.

Oogenesis:
Oogenesis is the process of egg cell development that occurs in the ovaries of females. It involves several stages, including the division of germ cells, meiosis, and the formation of polar bodies.

Formation of Polar Bodies:
During oogenesis, a diploid germ cell called an oogonium undergoes mitotic divisions to produce primary oocytes. Each primary oocyte is arrested in prophase I of meiosis until puberty.

Upon puberty, one primary oocyte is selected each month to complete meiosis I. This division results in the formation of two cells: a large secondary oocyte and a small polar body. The secondary oocyte receives most of the cytoplasm, organelles, and nutrients, while the polar body receives only a small amount.

The secondary oocyte then enters meiosis II but is arrested in metaphase II. If fertilization occurs, the secondary oocyte will complete meiosis II, resulting in the formation of a mature ovum and a second polar body. The mature ovum contains a haploid set of chromosomes and is capable of being fertilized by a sperm.

Number of Polar Bodies:
During oogenesis in human beings, a total of three polar bodies are formed. The first polar body is produced during meiosis I, and the second and third polar bodies are formed during meiosis II.

The first polar body is relatively large, while the second and third polar bodies are smaller in size due to the uneven distribution of cytoplasm during meiotic divisions. These polar bodies are nonfunctional and eventually degenerate.

Significance of Polar Bodies:
Polar bodies play a crucial role in the distribution of cytoplasmic components and genetic material during oogenesis. They help to ensure that the mature ovum contains the necessary nutrients and organelles for fertilization and subsequent embryo development.

In conclusion, during oogenesis in human beings, a total of three polar bodies are formed. These polar bodies are nonfunctional and are produced during meiosis I and meiosis II. They play a significant role in distributing cytoplasmic components and genetic material, ultimately contributing to the development of a mature ovum capable of fertilization.

After the first meiotic division of primary oocyte (2n), a tiny first polar body(polocyte) and secondary oocyte (n) are formed. At present, we are not certain whether the first polar body born out of first meiosis divide further or degenerate. If it divides (mitotically), then two secondary polar bodies are formed.

The second meiotic division of secondary oocyte after sperm entry leads to the formation of a second polar body and a haploid ovum (ootid).

Eventually, there will be 3 polar bodies (if the division of 1st polar body occurs) OR 2 polar bodies (if the 1st polar body does not divide).

All the polar bodies formed degenerate later.