maturation

(mach″ŭ-rā′shŏn )

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[L. maturatio, ripening]

1. Maturing; ripening, as a graafian follicle.
2. Suppuration.
3. The process in the development of germ cells (spermatozoa and ova) occurring in spermatogenesis or oogenesis in which the number of chromosomes is reduced from the diploid number to the haploid number (one half of diploid). This process includes two cell divisions.
SEE: oogenesis; SEE: spermatogenesis
4. The completion of the mineralization pattern or crystalline structure of calcified tissues.
5. In development of an organism, the movement toward or achievement of adulthood.

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