Fig. 5. Graphical representation of the main temporal changes in the ovary of obese mice. During early obesity (4 weeks of diet-induced obesity, DIO) increased leptin signalling affects the transcriptome of cumulus cells (CCs). RNA-seq analysis revealed mainly alterations in genes involved in membrane trafficking, cytoskeleton organisation and glucose metabolism. During late obesity (16 wk DIO) leptin resistance is established, which causes accumulation of SOCS3 in the ovary. Transcriptome analysis of CCs at this timepoint indicated the activation of the inflammatory response and cellular anatomical morphogenesis, with inhibition of metabolism and transport.