摘要Programmed cell death(PCD),including autophagy,apoptosis,and ferroptosis,is a fundamental biological process that plays a critical role in follicular development and atresia in livestock.In ovaries,the vast majority of follicles undergo atresia,while only a small fraction reach ovulation.Emerging evidence suggests that these three forms of PCD are intricately involved in regulating follicular fate through distinct yet interconnected molecular mecha-nisms.This review summarizes recent advances in understanding the roles of autophagy,apoptosis,and ferroptosis in follicular development and atresia,with a focus on their molecular mechanisms and interactions.By elucidating the complex regulatory networks of PCD in ovarian physiology,this review aims to provide new insights into improv-ing reproductive efficiency in livestock through targeted modulation of these pathways.