The present technology provides for methods for the directed differentiation of multi-potent cells, female germ line stem cells, or oogonial stem cells into oocytes, granulosa cells and/or granulosa precursor cells, i.e.,“synthetic granulosa cells.” The synthetic granulosa cells are useful in methods for growth and maturation of follicles or follicle-like structures and immature oocytes. Additionally, the synthetic granulosa cells are useful in methods of increasing ovarian derived hormones and growth factors in a subject in need thereof.
