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Related Concept Videos

Ovarian Cycle01:27

Ovarian Cycle

The menstrual cycle includes a critical component known as the ovarian cycle, which undergoes two main phases each month—the follicular phase and the luteal phase. The follicular phase is variable and averaging around 14 days. Ovulation, triggered by a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), marks the transition between the two phases. The second phase, the luteal phase, is relatively consistent, lasting approximately 14 days, and is marked by the activity of the corpus luteum. While a cycle length...
Hormonal Regulation of the Menstrual Cycle01:22

Hormonal Regulation of the Menstrual Cycle

The ovarian cycle regulates endometrial changes throughout a single menstrual cycle via the coordinated action of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and gonadotrophins.
At puberty, GnRH begins a pulsatile release pattern, which triggers the anterior pituitary gland to secrete follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). The frequency and amplitude of GnRH pulses vary across the menstrual cycle, with faster pulses favoring LH release and slower pulses favoring FSH release.
Hormonal Control of the Ovarian Cycle01:30

Hormonal Control of the Ovarian Cycle

The ovarian cycle is meticulously regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. This cycle orchestrates the release of a mature oocyte, essential for reproduction.
Before puberty, the hypothalamus releases GnRH in a low frequency, low amplitude pulsatile manner. This along with the immature hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis activity, results in low estrogen levels and the absence of a fully functional ovarian cycle.  At puberty, GnRH secretion increases in both frequency and...
Secretory Phase01:19

Secretory Phase

The secretory phase of the menstrual cycle, spanning from day 14 to 28 in a typical 28-day cycle, is a period of significant physiological changes in the female reproductive system. This phase commences immediately after ovulation and is characterized by the preparation of the endometrium for potential embryo implantation.
Following ovulation, the corpus luteum, a temporary endocrine structure, produces progesterone and estrogens. These hormones stimulate the growth and coiling of endometrial...
Proliferative Phase01:20

Proliferative Phase

The proliferative phase typically occurs after menstruation and lasts between 6 to 13 days in a standard 28-day cycle. This phase involves the reconstruction of the endometrium, guided by estrogen produced by the developing ovarian follicle.
Notably, the stratum basale, the basal layer of the endometrium, including the basal parts of the uterine glands, remains unaffected by menstruation. Stem cells in this layer undergo mitosis, regenerating the stratum functionalis and thickening the...
Gonadal and Placental Hormones01:24

Gonadal and Placental Hormones

The gonads, namely the testes in males and the ovaries in females, are pivotal in producing gonadal hormones that orchestrate the intricate processes of sexual development and reproduction.
In males, testosterone is the primary gonadal androgen. It plays a central role in the maturation of male reproductive organs — the penis and testes. Additionally, testosterone is instrumental in the development of secondary sexual characteristics — a deep voice as well as facial and pubic hair growth — and...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 10, 2026

Performing Vaginal Lavage, Crystal Violet Staining, and Vaginal Cytological Evaluation for Mouse Estrous Cycle Staging Identification
09:01

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Published on: September 15, 2012

Changes in PGF2alpha secretion during prolonged luteal phase in mares.

H Kindahl1, K Odensvik, B Hansen

  • 1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden.

Journal of Reproduction and Fertility. Supplement
|August 5, 2010
PubMed
Summary

Persistent corpora lutea in mares are linked to reduced prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alpha) secretion. This indicates a decreased uterine sensitivity to oxytocin or impaired prostaglandin production, affecting luteolysis.

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Published on: September 6, 2018

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive Endocrinology
  • Veterinary Science
  • Equine Physiology

Background:

  • The corpus luteum (CL) is crucial for maintaining pregnancy in mares.
  • Persistent corpora lutea can disrupt normal reproductive cycles.
  • Prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2alpha) is the primary luteolytic agent in mares.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate PGF2alpha secretion dynamics in mares with experimentally induced persistent corpora lutea.
  • To compare PGF2alpha secretion patterns between mares with normal and prolonged luteal phases.
  • To evaluate uterine sensitivity to oxytocin in mares with persistent CL.

Main Methods:

  • Experiment 1: Measured 15-ketodihydro-PGF2alpha (PGFM) plasma concentrations (mean, peak, surges) from day 12-16 in normal vs. prolonged luteal phases.
  • Experiment 2: Assessed oxytocin-induced PGFM secretion on days 13 and 16 in normal vs. prolonged luteal phases.
  • Utilized altrenogest to induce prolonged luteal phases in mares.

Main Results:

  • Mares with prolonged luteal phases showed significantly lower mean PGFM, peak PGFM, and PGFM surges compared to normal cycles (Expt 1).
  • Oxytocin-induced PGFM secretion was lower on day 16 in mares with prolonged luteal phases.
  • Total PGF2alpha secretion decreased from day 13 to 16 in prolonged luteal phases, unlike normal cycles. Uterine response to oxytocin was diminished.

Conclusions:

  • Induced prolonged luteal phases in mares are associated with reduced PGF2alpha secretion.
  • The failure of luteolysis is likely due to decreased uterine sensitivity to oxytocin or impaired prostaglandin synthesis.
  • These findings highlight altered PGF2alpha signaling in mares with persistent corpora lutea.