The corpus luteum

Normal corpus luteum function is determined by function in the follicular as well as the luteal phase. In the follicular phase adequate follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and oestrogen stimulation are required for granulosa cell mitosis and luteinizing hormone (LH) receptor synthesis. An increase in LH pulse frequency may also be necessary for adequate oestrogen synthesis and preparation of follicular cells for luteinization and secretion of progesterone. The nature of LH release may also influence luteal function and pre-ovulatory progesterone may increase the responsiveness of the follicle to gonadotrophins. The thecal vascular network becomes extensive around pre-ovulatory follicles and may influence access of gonadotrophins and/or the ability of follicular cells to respond to them. Further vascularization is an early feature of luteinization. Angiogenic factors are found in luteal tissue and prostacyclin increases luteal blood flow. The corpus luteum consists of large cells which secrete most of the progesterone and have prostaglandin F2 alpha receptors and small cells which are responsive to LH. In the luteal phase subnormal luteal function has not been associated with a reduction in LH concentration, pulse frequency or amplitude. The number and occupancy of LH receptors and adenylate cyclase activity do not appear to be altered by a reduction in luteal function. Low density lipoprotein provides the substrate and somatomedin C modulates among other hormones' influences, progesterone production. In addition to the cAMP second messenger system phosphatidyl inositol metabolism may also be associated with LH stimulation. Luteolysis is an active process; prostaglandin F2 alpha or lipoxygenase products and possibly an endogenous GnRH-like ovarian hormone may mediate it as also may oxytocin in some species.