Luteolysis

Luteolysis (pronounced: loo-tee-oh-LY-sis) is a physiological process that occurs in the female reproductive system. It involves the degeneration of the corpus luteum, a temporary endocrine structure in female mammals, which is involved in the production of relatively high levels of progesterone, a hormone necessary for the maintenance of pregnancy.

Etymology

The term "luteolysis" is derived from the Latin luteus, meaning "yellow", and the Greek lysis, meaning "loosening" or "dissolution". This refers to the breakdown of the yellowish corpus luteum.

Process

Luteolysis begins after the ovulation phase of the menstrual cycle if fertilization of the egg does not occur. The corpus luteum, which is responsible for the production of progesterone, begins to degenerate. This leads to a decrease in progesterone levels, which in turn triggers the onset of menstruation.

Regulation

The process of luteolysis is regulated by several hormones, including prostaglandin F2alpha (PGF2α), which is produced by the uterus in most mammals. PGF2α is responsible for initiating the process of luteolysis by inhibiting the secretion of progesterone.

Related Terms

• Corpus luteum
• Progesterone
• Ovulation
• Menstruation
• Prostaglandin F2alpha

See Also

• Luteal phase
• Luteinization
• Luteotropic hormone

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Luteolysis
• Wikipedia's article - Luteolysis

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