Corpus luteum
Corpus Luteum
Corpus luteum (pronounced: /ˈkɔːrpəs ˈluːtiːəm/) is a temporary endocrine structure in female mammals, which is involved in the production of relatively high levels of progesterone and moderate levels of estradiol and inhibin A.
Etymology
The term "corpus luteum" is derived from the Latin words 'corpus' meaning 'body' and 'luteum' meaning 'yellow', referring to its yellowish appearance.
Function
The primary function of the corpus luteum is to secrete progesterone, a hormone necessary for the maintenance of pregnancy. If pregnancy does not occur, the corpus luteum will degenerate into a corpus albicans, a process known as luteolysis.
Related Terms
- Corpus Albicans: The degenerated form of the corpus luteum.
- Progesterone: A hormone secreted by the corpus luteum that prepares the uterus for the implantation of a fertilized ovum and helps maintain pregnancy.
- Estradiol: A form of estrogen produced by the corpus luteum.
- Inhibin A: A hormone produced by the corpus luteum that inhibits the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
- Luteolysis: The degeneration of the corpus luteum into a corpus albicans.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Corpus luteum
- Wikipedia's article - Corpus luteum
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