Corpus Luteum Formation - Anatomy & Physiology

BACK TO THE OVARY BACK TO PROCESSES TAKING PLACE IN THE OVARY

Introduction

The number of corpora lutea formed in the ovary at any one time is directly proportional to the number of oocytes ovulated. Therefore many corpora lutea will be visible on the ovary of polytocous animals. During Luteinisation there is an increase in both the size and weight due to hyperplasia (increase in cell number) and hypertrophy (increase in cell size) within the developing corpus luteum.

Process of Luteinisation

PGE2 - plasminogen - plasmin dissolve clot and remodell tissues to form corpus luteum

two types of luteal cells are present within the corpus luteum:

• Small luteal cells - formed from remodelled Follicular Theca cells. These cells proliferate during luteinisation.
• Large luteal cells - formed from Follicular Granulosa cells that have undergone hypertrophy. These large luteal cells are the endocrine cells of the copus luteum producing large amounts of the hormone Progesterone.

increase in cytoplasm increase in lutein pigment development of smooth endoplasmic reticulum. Angiogenesis - large blood supply required to supply adequate cholosterol for p4 formation.

production of p4 and control of corpus luteum formation and development is regulated principally by LH.