scholarly journals The functions of the corpus luteum. II.—The experimental production of placentomata in the mouse

1929 ◽  
Vol 104 (729) ◽  
pp. 183-188 ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Guinea Pig ◽  
Corpus Luteum ◽  
Luteal Phase ◽  
Corpora Lutea ◽  
Experimental Production ◽  
Unmated Female ◽  
Decidual Tissue ◽  
Uterine Mucosa

During the luteal phase of the cycle in many mammals, notably in the rabbit, ferret, and dog, the uterus undergoes changes which are designed to facilitate the implantation of the fertilised ovum. In other animals, such as the guinea-pig(5), the uterine changes during the luteal phase are histologically less obvious, but physiologically the uterine mucosa is in a peculiar condition of irritability. Injury to the mucosa at this time results in the production of large blocks of decidua-like tissue, to which the terms placentomata or deciduomata have been given. It has been shown by Marshall, Hammond, Loeb and others that the presence of the corpus luteum is essential for these post-ovulative uterine changes, and therefore that the corpus luteum is directly or indirectly responsible for their production. In the rabbit decidual tissue can only be induced to develop when functional corpora lutea are present in the ovary. In the guniea-pig (Loeb, 5) placentomata can be produced during the post-ovulation phase of the cycle in the unmated female, but in the rat Long and Evans (6) were unable to obtain a similar result. This discrepancy is undoubtedly due to the fact that in the short diœstrous cycle of the rat the corpora lutea undergo comparatively little development, whereas in the guinea-pig the cycle is longer and the corpora luteá are known to become active. During the pseudo-pregnancy which follows sterile copulation in the rat (Long and Evans, 6) and also during lactation (Corner and Warren, 2) placentomata can be produced. During both of these times corpora lutea develop to a greater extent than during the diœstrous cycle and become functional.

CORPUS LUTEUM CONTROL IN HYSTERECTOMIZED GUINEA-PIGS

1965 ◽  
Vol 32 (2) ◽  
pp. 153-NP ◽  
Author(s):  
R. DEANESLY ◽  
J. S. PERRY
Keyword(s):  
Guinea Pig ◽  
Corpus Luteum ◽  
Guinea Pigs ◽  
Luteal Phase ◽  
Corpora Lutea ◽  
Vaginal Opening

SUMMARY Interruption of the prolonged luteal phase in hysterectomized guinea-pigs, followed by vaginal opening, can be caused by substances affecting the hypothalamus and hypophysis, which check gonadotrophin output. In the present experiments, both progesterone and reserpine were effective and caused regression of the corpora lutea. It may be concluded that in the guinea-pig, as in the sow and the sheep, the corpora lutea of hysterectomy do not function independently of the hypophysis. The uterine factor associated with normal cyclic corpora lutea regression, which is lacking after hysterectomy, presumably acts on the hypophysis rather than directly on the corpora lutea.

GONADAL HORMONES AND THE CONTROL OF OVULATION IN THE GUINEA-PIG

1972 ◽  
Vol 55 (3) ◽  
pp. 599-607 ◽  
Author(s):  
B. T. DONOVAN ◽  
A. N. LOCKHART
Keyword(s):  
Guinea Pig ◽  
Corpus Luteum ◽  
Acute Treatment ◽  
Gonadal Hormones ◽  
Time Of Day ◽  
Gonadal Steroids ◽  
Corpora Lutea ◽  
Plasma Progesterone ◽  
Gonadotrophin Secretion ◽  
Oestradiol Benzoate

SUMMARY The release of ovulating hormone after acute treatment with gonadal steroids, or corpus luteum removal on different days of the oestrous cycle, was studied in the guinea-pig. Injection of 25, 50 or 100 μg oestradiol or 2·5 mg progesterone on day 13 of the cycle had no effect upon gonadotrophin secretion as judged by follicular histology, but markedly altered the sizes of the corpora lutea of the previous ovulation. Treatment with oestradiol on day 14 did not elicit gonadotrophin secretion. However, administration of the same hormones to animals given 10 μg oestradiol benzoate 24 h earlier caused ovulation or follicular luteinization. Progesterone (2·5 mg) appeared least effective in stimulating gonadotrophin release; 25 μg oestradiol were more effective when given at 12.00 h than at 24.00 h but treatment with both hormones caused ovulation when given at either time of day. Luteal volumes were not affected. Removal of corpora lutea during the second half of the cycle advanced the time of expected ovulation to day 15 or earlier when the procedure was carried out on days 8 or 9, but not on days 10–13. It is concluded that 4–5 days must elapse between the fall in plasma progesterone level associated with corpus luteum regression and the release of ovulating hormone.

scholarly journals Immunohistological Localization and Expression of α-Actin in the Baboon (Papio anubis) Corpus Luteum

1997 ◽  
Vol 45 (1) ◽  
pp. 71-77 ◽  
Author(s):  
Firyal S. Khan-Dawood ◽  
Jun Yang ◽  
M. Yusoff Dawood
Keyword(s):  
Corpus Luteum ◽  
Luteal Phase ◽  
Adherens Junctions ◽  
Tunica Albuginea ◽  
Corpora Lutea ◽  
Papio Anubis ◽  
Lh Surge ◽  
Luteal Cells ◽  
Steroidogenic Cells ◽  
E Cadherin

We have recently shown the presence of E-cadherin and of α- and γ-catenins in human and baboon corpora lutea. These are components of adherens junctions between cells. The cytoplasmic catenins link the cell membrane-associated cadherins to the actin-based cytoskeleton. This interaction is necessary for the functional activity of the E-cad-herins. Our aim therefore was to determine the presence of α-actin in the baboon corpus luteum, to further establish whether the necessary components for E-cadherin activity are present in this tissue. An antibody specific for the smooth muscle isoform of actin, α-actin, was used for these studies. The results using immunohistochemistry show that (a) α-actin is present in steroidogenic cells of the active corpus luteum, theca externa of the corpus luteum, cells of the vasculature, and the tunica albuginea surrounding the ovary. The intensity of immunoreactivity for α-actin varied, with the cells of the vasculature reacting more intensely than the luteal cells. A difference in intensity of immunoreactivity was also observed among the luteal cells, with the inner granulosa cells showing stronger immunoreactivity than the peripheral theca lutein cells. There was no detectable immunoreactivity in the steroidogenic cells of the atretic corpus luteum. However, in both the active and atretic corpora lutea, α-actin-positive vascular cells were dispersed within the tissue. (b) Total α-actin (luteal and non-luteal), as determined by Western blot analyses, does not change during the luteal phase and subsequent corpus luteum demise (atretic corpora lutea). (c) hCG stimulated the expression of α-actin and progesterone secretion by the early luteal phase (LH surge + 1–5 days) and midluteal phase (LH surge + 6–10 days) cells in culture, but only progesterone in the late luteal phase (LH surge + 11–15 days). The data show that α-actin is present in luteal cells and that its expression is regulated by hCG, thus suggesting that E-cadherin may form functional adherens junctions in the corpus luteum.

A comparative study of the corpus luteum

1995 ◽  
Vol 7 (3) ◽  
pp. 303 ◽  
Author(s):  
RT Gemmell
Keyword(s):  
Corpus Luteum ◽  
Luteal Phase ◽  
Secretory Granules ◽  
Hormonal Control ◽  
Egg Laying ◽  
Oestrous Cycle ◽  
Corpora Lutea ◽  
Embryonic Diapause ◽  
Alternative Reproductive Strategy ◽  
Uterine Development

The corpus luteum (CL) is a transitory organ which has a regulatory role in reproduction. Sharks, amphibians and reptiles have corpora lutea that produce progesterone which influences the rate of embryonic development. The egg-laying monotremes and the two major mammalian groups, eutherian and marsupial, have a CL that secretes progesterone. Most eutherians have allowed for the uterine development of their young by extending the length of the oestrous cycle and the CL or placenta actively secretes progesterone until birth. Gestation in the marsupial does not extend beyond the length of an oestrous cycle and the major part of fetal development takes place in the pouch. Where the extension of the post-luteal phase in the eutherian has allowed for the uterine development of young, the marsupial has extended the pre-luteal phase of the oestrous cycle and has evolved an alternative reproductive strategy, embryonic diapause. The mechanism for the secretion of hormones from the CL has been controversial for many years. Densely-staining secretory granules have been observed in the CL of sharks, marsupials and eutherians. These granules have been reported to contain relaxin, oxytocin or mesotocin, and progesterone. A hypothesis to suit all available data is that all hormones secreted by the CL are transported within such granules. In conclusion, although there are obvious differences in the mode of reproduction in the two main mammalian groups, it is apparent that there is a great deal of similarity in the hormonal control of regression of the CL and parturition.

Expression of tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 in the human corpus luteum after luteal rescue

1996 ◽  
Vol 148 (1) ◽  
pp. 59-67 ◽  
Author(s):  
W C Duncan ◽  
A S McNeilly ◽  
P J Illingworth
Keyword(s):  
Corpus Luteum ◽  
Luteal Phase ◽  
Proteolytic Enzymes ◽  
Specific Inhibitor ◽  
Northern Blotting ◽  
Corpora Lutea ◽  
Tissue Inhibitor Of Metalloproteinases ◽  
Tissue Inhibitor ◽  
Tissue Remodelling ◽  
Human Corpus Luteum

Abstract Tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1 (TIMP-1) is a specific inhibitor of a group of proteolytic enzymes known as matrix metalloproteinases. These enzymes have been widely implicated in the process of tissue remodelling. Extensive remodelling occurs in the corpus luteum during luteolysis unless human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) is produced by the early conceptus. This study aimed to investigate the expression and localisation of TIMP-1 in human corpora lutea during the luteal phase of the cycle and after luteal rescue with exogenous hCG to mimic the changes of early pregnancy. Human corpora lutea from the early (n = 4), mid- (n=4) and late (n=4) luteal phases and after luteal rescue by hCG (n=4) were obtained at the time of hysterectomy. Expression of TIMP-1 was investigated in these tissues by Western blotting, immunohistochemistry, Northern blotting and in situ hybridisation. Luteal cells of thecal origin were distinguished from those of granulosa origin by immunostaining for 17α-hydroxylase. A 30 kDa protein consistent with TIMP-1 was detected in human corpora lutea. This protein was localised to the granulosa lutein cells in all tissues examined. TIMP-1 mRNA was found in large quantities in all glands examined and this again localised to the granulosa lutein cells. The expression and localisation of TIMP-1 did not change throughout the luteal phase and was not altered by luteal rescue. The function of this uniform expression of TIMP-1 in the corpus luteum is not clear but these data suggest that the inhibition of structural luteolysis during maternal recognition of pregnancy is not mediated by regulation of TIMP-1 expression. Journal of Endocrinology (1996) 148, 59–67

Comparison of bovine uterine horns for progesterone and oxytocin levels with bilateral corpus luteum

1996 ◽  
Vol 76 (3) ◽  
pp. 463-464 ◽  
Author(s):  
W. A. Cerbito ◽  
M. P. B. Wijayagunawardane ◽  
M. Takagi ◽  
K. Sato ◽  
A. Miyamoto ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Key Words ◽  
Corpus Luteum ◽  
Estrous Cycle ◽  
Luteal Phase ◽  
Uterine Horn ◽  
Corpora Lutea ◽  
Uterine Tissue ◽  
Tissue Samples ◽  
Significant Difference ◽  
The Right

Bovine uterine horns with both ovaries containing a corpus luteum (CL) were compared for progesterone (P4) and oxytocin (OT) concentrations during the luteal phase of the estrous cycle. Uterine tissue samples from five Holstein cows with bilateral CL obtained from the slaughterhouse were used for this study. No significant difference was observed in P4 and OT levels in the right and left horns with corpora lutea in both ovaries. The data clearly indicate that both sides of the uterine horn having a functional CL are exposed to similar levels of P4 and OT, supporting the hypothesis that luteal products are delivered locally to the uterus. Key words: Progesterone, oxytocin, uterine horn, bilateral, corpus luteum, cow

IN-VITRO STEROIDOGENESIS OF NEWLY FORMED CORPORA LUTEA AND THE NON-LUTEAL OVARY IN THE RAT, RABBIT, HAMSTER AND GUINEA-PIG

1980 ◽  
Vol 84 (1) ◽  
pp. 101-108 ◽  
Author(s):  
P. F. TERRANOVA ◽  
S. K. SAIDAPUR ◽  
G. S. GREENWALD
Keyword(s):  
Guinea Pig ◽  
Corpus Luteum ◽  
Ovarian Function ◽  
Serum Testosterone ◽  
The Other ◽  
Corpora Lutea ◽  
Serum Progesterone ◽  
Antral Follicles ◽  
Baseline Levels

The steroidogenic abilities of the newly formed corpus luteum (8–10 h after ovulation) and the non-luteal ovary were compared in the guinea-pig, hamster, rabbit and rat using an invitro incubation technique. Histologically, newly formed rat corpora lutea (CL) were highly luteinized whereas the CL of the rabbit and guinea-pig were only partially luteinized. The CL of the hamster showed the least amount of luteinization. Serum progesterone was highest in the rat (18 ± 3 (s.e.m.) ng/ml). In the hamster, it was about 8 ng/ml, whereas in the rabbit and guinea-pig it was about 1 ng/ml. Serum androstenedione ranged between 0·5 and 1 ng/ml. Serum testosterone was lowest in the hamster (60 pg/ml) and highest in the rabbit (470 pg/ml), whereas in the rat and guinea-pig, testosterone levels were similar (about 240 pg/ml). Serum oestrogens were at baseline levels in all species. The CL of the rat exhibited considerably greater steroidogenic ability than the CL of the other species, producing 70 ± 6 ng progesterone/mg per h, 215 ± 14 pg androstenedione/mg per h, 49 ± 3 pg testosterone/mg per h, 3 pg oestrone/mg per h and 1 pg oestradiol/mg per h. Rabbit CL produced only progesterone (7 ± 2 ng/mg per h). Newly formed hamster CL produced none of the above steroids. In general, the ability of the CL to produce progesterone in vitro correlated with the degree of luteinization found by histological observation. Guinea-pig CL were embedded deeply in the ovary and could not be obtained without damage. Consequently, a portion of the ovary containing a corpus luteum was incubated. There was no difference in the steroid production by this portion of the ovary compared with the non-luteal ovary. The non-luteal ovary of the rat produced the highest amount of progesterone (10 ± 2 ng/mg per h). The guinea-pig non-luteal ovary produced about 5 ± 2 ng progesterone/mg per h, whereas the non-luteal ovary of the rabbit did not produce any. On the other hand, the hamster non-luteal ovary lost progesterone. Non-luteal ovaries from all species produced androgens. The non-luteal ovary of the guinea-pig contained especially large numbers of atretic antral follicles. The guinea-pig non-luteal ovary produced extremely large amounts of androstenedione (1110 ± 210 pg/mg per h) and testosterone (606 ± 154 pg/mg per h) compared with the amounts produced by the non-luteal ovary of the rat, hamster and rabbit. In the non-luteal ovary, interstitium and atretic antral follicles are the probable source of androgens. Oestrogen production by the non-luteal ovary was at baseline levels in the four species studied correlating with the absence of healthy antral follicles. The results indicate the extreme species differences that exist in ovarian function in the early postovulatory period.

EFFECT OF INTRA-UTERINE FOREIGN BODIES AND OF PROSTAGLANDIN ADMINISTRATION ON PROGESTERONE SECRETION DURING THE OESTROUS CYCLE OF THE GUINEA-PIG

1976 ◽  
Vol 70 (1) ◽  
pp. 39-45 ◽  
Author(s):  
F. R. BLATCHLEY ◽  
B. T. DONOVAN
Keyword(s):  
Guinea Pig ◽  
Corpus Luteum ◽  
Foreign Bodies ◽  
Glass Beads ◽  
Oestrous Cycle ◽  
Corpora Lutea ◽  
Blood Samples ◽  
Progesterone Secretion ◽  
Prostaglandin F

SUMMARY The response of the guinea-pig corpus luteum to the luteolytic influence of glass beads placed in the uterus, or to prostaglandin administration, was followed by assay of the progesterone content of blood samples collected daily. Following the introduction of glass beads into the uterus early in the cycle, the secretion of progesterone was curtailed. Treatment with prostaglandin F2α over days 4–6 or 6–8 of the cycle temporarily depressed progesterone release without shortening the life of the corpora lutea. When the drug was administered over days 8–10, 10–12 or 12–14 the depression in progesterone was not followed by any recovery. These observations indicate that the response of the corpora lutea to a luteolytic influence changes during the oestrous cycle.

CONCENTRATION OF PROSTAGLANDIN F2α AND STEROIDS IN THE HUMAN CORPUS LUTEUM

1977 ◽  
Vol 73 (1) ◽  
pp. 115-122 ◽  
Author(s):  
I. A. SWANSTON ◽  
K. P. McNATTY ◽  
D. T. BAIRD
Keyword(s):  
Menstrual Cycle ◽  
Corpus Luteum ◽  
Luteal Phase ◽  
Prostaglandin F2α ◽  
Corpora Lutea ◽  
Progesterone Concentration ◽  
Late Luteal Phase ◽  
Prostaglandin F ◽  
Human Corpus Luteum

SUMMARY The concentration of prostaglandin F2α (PGF2α), progesterone, pregnenolone, oestradiol-17β, oestrone, androstenedione and testosterone was measured in corpora lutea obtained from 40 women at various stages of the menstrual cycle. The concentration of PGF2α was significantly higher in corpora lutea immediately after ovulation (26·7 ± 3·9 (s.e.m.) ng/g, P < 0·005) and in corpora albicantia (16·3 ± 3·3 ng/g, P < 0·005) than at any other time during the luteal phase. There was no correlation between the concentration of PGF2α and that of any steroid. The progesterone concentration was highest in corpora lutea just after ovulation (24·9 ± 6·7 μg/g) and in early luteal groups (25·7 ± 6·8 μg/g) but declined significantly (P < 0·05) to its lowest level in corpora albicantia (1·82 ± 0·66 μg/g). The concentration of oestradiol-17β in the corpus luteum and luteal weight were significantly greater during the mid-luteal phase than at any other stage (concentration 282 ± 43 ng/g, P < 0·05; weight 1·86 ± 0·18 g, P < 0·005). The results indicate that regression of the human corpus luteum is not caused by a rise in the ovarian concentration of PGF2α in the late luteal phase of the cycle.

INHIBIN GENE EXPRESSION IN THE HUMAN CORPUS LUTEUM

1987 ◽  
Vol 115 (3) ◽  
pp. R21-R23 ◽  
Author(s):  
S.R. Davis ◽  
Z. Krozowski ◽  
R.I. McLachlan ◽  
H.G. Burger
Keyword(s):  
Gene Expression ◽  
Corpus Luteum ◽  
Luteal Phase ◽  
Corpora Lutea ◽  
Subunit Gene ◽  
Nucleic Acid Probes ◽  
Α Subunit ◽  
Normal Human ◽  
Human Menstrual Cycle ◽  
Human Corpus Luteum

ABSTRACT We report inhibin α- and βA -subunit gene expression in the human corpus luteum and placenta using human α-subunit and bovine βA -subunit nucleic acid probes. In addition, we have demonstrated the presence of immunoreactive and bioactive inhibin in human corpora lutea. Our findings suggest that this tissue is a significant source of inhibin during the luteal phase of the normal human menstrual cycle.

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