Luteinizáció

Luteinizáció is a biological process that occurs in the ovaries of female mammals. It is a crucial part of the menstrual or estrous cycle. Luteinizáció refers to the transformation of the follicular cells in the ovary into the corpus luteum. This transformation is triggered by a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH) from the anterior pituitary gland. The LH surge typically occurs around the middle of the cycle, leading to ovulation, the release of a mature egg from the follicle.

Following ovulation, the ruptured follicle undergoes a series of structural and biochemical changes. The granulosa and theca cells within the follicle enlarge, accumulate lipids and lutein pigments, and reorganize to form the corpus luteum. The corpus luteum is a temporary endocrine gland. Its primary function is to produce and secrete progesterone, a key hormone for preparing the uterus for potential pregnancy. Progesterone supports the uterine lining, making it receptive to implantation of a fertilized egg. If fertilization and implantation do not occur, the corpus luteum degenerates after a specific period, leading to a drop in progesterone levels. This decline in progesterone is what initiates menstruation or the next phase of the estrous cycle. If pregnancy does occur, the corpus luteum is maintained, at least initially, by hormones produced by the developing embryo, continuing progesterone production to support the pregnancy.