luteotropic

Luteotropic is an adjective used in reproductive physiology to describe substances or factors that promote the formation, maintenance, or function of the corpus luteum in the ovary. The corpus luteum forms after ovulation from the residual follicle and produces progesterone, which is essential for preparing the endometrium for implantation and supporting early pregnancy.

Luteotropic effects support luteal tissue and progesterone production, extend the lifespan of the corpus luteum, or enhance its responsiveness to gonadotropins. The most well established luteotropic agents are gonadotropins such as luteinizing hormone (LH) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which stimulate corpus luteum formation and maintenance. Prolactin can have luteotropic effects in several species, and placental lactogens and other growth factors may contribute in some mammals. By contrast, luteolytic factors such as prostaglandin F2 alpha promote luteal regression.

In humans, LH drives the formation of the corpus luteum after ovulation, while hCG from the embryo maintains the corpus luteum during early pregnancy. Luteotropic function is clinically relevant for fertility and pregnancy maintenance; deficiencies or dysregulation can affect the luteal phase and progesterone support. The concept contrasts with luteolytic factors that promote luteal regression, illustrating a balance between luteal support and luteal breakdown in reproductive physiology.