title: Control of the corpus luteum: a model system for toxicology research.
abstract: The rodent corpus luteum is an ephemeral structure releasing progesterone for only a few hours rather than several days. However, in response to the mating stimulus, sufficient prolactin is released from the pituitary gland in a unique pattern to activate the corpus luteum and maintain it in a secretory state for several days. Progesterone, secreted from the corpus luteum, prolongs the secretion of prolactin, while the uterus may secrete a substance which terminates the functional life of the corpus luteum directly and also acts upon he prolactin secretory apparatus within the hypothalamopituitary axis to terminate prolactin secretion.
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D003338:Corpus Luteum / Q000502:physiology*; D005260:Female; D007986:Luteinizing Hormone / Q000378:metabolism; D008954:Models, Biological; D010053:Ovary / Q000378:metabolism; D010060:Ovulation; D011247:Pregnancy; D011374:Progesterone / Q000378:metabolism; D011388:Prolactin / Q000378:metabolism; D011555:Pseudopregnancy / Q000503:physiopathology; D051381:Rats; D012107:Research Design; D014116:Toxicology; D014599:Uterus / Q000378:metabolism
chemical_list: D011374:Progesterone; D011388:Prolactin; D007986:Luteinizing Hormone