The regulation of the human corpus luteum steroidogenesis: a hypothesis?
The corpus luteum (CL) is an important endocrine organ in the menstrual cycle and in pregnancy. The regulation of its hormonal production has been extensively studied. The steroidogenic abilities of the CL can be rescued by human chorionic gonadotrophin (HCG) but its role in the maintenance of CL function is not clear. We will discuss the hypothesis that there are fetoplacental factors, other than HCG, that modulate CL steroidogenesis.
Oon
V J
VJ
Imperial College School of Medicine, Chelsea and Westminster Hospital, London, UK.
Johnson
M R
MR
D000818:Animals; D006063:Chorionic Gonadotropin / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000502:physiology; D003338:Corpus Luteum / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology*; D003340:Corpus Luteum Maintenance / Q000187:drug effects / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D000882:Haplorhini; D006801:Humans; D008183:Luteal Phase / Q000502:physiology; D007986:Luteinizing Hormone / Q000494:pharmacology / Q000502:physiology; D008954:Models, Biological; D010062:Ovulation Induction; D011247:Pregnancy; D011271:Pregnancy, Ectopic / Q000503:physiopathology; D011974:Receptors, LH / Q000502:physiology; D013256:Steroids / Q000096:biosynthesis*
D006063:Chorionic Gonadotropin; D011974:Receptors, LH; D013256:Steroids; D007986:Luteinizing Hormone