Abstract
The corpus luteum is a small gland of great importance because its proper functioning determines not only the appropriate course of the estrous/menstrual cycle and embryo implantation, but also the subsequent maintenance of pregnancy. Among the well-known regulators of luteal tissue functions, increasing attention is focused on the role of neuropeptides and adipose tissue hormones—adipokines. Growing evidence points to the expression of these factors in the corpus luteum of women and different animal species, and their involvement in corpus luteum formation, endocrine function, angiogenesis, cells proliferation, apoptosis, and finally, regression. In the present review, we summarize the current knowledge about the expression and role of adipokines, such as adiponectin, leptin, apelin, vaspin, visfatin, chemerin, and neuropeptides like ghrelin, orexins, kisspeptin, and phoenixin in the physiological regulation of the corpus luteum function, as well as their potential involvement in pathologies affecting the luteal cells that disrupt the estrous cycle.
Highlights
Introduction published maps and institutional affilThe corpus luteum (CL) is a transient endocrine gland with a short lifespan including its development, functional establishment, and regression
When bats were treated with adiponectin during late embryonic development, there was an increase in cell proliferation markers, such as proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and a decrease in active caspase 3, adiponectin could allow the reactivation of luteal activity, and could prevent the apoptosis of luteal cells (LCs) [330]
Seems that the role of orexins in CL differs depending on its stage of development: during the transformation of follicular cells into LLCs, orexins stimulate luteinization, while fully developed CL responds to Orexin A (OXA) by inhibiting P4 synthesis, which is an element of luteolysis
Summary
The corpus luteum develops immediately after ovulation by forming from the ovarian follicle cells in a process called luteinization. It is a heterogeneous structure composed mainly of two types of steroidogenic cells [13]. In the first days of the luteal phase, after ovulation, the follicle walls collapse, and the basement membrane between the Gc and Tc disappears In this way, blood vessels can penetrate the developing CL. Cell cycle inhibitors, such as cyclin-dependent kinase inhibitor 1B (p27Kip1), are expressed in LCs. in some species like pigs and sheep, LCs derived from the Tc retain their ability to proliferate [18].
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
