What happens during luteolysis?

Luteolysis is the process by which steroid production ceases and the cells that comprise the corpus luteum (CL) undergo cell death. In many, but not all, animals, luteolysis is initiated by uterine release of prostaglandin F2α (PGF2A).

Does oxytocin cause luteolysis?

In domestic animals, luteolysis is initiated by the hormones prostaglandin F2alpha and oxytocin and is dependent on the presence of the uterus.

How does progesterone affect oxytocin?

Progesterone also appears to inhibit binding of oxytocin to its receptor, reducing oxytocin-stimulated secretion of PGF2α from ovine endometrium [6]. This study was conducted using concentrations of progesterone (16 nM) considered to be physiological for effects on the uterus.

How does prostaglandin cause luteolysis?

5.4 Hormones and Luteolysis In mammals, PGF2α elicits luteolysis through a series of actions, including reduction of blood flow to the corpus luteum, downregulation of receptors for luteotropic hormones, and inhibition of P4 synthesis (Niswender et al., 2000).

How does oxytocin trigger Luteolysis in the ovary?

Thus a central oxytocin signal could trigger a self-contained, ovarian autocrine/paracrine loop, with oxytocin triggering PGF 2α release, resulting in local oxytocin secretion, and so on until luteolysis is initiated ( Figure 13.6) [ 98 ]. Unlike ruminants, luteolysis in primates can therefore be regarded as an ovary-mediated event [ 98 ].

What happens to the cells during luteolysis?

Another mechanism that may be activated during luteolysis is autophagy, a stress response wherein cells recycle unneeded organelles that can lead to cell breakdown and death. The autophagy markers MAP1LC3A, MAP1LC3B, ATG3, and ATG7, and autophagic activity, were elevated in regressing CL as compared with the fully functional CL.

What happens during luteolysis?