The rodent corpus luteum

Abstract

The corpus luteum is the tissue with most differences among species; rodents have particular features in corpus luteum formation, function and regression. The different types of mammalian corpora lutea can be classified in: Corpus luteum of pregnancy, cyclic corpus luteum, corpus luteum of lactation and corpus luteum of pseudopregnancy. Among mammals, only rodents present the four types of corpora lutea.Rodents are used as an excellent tool to study reproductive physiology. They have the advantages of their small size, the high reproductive rate and the benefit to obtain inbred strains. Transgenic technologies developed in mice are a helpful strategy to study gene function. Furthermore, knowing the similarities and differences among mammalian species is crucial to translate the findings described in rodents to other species. In the present chapter we review the regulation of luteinization, the multiple factors involved in this process, the structure and function of the CL including remodeling development, and the mechanisms implicated in the survival and regression of CL. In particular, the role of Wnt and Notch signaling pathways in corpus luteum function is described.