Control of the luteal function in humans.

Although luteinizing hormone (LH) of the anterior pituitary is considered primarily responsible for the initiation of luteinization in most species, the mechanisms governing the subsequent life and death of the corpus luteum vary among species. In women and in nonhuman primate, the corpus luteum derives its support from LH that must be continuously present. To date, the factors regulating the life span and endocrine activity of the corpus luteum in humans and primates are not completely understood. This article summarizes our study on luteinizing hormone and chorionic gonadotropin receptors in human corpora lutea during the menstrual cycle and pregnancy and the apoptosis of human corpora lutea during the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.