The corpus luteum originates from –
A the uterine corpus.
B the corpus albicans.
C the fallopian tube.
D a ruptured vesicular follicle.
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is D: a ruptured vesicular follicle.
Explanation:
The corpus luteum forms from the remains of the follicle after ovulation. During the menstrual cycle, a mature follicle (also called a vesicular follicle) ruptures to release an egg in a process called ovulation. After the egg is released, the ruptured follicle undergoes a transformation to become the corpus luteum.
The corpus luteum is a temporary endocrine structure that secretes progesterone, a hormone critical for maintaining the uterine lining, making it suitable for embryo implantation. It also produces some estrogen, although progesterone is the primary hormone. If fertilization occurs, the corpus luteum will continue to function and maintain the pregnancy by supporting progesterone production until the placenta takes over hormone production. If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum degenerates into the corpus albicans, a small, non-functional scar tissue.
The other options are not correct:
- A. The uterine corpus refers to the main body of the uterus and has no direct role in the formation of the corpus luteum.
- B. The corpus albicans is the degenerated form of the corpus luteum, not its origin.
- C. The fallopian tube is where the egg is transported after ovulation, but it does not give rise to the corpus luteum.
Thus, the corpus luteum specifically arises from the ruptured vesicular follicle, making option D the correct choice.