Which of the following hormone(s) is/are responsible for maintaining corpus luteum ?

Options

A. LH
B. Estrogen
C. hCG
D. Both (1) & (3)

Answer

**Step-by-Step Solution:**

1. **Understanding the Menstrual Cycle:**
- The menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days and includes several phases: the follicular phase, ovulation, the luteal phase, and menstruation.

2. **Role of Ovulation:**
- Ovulation occurs around the 14th day of the cycle when the mature follicle (Graafian follicle) ruptures and releases an ovum (egg) into the fallopian tube.

3. **Formation of Corpus Luteum:**
- After ovulation, the remnants of the Graafian follicle transform into a structure known as the corpus luteum.

4. **Function of Corpus Luteum:**
- The corpus luteum secretes hormones, primarily progesterone, which is crucial for preparing and maintaining the endometrium (the uterine lining) for potential implantation of a fertilized egg.

5. **Hormonal Regulation of Corpus Luteum:**
- The maintenance of the corpus luteum is primarily regulated by Luteinizing Hormone (LH), which is secreted by the anterior pituitary gland. LH is essential for the continued production of progesterone by the corpus luteum.

6. **Other Hormones:**
- While estrogen is produced by the ovaries and plays a role in the menstrual cycle, it is not directly responsible for maintaining the corpus luteum.
- Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG) is produced by the placenta after implantation and helps maintain the corpus luteum in early pregnancy, but it is not involved in the normal menstrual cycle.

7. **Conclusion:**
- Therefore, the hormone responsible for maintaining the corpus luteum is Luteinizing Hormone (LH).

**Final Answer:**
- The hormone responsible for maintaining the corpus luteum is Luteinizing Hormone (LH).

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