Abstract

The corpus luteum (CL) is an ovarian structure that produces progesterone to maintain pregnancy, begins its growth from the third day of the beginning of estrus growing until the eighteenth day. If the CL is fertilized, the formation of the embryo will produce the interferon τ (IFN-τ) substance responsible for maternal recognition of pregnancy (RMG) in cattle during their entire pregnancy. When CL is not fertilized, the uterine endometrium secretes prostaglandins F2α (PGF2α) causing lysis of the corpus luteum. The serum levels of progesterone decrease generating hypothalamus unlocking and gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion to activate the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis that develops new follicles 48 to 72 h later and initiates a new estrus. This bibliographic review details the physiological mechanisms involved in the formation of the corpus luteum during the estrous cycle of cattle in the function and regression of the corpus luteum during the estrous cycle of cows.

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