Interpretive Summary: History, insights, and future perspectives on studies into luteal function in cattle

By: Cecily V Bishop, Vimal Selvaraj, David H Townson, Joy L Pate, Milo C Wiltbank

The corpus luteum (CL) forms on the ovary from the cellular remnants of the follicle following ovulation. The function of the CL is to produce progesterone that is required for successful pregnancy. In the absence of an embryo or sufficient embryonic signaling, the uterus will release a prostaglandin that kills the CL in a process called luteolysis. Therefore, the CL and the embryo share a symbiotic relationship, each requiring the other to be healthy and functional for survival. The Northeast Multistate Project, one of the oldest in the nation, has produced a large body of evidence that has enhanced our understanding of how the CL functions, its regulation, and the impact of ovarian activity on fertility of cattle. This review highlights some of the important advances made in the understanding of the ruminant CL.

Read the full article on the Journal of Animal Science.