If fertilization occurs, which hormone helps maintain the corpus luteum?

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Multiple Choice

If fertilization occurs, which hormone helps maintain the corpus luteum?

Explanation:
After fertilization, the embryo signals with a hormone that mimics LH to keep the corpus luteum functioning. This hormone is human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), produced by the developing placenta (trophoblast). hCG binds to LH receptors on luteal cells, continuing progesterone production and preventing luteolysis until the placenta can assume progesterone support. LH from the pituitary would normally maintain the luteum, but after implantation hCG takes over this role. FSH and estrogen are important for earlier stages of the cycle, but they do not maintain the corpus luteum after fertilization.

After fertilization, the embryo signals with a hormone that mimics LH to keep the corpus luteum functioning. This hormone is human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), produced by the developing placenta (trophoblast). hCG binds to LH receptors on luteal cells, continuing progesterone production and preventing luteolysis until the placenta can assume progesterone support. LH from the pituitary would normally maintain the luteum, but after implantation hCG takes over this role. FSH and estrogen are important for earlier stages of the cycle, but they do not maintain the corpus luteum after fertilization.

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