Luteal regression: a redefinition of the terms

luteal regressionluteolysisstructural luteolysisfunctional luteolysiscorpus luteum Th corpu luteum is a transient endocrine gland that is specialized for the production of progesterone and that plays a critical role in the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. The life span of the corpus luteum varies between species and, within a species, can be dramatically altered by events such as mating or pregnancy. Regardless of the duration of its life span, the corpus luteum eventually enters a dynamic regression process during which it loses the capacity to produce progesterone and undergoes structural involution.