luteinization (redirected from luteinize)

luteinization /lu·te·in·iza·tion/ (-in?i-za´shun) the process by which a postovulatory ovarian follicle transforms into a corpus luteum through vascularization, follicular cell hypertrophy, and lipid accumulation, the latter in some species giving the yellow color indicated by the term.

Luteinization, beginning after rupture of the ovarian follicle in ovulation (A) and progressing through vascularization and hypertrophy of the maturing corpus luteum (B, C) ; it is followed by regression (D) to the corpus albicans (E) .

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lu·te·in·i·za·tion (lt--n-zshn)

n.

The transformation of the mature ovarian follicle into a corpus luteum.

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lute·in·ize (lt--nz) v.

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luteinization

the process taking place in the follicle cells of graafian follicles that have matured and discharged their egg: the cells become hypertrophied and there is vascularization and lipid accumulation (the latter in some species giving a yellow color), the follicles becoming corpora lutea.