Graafian follicle and corpus luteum are two structures found in the ovaries of females. Here are the differences between them:
- Graafian Follicle: The Graafian follicle is a structure found in the ovary that contains a developing egg. It is also known as the mature ovarian follicle. The follicle grows and develops in response to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland. As the follicle grows, it produces estrogen which prepares the uterus for implantation. The Graafian follicle ruptures during ovulation, releasing the mature egg into the fallopian tube.
- Corpus Luteum: After ovulation, the Graafian follicle collapses and is transformed into a new structure called the corpus luteum. The corpus luteum secretes progesterone, a hormone that helps to prepare the uterus for implantation of a fertilized egg. If fertilization occurs, the corpus luteum will continue to produce progesterone to maintain the pregnancy until the placenta takes over this function. If fertilization does not occur, the corpus luteum will degenerate and become the corpus albicans.
In summary, the Graafian follicle is a structure in the ovary that contains a developing egg, while the corpus luteum is a structure that forms after ovulation and produces progesterone to prepare the uterus for implantation.
