Luteinizing hormone (LH) is essential for primate corpus luteum (CL) function, yet its molecular actions are incompletely understood. This study identified LH-regulated genes in the rhesus monkey CL using microarray analysis, revealing 206 differentially expressed genes following LH withdrawal. Many changes paralleled natural luteal regression. Notably, corticotropin-releasing hormone–binding protein (CRHBP) and other components of the CRH/urocortin (UCN) system were dynamically and cell-specifically expressed and LH-regulated. Functional blockade of CRH receptors impaired luteal steroidogenesis and structure. These findings implicate a local LH-regulated CRH/UCN system in luteal development and regression.
