GRE Subject Test: Biology : Understanding Reproductive Functions
Study concepts, example questions & explanations for GRE Subject Test: Biology
All GRE Subject Test: Biology Resources
Example Questions
Example Question #1 : Understanding Reproductive Functions
What is the purpose of the corpus luteum in females?
Release human chorionic gonadotropin in order to preserve the egg
Contain the egg prior to ovulation
Release hormones to stimulate menstruation
Release progesterone and estradiol following ovulation
Release progesterone and estradiol following ovulation
The corpus luteum is formed from the remainder of the follicle following ovulation. The corpus luteum will release estradiol (estrogen) and progesterone in order to prepare for pregnancy. If pregnancy does not take place, the corpus luteum will degrade into the corpus albicans.
The follicle contains the egg prior to ovulation and releases it after stimulation by follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone from the anterior pituitary. Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) is the hormone responsible for maintaining the uterus and placenta during pregnancy, and is released by the uterus.
Example Question #1 : Other Reproductive Physiology
On the fourteenth day of the menstrual cycle, the pituitary gland releases a hormone which allows the ovary to release a matured egg. This egg is then swept into the fallopian tube. What phase of the menstrual cycle encompasses these events?
Menstrual phase
Follicular phase
Luteal phase
Vaginal phase
Ovulatory phase
Ovulatory phase
The menstrual cycle has four phases:
1) Menstrual phase (days 1-5): the uterus sheds its lining, which exits the body through the vagina in the form of menstrual fluid.
2) Follicular phase (days 1-13): the pituitary gland releases a hormone that stimulates the egg cells to grow. One egg cell matures in a sac-like follicle for 13 days; while it is maturing, the follicle releases a hormone that causes the uterus to develop its lining.
3) Ovulatory phase (day 14): the events listed in the question occur.
4) Luteal phase (days 15-28): the egg released during ovulation stays in the fallopian tube for 24 hours, disintegrating if not fertilized during that time. During this phase, the hormone that causes the uterus to retain its lining is used up, causing another menstrual phase to begin.
Certified Tutor
Certified Tutor
All GRE Subject Test: Biology Resources
