Histological and micrometrical exploration of corpus Luteum in cyclic Nellore sheep

Ovaries from twenty two apparently healthy, non-pregnant and cyclic Nellore sheep was taken with the aim to explore histological and micrometrical aspects of the corpus luteum in ovary of adult Nellore sheep. The sections were cut at 5-6µ thick and histological procedures were carried out. From capsule, various trabeculae descend into the substance of corpus luteum. Thickness of the trabeculae which descends from the capsule was almost equal in thickness to that of capsule at the periphery and tapers towards the centre. The capsule mainly comprised of collagen and reticular fibres. The occurrence of two fully developed corpora lutea in the same ovary was also observed. On the basis of shape and the size, three basic types of lutein cells were observed: large (16.38-28.17µm), small (7.95-27.06µm) and spindle shaped (15.73-29.57µm) cells. Moderate PAS reaction was seen in Capsule, Trabeculae and mild reaction was seen in luteal cells of corpus luteum.