Read the following statement regarding the hormonal regulation of the female reproductive cycle. "In females, GnRH stimulates the release of gonadotropins from the anterior pituitary. Hormone [X] induces the rupture of the Graafian follicle and maintains the structure [Y] formed from its remnants. Hormone [Z] primarily stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles." Identify [X], [Y], and [Z].

Step-by-step solution

In females, GnRH from the hypothalamus stimulates the anterior pituitary to release the gonadotropins LH and FSH. Rapid secretion of LH leading to its maximum level during the mid-cycle (LH surge) induces the rupture of the Graafian follicle and thereby the release of the ovum (ovulation). The remaining parts of the ruptured Graafian follicle transform into a yellow glandular body called the corpus luteum, which is maintained by LH. FSH primarily stimulates the growth and development of the ovarian follicles. There