Question

A temporary endocrine gland in the human body is

• A. corpus luteum
• B. corpus cardiacum
• C. pineal gland
• D. corpus allatum

Answer 1

The correct option is A

corpus luteum

The correct option is A.

Explanation of correct option:

1. Endocrine glands are ductless glands that pour their secretion into the circulatory system.
2. After ovulation, the ruptured Graafian follicle is transformed into the corpus luteum.
3. The Corpus luteum secretes progesterone which is needed for maintaining the endometrium. The endometrium is essential for implantation and other events that occur during pregnancy.
4. The Corpus luteum is called the ‘temporary endocrine gland’ because it is formed only after ovulation. If fertilization doesn’t occur, corpus luteum degenerates.

Explanation of incorrect option:

Option B:

1. The Corpus cardiacum is an organ that is found in many insects. It lies posterior to the brain.
2. It stores and secrets neurohormones.

Option C:

1. The pineal gland is present on the dorsal side of the forebrain.
2. It secretes a hormone called melatonin that plays a vital role in regulating the ‘sleep-wake cycle’. Moreover, melatonin also affects metabolism and pigmentation.

Option D:

1. Corpus allatum is an endocrine gland that is present in insects.
2. It secretes a juvenile hormone that plays an important role in metamorphosis.

Final answer:

A temporary endocrine gland in the human body is the corpus luteum.