Final answer:
The graafian follicle cells produce estradiol, while the corpus luteum cells primarily secrete progesterone. These hormones are pivotal in the menstrual cycle, influencing stages and acting through feedback mechanisms involving the hypothalamus and pituitary gland.
Step-by-step explanation:
The graafian follicle cells and corpus luteum cells in the ovaries produce different hormones. During the follicular phase, when tertiary follicles are growing and secreting hormones, the granulosa and theca cells of the follicles produce estradiol, a type of estrogen. Following ovulation, the same cells luteinize to form the corpus luteum, which primarily secretes progesterone, critical for pregnancy support.
Progesterone and estrogen are essential for the menstrual cycle's regulation, influencing the hypothalamus and pituitary gland and affecting the stages of the menstrual cycle. The surge of Luteinizing Hormone (LH) stimulates the conversion of follicle cells into corpus luteum, signaling a change to progesterone production. This hormone prepares the endometrium for a potential pregnancy and exerts a negative feedback on the hypothalamus and pituitary to prevent new dominant follicles from developing.
It's important to note that additional hormones involved in this process are Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and LH, which are produced by the pituitary gland, and Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) secreted by the hypothalamus. These play critical roles in regulating the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase.