The hormone that stimulates the growth of the ovarian follicle is: MCQ with Answer and Explanation

Explanation:
Ghrelin is a peptide hormone produced mainly by the endocrine cells of the stomach, especially when it is empty. It is often called the 'hunger hormone' because it acts on the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus to stimulate appetite (orexigenic effect) and promote food intake. Ghrelin levels rise before meals and fall after eating. It has the opposite effect of leptin, which suppresses appetite.

Explanation:
The endocrine islets of Langerhans in the pancreas contain alpha cells that secrete glucagon and beta cells that secrete insulin, which regulate blood glucose. The liver stores and releases glucose, the spleen filters blood, the kidneys excrete waste. The pancreas also has exocrine functions secreting digestive enzymes.

Explanation:
The corpus luteum, formed from the ruptured follicle after ovulation, secretes progesterone (and some estrogen) which prepares the endometrium for implantation and maintains early pregnancy until the placenta takes over (around 8-10 weeks). hCG, produced by the placenta, maintains the corpus luteum. Progesterone is crucial for maintaining the uterine lining.