Question

Differentiate between the following pairs on the basis of what is mentioned within brackets: Corpus callosum and Corpus luteum (Function).

Answer 1

The corpus callosum is present beneath the cerebral cortex of the brain. It is a thick and wide nerve tract, containing a flat bundle of commissural fibres. The corpus callosum is present only in mammals with placenta. Corpus luteum is a structure in the female reproductive system. It is the remainder of the ovarian follicle that has released a mature ovum during the previous ovulation.

Complete answer:
The major differences between corpus luteum and corpus callosum are given in the table below.

Corpus callosum	Corpus luteum
It is present near the cerebral cortex of the brain.	It is the remains of the ovarian follicle that has released an ovum during previous fertilization.
It is a permanent structure.	It is a temporary structure that sheds from the uterus if fertilization does not occur.
The main function of corpus callosum is that it connects the right and left hemispheres of the brain.	The main function of corpus luteum is to secrete hormones such as progesterone, oestrogen and inhibin A which are required during pregnancy.
It enables the communication between two hemispheres and also plays an important role in cognitive function.	It makes the uterus more suitable for implantation of the fertilized ovum and facilitates nourishment of the embryo.
It is the largest white matter of the brain.	It is yellow in colour due to high concentration of carotenoids.

Note:
Sometimes in the corpus luteum, a small sac filled with fluid can develop. This is called corpus luteum cyst which occurs very commonly in women. If the size of the cyst is above cm, it may cause pain and requires medical treatment. Corpus callosum also has major clinical significance in humans. If it doesn’t develop, it can lead to a rare congenital disorder called agenesis of the corpus callosum.