**Core Concept**
The development of antral follicles in the ovaries is a complex process involving the coordinated action of multiple hormones. Late-stage development of antral follicles is primarily driven by the hormone that stimulates the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The hormone responsible for late-stage development of antral follicles is **inhibin**, which is produced by the granulosa cells of growing follicles. Inhibin stimulates the production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the anterior pituitary gland, leading to the growth and maturation of antral follicles. This feedback loop ensures that only a limited number of follicles reach the preovulatory stage, allowing for the selection of a dominant follicle for ovulation.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
* **Option A:** FSH is involved in the early stages of follicular development, but it is not the primary hormone required for late-stage development of antral follicles.
* **Option B:** Estrogen is produced by the growing follicles and is essential for the development of the reproductive tract, but it is not the primary hormone required for late-stage development of antral follicles.
* **Option C:** Progesterone is involved in the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and is not directly involved in the development of antral follicles.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Inhibin is a critical regulator of follicular development, and its dysregulation can lead to disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Understanding the role of inhibin in follicular development is essential for the diagnosis and management of reproductive endocrine disorders.
**Correct Answer: A. Inhibin**
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