Question

1. Discuss hormonal regulation of spermatogenesis and oogenesis. Make sure to include how FSH (2 pts), LH (2 pts), Testosterone (3 pts) and Estrogen (2 pts) contribute to these processes-- DO NOT INCLUDE THE ENTIRE HORMONAL CYCLE. 1 pt for essay formatting, grammar, spelling.

Answer 1

Hormonal Control of Spermatogenesis

On the onset of puberty in male, the two hormones, FSH and LH play major role in the production of sperm and secretion of testosterone respectively. The FSH initiate Spermatogenesis. And the testosterone is secreted by the signaling of LH.

On the onset of puberty, the hypothalamus glands secret the gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH). In the response of this, the pituitary gland release follicles stimulating hormone (FSH) and lutenizing hormone (LH). The LSH enters the testes and help the sertoli cells to release nutrients with the help of which sperm cells grows. This process help in the facilitating Spermatogenesis. Just like this, the LH also enters into the testes and stimulate the interstitial cell also called leydig cell to make and release testosterone hormone into the blood and testes.

Testosterone help in producing secondary sexual character like growth of beard, moustache, pubic hairs etc. And also helps in stimulating spermatogenesis in testes.

Hormonal Control of Oogenesis

Just like in males, the oogenesis in females in also starts at the onset of puberty. The hormonal glands that take part in the oogenesis are hypothalamus, pituitary, and ovaries. The control reproduction in females is much more complex than males.

In females, all the ova or egg which has to produce during a female life is already produced inside the womb. One the onset of puberty the ova only has to mature. As the female reaches to the age of puberty the GnRH start production of FSH which stimulating the development of ova or egg. Later on ova develop a structure know as follicles. Follicle cells produce the hormone inhibin, which inhibits FSH production. On the other hand, LH help in the induction of ova and stimulate production of estrogen and progesterone hormone from ovary. Estrogen and progesterone are steroid hormones that prepare the body for pregnancy.

Estrogen helps in ovulation, formation of endometrium. It also help in the production of secondary sexual characteristics.

Progesterone helps in endometrial re-growth and inhibition of FSH and LH release.