Question

For the reproductive hormone testosterone describe factors that stimulate its release, what effects it has on specific target cells, and how this relates to the overall function of the reprod. sys.

Answer 1

The GnRH stimulates the anterior pituitary gland to release FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone). The release of LH and FSH are under the regulation of negative feedback loop. LH acts on the Leydig cells and promote the synthesis of testosterone.

Testis are the male gonads, which secrete the male reproductive hormones and spermatozoa (sex cell). Testes are the oval shaped endocrine glands present in males that produce the male sex hormone namely, “testosterone”

Interstitial cells or the Leydig cells are the endocrine cells present in the connective tissue surrounding the seminiferous tubules. These cells secrete testosterone.

The functions of testosterone are listed below:

· Testosterone plays a key role in the maturation and maintenance of secondary sexual characteristics in males

· Promotes protein anabolism and regulates metabolism

· Regulation of fluid and electrolyte balance

· Inhibiting the release of follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone from the anterior pituitary by negative feedback regulation