What is the primary function of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in the male reproductive system?
Solution
Correct Answer: Option B
- The primary function of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in the male reproductive system is to initiate and maintain spermatogenesis.
- FSH acts on the Sertoli cells within the seminiferous tubules of the testes, stimulating them to support and nourish developing sperm cells.
- This process is crucial for the production of mature sperm.
- It is important to distinguish FSH's role from that of luteinizing hormone (LH), which primarily stimulates the Leydig cells to produce testosterone.
- Testosterone then supports the development of male secondary sexual characteristics and works synergistically with FSH to promote spermatogenesis.
- FSH does not trigger the release of LH; rather, both hormones are independently regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.
- Additionally, the development of secondary sexual characteristics is primarily driven by testosterone, not FSH.
In summary:
- FSH stimulates Sertoli cells and supports spermatogenesis
- LH stimulates Leydig cells to produce testosterone
- Testosterone promotes secondary sexual characteristics
Reference: Ganong's Review of Medical Physiology, 26th Edition, Chapter 35: Reproductive Physiology, Page 560-562
- FSH acts on the Sertoli cells within the seminiferous tubules of the testes, stimulating them to support and nourish developing sperm cells.
- This process is crucial for the production of mature sperm.
- It is important to distinguish FSH's role from that of luteinizing hormone (LH), which primarily stimulates the Leydig cells to produce testosterone.
- Testosterone then supports the development of male secondary sexual characteristics and works synergistically with FSH to promote spermatogenesis.
- FSH does not trigger the release of LH; rather, both hormones are independently regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.
- Additionally, the development of secondary sexual characteristics is primarily driven by testosterone, not FSH.
In summary:
- FSH stimulates Sertoli cells and supports spermatogenesis
- LH stimulates Leydig cells to produce testosterone
- Testosterone promotes secondary sexual characteristics
Reference: Ganong's Review of Medical Physiology, 26th Edition, Chapter 35: Reproductive Physiology, Page 560-562
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