Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

FSH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. It plays a key role in the reproductive system of both males and females.

Function in Females:

• Stimulates the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles in the ovaries
• Triggers the production of estrogen in the ovaries
• Regulates the menstrual cycle

Function in Males:

• Stimulates the production of sperm in the testes
• Regulates the production of testosterone in the testes

Regulation of FSH:

FSH secretion is regulated by a negative feedback loop involving the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and the sex organs (ovaries in females and testes in males). When FSH levels are low, the hypothalamus releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which stimulates the pituitary gland to produce and release FSH.

Study Guide:

To understand FSH thoroughly, it's important to cover the following topics:

1. Structure and function of the pituitary gland
2. The role of FSH in the female reproductive system
3. The role of FSH in the male reproductive system
4. Regulation of FSH secretion
5. Feedback mechanisms involved in FSH regulation

Additionally, it would be helpful to study the conditions and disorders related to FSH imbalance, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in females and hypogonadism in males.

Understanding FSH is crucial for comprehending the processes involved in reproduction and the regulation of sex hormone production in both males and females.