Hormonal Control of Male Reproductive System | Testbook.com

Last Updated on Jul 31, 2023
Download As PDF
IMPORTANT LINKS

Table of Contents

  • Significance of Hormones
  • Negative Feedback Mechanism in Male Hormones
  • The reproductive functionality of both males and females is regulated by a series of hormones. These hormones are secreted by the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and the respective sex organs. One such hormone is the Gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH), which is a stimulatory hormone. It is secreted by the hypothalamus and travels to the anterior pituitary gland. This in turn stimulates the release of two gonadotropic hormones, namely, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

    Although FSH and LH are often associated with female hormones, they are also secreted in males and play crucial roles in the male reproductive system.

    Significance of Hormones

    During puberty, the hypothalamus is stimulated to produce and release GnRH. This hormone further stimulates the pituitary gland to release FSH and LH into the male reproductive system.

    FSH enters the testes and stimulates the Sertoli cells to initiate the process of spermatogenesis . Similarly, LH also enters the testes and stimulates Leydig cells to produce and release testosterone into the bloodstream.

    Testosterone is a key hormone that triggers the development of secondary sexual characteristics in males, such as the growth of facial and pubic hair, and deepening of the voice. Additionally, it also promotes spermatogenesis.

    UGC NET/SET Course Online by SuperTeachers: Complete Study Material, Live Classes & More

    Get UGC NET/SET SuperCoaching @ just

    ₹25999 ₹11666

    Your Total Savings ₹14333
    Explore SuperCoaching

    Negative Feedback Mechanism in Male Hormones

    The production and secretion of the three hormones, GnRH, FSH, and LH, are regulated by a hormone called inhibin. This hormone is produced by the Sertoli cells. This process is known as the negative feedback mechanism. When the sperm count increases, inhibin suppresses the release of GnRH and FSH. On the other hand, when the sperm count is low, the Sertoli cells stop producing inhibin, and spermatogenesis is resumed.

    Also, check out:

    More Articles for Biology

    Frequently Asked Questions

    The three hormones involved in both male and female reproductive systems are gonadotropin releasing hormone, luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormones.

    Yes, males have oestrogen. A proper balance of oestrogen and testosterone is important for the development of secondary sexual characteristics.

    Test Series
    134.1k Students
    NCERT XI-XII Physics Foundation Pack Mock Test
    323 TOTAL TESTS | 3 Free Tests
    • 3 Live Test
    • 163 Class XI Chapter Tests
    • 157 Class XII Chapter Tests

    Get Started
    Report An Error