gonadotropin-releasing hormone
secreted by the hypothalamus
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is a hormone produced and secreted by the hypothalamus. The primary function of GnRH is to stimulate the release of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland.
FSH and LH are responsible for regulating the reproductive system. Specifically, FSH stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles in females and the production of sperm in males. Meanwhile, LH triggers ovulation in females and the production of testosterone in males.
The release of GnRH is regulated by feedback from estrogen and testosterone levels. When estrogen and testosterone levels are low, the hypothalamus releases more GnRH, which stimulates the pituitary gland to produce more FSH and LH. When estrogen and testosterone levels are high, the hypothalamus reduces the release of GnRH, which in turn reduces the production of FSH and LH.
GnRH plays a crucial role in the regulation of the reproductive system. Dysregulation of GnRH can lead to hormonal imbalances and fertility issues. Some medical conditions that affect GnRH function include hypothalamic amenorrhea, Kallmann syndrome, and hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Treatments for these conditions may involve the use of synthetic GnRH analogs to stimulate the production of FSH and LH.
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