Question

Hypophysectomy results in

• A. Heart attack
• B. Regression of reproductive functions
• C. Death
• D. Poor digestion

Answer 1

Answer: (B)

Regression of reproductive functions

Hypophysectomy is the surgical removal of pituitary gland (hypophysis). Removal of pituitary gland will result in regression of reproductive functions because anterior lobe of pituitary secretes Luteinizing hormone (LH) and Follicle stimulating hormone.

LH stimulates growth of ovarian follicles in females. Female sex hormone oestrogen is secreted from ovarian follicles. In males this hormone is known as Interstitial cell stimulating hormone (ICSH) because it affects interstitial cells or Leydig cells and stimulate secretion of testosterone which is male sex hormone.

FSH is secreted from the anterior part of pituitary gland. It stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles in females and seminiferous tubules in males. This hormone also promotes spermatogenesis in males i.e. the process of formation of sperms from the germ cells.

So, the correct answer is 'Regression of reproductive functions'.