The gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) released by the _____(i)_____stimulates the ___(ii)______ to release ___(iii)______ and _____(iv)______. The _____(iii)____ stimulates the leydig cells to produce____(v)______. The ____(iv)___ stimulates the sertoli cells to secrete substances important for sperm development.
(i) hypothalamus (ii) pituitary (iii) LH (iv) FSH (v) testosterone
The gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) released by the neurons of hypothalamus stimulates the pituitary to release gonadotropins. There are two important gonadotropins released from the pituitary the luteinizing hormone or LH and follicle stimulating hormone or FSH. LH stimulates the leydig cells to produce testosterone which, is considered the most important male hormone responsible for the growth and development of reproductive organs as well as for the development of secondary sexual characteristics. The FSH in turn stimulates the sertoli or nurse cells present in the seminiferous tubules to secrete substances important for sperm development and nourishment.