Updated by: Arabinda Naik
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is secreted by the hypothalamus. It stimulates the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland to secrete luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). At the onset of puberty, the hypothalamus causes the release of FSH and LH into the male system for the first time. Puberty in human male is attained between 13-16 years.
luteinizing hormone (LH): In male LH stimulates Leydig’s cells of the testis to secrete androgens (Testosterone). Testosterone is principal androgen which brings about the growth of the secondary sex organs and development of secondary sexual characters. These secondary sex characteristics include a deepening of the voice, the growth of facial, axillary, and pubic hair, and the beginnings of the sex drive. The production of LH is controlled by testosterone on hypothalamus and pituitary. When the concentration of the testosterone is elevated, it inhibits the production of GnRH by the hypothalamus; leading to the decreased production of LH and FSH.
Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH): FSH stimulates The Sertoli cells of the testis secrete an androgen binding protein (ABP) and stimulate sperm production (spermatogenesis). Sertoli cells also secrete a protein hormone called inhibin which is released into blood when sperm count is too high. This inhibits the release of GnRH and FSH which will cause spermatogenesis to slow down. If the sperm count reaches 20 million/ml, the Sertoli cells cease the release of inhibin, and the sperm count increases.
Testosterone: testosterone is a hormone produced by testes in males. this controls the development of secondary sexual characteristics in males like facial hair. In men, testosterone plays a key role in the development of male reproductive tissues such as the testis as well as promoting secondary sexual characteristics such as increased muscle, bone mass, and the growth of body hair
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is secreted by the hypothalamus. It stimulates the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland to secrete luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH).