Gonadorelin acetate

Gonadal ridge is an embryonic structure in vertebrates, including humans, that develops into the gonads. The gonadal ridge is the precursor to the testes in males and the ovaries in females.

Development

The gonadal ridge begins to form during the fifth week of embryonic development. It is derived from the mesonephros, a part of the intermediate mesoderm. The mesonephros degenerates in females, but in males, it contributes to the development of the male reproductive system.

The gonadal ridge is initially bipotential, meaning it has the potential to develop into either male or female gonads. The direction of development is determined by the presence or absence of the SRY gene, which is located on the Y chromosome. If the SRY gene is present, the gonadal ridge will develop into testes. If the SRY gene is absent, the gonadal ridge will develop into ovaries.

Function

The primary function of the gonadal ridge is to give rise to the gonads. The gonads are responsible for the production of gametes (sperm or eggs) and the secretion of sex hormones. In males, the gonads (testes) produce sperm and secrete testosterone. In females, the gonads (ovaries) produce eggs and secrete estrogen and progesterone.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in the development of the gonadal ridge can lead to disorders of sex development (DSDs). These conditions can result in ambiguous genitalia, infertility, and an increased risk of gonadal tumors. Treatment for DSDs often involves hormone therapy and, in some cases, surgery.

See also

• Gonad
• Sexual differentiation
• SRY gene
• Disorders of sex development