Gonadotropic cell

Gonadotropic cells are specialized cells within the anterior pituitary gland that produce and secrete gonadotropins. These cells play a crucial role in the endocrine system, particularly in the regulation of the reproductive system.

Structure

Gonadotropic cells are located in the anterior pituitary gland, a small gland located at the base of the brain. These cells are part of the adenohypophysis, which is the glandular, anterior lobe that together with the neurohypophysis, forms the pituitary gland.

Function

The primary function of gonadotropic cells is to produce and secrete gonadotropins. These are hormones that stimulate the gonads - the ovaries in females and the testes in males - to produce sex hormones and gametes.

There are two main types of gonadotropins produced by these cells:

• Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH): This hormone stimulates the growth and maturation of follicles in the ovaries of females. In males, it stimulates the production of sperm.
• Luteinizing hormone (LH): In females, this hormone triggers ovulation and stimulates the corpus luteum to produce progesterone. In males, it stimulates the production of testosterone.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in the function of gonadotropic cells can lead to a variety of medical conditions. For example, overproduction of gonadotropins can lead to precocious puberty, while underproduction can lead to delayed puberty or infertility. In addition, tumors of the pituitary gland can affect the function of gonadotropic cells, leading to a variety of symptoms depending on the specific hormones that are over- or under-produced.

See also

• Pituitary gland
• Endocrine system
• Reproductive system
• Gonadotropin