Gonadotropin

Gonadotropin[edit | edit source]

A molecular structure of gonadotropin.

Gonadotropins are a group of protein hormones secreted by the anterior pituitary gland that stimulate the gonads (ovaries and testes). They play essential roles in regulating the reproductive system and are crucial for the production of eggs in females and sperm in males.

It is one of the hormone made by a part of the brain called the hypothalamus.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone causes the pituitary gland in the brain to make and secrete the hormones luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).

In men, these hormones cause the testicles to make testosterone. In women, they cause the ovaries to make estrogen and progesterone.

Overview[edit | edit source]

Gonadotropins are glycoprotein hormones consisting of alpha and beta subunits. They bind to specific receptors on the ovaries and testes, triggering various physiological responses related to reproduction.

Types of Gonadotropins[edit | edit source]

There are primarily two types of gonadotropins:

* Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH): It regulates the development of follicles in the ovaries and spermatogenesis in the testes.

File:Ovary diagram.jpg

FSH stimulates the growth of follicles in the ovaries.

*  Luteinizing hormone (LH): In females, it triggers ovulation and stimulates the formation of the corpus luteum. In males, it stimulates the Leydig cells to produce testosterone.

Functions[edit | edit source]

In Females:

*   Stimulation of ovarian follicle growth
*   Induction of ovulation
*   Support for early stages of pregnancy

In Males:

*    Regulation of testosterone production
*    Support for sperm maturation

Clinical Importance[edit | edit source]

Gonadotropins have significant clinical relevance:

* Fertility Treatments: Exogenous gonadotropins are often used in fertility treatments, like in vitro fertilization (IVF).
*  Hormone Replacement Therapy: Used in cases of gonadotropin deficiency.
*  Diagnostic Tool: Levels of gonadotropins in the blood can be used to diagnose certain conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or pituitary gland disorders.

File:Test tube baby.jpg

Gonadotropins are used in IVF treatments.

Regulation[edit | edit source]

Gonadotropin release is regulated by:
* Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH): Produced in the hypothalamus, this hormone stimulates the pituitary gland to release FSH and LH.
* Feedback Mechanisms: High levels of sex hormones (like estrogen and testosterone) typically inhibit the release of gonadotropins.
== Side Effects and Risks ==
When used medically, gonadotropins can have side effects:
* Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS)
* Multiple pregnancies
* Breast tenderness or swelling
* Mood swings

It's essential to administer these treatments under a physician's supervision.

External Links[edit | edit source]

EndocrineWeb: Hypothalamus Function and Hormones

Gonadotropin Resources
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