Inhibin

Inhibin is a hormone that is produced in the gonads, pituitary gland, and other parts of the body. It plays a crucial role in the endocrine system by inhibiting the production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) from the anterior pituitary gland.

Production and Function

Inhibin is produced in the ovaries in females and the testes in males. In females, inhibin is secreted by the granulosa cells of the ovarian follicles. In males, it is produced by the Sertoli cells in the testes.

The primary function of inhibin is to inhibit the secretion of FSH and LH from the anterior pituitary gland. This regulation is crucial for the normal functioning of the reproductive system. Inhibin also plays a role in the regulation of the menstrual cycle in females and sperm production in males.

Clinical Significance

Abnormal levels of inhibin can lead to various medical conditions. High levels of inhibin can lead to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), while low levels can result in infertility. Inhibin levels are also used as a marker in the diagnosis of certain types of cancer, such as ovarian cancer and testicular cancer.

See Also

• Endocrine system
• Hormone
• Follicle-stimulating hormone
• Luteinizing hormone
• Polycystic ovary syndrome
• Infertility
• Ovarian cancer
• Testicular cancer

References

Inhibin Resources
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