Question

Name the endocrine gland that secretes GRH ( Gonadotropin releasing hormone ).

Answer 1

The endocrine system is made up by a group of endocrine glands, including the pituitary glands which are responsible for the release of hormones relating to important bodily functions and regulations. Gonadotropin releasing hormone controls the production of luteinizing hormone ( LH ) and follicle stimulating hormone ( FSH ) from the pituitary gland.

Complete answer:
The hypothalamus, an endocrine organ, regulates the anterior pituitary gland and transports hormones along the posterior pituitary gland. Gonadotropin – releasing hormone ( GnRH ) is produced and secreted by specialised nerve cells in the hypothalamus of the brain. It is released into small blood vessels that carry the hormone to the pituitary gland. GnRH causes the pituitary gland to secrete LH and FSH. These hormones are released into the general circulation and act on testes and ovaries to initiate and maintain their reproductive functions. When the testes and ovaries are fully developed, GnRH, LH, and FSH production are controlled by the levels of testosterone ( male sex hormone ) and estrogen and progestron ( female sex hormones ). In women, FSH encourages eggs to grow in the ovaries. In men, FSh helps in production of sperm cells.
Any trauma or damage to the hypothalamus can also cause a loss of Gonadotropin releasing hormone secretion, which will stop the normal production of luteinizing hormone ( LH ) and follicle stimulating hormone ( FSH ), causing loss of menstrual cycle in women, loss of sperm production in men, and loss of production of hormones from testes and ovaries.

Note: Luteinizing hormone ( LH ) and follicle stimulating hormone ( FSH ) controls the levels of hormones produced by testes and ovaries. In childhood, GnRH levels are low. As puberty begins, GnRH levels start to rise, which triggers the onset of sexual maturation.