Question

The hormone FSH and LH are together called as
A. Emergency hormone
B. Neurohormone
C. Gonadotropic hormone
D. Anti-stress hormone

Answer 1

The normal follicular growth is the result of the complementary actions of FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone).

Complete Answer:
- In both males and females, LH stimulates the secretion of sex steroids from the gonads. In males, LH binds to receptors on Leydig cells stimulating secretion and synthesis of testosterone. In the ovary, theca cells respond to LH stimulation by the secretion of testosterone, which is converted into estrogen by nearby granulosa cells.
- Ovulation of mature follicles on the ovary is induced by a large rupture and LH secretion known as the preovulatory LH surge. The remaining cells within ovulated follicles multiply to form corpora lutea, which secrete the steroid hormones progesterone and estradiol. Progesterone is necessary for the upholding of pregnancy.
- In most mammals, LH is required for the continued development and function of corpora lutea. The name luteinizing hormone derives from this effect of inducing the luteinization of ovarian follicles.
- FSH stimulates the maturation of ovarian follicles. Administering of FSH to animals and humans induce superovulation. It also helps in the development of more than the usual number of mature follicles. Hence it aids in the production of an increased number of mature gametes.
- FSH is also essential for sperm production. It supports the functioning of Sertoli cells which in turn supports many aspects of sperm cell maturation.
- LH in males is also called interstitial cell-stimulating hormone. LH and FSH are large glycoproteins which are composed of alpha and beta subunits. The alpha subunit is identical and beta cells are unique.
- It is clear from the above explanation that LH and FSH stimulate gonadal activity. The principal secretion of FSH and LH is gonadotropin stimulating hormone which is also known as LH releasing hormone.

So the correct answer to this question is option c) gonadotropic hormones.

Note: The anterior pituitary (pars distalis) releases the gonadotrophic hormones i.e. FSH and LH. FSH stimulates the Sertoli cells ensuring spermatogenesis and LH causes the interstitial Leydig cells of the testes to produce testosterone.