Question

What is inhibin? Write its function.

Answer 1

Inhibin is a chemical released that has inhibitory effects on the functioning of an endocrine gland. In a way, we can say inhibin is released in our body as part of the feedback mechanism. Inhibin is seen in both males and females.

Complete Step by Step Answer:
Inhibin is a hormone released by the gonads i.e. testis in males and ovary in females to inhibit the secretion of a pituitary hormone known as follicle- stimulating hormone FSH. There are two types of inhibin found in the body known as inhibin A and inhibin B. Inhibin A is formed in the Sertoli cells of seminiferous tubules in males and granulosa cells in females.
Let us now look at how the pituitary hormones gonadotropins control the working of our reproductive system.
Two gonadotropins namely Luteinizing hormone LH and Follicle- stimulating hormone FSH are produced by the anterior pituitary.
In males, LH acts on Leydig cells and stimulates the production of androgens which in turn stimulates spermatogenesis. And FSH acts on Sertoli cells which aid in the process of spermatogenesis.
In females, the pituitary hormones along with the ovarian hormones fluctuate throughout the menstrual cycle which is essential for the proper functioning of each organ involved. FSH and LH reach their peak level in the middle of the menstrual cycle which induces rupture of the Graafian follicle and release of ovum i.e. ovulation.

Note:
- Inhibin A is detected in the blood serum of a woman who is pregnant with a child having Down syndrome. Thus, this is used as a test to detect Down syndrome in the second trimester of pregnancy.
- Inhibins are also involved in controlling the formation of gametes and fetal development.