Question

stimulate growth and development of ovarian follicles in females. (a) FSH (b) \(\mathrm{LH}\) (c) \(\mathrm{PRL}\) (d) TSH

Short answer

The correct answer is (a) FSH. This hormone stimulates the growth and development of ovarian follicles in females.

Step-by-step solution

Understanding Hormones

First, we need to understand the function of each hormone. FSH and LH are both secreted by the pituitary gland and are important for reproduction. FSH stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles in females and spermatogenesis in males. LH triggers ovulation and development of the corpus luteum in females, and testosterone production in males. PRL is responsible for milk production in females after childbirth. TSH stimulates the thyroid gland to produce and release thyroid hormones.

Matching Hormone to Function

We are searching for the hormone that stimulates the growth and development of ovarian follicles in females. From our above descriptions, it becomes clear that the correct hormone is FSH (Follicle-stimulating hormone), as this hormone particularly regulates the development, growth, pubertal maturation, and reproductive processes of the human body in females.

Key concepts

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a key player in the reproductive system. It is primarily involved in the development and maturation of ovarian follicles in females and plays a vital role in spermatogenesis in males. In females, FSH stimulates the ovarian follicles, which are small sacs in the ovaries that contain the developing eggs. This hormone helps in the growth of these follicles, preparing them for ovulation.

When FSH levels rise, it triggers the ovaries to produce estrogen, a hormone that plays a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle and developing secondary sexual characteristics. Higher levels of FSH lead to the maturation of one or more follicles each month, which is crucial for a successful reproductive cycle. Not just vital for females, in males, FSH supports the growth of sperm cells by acting on the Sertoli cells located in the testes.

Here are some essential aspects of FSH:

• Stimulates egg production in females
• Supports spermatogenesis in males
• Works in conjunction with Luteinizing hormone (LH) for fertility
• Regulated by the feedback mechanism involving estrogen and inhibin

Luteinizing hormone (LH)

Luteinizing hormone (LH) is another reproductive hormone that works in tandem with FSH for proper reproductive functioning. In females, LH plays a critical role in triggering ovulation, the release of a mature egg from the ovary. Following ovulation, it promotes the formation of the corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone, a hormone essential for maintaining the early stages of pregnancy.

The surge in LH levels mid-cycle is a signal for ovulation and is a vital event in the menstrual cycle. LH also enhances the effects of the other reproductive hormones, such as estrogen and progesterone. In males, LH is responsible for stimulating the production of testosterone in the Leydig cells of the testes, contributing to sperm maturation.

Important functions of LH include:

• Inducing ovulation in females
• Stimulating testosterone production in males
• Supporting the formation of the corpus luteum
• Partnering with FSH for effective fertility

Pituitary gland

The pituitary gland, often referred to as the "master gland," is a small, pea-sized organ located at the base of the brain. It plays a significant role in regulating critical body functions, and one of its major responsibilities is hormone production. The pituitary gland is divided into two parts: the anterior and posterior lobes. Each lobe releases different hormones that have specific targets throughout the body.

The anterior lobe produces several hormones, including Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing hormone (LH), which are essential for reproductive health. These hormones are vital for the development and functioning of the ovaries in females and testes in males. The complex feedback loops control these hormones, ensuring the body's hormonal balance.

Here are some pivotal roles of the pituitary gland:

• Serves as the connection between the endocrine and nervous systems
• Secretes essential hormones like FSH and LH
• Regulates growth, metabolism, and reproductive functions
• Adapts hormone levels in response to stress and environmental changes