hormonal regulation of spermatogenesis
Answers
The hormonal regulation of spermatogenesis involves interplay of sex steroids and pituitary gonadotropic hormones acting on specific cells of the testis. The target cells for pituitary hormones and steroid hormones within the testis and to the elucidation of molecular mechanisms for hormone action are identified.
The hormonal regulation of spermatogenesis involves interplay of sex steroids and pituitary gonadotropic hormones acting on specific cells of the testis. The target cells for pituitary hormones and steroid hormones within the testis and to the elucidation of molecular mechanisms for hormone action are identified. The mechanisms involved in the hormonal control of Sertoli cells and the interaction between Sertoli cells and germ cells are also reviewed in the chapter. Androgenic hormones provide a major stimulus for spermatogenesis.
Production of testosterone by Leydig cells is regulated by interstitial cell-stimulating hormone (ICSH). Leydig cell development and steroidogenic function may require a direct action of testosterone or dihydrotestosterone. Prolactin and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) enhances Leydig cell responsiveness whereas estrogen appears to inhibit Leydig cell response to ICSH with respect to steroidogenesis. Androgens stimulate peritubular cell differentiation and the development of tubular contractions. Androgens and FSH regulate Sertoli cell function.