Gonadotrophin
The term "gonadotrophin" (or "gonadotropic hormone") may refer to any of several hormones that are :
- synthesized and released by the anterior pituitary gland, an endocrine gland in the human body, and
- whose function is to promote the production of sex hormones and either sperm or ova by the gonads (testes in males, ovaries in females)
The main gonadotrophins are Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH).
The production of gonadotrophins by the body is controlled by gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH), a peptide hormone produced in the hypothalamus and then transported to the pituitary gland via the blood stream.
See also: What is a Hormone ?
For further general information including the locations of the endocrine glands, see the Endocrine Glands of the Human Body.
More about the Endocrine System
- Introduction to the Endocrine System
- What is a hormone ?
- Water Soluble Hormones vs Fat Soluble Hormones
- Triggers for Hormone Release
- Hormone Regulation Feedback Mechanism
- Major Glands of the Endocrine System
- The Pituitary Gland
- The Adrenal Glands
- Non-endocrine tissues that release hormones
- Conditions of the Endocrine System
- Diabetes
