Which of the following is termed a gonadotropin?
A Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)
B None of the above
C Estrogen
D Inhibin
E Prolactin
The correct answer and explanation is:
The correct answer is A. Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH).
Gonadotropins are hormones that stimulate the gonads (the ovaries in females and testes in males) to produce sex hormones and participate in reproductive processes. FSH is a key gonadotropin produced by the anterior pituitary gland. Its main role is to regulate the growth and maturation of the ovarian follicles in females and the production of sperm in males.
In females, FSH works alongside luteinizing hormone (LH) to regulate the menstrual cycle. FSH stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles, each containing an egg. As the follicle grows, it produces estrogen. The rise in estrogen then provides feedback to the pituitary to reduce FSH production and trigger the release of LH, which is essential for ovulation. In males, FSH stimulates the Sertoli cells in the testes to aid in sperm production.
Estrogen (C), inhibin (D), and prolactin (E) are not gonadotropins. Estrogen is a primary female sex hormone, responsible for the development and maintenance of female reproductive tissues and secondary sexual characteristics. Inhibin, on the other hand, is a hormone produced by the ovaries and testes that inhibits the secretion of FSH. Prolactin is produced by the anterior pituitary and is responsible for milk production after childbirth, not for the direct stimulation of the gonads.
To summarize, FSH is the only gonadotropin among the options provided. Its primary function in the body is to regulate the function of the gonads, ensuring proper reproductive processes in both males and females.