Question

Based on your understanding of hormonal control of human reproduction, explain how the hypothalamus regulates the secretion of reproductive hormones in males.

a) The hypothalamus directly produces reproductive hormones.
b) The hypothalamus responds to hormones produced by the testes.
c) The hypothalamus stimulates the release of hormones from the pituitary gland.
d) The hypothalamus has no role in hormonal control in males.

Answer 1

The hypothalamus regulates the secretion of reproductive hormones in males by stimulating the release of FSH and LH from the anterior pituitary gland.

Step-by-step explanation:

Hormonal regulation of the male reproductive system begins with the hypothalamus, which releases gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) at puberty. GnRH stimulates the anterior pituitary gland to produce and release follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). FSH stimulates the Sertoli cells in the testes, which are responsible for spermatogenesis. LH stimulates the Leydig cells in the testes to produce and secrete testosterone, the primary male sex hormone. Overall, the hypothalamus plays a crucial role in regulating the secretion of reproductive hormones in males by stimulating the release of FSH and LH from the anterior pituitary gland.