Final answer:
The hormone impregnated in the plastic CIDR is progesterone, used to regulate the reproductive cycle in herd animals. FSH and LH, regulated by GnRH, are critical for reproductive functions in both genders, with FSH aiding in germ cell maturation and LH in ovulation and sex hormone production.
Step-by-step explanation:
The hormone impregnated in the plastic Controlled Internal Drug Release (CIDR) is progesterone. CIDRs are used in animal reproductive management to simulate the corpus luteus's secretion of progesterone, which readies the endometrial lining of the uterus for potential implantation and maintains pregnancy. This is vital to synchronize estrus and improve reproductive performance in herd animals.
Regarding fertility hormones, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) play crucial roles in the reproductive processes of both males and females, with their release being regulated by gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus. FSH is involved in the maturation of germ cells, while LH triggers ovulation and stimulates the production of testosterone in males and estrogens and progesterone in females. Moreover, gonadotropin-releasing hormone influences FSH and LH secretion, and the levels of these hormones can impact the growth of ovarian follicles and the stimulation of the anterior pituitary.