gonadotropen

Gonadotropins are gonad-stimulating hormones that regulate the function of the gonads. In humans, the principal gonadotropins are luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), which are produced by the anterior pituitary gland. A related hormone with LH-like activity, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), is produced by the placenta during pregnancy and can substitute for LH in certain physiological processes. Collectively, gonadotropins control gametogenesis and sex steroid production.

In females, FSH promotes growth and maturation of ovarian follicles, while LH triggers ovulation and supports the formation and maintenance of the corpus luteum. LH also stimulates the theca cells to produce androgens, which are later converted to estrogen in granulosa cells under FSH influence. In males, LH stimulates Leydig cells to produce testosterone, and FSH acts on Sertoli cells to support spermatogenesis; testosterone provides a necessary substrate for germ cell development.

Regulation of gonadotropin release is primarily controlled by gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus, released in a pulsatile manner. Feedback from sex steroids (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone) and inhibin modulates GnRH and pituitary sensitivity, shaping FSH and LH secretion patterns.

Clinical relevance includes the use of gonadotropins in fertility treatments, such as FSH or human menotropins (FSH with LH activity) to stimulate follicle development, and hCG to trigger ovulation. In men, gonadotropin therapies may address hypogonadism or pituitary deficiencies. See also gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH).