gonadotropiner

Gonadotropiner, commonly referred to as gonadotropins, are glycoprotein hormones that stimulate the gonads. The principal human members are follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). They are produced by the anterior pituitary gland and are regulated by gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus.

In females, FSH promotes growth and maturation of ovarian follicles, while LH triggers ovulation and stimulates progesterone production by the corpus luteum. In males, FSH supports spermatogenesis, whereas LH stimulates testosterone synthesis by Leydig cells. Together, these hormones regulate the development and function of the ovaries and testes and influence secondary sexual characteristics and reproductive capacity.

Clinically, gonadotropins are used in the treatment of infertility and certain forms of hypogonadism. Preparations include urinary-derived products such as human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG), which contains FSH activity and LH activity, and urinary FSH. Recombinant products are available as recombinant FSH (rFSH) and recombinant LH (rLH). In assisted reproductive technology, gonadotropins stimulate follicular development and ovulation, often in combination with GnRH analogues to control endogenous secretion. Potential adverse effects include ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, multiple pregnancy, and injection-site reactions.

Regulation occurs through pulsatile GnRH release from the hypothalamus, which drives pituitary secretion of FSH and LH. Feedback from ovarian steroids, inhibin, and testosterone modulates this axis. In men, the regulatory pattern is less variable but still governed by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Gonadotropins thus play a central role in vertebrate reproduction and are used therapeutically to influence fertility and hormonal balance.