Follicle-stimulating hormone
Follicle-stimulating hormone
Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a gonadotropin, a type of hormone that is key for human reproduction. Pronounced as /ˈfɒlɪkəl stɪmjʊleɪtɪŋ ˈhɔːrmoʊn/, it is produced by the anterior pituitary gland and plays a crucial role in the development of eggs in women and sperm in men.
Etymology
The term "Follicle-stimulating hormone" is derived from its function. The word "follicle" refers to the part of the ovary where the egg is developed, "stimulating" indicates the hormone's role in promoting growth, and "hormone" is a general term for substances that regulate bodily functions.
Function
FSH stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles in the ovary before the release of an egg from one follicle at ovulation. It also increases estradiol production. In men, FSH enhances the production of androgen-binding protein by the Sertoli cells of the testes and is critical for spermatogenesis.
Related Terms
- Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH): A hormone that controls the release of FSH.
- Luteinizing hormone (LH): Another gonadotropin that works with FSH to ensure normal functioning of the ovaries and testes.
- Ovulation: The process in which a mature egg is released from the ovary.
- Spermatogenesis: The process of sperm cell production.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Follicle-stimulating hormone
- Wikipedia's article - Follicle-stimulating hormone
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