Hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis

Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis

The Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis (pronunciation: hi-po-tha-la-mic-pi-tu-i-tary-go-nadal axis) is a critical part of the Endocrine System that plays a significant role in the development and regulation of a number of the body's systems, such as the immune and reproductive systems.

Etymology

The term "Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis" is derived from the names of the three key components involved: the Hypothalamus, the Pituitary Gland, and the Gonads. The term "axis" refers to the interaction between these three components.

Function

The Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis is responsible for the regulation of several bodily functions. The hypothalamus produces Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH), which stimulates the pituitary gland to release Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH). These hormones then act on the gonads (testes in males and ovaries in females) to stimulate the production of sex hormones and the development of secondary sexual characteristics.

Related Terms

• Endocrine System
• Hypothalamus
• Pituitary Gland
• Gonads
• Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone
• Follicle-Stimulating Hormone
• Luteinizing Hormone

See Also

• Hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis
• Hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid axis

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis
• Wikipedia's article - Hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis

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