The Anterior Pituitary: Gonadotropin Synthesis and Release

Following GnRH stimulation, gonadotroph cells in the anterior pituitary synthesize and release FSH and LH.

Both hormones belong to the glycoprotein hormone family and share a common alpha subunit, while their distinct beta subunits confer biological specificity.

FSH primarily regulates processes associated with gamete development and supporting cell activity.

In females, FSH stimulates the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles by acting on granulosa cells. It also promotes aromatase expression, an enzyme involved in converting androgens into estrogens.

In males, FSH acts on Sertoli cells within the seminiferous tubules, supporting spermatogenesis and the development of germ cells.

LH performs complementary functions by stimulating steroid hormone production.

In females, LH acts on ovarian theca cells to promote androgen synthesis, which provides substrates for estrogen production in granulosa cells. It also participates in ovulation and corpus luteum formation.

In males, LH stimulates Leydig cells to produce testosterone, an essential hormone for male reproductive physiology