Question

Explain the process of hormonal regulation of spermatogenesis.

Answer 1

• Spermatogenesis starts at the age of puberty due to a significant increase in the secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). This is a hypothalamic hormone.
• The increased levels of GnRH then act at the anterior pituitary gland and stimulate the secretion of two gonadotropins luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
• LH acts at the Leydig cells and stimulates the synthesis and secretion of androgens. Androgens, in turn, stimulate the process of spermatogenesis.
• FSH acts on the Sertoli cells and stimulates the secretion of some factors which help in the process of spermiogenesis.