Question

The formation of egg and sperm is affected by
(a) LH
(b) MSH
(c) TSH
(d) FSH

Answer 1

Hint: Follicle stimulating hormone is extremely essential to pubertal development and the function of sex organs in both men and women.

Complete answer:The production and release of FSH is regulated by the levels of a number of circulating hormones released by the ovaries and testes. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone is released from the hypothalamus and binds to specific receptors in the anterior pituitary gland to stimulate both the synthesis and release of the follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH).

The released follicle stimulating hormone is mainly carried in the bloodstream where it is accepted by receptors in the testes and ovaries. The follicle stimulating hormone, along with the luteinizing hormone, controls the functions of the testes and ovaries. During each menstrual cycle in women, there is a rise in the follicle stimulating hormone secretion in the first half of the cycle that stimulates follicular growth in the ovary. After ovulation the ruptured follicle now forms a corpus luteum that produces high levels of progesterone.
This change inhibits the release of follicle stimulating hormone as an inhibitory effect. Towards the end of the cycle, the corpus luteum breaks down, hence progesterone production decreases and the next menstrual cycle begins when follicle stimulating hormone starts to rise again.

The production of follicle stimulating hormone in men, is regulated by the levels of testosterone and inhibin, both of which are produced by the testes. Follicle stimulating hormone in turn regulates testosterone levels and when the level rises, it is sensed by the nerve cells in the hypothalamus so that gonadotropin-releasing hormone secretion and consequently follicle stimulating hormone is reduced. The opposite occurs when testosterone levels decrease prominently known as a 'negative feedback' control so that the production of testosterone remains balanced.

So, the correct answer is ‘FSH’.

Note: An increased FSH level indicates diminished ovarian reserve. Diminished ovarian reserve is characterized with a reduced number of follicles or eggs. Any condition that lowers LH and FSH levels, such as a pituitary tumor, can result in low or no sperm production in males.