Abstract
The action of pituitary hormones on testicular steroidogenesis is reviewed with particular focus on follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and prolactin (PRL). Production of androgens by the testis depends on luteinizing hormone (LH) and the action of LH on the Leydig cells. There is evidence that FSH augments the action of LH on plasma testosterone (T) levels and on the growth of androgen-dependent male accessory reproductive glands. During sexual maturation FSH has a physiological role in increasing the responsiveness of the testes to LH stimulation. PRL augments the effect of endogenous or exogenous LH on testicular steriodogenesis. The effects of PRL seem to indicate direct action on the Leydig cells. PRL also seems to increase stores of cholesterol ester to provide a pool of precursors for steroidogenesis. PRL may be very important in sexual maturation. The review suggests that the regulation of testicular steroidogenesis depends on a complex of adenohypopyhseal hormones that FSH and PRL are both important components of this complex and that steroidogenesis regulation in the testis resembles steroidogenesis regulation in the ovary.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
