FSH and LH Target Glands in Males and Females: Gonadotropin Actions and Feedback
Gonadotropins (FSH, LH) from the anterior pituitary act on the gonads to regulate reproduction.
| Sex | FSH Target | LH Target |
|---|---|---|
| Female | Ovarian granulosa cells → follicular growth, estradiol, inhibin B | Theca cells (androgens) + granulosa (luteinization) → ovulation, corpus luteum → progesterone |
| Male | Sertoli cells (seminiferous tubules) → spermatogenesis, inhibin B, ABP | Leydig cells (interstitial) → testosterone |
Feedback Loops
- Estradiol/progesterone (♀) / Testosterone/inhibin B (♂) → negative feedback on hypothalamus (GnRH) & pituitary (FSH/LH).
- Mid-cycle estradiol surge → positive feedback → LH surge → ovulation.
Clinical Applications
- Day 3 FSH/LH/estradiol: Ovarian reserve assessment.
- LH/FSH ratio >2–3: Suggests PCOS.
- Men: Low T + low/normal LH/FSH = secondary hypogonadism; high LH/FSH = primary testicular failure.
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