Ovaries Endocrine Function - Anatomy & Physiology
Reproductive hormones tend to have short half lives and act in minute quantities. They bind to specific receptors on their target organs.
Oestrus Cycle
| Hormone | Produced by | Regulation | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oestrogen | GnRH from the Hypothalamus causes LH secretion from the Pituitary Gland which stimulates the Leydig Cells. | This hormone controls and maintains the growth and functions of the reproductive organs. It enhances libido and is essential for spermatogenesis. | |
| Progesterone | Sertoli Cells | GnRH from the Hypothalamus causes FSH secretion from the Pituitary Gland which stimulates the Sertoli Cells. | Prevents secretion of further FSH from the Pituitary Gland. |
| Inhibin | Sertoli Cells | GnRH from the Hypothalamus causes FSH secretion from the Pituitary Gland which stimulates the Sertoli Cells. | Converted from testosterone, this hormone's function is complex. It may prevent apoptosis of male germ cells. |
| Relaxin | Sertoli Cells | GnRH from the Hypothalamus causes FSH secretion from the Pituitary Gland which stimulates the Sertoli Cells. | Converted from testosterone, this hormone's function is complex. It may prevent apoptosis of male germ cells. |
| [[Endocrine System - | Sertoli Cells | GnRH from the Hypothalamus causes FSH secretion from the Pituitary Gland which stimulates the Sertoli Cells. | Converted from testosterone, this hormone's function is complex. It may prevent apoptosis of male germ cells. |