The purpose of the male reproductive system is to deliver sperm (the male gamete), to the female, where it may combine with an egg (the female gamete) to form a fertilized embryo.
The hypothalamus releases GnRH ‚which travels through bloodstream to anterior pituitary gland. ‚ GnRH stimulates the pituitary to secrete LH and FSH ‚ which are carried by the blood to the testes. ‚ LH stimulates interstitial cells of testicles to synthesize the male hormone testosterone.
Hormonal interactions
The hypothalamus releases GnRH ‚which travels through bloodstream to anterior pituitary gland. ‚ GnRH stimulates the pituitary to secrete LH and FSH ‚ which are carried by the blood to the testes. ‚ LH stimulates interstitial cells of testicles to synthesize the male hormone testosterone.
Starting at puberty & continuing through adulthood
Testosterone helps to maintain secondary sex characteristics such as a low voice, body and facial hair, male musculature, and even sex drive. ‚ Together, FSH and testosterone stimulate production of sperm in the seminiferous tubules (spermatogenesis). ‚ FSH also causes the production of inhibin, a hormone which inhibits secretion of FSH. ‚ LH and testosterone also serve to inhibit the production of precursor hormones, thereby regulating their own synthesis.
