Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)

Definition

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is a hormone produced in the hypothalamus that stimulates the release of two key reproductive hormones, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), from the anterior pituitary gland. It plays a crucial role in regulating sexual development and reproductive function in both males and females.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. GnRH is released in a pulsatile manner, which is essential for its proper function.
2. The secretion of GnRH is regulated by neural inputs and feedback from sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen.
3. In females, GnRH levels vary across the menstrual cycle, peaking just before ovulation.
4. Synthetic analogs of GnRH are used in medical treatments for conditions such as infertility and prostate cancer.
5. Disruption in GnRH production or signaling can lead to disorders like hypogonadotropic hypogonadism.

Review Questions

• What role does GnRH play in human reproduction?
• How does the pulsatile release of GnRH affect its function?
• What medical conditions can be treated with synthetic analogs of GnRH?

Related terms

Luteinizing Hormone (LH): A hormone released by the anterior pituitary gland that triggers ovulation and stimulates testosterone production.

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH): A hormone released by the anterior pituitary gland that promotes the formation of ova or sperm.

Hypothalamus: A region of the brain responsible for producing hormones that regulate many bodily functions, including temperature regulation, thirst, hunger, sleep, mood, and reproduction.