Endocrine control of male reproduction
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What is the role of GnRH in the reproductive system?

  • Stimulating the release of LH and FSH (correct)
  • Inhibiting the production of LH and FSH
  • Regulating the thyroid gland function
  • Controlling blood sugar levels

    • Where is GnRH produced in the body?

  • Thyroid gland
  • Hypothalamus (correct)
  • Adrenal glands
  • Pituitary gland

    • Which vascular system transports GnRH from the hypothalamus to the anterior pituitary gland?

  • Cardiovascular system
  • Nervous system
  • Lymphatic system
  • Hypothalamic-Hypophyseal Portal Circulation (correct)

    • What is the function of LH and FSH in the reproductive system?

    <p>Controlling reproduction processes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of the portal system in transporting GnRH to the anterior pituitary gland?

    <p>To prevent GnRH from being broken down by proteases.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the consequence of disrupting the hypothalamic-hypophyseal portal circulation system?

    <p>Reducing fertility in individuals.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Besides GnRH, which hormone is also transported by the hypothalamic-hypophyseal portal circulation system?

    <p>Corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the portal system help in ensuring GnRH reaches its target cells in the anterior pituitary gland?

    <p>By minimizing its exposure to the bloodstream.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do LH and FSH play upon reaching the target cells in the anterior pituitary gland?

    <p>They respond by synthesizing and releasing other hormones.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of testosterone production in the testis?

    <p>Growth and development of male reproductive organs</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which gland produces a minor amount of testosterone in men?

    <p>Adrenal glands</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significant role of the adrenal glands in hormone production?

    <p>Secondary role in testosterone production</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which hormone is predominantly responsible for the growth and maintenance of muscle tissue in men?

    <p>Testosterone</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What renders the testosterone biologically inactive when the body does not use it?

    <p>SHBG</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Apart from the testes, where else is testosterone produced in men?

    <p>Adrenal glands</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which system plays a central role in regulating the production and function of testosterone in men?

    <p>Endocrine system</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are the male secondary sexual characteristics influenced by alongside testosterone?

    <p>Androgen hormones</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of DHT in the male body?

    <p>Promoting body hair growth</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which enzyme is crucial in the synthesis of DHT from testosterone?

    <p>5α-reductase enzyme</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant effect of DHT on prostate health?

    <p>Increased risk of prostate cancer</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which tissues is DHT primarily produced?

    <p>Liver and adrenal glands</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main difference in the tissue distribution of type 1 and type 2 5α-reductase?

    <p>Type 1 is predominantly expressed in the skin and hair follicles, while type 2 is mainly found in the prostate.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following accurately describes the role of DHT in the male phenotype?

    <p>DHT stimulates vellus hair growth, sebaceous glands, and male genitalia development.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which medical condition is primarily linked to the abnormal action of DHT on hair follicles?

    <p>Androgenetic alopecia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does DHT play a role in the enlargement of the prostate gland?

    <p>DHT promotes the growth and secretory function of the gland.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do androgens like testosterone and DHT contribute to muscle growth?

    <p>By influencing the production of new bone tissue</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the health issues that can arise from abnormal androgen levels?

    <p>Increased likelihood of delayed puberty</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do higher levels of testosterone affect blood factors in the body?

    <p>By increasing red blood cell production</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In addition to muscle growth and bone density regulation, what other aspect of male biology are androgens like testosterone and DHT involved in?

    <p>Promotion of libido</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do androgens influence sperm production?

    <p>By nourishing and supporting developing germ cells</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary way androgens promote muscle growth in males?

    <p>By binding to muscle receptors and stimulating protein synthesis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which hormone is responsible for the growth of facial and body hair in males?

    <p>Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do androgens contribute to bone density regulation?

    <p>By maintaining bone density through various mechanisms</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What signals the onset of puberty and the initiation of the HPG axis?

    <p>Decreasing levels of inhibin</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Disruption in the HPG axis can lead to conditions like delayed puberty, early puberty, infertility, and which specific hormone-related disorder?

    <p>Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the future, what medical advancements might target directly to manipulate the HPG axis for potential aid in fertility treatments and other reproductive disorders?

    <p>Gonadostat manipulation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of peritubular myoid cells in the testicular environment?

    <p>Providing structural support to the seminiferous tubules</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which cell type is responsible for the production, storage, and secretion of steroid hormones like testosterone in the testes?

    <p>Interstitial cells</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of sperm production and development, what role do Sertoli cells play?

    <p>Create a nurturing environment for sperm maturation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How is GnRH secreted from the hypothalamus?

    <p>in a pulsatile manner</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which neurotransmitter suppresses the release of GnRH and decreases the secretion of LH and FSH?

    <p>Dopamine (DA)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following promotes GnRH release?

    <p>leptin</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does inhibin interact with other hormones to influence hormone production?

    <p>By interacting with activin to affect the release of FSH and LH</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the key functions of inhibin in males?

    <p>Collaborating with activin to regulate LH levels</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does the feedback loop involving inhibin help regulate the menstrual cycle?

    <p>By preventing the formation of too many or too few mature follicles</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can happen if there is an imbalance in estrogen levels in men?

    <p>Emotional disturbances</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which bodily system does estrogen NOT influence in males?

    <p>Immune system</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In addition to supporting sexual development, what other aspect of male health does estrogen play a role in?

    <p>Maintaining cardiovascular health</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does prostatic fluid contribute to semen?

    <p>Providing nutrients for sperm cells</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which component of seminal vesicle fluid serves as an energy source for sperm cells?

    <p>Fructose</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is zinc an essential mineral in semen production?

    <p>Involved in semen production</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can a too acidic pH level affect sperm function?

    <p>Impair sperm function</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of seminal vesicle fluid in semen composition?

    <p>Providing nutrients for sperm cells</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Aromatase is the enzyme that converts testosterone to estradiol

    <p>True</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of sympathetic neurons (T11-S2) in the ejaculation process?

    <p>Initiate the movement of semen and sperm into the urethra</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do smooth muscle contractions contribute to fertilization during ejaculation?

    <p>Propel semen and sperm into the female reproductive system</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary driver of ejaculation as discussed in the text?

    <p>Autonomic nervous system</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which component contributes to stimulating contractions of smooth muscle in the vas deferens and seminal vesicles during ejaculation?

    <p>Sympathetic nervous system</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What ensures the proper timing, coordination, and execution of ejaculation according to the text?

    <p>Spinal cord reflexes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of protein phosphorylation in sperm capacitation?

    <p>Promoting plasma membrane changes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does sperm capacitation differ from regular sperm function?

    <p>It transforms chemically quiescent sperm into active, motile cells</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which process is directly affected by protein phosphorylation during sperm capacitation?

    <p>Acrosome reaction</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which neurotransmitter released from nerve endings in the penis plays an important role in erections?

    <p>nitric oxide (NO)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Only sperm that have completed the ____ can penetrate the ZP and fuse with the egg.

    <p>acrosome reaction</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can the misuse of anabolic steroids impact reproductive health in women?

    <p>Decrease the number of eggs, making conception more difficult</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential consequence of anabolic steroid use during pregnancy?

    <p>Increased chances of male reproductive abnormalities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can anabolic steroid use impact an individual's relationships and reproductive health according to the text?

    <p>Lead to mood swings and depression affecting relationships and reproductive health</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary reproductive impact of Klinefelter syndrome?

    <p>Challenges in conceiving a child naturally</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which treatment option is available for men with Klinefelter syndrome who may still produce a limited number of sperm?

    <p>Testicular sperm extraction (TESE)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Apart from sperm retrieval and surgical options, what alternative method is mentioned for individuals with Klinefelter syndrome to become biological parents?

    <p>Adoption and surrogacy</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the typical first step in diagnosing 5-alpha reductase deficiency?

    <p>Examining the patient's physical symptoms</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can low levels of DHT be indicated in individuals with 5-alpha reductase deficiency?

    <p>By assessing the ratio between testosterone and dihydrotestosterone</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is early diagnosis crucial for newborn males with ambiguous genitalia related to 5-alpha reductase deficiency?

    <p>To minimize potential complications later in life</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which symptom is commonly seen in individuals with Partial Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (PAIS)?

    <p>Enlarged breast tissue</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a symptom that can help differentiate Mild Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (MAIS) from other types of Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome?

    <p>Gynecomastia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome, what symptom is specifically associated with the Complete Androgen Insensitivity Syndrome (CAIS) subtype?

    <p>Infertility</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the life-threatening complications associated with Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) mentioned in the text?

    <p>Adrenal crisis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which complication of CAH results from an inability to produce aldosterone and can be life-threatening due to dehydration?

    <p>Salt-wasting crises</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can untreated CAH lead to if patients experience symptoms such as ambiguous genitalia and emotional stress?

    <p>Psychological stress</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key step in the diagnostic process for Swyer Syndrome?

    <p>Testing the SRY gene for mutations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a common symptom that may lead to the diagnosis of Swyer Syndrome?

    <p>Genital ambiguity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the context of Swyer Syndrome, what is the significance of gonadal histology?

    <p>To evaluate the presence of testicular tissue</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What imaging technique provides more detailed information about the reproductive structures in the diagnosis of Mullerian dysgenesis?

    <p>CT scan</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is early diagnosis and intervention important in cases of MRKH syndrome?

    <p>To improve quality of life and outcomes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Unraveling GnRH's Journey: The Hypothalamic-Hypophyseal Portal Circulation

    Have you ever wondered how your body coordinates its complex hormonal systems to maintain a healthy balance? The answer lies in a marvel of nature that we'll dive into today: GnRH and its journey through the hypothalamic-hypophyseal portal circulation.

    GnRH: A Key Player

    GnRH, or gonadotropin-releasing hormone, is a peptide that plays a critical role in regulating the reproductive system. Produced by specialized neurons in the hypothalamus, GnRH travels to the anterior pituitary gland, where it stimulates the production and release of two gonadotropin hormones: LH (luteinizing hormone) and FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone). These, in turn, regulate the function of the testes and ovaries, controlling processes such as reproduction, growth, and development.

    Hypothalamic-Hypophyseal Portal Circulation: The Bridge

    The hypothalamic-hypophyseal portal circulation is a unique vascular system, consisting of capillary networks that link the hypothalamus and the anterior pituitary gland. This specialized system is responsible for transporting hormones like GnRH, as well as other hormones, from the hypothalamus to the anterior pituitary gland.

    The portal system operates as follows:

    1. GnRH is released from the hypothalamic neurons into a specialized network of capillaries called the primary plexus.
    2. These capillaries form a portal system, which transports GnRH to a second network of capillaries called the secondary plexus, within the anterior pituitary gland.
    3. The hormone reaches the anterior pituitary gland's target cells, which respond by synthesizing and releasing LH and FSH.

    The Uniqueness of the Portal System

    This portal circulation system is unique in that it minimizes the exposure of GnRH to the bloodstream. By doing so, it helps to prevent the hormone from being broken down by proteases and increases the likelihood of GnRH reaching its target cells in the anterior pituitary gland.

    The Importance of GnRH and the Portal System

    GnRH and the hypothalamic-hypophyseal portal circulation play a vital role in maintaining the delicate balance of the reproductive system. A disruption to either of these systems can lead to a wide range of issues, including fertility problems, menstrual disorders, and abnormal sex development.

    GnRH and Beyond

    Although the focus of this article is on GnRH and the hypothalamic-hypophyseal portal circulation, it's worth mentioning that this system also transports other hormones, including corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), and dopamine. These hormones regulate the release of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and prolactin, respectively, and have significant roles in the regulation of the body's stress response, metabolism, and immune system.

    So the next time you're marveling at the intricacies of the human body, remember the humble GnRH and the hypothalamic-hypophyseal portal circulation: They're key players in ensuring that our reproductive systems function smoothly and in harmony with the rest of our bodies.

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    H Burkin Block 3 Week 6

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