Endocrine control of female reproduction
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Questions and Answers

What is the main role of Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) in the menstrual cycle?

  • Stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles (correct)
  • Triggers the release of a mature egg
  • Stimulates ovulation
  • Stimulates progesterone production

    • Which hormone triggers ovulation in the menstrual cycle?

  • Estrogen
  • Progesterone
  • Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
  • Luteinizing Hormone (LH) (correct)

    • What is the primary role of Progesterone in the menstrual cycle?

  • Stimulates estrogen production
  • Stimulates ovarian follicle growth
  • Triggers ovulation
  • Ensures the uterine lining is receptive to a fertilized egg (correct)

    • How is ovulation triggered in the menstrual cycle?

    <p>Surge in Luteinizing Hormone (LH)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary hormone involved in regulating the release of FSH and LH in the menstrual cycle?

    <p>Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which endocrine disorder is characterized by elevated levels of prolactin that interfere with the secretion of FSH and LH?

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

    In women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), what hormone do they usually produce excessive amounts of?

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

    Which hormone surge during stressful situations can interfere with the normal secretion of Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)?

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

    What is the main cause of Hypothalamic Amenorrhea according to the text?

    <p>Low levels of Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which gland issues can lead to Hyperprolactinemia, impacting the normal menstrual cycle?

    <p>Pituitary gland issues</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following lists the correct order of potency of estrogens?

    <p>17β-estradiol (E2) &gt; Estrone &gt; Estriol</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Match the type of estrogen with the location its produced

    <p>17β-estradiol (E2) = ovary estriol = Placenta, liver estrone = Adipose Tissue -- = --</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of 17β-HSD enzymes in steroid metabolism?

    <p>Converting steroids through oxidation-reduction reactions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do imbalances in estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone impact the body?

    <p>Disrupt the balance of reproductive and other body systems</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which hormones are directly influenced by 17β-HSD enzymes in the metabolic pathways?

    <p>Estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of 17β-HSD enzymes in maintaining hormonal balance?

    <p>Affecting the reproductive system and overall body functions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which enzyme is crucial for the conversion of androstenedione to estrone, a primary estrogen in postmenopausal women?

    <p>17β-HSD5</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What impact can imbalances in 17β-HSD enzymes have on the human body?

    <p>Result in hormone imbalances and contribute to diseases</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which disease has been associated with mutations in 17β-HSD5?

    <p>Breast cancer</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main function of 16α-hydroxylase in estrogen metabolism?

    <p>Catalyze the hydroxylation of estrone and estradiol at the 16α position</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the significance of the interconversion between estrone (E1) and estradiol (E2) mediated by 17β-HSD enzyme?

    <p>To maintain a balance between E1 and E2 due to their distinct biological activities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What key role does estriol play during pregnancy based on the text?

    <p>Facilitating fetal growth and development</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of progesterone in pregnancy support?

    <p>Maintaining the uterine lining</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which symptoms are associated with menopause due to the decline in estrogen and progesterone levels?

    <p>Hot flashes and mood swings</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do estrogen and progesterone interact to support fertility and menstruation?

    <p>Estrogen and progesterone work together to support the growth of the placenta and the maintenance of the uterine lining</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which hormone is produced by the corpus luteum of the ovary, placenta, adrenal cortex, and testes?

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

    What is the primary function of progesterone during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle?

    <p>Maintaining the uterine lining</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do progesterone levels differ between the follicular and luteal phases of the menstrual cycle?

    <p>They peak in the luteal phase</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of estrogen in the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle?

    <p>Stimulating ovarian follicle growth</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) play in the reproductive system?

    <p>Stimulating the release of luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How are GnRH secretion patterns related to fertility and reproduction?

    <p>Irregular patterns support fertility while regular patterns suppress it</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effect does high estrogen and low progesterone levels have on GnRH secretion?

    <p>Inhibits GnRH secretion</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Where is Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) synthesized in the body?

    <p>Arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of GnRH in the reproductive system?

    <p>Regulating gonadotropin synthesis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do high estrogen levels impact GnRH secretion during the menstrual cycle?

    <p>Inhibit GnRH release</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is the pulsatile secretion pattern of GnRH essential for reproductive function?

    <p>To maintain optimal reproductive function</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How is the relationship between GnRH and sex hormones (estrogen and progesterone) best described?

    <p>Dynamic and tightly regulated</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of pituitary gonadotropins in the endocrine system?

    <p>Regulate the reproductive system</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Where are pituitary gonadotropins synthesized within the body?

    <p>Anterior pituitary</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the function of peptide hormones in the endocrine system?

    <p>Act as chemical messengers</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which part of the brain houses the pituitary gland responsible for producing pituitary gonadotropins?

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

    What is the primary role of gonadotropins in the endocrine system?

    <p>Stimulate the release of LH and FSH</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does LH affect males in the reproductive system?

    <p>Induces testosterone production</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which hormone stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles in females?

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

    What can result from imbalances in LH and FSH levels in the body?

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

    In males, what is the primary function of FSH in the testes?

    <p>Produce inhibin for sperm regulation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How are gonadotropins stimulated for secretion in the endocrine system?

    <p>By GnRH produced in the hypothalamus</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) in females?

    <p>Stimulating the growth and development of ovarian follicles</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which cells are responsible for producing estrogen under the influence of FSH?

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

    What is the significance of aromatase expression in ovarian follicles?

    <p>It converts androgens to estrogens</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does FSH contribute to the menstrual cycle?

    <p>By regulating the production of estrogen and progesterone</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of aromatase in the granulosa cells?

    <p>Converting androgens into estrogen</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does FSH influence aromatase expression in granulosa cells?

    <p>Stimulating aromatase expression</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens to aromatase expression in the absence of FSH stimulation?

    <p>Halts completely</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is aromatase expression essential for the corpus luteum after ovulation?

    <p>To maintain progesterone levels</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of luteinizing hormone (LH) in the female reproductive system?

    <p>Initiating ovulation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does luteinizing hormone (LH) impact theca cells in the ovary?

    <p>Stimulates androgen synthesis</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When does the LH surge typically occur in relation to ovulation?

    <p>36 hours before ovulation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main purpose of androgen synthesis by theca cells in the female reproductive system?

    <p>To promote the development of secondary sexual characteristics</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of progesterone receptor priming by estrogen?

    <p>Increase uterine sensitivity to estrogen</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does progesterone contribute to maintaining the uterine environment?

    <p>By inhibiting the synthesis of estrogen receptors</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effect would a decrease in estrogen levels have on the process of progesterone receptor priming?

    <p>Cause a decrease in uterine receptivity</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does estrogen's role in progesterone receptor priming affect fertility?

    <p>Enhances fertility by preventing implantation failure</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the term for the process in which a primary follicle matures and releases an ovum?

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

    During ovum production, what happens to the three cells that are not the released ovum?

    <p>They degenerate.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the function of the ovaries in hormone production?

    <p>Balancing hormones for menstrual cycle regulation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the relationship between folliculogenesis and the ovarian cycle?

    <p>Folliculogenesis is part of the ovarian cycle, involving ovum maturation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What hormone is primarily responsible for stimulating ovulation during the ovarian cycle?

    <p>Luteinizing Hormone (LH)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which hormone is produced by the corpus luteum to maintain and prepare the uterine lining for potential implantation?

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

    During which phase of the ovarian cycle does the corpus luteum start to degenerate if fertilization does not occur?

    <p>Luteal Phase</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which hormone is essential for the growth, development, and maturation of follicles during folliculogenesis?

    <p>Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What triggers the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) from the pituitary gland in the ovarian cycle?

    <p>High Estrogen Levels</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which phase of the ovarian cycle involves the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus?

    <p>Follicular Phase</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of granulosa cells in the female reproductive system?

    <p>Producing estradiol and housing aromatase enzyme</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which enzyme is responsible for converting androgens to estrogens in granulosa cells?

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

    What is the primary role of estradiol in the female reproductive system?

    <p>Regulating female secondary sexual characteristics and reproductive function</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which gene codes for the aromatase enzyme found in granulosa cells?

    <p>CYP19A1</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of estradiol in the female reproductive system?

    <p>Regulating uterine lining development</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What initiates the conversion of androgens to estradiol within granulosa cells?

    <p>Aromatase enzyme</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which hormone is responsible for promoting the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles?

    <p>Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do granulosa cells contribute to maintaining healthy ovarian function?

    <p>By producing estradiol to promote follicular development</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During which phase does estradiol concentration peak in the menstrual cycle?

    <p>Ovulatory phase</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role do gonadotropins play in the regulation of granulosa cell activity?

    <p>Regulating follicular growth through FSH signaling</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do high levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) affect granulosa cell function?

    <p>Promoting follicular development</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main function of aromatase enzyme in granulosa cells?

    <p>Catalyzing the conversion of androgens to estradiol</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Hormonal balance between which two hormones influences granulosa cell activity the most?

    <p>Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and Progesterone</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How do granulosa cells interact with theca cells in ovarian function?

    <p>Coordinating estrogen secretion</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key function of estradiol in promoting follicular development?

    <p>Enhancing granulosa cell proliferation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main function of luteal cells within the corpus luteum?

    <p>Production of progesterone</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which enzyme is involved in the conversion of cholesterol to pregnenolone in luteal cells?

    <p>P450scc</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When does the corpus luteum typically degenerate if fertilization does not occur?

    <p>After 10-14 days in the menstrual cycle</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What role does progesterone play in the menstrual cycle?

    <p>Maintaining pregnancy or regulating the menstrual cycle</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which hormone triggers the transformation of follicle cells into luteal cells and initiates a burst of progesterone production?

    <p>Luteinizing Hormone (LH)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In the absence of fertilization, what leads to the breakdown of the uterine lining and the beginning of menstruation?

    <p>Drop in Progesterone and Estrogen Levels</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which cells play a pivotal role in the menstrual cycle by producing progesterone to regulate the uterine lining and maintain pregnancy?

    <p>Corpus Luteum Cells</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In early pregnancy, what ensures implantation and pregnancy by continuing to produce progesterone and estrogen?

    <p>Progesterone and Estrogen from Corpus Luteum</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Ovulation is triggered by a surge in which of the following hormones?

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

    In addition to FSH, the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle is characterized by rising levels of which of the following?

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

    Aromatase is the enzyme that converts estradiol into testosterone

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

    A 22 year old ballet dancer presents with amenorrhea for 6 months. Which tests are most appropriate?

    <p>all of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

    PCOS-associated hirsutism and acne are due to elevated levels of:

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

    Premature ovarian failure and menopause are associated with which of the following?

    <p>hypergonadotropic hypogonadism</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Secondary amenorrhea should be considered to be due to pregnancy until proven otherwise

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

    Hot flashes, irregular menses, vaginal dryness, and mood swings are symptoms of which of the following?

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

    A one day old girl (AFAB) is evaluated in the newborn nursery. She has a normal pulmonary and cardiac examination. Female external genitalia are identified. Oocytes in the ovaries are at which stage of development?

    <p>Prophase Meiosis I</p> Signup and view all the answers

    With a primary follicle, which structure is formed?

    <p>zona pellucida</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is responsible for generating an LH surge?

    <p>P4</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary role of estrogen during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle?

    <p>Contributes to the growth of the uterine lining</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does progesterone indirectly affect fertility towards the end of the luteal phase?

    <p>Thickens the cervical mucus barrier</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is an understanding of the luteal phase important for individuals trying to conceive or avoid pregnancy?

    <p>It prepares the body for pregnancy possibilities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Reduced P4 can lead to which of the following?

    <p>reduced fertility</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary function of inhibin in the menstrual cycle?

    <p>Inhibiting FSH production to regulate follicular development</p> Signup and view all the answers

    During which phase of the menstrual cycle does the corpus luteum primarily produce progesterone?

    <p>Luteal phase</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which hormone is responsible for thickening the uterine lining in preparation for a possible pregnancy?

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

    How does estrogen (E2) influence the thickness of cervical mucus during the fertile window?

    <p>Thins the mucus and makes it more abundant</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What effect does progesterone (P4) have on the cellular composition of cervical mucus?

    <p>Leads to a higher number of ciliated cells and the presence of mucin-1</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does estrogen (E2) influence the alkalinity of cervical mucus?

    <p>Increases alkalinity and viscosity of the mucus</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary cause of Kallman syndrome?

    <p>Mutations in genes affecting olfactory system development</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which symptom is NOT commonly associated with Kallman syndrome?

    <p>Insulin resistance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In Kallman syndrome, what is the main issue related to FSH and LH production?

    <p>Underproduction due to pituitary gland malfunction</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does obesity affect hormone levels?

    <p>increased estrogen</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why does the pituitary gland increase FSH production during menopause?

    <p>To stimulate the remaining ovarian follicles as estrogen levels decline</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can an extended duration of hormonal imbalance during menopause increase the risk of?

    <p>Cardiovascular disease</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why might women experiencing late menopause have more severe symptoms and hormonal fluctuations than those who undergo menopause earlier?

    <p>As a result of the extended period of hormonal decline</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of parasympathetic nerves in female sexual arousal?

    <p>Trigger the release of Vasoactive Intestinal Peptide (VIP)</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does Nitric Oxide (NO) contribute to female sexual arousal?

    <p>Relaxes smooth muscle cells in blood vessels</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement accurately describes the role of sympathetic nerves in sexual response?

    <p>Dilate blood vessels and increase blood flow to the genitalia</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following are causes of female sexual dysfunction?

    <p>all of the above</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Unveiling the Menstrual Cycle's Endocrine System

    The menstrual cycle isn't just a monthly occurrence—it's an intricate dance of hormones and endocrine system orchestration. In this article, we'll explore the hormones, ovulation process, and endocrine disorders affecting the cycle, as well as the impact of stress on this delicate system.

    Hormones Involved

    The menstrual cycle is fueled by a cascade of hormones, predominantly produced by the ovaries, hypothalamus, and pituitary gland. The primary hormones at play are:

    • Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH): This hormone stimulates the growth of ovarian follicles during the first half of the menstrual cycle, priming them for ovulation.
    • Luteinizing Hormone (LH): LH triggers ovulation, and later in the cycle, it stimulates the corpus luteum to produce progesterone and estrogen, preparing the uterus for potential pregnancy.
    • Estradiol (estrogen): Produced by the ovaries, estrogen helps develop the uterine lining and regulates the menstrual cycle.
    • Progesterone: Produced by the corpus luteum in the second half of the menstrual cycle, progesterone ensures the uterine lining is receptive to a fertilized egg.

    Ovulation Process

    Ovulation is the release of a mature egg from the ovary. It is triggered by a surge in LH that occurs mid-cycle, typically around day 14 of a 28-day cycle. When the egg is released into the fallopian tube, it may be fertilized by sperm and travel to the uterus, or it may not be fertilized, leading to menstruation if pregnancy does not occur.

    Endocrine Disorders Affecting Cycle

    Disorders that affect the menstrual cycle often stem from imbalances in the endocrine system. Some examples include:

    • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): This hormonal disorder causes irregular ovulation and menstrual cycles. Women with PCOS usually produce excessive amounts of androgens (male hormones) and often have enlarged ovaries with multiple small cysts.
    • Hypothalamic Amenorrhea: This condition results from low levels of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which causes decreased secretion of FSH and LH. Hypothalamic amenorrhea can be caused by stress, extreme weight loss, or intense exercise.
    • Hyperprolactinemia: This condition results from elevated levels of prolactin, a hormone that interferes with the normal secretion of FSH and LH. Hyperprolactinemia is often caused by stress, medication side effects, or pituitary gland issues.

    The Impact of Stress on the Endocrine System

    Chronic stress can affect the menstrual cycle through alterations in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal-gonadal (HPA-gonadal) axis. This complex interplay of hormones can contribute to hormonal imbalances, irregular menstrual cycles, and anovulation. Known as the "tend-and-befriend" response, women often experience a surge in oxytocin during stressful situations, which can interfere with the normal secretion of GnRH and disrupt the menstrual cycle.

    In conclusion, the menstrual cycle's endocrine system is a complex and interconnected network of hormones that work together to regulate ovulation, the menstrual cycle, and ultimately, the potential for pregnancy. Disruptions to this system can lead to a variety of endocrine disorders, and the impact of stress on the menstrual cycle is an important factor to consider when discussing women's health.

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