Question

Explain the hormonal regulation of the process of spermatogenesis in humans.

Answer 1

Hint:Spermatogenesis is the process by which haploid spermatozoa develop from germ cells in the seminiferous tubules of the testis.

Complete answer:
The process of sperm cell development is called spermatogenesis. It begins with the mitotic division of the stem cells which is located close to the basement membrane of the tubules. In the human male reproductive system, spermatogenesis begins at the age of puberty due to a significant increase in the secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the pituitary gland.

Spermatogenesis initiation occurs at puberty due to the interaction of the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and Leydig cells. The increased level of GnRH acts on the anterior pituitary gland and stimulates the secretion of the two gonadotropins, i.e., luteinizing hormone (LH) and Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).

The luteinizing hormone (LH) acts on the Leydig cells and stimulates synthesis and secretion of androgens, which stimulates spermatogenesis. FSH acts on the Sertoli cells and stimulates the secretion of some factors which help in the process of spermatogenesis.

FSH stimulates both the production of androgen binding protein (ABP) by Sertoli cells and the formation of the blood-testis barrier.

Note: It is to be noted that even if the pituitary gland is removed, spermatogenesis can still be initiated by follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and testosterone.