Endocrine System III: Reproductive Hormones Flashcards

Flashcards reviewing key vocabulary and concepts related to reproductive hormones and sex determination.

Testis

The male gonad.

Ovary

The female gonad.

SRY Gene

The region on the Y chromosome responsible for sex determination.

Sertoli Cells

Cells that secrete Mullerian Inhibiting Substance (MIS).

Leydig Cells

Cells that secrete testosterone.

Mullerian Inhibiting Substance (MIS)

Inhibits the development of the Mullerian duct.

Primary Sexual Characteristics

Growth and development of the gonads.

Secondary Sexual Characteristics

Facial hair, deepening of voice, and strengthening of muscles in males and body hair, breasts in females.

Gonadotropin Releasing Hormone (GnRH)

Secreted by the hypothalamus and stimulates the pituitary to release FSH & LH.

Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

Secreted by anterior pituitary, stimulates sperm production and stimulates the ovaries to secrete estrogen.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

Secreted by anterior pituitary, stimulates sex organs to secrete testosterone and progesterone and some estrogen.

Testosterone

Stimulates secondary sexual characteristics in males and the production of sperm, and regulates sperm production via negative feedback.

Semen

Nourishes the sperm and buffers to neutralize vaginal acidity.

Corpus Luteum

Mass of follicle cells that forms within the ovary after ovulation and secretes estrogen and progesterone.

Estrogen

Activates female secondary sex characteristics and increases the thickness of the endometrium.

Progesterone

Inhibits ovulation, inhibits uterine contractions, and stimulates the endometrium to thicken.

Menstrual Phase

The phase of the menstrual cycle where blood, tissue fluid, mucus and epithelial cells are discharged.

Preovulatory Phase

The phase of the menstrual cycle between menstruation and ovulation, where the uterine lining thickens.

Ovulation Phase

The phase of the menstrual cycle where Mature follicle ruptures and releasing the egg (oocyte).

Postovulatory Phase

The phase of the menstrual cycle after ovulation Phase, LH stimulates the corpus luteum to secrete increasing levels of progesterone and estrogen.