Spermatogenesis and Male Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis

Flashcards covering key vocabulary related to spermatogenesis and the male hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis as discussed in the lecture.

Spermatogenesis

The process of producing mature sperm cells from spermatogonia through three phases: mitotic proliferation, meiotic proliferation, and spermiogenesis.

Leydig Cells

Cells located in the testes that produce testosterone and are stimulated by luteinizing hormone (LH).

Sertoli Cells

Supportive cells in the seminiferous tubules that assist with spermatogenesis and provide nourishment to developing sperm cells.

GnRH (Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone)

Hormone produced by the hypothalamus that stimulates the anterior pituitary to release LH and FSH.

LH (Luteinizing Hormone)

Hormone released by the anterior pituitary that stimulates testosterone production from Leydig cells.

FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone)

Hormone released by the anterior pituitary that stimulates spermatogenesis by acting on Sertoli cells.

Spermiogenesis

The final phase of spermatogenesis in which spermatids transform into spermatozoa, involving cell elongation and differentiation.

Inhibins

Hormones produced by Sertoli cells that provide negative feedback to decrease FSH secretion from the anterior pituitary.

Meiosis

A type of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in the formation of haploid sperm cells.

Chemical Castration

A treatment approach for prostatic cancer which involves suppressing hormone levels, particularly testosterone.