Reproductive System Vocabulary

Flashcards for reproductive system lecture review.

Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

A reproductive hormone, also known as lutropin. Released from the anterior pituitary following stimulation by GnRH. Acts on leydig cells to stimulate testosterone production and on ovarian follicles to trigger meiosis during ovulation and helps maintain the corpus luteum after ovulation, supporting progesterone secretion.

Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH)

A reproductive hormone, also known as follitropin, involved in the reproductive system. Stimulated by GnRH and released from the anterior pituitary, it promotes the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles in women and promotes androgen binding protein release from sertoli cells causing spermatogenesis in men.

Steroidogenesis

The process of creating steroid hormones from cholesterol.

Sex-determining region of Y chromosome (SRY)

A gene that codes for the production of testis-determining factor (TDF).

Testis-determining factor (TDF)

Directs the differentiation of gonads into testes.

Müllerian-inhibiting factor

Secreted by the testes which leads to the degeneration of Müllerian ducts.

Androgen Receptor (AR)

A receptor that mediates most of the effects of testosterone.

Estradiol

An estrogen converted from testosterone in target tissues/cells, which is a ligand for estrogen receptors (ER) in testes, prostate, bone, & brain.

Gonadotropic Hormones

Hormones that affect the growth and function of the gonads (ovaries and testes).

Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG)

Secreted by the placenta during the first trimester, activates LH receptors to stimulate progesterone & estradiol synthesis/secretion.

Estriol

Produced by the placenta from fetal adrenal androgen substrate during the 2nd & 3rd trimesters of pregnancy.

Oxytocin

Peptide hormone produced in the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland, commonly known as the 'bonding hormone.'

Fergusson Reflex

Positive feedback spiral in parturition where uterine contractions push the fetus against the cervix, leading to oxytocin secretion and prostaglandin production.