Male Reproductive Hormones

Similar to the female reproductive system, the male reproductive system contains numerous hormones. Testosterone, which is produced by interstitial cells, plays a vital role in reproduction. Testosterone triggers the maturation of the testes, the penis, and the “sex-drive”, along with spermatogenesis. Testosterone also helps activate muscle development, growth in facial and body hair, and the lowering of voice. The Luteinizing Hormone (LH) is a hormone produced by gonadotroph cells in the anterior pituitary gland. The LH triggers and acts as a catalyst in the production of testosterone, and the development of the testes. Finally Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is produced by the hypothalamus. It stimulates the pituitary gland to produce luteinizing hormone and, to a lesser extent, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). The FSH also activates the sperm form cells in the testes.