This is a core endocrinological principle describing the inherent inhibitory effect of elevated circulating hormone levels on the release of their own stimulating hormones from the central hypothalamus and pituitary gland. It represents the body’s primary homeostatic mechanism, designed to prevent pathological overproduction and maintain hormone levels within a tightly controlled physiological range. Clinical interventions, such as the administration of exogenous hormones, often intentionally or unintentionally activate this natural suppression.
Origin
The concept is absolutely foundational to the study of the entire endocrine system, emerging from the initial discovery of the various hormonal axes, such as the HPG and HPA, and their complex reciprocal regulatory loops. ‘Feedback’ denotes the return of information about a system’s output to its input, and ‘Suppression’ refers to the resultant reduction in the secretory activity of the central glands. This elegant, self-regulating system ensures systemic stability and appropriate responsiveness.
Mechanism
High concentrations of a target hormone, such as testosterone or cortisol, bind to specific high-affinity receptors located in the hypothalamus and/or the pituitary gland. This binding event sends a direct signal to these central glands to decrease the secretion of their respective releasing or stimulating hormones, including GnRH, LH, or ACTH. The resulting reduced signal subsequently diminishes the production and release of the target hormone from the peripheral gland, thereby completing the necessary negative feedback loop.
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