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Luteinizing Hormone Rhythm

Meaning

The Luteinizing Hormone Rhythm refers to the characteristic pulsatile pattern of secretion of Luteinizing Hormone (LH) from the anterior pituitary gland, which is essential for regulating gonadal function in both males and females. This rhythmic, intermittent release is governed by the hypothalamic pulsatile secretion of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH). In women, the rhythm drives the ovarian cycle and triggers ovulation with a dramatic mid-cycle surge; in men, it stimulates testicular Leydig cells to produce testosterone. Disruption of this rhythm is a common cause of reproductive and hormonal dysfunction.