What is the Origin of Pituitary Gonadotropin Secretion?

The term is a physiological compound combining 'Pituitary,' referring to the master gland in the brain, 'Gonadotropin,' literally meaning "that which stimulates the gonads," and 'Secretion,' the process of releasing a substance.

What is the Mechanism of Pituitary Gonadotropin Secretion?

The secretion is governed by the pulsatile release of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus. GnRH stimulates the pituitary gonadotroph cells to synthesize and release LH and FSH. These hormones then travel to the testes or ovaries to regulate testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone production, which in turn exert negative feedback on the pituitary and hypothalamus. This precise feedback loop maintains the delicate hormonal balance necessary for health.

Pituitary Gonadotropin Secretion ∞ Area

Pituitary Gonadotropin Secretion

Meaning

Pituitary Gonadotropin Secretion is the regulated release of the glycoprotein hormones Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) from the anterior pituitary gland into the systemic circulation. These hormones are the central drivers of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal (HPG) axis, directly stimulating the gonads to produce sex steroids and gametes. The pulsatile nature of this secretion is crucial for maintaining normal reproductive and endocrine function.