Follicle-stimulating hormone

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is a gonadotropin released by the anterior pituitary. In ovaries it supports follicle growth and estrogen production; in testes it supports sperm production.

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone: A hypothalamic hormone that triggers the pituitary to release luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone. Pulses of this hormone regulate pituitary FSH secretion.
Anterior pituitary: The front lobe of the pituitary gland, which secretes hormones including FSH and luteinizing hormone. It is the source of circulating FSH.
Infertility: A reproductive condition defined by failure to achieve pregnancy after a specified period of regular unprotected sex. Abnormal FSH signaling or ovarian response can contribute to infertility.
Spermatogenesis: The process by which germ cells develop into sperm in the testes. In testes, FSH acts on Sertoli cells to support this process.
FSH receptor: A cell-surface G protein-coupled receptor activated by follicle-stimulating hormone. FSH acts on ovarian granulosa cells by binding this receptor.
Hypothalamus: A brain region that coordinates endocrine and autonomic functions, including pituitary hormone release. It controls pituitary gonadotropin release through gonadotropin-releasing hormone.
Ovarian reserve: The remaining quantity and reproductive potential of a person's ovarian follicles. Early-cycle FSH is measured as one indirect indicator of ovarian reserve.
Sertoli cell: A testicular support cell that nurtures developing sperm and responds to follicle-stimulating hormone. This is the principal testicular cell type targeted by FSH.
Granulosa cell: An ovarian follicle cell that nourishes the oocyte and produces estradiol in response to hormonal signals. These cells translate FSH stimulation into follicle growth and estrogen synthesis.
Ovarian follicle: A structure in the ovary containing an oocyte and supporting cells that develop during the menstrual cycle. FSH promotes the growth and maturation of these ovarian structures.

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