Unlike other organ systems, the reproductive system is unique because it becomes functional at a certain age after birth, called puberty. Sexual development that leads to the puberty in both males and females is controlled by some substances, called hormones. The hormones are chemical messengers that are produced and released by endocrine glands in blood. The hormones interact with their target cells due to the presence of specific receptors on the target cells.
6.1.1 Male Sexual Development
In males, the hormones responsible for sexual development and maintenance of reproductive functions are testosterone and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH).
I) Testosterone
Testosterone is mainly produced by the specific cells of testes under the influence of pituitary gland hormone. In female body, ICSH is also called luteinizing hormone (LH). Testosterone is very important for the development of male reproductive organs during puberty. It controls maturation of sperm and the maintenance of the male reproductive system. It stimulates the development of spermatocytes into spermatids and eventually into mature sperm. Testosterone also promotes the development of secondary sexual characteristics, such as the growth of facial hair, deepening of the voice, and increased muscle mass.
ii) Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH)
Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is produced by the anterior pituitary gland. It stimulates these cells to support the development of sperm cells and regulate the early stages of spermatogenesis.
Both testosterone and FSH are necessary for normal spermatogenesis, but they act at different points in the process. Testosterone promotes the final maturation of sperm and maintenance of the reproductive environment, while FSH initiates and regulates the early stages of sperm production.
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