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Hormonal regulation of spermatogenesis
Last reviewed: 05.07.2025
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The main functions of the male sex glands (testicles) are the synthesis and secretion of male sex hormones (androgens) and spermatogenesis, that is, the formation and development of spermatozoa. Androgens are necessary not only for spermatogenesis and sperm maturation, they also control the growth and function of the seminal vesicles and prostate. At the same time, a sufficient level of testosterone is a necessary condition for normal libido and sexual potency in men.
GnRH is secreted episodically throughout the day by cells of the hypothalamus. It stimulates the anterior pituitary gland, which in response secretes LH and FSH. LH acts on the Leydig cells in the testes, stimulating them to produce and secrete testosterone. Testosterone enters the Sertoli cells of the testes, where it promotes spermatogenesis in the spermatogonia. Sertoli cells also produce inhibin, a protein that suppresses the secretion of FSH by the pituitary gland. Testosterone has a similar effect on LH.
In mature men, FSH promotes the onset of spermatogenesis. The hormone binds to receptors on the plasma membrane of Sertoli cells, which are located on the basement membrane of the seminiferous tubules of the testicles. Sertoli cells respond to FSH stimulation by producing proteins that accelerate the maturation of spermatogonia in the tubules. If the process of spermatogenesis has begun, testosterone alone is sufficient to maintain it.
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