Anatomy & Physiology

Anatomy & Physiology Study Guide In males, FSH targets primarily the nurse cells of the seminiferous tubules. Under FSH stimulation, and in the presence of testosterone from the interstitial cells, nurse cells promote spermatogenesis and spermiogenesis and secrete androgen-binding protein (ABP). LH induces the secretion of testosterone and other androgens by the interstitial cells of the testes. Testosterone, the most important androgen, functions in: stimulating spermatogenesis and promoting the functional maturation of spermatozoa, through its effects on nurse cells; stimulating metabolism throughout the body, especially pathways concerned with protein synthesis, blood cell formation, and muscle growth; establishing and maintaining male secondary sex characteristics; maintaining the accessory glands and organs of the male reproductive tract; and affecting CNS function of the sexual drive and other behaviors. Testosterone production begins around the seventh week of fetal development and reaches a prenatal peak after roughly six months. 25.5 Female Reproductive System

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