2.2

Question 1

How is the onset of puberty triggered

Answer 1

The pituitary gland is stimulated to release follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) M/F
luteinising hormone (LH) F
Interstitial cell stimulating hormone (ICSH) M
by a releaser hormone produced in the hypothalamus. This triggers the onset of puberty.

Question 2

What does FSH and ICSH do?

Answer 2

FSH promotes sperm production
ICSH stimulates the production of testosterone
Testosterone also stimulates sperm production and activates the Seminal Vesicles and Prostate Gland to produce secretions

Question 3

Explain Negative Feedback of Testosterone

Answer 3

Testosterone concentration builds up in the bloodstream it reaches a level that inhibits FSH and ICSH secretion
This causes a decrease in testosterone concentration
As a result, the pituitary gland releases FSH and ICSH again

Question 4

Explain Follicular Phase of Menstrual Cycle

Answer 4

Lasts day 1-14
FSH stimulates follicle development in the ovary and stimulates the wall of the follicle and the tissues of the ovary to secrete the hormone oestrogen.
Oestrogen stimulates proliferation of the endometrium preparing it for implantation, and affects the consistency of cervical mucus making it more easily penetrated by sperm.
Peak levels of oestrogen stimulate a surge in the secretion of LH, this surge in LH triggers ovulation.