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How do follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone affect ovaries and testes?

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Hormone Many important physiological functions of vertebrates are controlled by steroid hormones.

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) are gonadotropic hormones produced by the pituitary gland that regulate the ovaries and testes.123

Effects on Ovaries

FSH: Stimulates the maturation of graafian follicles and the synthesis of estrogens.23
LH: A preovulatory surge of LH is essential for ovulation—the rupture of the follicle. Afterward, LH promotes the transformation of the empty follicle into the corpus luteum, which secretes progesterone.13

Effects on Testes

FSH: Promotes the development of the tubules of the testes and the differentiation and maturation of spermatozoa, largely by acting on Sertoli cells.23
LH: Stimulates the interstitial (Leydig) cells to secrete testosterone, the primary male sex hormone.13

These hormones operate in conjunction to maintain reproductive function, with their secretion levels varying throughout the menstrual cycle in women and remaining essential for puberty and fertility in both sexes.123