Gonadotropic cells (called also gonadotropes, gonadotrophs, delta cells or delta basophils)[1] are endocrine cells in the anterior pituitary that produce the gonadotropins, such as the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). Release of FSH and LH by gonadotropes is regulated by gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus.[2]
Gonadotropic cell | |
---|---|
Details | |
System | Reproductive system |
Location | Anterior pituitary gland |
Function | Gonadotropin secretion (follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH)) |
Identifiers | |
MeSH | D052681 |
TH | H3.08.02.2.00004 |
FMA | 83100 |
Anatomical terms of microanatomy [edit on Wikidata] |
Gonadotropes appear basophilic in histological preparations.
Gonadotropes have insulin receptors, which can be overstimulated by too high insulin levels. This may lead to infertility as hormone release levels are disrupted.[3][4]
Gonadotropes are feedback inhibited by specific hormones, including estradiol.[5]