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Answer either A or B in the space below - Scottish Highers Human Biology - Question 13 - 2018
Question 13
Answer either A or B in the space below. Labelled diagrams may be used where appropriate. A Give an account of hormonal control of puberty and sperm production in ... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Answer either A or B in the space below - Scottish Highers Human Biology - Question 13 - 2018
Step 1
Give an account of hormonal control of puberty and sperm production in males.
Answer
To understand the hormonal control of puberty and sperm production in males, it's important to discuss the role of several hormones.
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Puberty begins when a release hormone is produced by the hypothalamus.
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The pituitary gland responds by releasing follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and interstitial cell stimulating hormone (ICSH).
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FSH acts on the testes, stimulating spermatogenesis in the seminiferous tubules.
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ICSH acts on the interstitial cells in the testes, promoting the production of testosterone.
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Testosterone is crucial for sperm production, as it stimulates spermatogenesis and enhances libido.
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Sperm or gametes are produced from germline cells through meiotic divisions.
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Testosterone also activates the prostate gland and seminal vesicles, which secrete fluids that contribute to semen.
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There is a negative feedback mechanism where high levels of testosterone inhibit the production of FSH and ICSH, regulating hormone levels effectively.