Which hormones does the anterior pituitary gland produce that are relevant in reproductive functions?

The anterior pituitary gland plays a crucial role in the regulation of reproductive functions, primarily through the production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). These two hormones are key players in the reproductive endocrine system.

FSH is vital for the regulation of the menstrual cycle in females, as it stimulates the growth and maturation of ovarian follicles. In males, FSH is important for promoting spermatogenesis and stimulating the Sertoli cells in the testes.

LH, on the other hand, is responsible for triggering ovulation and the development of the corpus luteum in females, which produces progesterone. In males, LH stimulates the Leydig cells in the testes to produce testosterone, which is essential for the development of male secondary sexual characteristics and spermatogenesis.

The other choices include hormones that are not produced by the anterior pituitary. Estrogen and progesterone are produced by the ovaries and are regulated by FSH and LH, while testosterone is produced in the testes and is influenced by LH. Antidiuretic hormone (ADH) is produced in the hypothalamus and stored in the posterior pituitary, not the anterior pituitary. Cortisol and aldosterone are produced by the adrenal gland,