Chapter 42, Problem 1AC

Summary Introduction

To determine:

The hypothetical drug that blocked the receptors for FSH and LH would be useful in men.

Introduction:

The follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormones (LH) are the gonadotropin hormones that are secreted by the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland. They regulate and control the development, puberty, growth, and reproductive events of the body. In both females and males, the FSH and LH stimulate the maturation of the primordial germ cells.

Explanation of Solution

Yes, a hypothetical drug that blocked the receptors for FSH and LH would be useful in males. In human males, the sexual maturation or puberty is marked by the release of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) secreted from the hypothalamus. The GnRH triggers the secretion of the LH and FSH from the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland. LH incites the Leydig cells to produce the testosterone, and FSH that works with testosterone to incite spermatogenesis (sperm formation).

So, if a hypothetical drug blocks the receptor for FSH and LH, it will reduce the production of testosterone and the spermatogenesis, which in turn may be used as a potent contraceptive method.

Summary Introduction

To determine:

The mechanism of action of a hypothetical drug that blocked the receptors for FSH and LH.

Introduction:

FSH receptors are found on the surface of the Sertoli cells and spermatogonia whereas, the LH receptors are found only on the Leydig cells. The activation of the LH receptors stimulates the production of the androgen hormone. The activation of the FSH receptors stimulates the Sertoli cells to produce the testosterone hormone.

Explanation of Solution

The mechanism of action of a drug that blocked the FSH and LH receptor, can be explained by drug-receptor binding mechanism. Drug-receptor binding involves several types of bonds such as ionic, hydrogen, covalent and Van Der Waals force. So, a drug that blocked the receptors of the FSH and LH, will result in the blocking of the sperm formation and testosterone production.

Summary Introduction

To determine:

The side effects of a drug that blocked the FSH and LH receptors.

Introduction:

The follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormones (LH) are the gonadotropin hormones that are secreted by the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland. FSH receptors are found on the surface of the Sertoli cells and spermatogonia. Whereas, the LH receptors are found only on the Leydig cells.

Explanation of Solution

The side effects of the drug that blocked the FSH and LH receptors are.

The reduction in testosterone would have a feminizing influence on the male body and male libido.

Sexual desire and performance would be greatly reduced.

Conclusion

Hence, if a hypothetical drug blocked the receptor for FSH and LH, it will reduce the production of testosterone and the spermatogenesis. This approach may be used as a potent contraceptive method but it will greatly reduced the sexual desire and performance.