What is the function of interstitial cell-stimulating hormone?

The function of interstitial cell-stimulating hormone (ICSH), also known as luteinizing hormone (LH), is to stimulate the production and secretion of testosterone in males and estrogen and progesterone in females.

In males:

- ICSH stimulates the interstitial cells (Leydig cells) of the testes to produce and release testosterone, which is essential for the development and maintenance of male characteristics, including the growth and maturation of the reproductive organs, the development of secondary sexual characteristics such as beard and body hair growth, and the deepening of the voice.

- Testosterone plays a vital role in sperm production (spermatogenesis), promoting the maturation of sperm cells in the seminiferous tubules of the testes.

In females:

- During the menstrual cycle, ICSH plays a crucial role in triggering ovulation. Rising levels of ICSH cause the maturation and release of a dominant follicle from the ovary. This process involves the thinning and rupture of the follicle, releasing the egg into the fallopian tubes for potential fertilization.

- After ovulation, ICSH works together with follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) to support the transformation of the ruptured follicle into the corpus luteum, a temporary gland that produces progesterone.

Progesterone is essential for the preparation and maintenance of the uterine lining in anticipation of embryo implantation. If pregnancy does not occur, the corpus luteum regresses, leading to the decline of progesterone levels and eventually menstruation.