What hormone secreted by the anterior pituitary gland stimulates spermatogenesis?

Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) plays a crucial role in stimulating spermatogenesis, which is the process of sperm cell development in the testes. It acts directly on the Sertoli cells, which support and nourish developing sperm cells. FSH promotes the production of androgen-binding protein by Sertoli cells, enhancing the action of testosterone, which is essential for the maturation of spermatids into functional sperm.

In the context of male reproductive physiology, FSH is necessary for the proper maintenance of spermatogenesis. It operates synergistically with luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone, but its specific role is to regulate the function of the Sertoli cells and influence the entire spermatogenic process.

In contrast, testosterone is primarily responsible for the regulation of secondary sexual characteristics and the libido, while LH mainly stimulates testosterone production by Leydig cells. Prolactin has other roles in the body, mainly associated with lactation and reproductive functions, but does not directly stimulate spermatogenesis.