Gonadotrophic
Gonadotropic cell
Cell type
Gonadotropic cells (called also gonadotropes, gonadotrophs, delta cells or delta basophils)[1] are endocrine cells in the anterior pituitary that produce the gonadotropins, such as the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). Release of FSH and LH by gonadotropes is regulated by gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus.[2]
Gonadotropes appear basophilic in histological preparations.
Gonadotropes have insulin receptors, which can be overstimulated by too high insulin levels. This may lead to infertility as hormone release levels are disrupted.[3][4]
Gonadotropes are feedback inhibited by specific hormones, including estradiol.[5]