Follicle-Stimulating Hormone

Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) is a glycoprotein containing two polypeptide units, alpha and beta. The alpha subunit is identical to that of LH, TSH, and hCG. The beta subunit varies between the four and determines the biological function. The beta subunit of FSH is 118 amino acids. FSH is synthesized and secreted by gonadotropes in the anterior pituitary gland and stimulates the maturation of germ cells. In women, FSH is involved in the control of the menstrual cycle and egg production in the ovaries. In men, FSH controls the production of sperm.

Swiss-Prot Accession Number: P01225,P01215