Spermatogenesis is regulated by a negative feedback control system in which follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulates the steps in sperm cell formation. What is the negative feedback signal associated with sperm cell production that inhibits pituitary formation of FSH?
Correct Answer: B
Rationale: The correct answer is B: Inhibin. Inhibin is a hormone secreted by the testes in response to high levels of sperm production. Inhibin acts as a negative feedback signal to the pituitary gland, inhibiting the production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). This helps to regulate spermatogenesis by preventing excessive FSH stimulation.
A: Testosterone is not the negative feedback signal for inhibiting FSH production. While testosterone does play a role in regulating spermatogenesis, it does not directly inhibit pituitary FSH production.
C: Estrogen is not involved in the negative feedback control system of spermatogenesis. Estrogen is more closely associated with the female reproductive system.
D: Luteinizing hormone is not the negative feedback signal for inhibiting FSH production. LH is involved in the regulation of testosterone production, not FSH.