The pituitary hormone that stimulates the male testes to produce sperm and stimulates the development of the follicle in the female on a monthly cycle is:
Correct Answer: D
Rationale: The correct answer is D: follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). FSH is produced by the pituitary gland and plays a crucial role in both male and female reproductive systems. In males, FSH stimulates the testes to produce sperm. In females, FSH stimulates the development of ovarian follicles, which contain eggs. This hormone is essential for the process of ovulation and the menstrual cycle.
A: Growth hormone is not directly involved in the reproductive system but rather promotes overall growth and development.
B: Luteinizing hormone (LH) is responsible for ovulation and the production of testosterone in males. It does not directly stimulate sperm production or follicle development.
C: Prolactin is primarily involved in milk production and has no direct role in sperm production or follicle development.