Why may a rise in testosterone above normal cause a subsequent decrease in the hormone?

This is a question from the AQA June 15 Biology A level past paper. 

Short answer: Raised testosterone causes a physiological decrease in GnRH as well as LH and FSH via negative feedback.

Detailed answer: To answer this question one must consider the hypothalamus-pituitary-testes axis (best drawn out) and the principle of negative feedback

The hypothalamus releases GnRh which stimulates the pituitary to release LH and FSH. LH and FSH in turn stimulate the testes to release testosterone. Testosterone inhibits the GnRH and LH and FSH release thus high amounts of this hormone reduce GnRH as well as LH/FSH release which in turn reduces stimulation of the testes - ie less testosterone is produced. 

Answered by Dhiluni K. Biology tutor

3402 Views

See similar Biology A Level tutors

Related Biology A Level answers

All answers ▸

Why do some mutations to DNA structure not result in a change of the produced polypeptide?


What happens when a muscle contracts?


Before a cell divides during the process of mitosis, it must duplicate its DNA. Describe the process of DNA replication.


Fertiliser, such as manure, contains ammonium compounds. Explain how the presence of soil bacteria and the use of manure improve crop yield. (6 marks)


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo
Cookie Preferences