Biological Systems MCAT Practice Exam

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In females, what is the function of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)?

Regulates menstrual cycle
Triggers follicle development
Stimulates ovulation directly
Inhibits egg production

The correct answer is: Triggers follicle development

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) plays a crucial role in the female reproductive system primarily by triggering follicle development in the ovaries. FSH is secreted by the anterior pituitary gland and acts on the ovarian follicles, stimulating their growth and maturation. This process is essential for the development of oocytes (the immature egg cells) within the follicles, which is pivotal for successful reproduction. As follicles mature under the influence of FSH, they produce estrogen, which further regulates the menstrual cycle and leads to the preparation of the endometrium for potential pregnancy. This interplay of hormones and follicles ultimately supports the reproductive process. While FSH also has a regulatory role in the menstrual cycle and is part of the hormonal cascade that leads to ovulation, its primary function is more directly related to the development of follicles rather than solely stimulating ovulation directly or inhibiting egg production.