Reproductive Hormones of the Mare-brain
Several of the endocrine glands involved in reproduction are located at the top or bottom of the brain. Each of these glands produce specific hormones. The pineal gland produces melatonin. The hypothalamus produces gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH). The anterior pituitary produces luteinizing hormone (LH), folliclular stimulating hormone (FSH) and prolactin. The posterior pituitary produces oxytocin.
| Hormone |
Endo. Gland |
Function |
|
melatonin |
pineal gland |
Synthesis and secretion of melatonin is dramatically affected by changing day length. Melatonin is released at night and its levels are higher in winter. High levels of melatonin Inhibits GnRH release. |
|
GnRH |
hypothalmus |
Stimulates LH & FSH release from the anterior pituitary |
|
LH |
anterior pituitary |
Maturation of follicles, ovulation |
|
FSH |
anterior pituitary |
Stimulates growth of follicles |
|
Prolactin |
anterior pituitary |
Stimulates mammary development and milk production |
|
Oxytocin |
posterior pituitary |
Uterine muscle contraction during parturition (labor), milk release |
