Does blocking one hormone stop testicles from making testosterone?

Original Title

Plasma testosterone response to short-term human chorionic gonadotropin administration in men with follicle-stimulating hormone suppressed by exogenous estrogen.

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Summary

Scientists blocked a hormone called FSH and gave men another hormone (HCG) to see if testicles still made testosterone.

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Surprising Findings

FSH suppression had no effect on testosterone response to HCG

For decades, FSH has been assumed to play a supportive role in Leydig cell function — this study directly challenges that by showing testosterone production remains unchanged without it.

Practical Takeaways

Men on HCG therapy for low testosterone may not need FSH-boosting treatments for immediate testosterone output.

low confidence

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