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Question #45434
The Question
In a clinical condition characterized by the constitutive hypersecretion of androgenic steroids from the adrenal cortex in a female, which of the following physiological changes is most likely to be observed regarding the hypothalamo-hypophyseal-gonadal axis?
Options
- A.
Upregulation of GnRH receptors in the anterior pituitary due to increased hypothalamo-hypophyseal portal blood flow.
- B.
Decreased release of gonadotropins from the pars distalis due to negative feedback inhibition of GnRH secretion.
- C.
Increased secretion of LH and FSH due to the synergistic action of adrenal androgens and ovarian estrogens.
- D.
Direct suppression of the pars nervosa, leading to reduced oxytocin release and subsequent secondary amenorrhea.
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Correct Answer
Step-by-Step Solution
Explanation
How the Examiner Thinks
Regulatory_Failure
Understand how NOT, EXCEPT, and logical constraints are used to manipulate exam results.
Concepts Behind This Question
GnRH|Progesterone|Estrogen|Adrenal_Cortex
Why This Question Is Tricky
Common Mistakes
Conceptual Pivot: Students often compartmentalize the endocrine system, assuming adrenal hormones only affect the HPA axis and gonadal hormones only affect the HPG axis.
The trap lies in failing to recognize 'Hormonal Crosstalk'—that adrenal androgens (sex corticoids) can cross over and exert negative feedback on the hypothalamic GnRH neurons, effectively bridging and suppressing the reproductive axis.
Quick Facts About This Question
Question Information
| Subject | Biology |
| Chapter | Chemical Coordination and Integration - Class 11 |
| Concept | Adrenal Cortex vs Medulla |
| Difficulty | 8 |
| Cognitive Load | 5 |
| Target Solve Time | 120 sec |
| Access | Free |