Neuroendocrine mechanisms responsible for gonadotropin release.

Regulation of the ovulatory cycle involves the interdependence of the adenohypophysis, the ovaries, the CNS, and the external environment. Several distinctions in brain functions and the overlapping control of several neuro-endocrine systems are pointed out. Important neuro-anatomical relationships between basomedial hypothalamus and other brain regions are noted. The anatomical structure is correlated with the control of gonadotropin secretion. Reflexive ovulation is considered as a special instance of external environmental influence. Data suggests that both lower mammals and human primates may show reflexive as well as spontaneous ovulation.