Which hormone acts on the ovary and stimulates the secretion of testosterone?

Luteinizing Hormone (LH) plays a critical role in regulating the female reproductive system, particularly in the function of the ovaries. One of its key actions is to stimulate the secretion of testosterone from the ovarian theca cells, especially during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle. LH stimulates these cells, which are important for the development of ovarian follicles and the estrogen production that will support ovulation and eventual implantation of a fertilized egg.

Testosterone, while often associated with male physiology, is also present in females and is important for various functions, including the development of the ovarian follicles and libido. The secretion of testosterone in females is crucial for balancing other hormones and plays a role in the overall reproductive process.

In contrast, while Growth Hormone, Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH), and Parathyroid Hormone are significant in various bodily functions, they do not directly stimulate the secretion of testosterone from the ovaries. FSH, for example, mainly promotes the growth of ovarian follicles and helps in the maturation of oocytes, but it is LH that specifically drives the secretion of testosterone.