What is inhibin? Write its function.

Inhibin is a protein hormone primarily produced by the gonads (testes in males and ovaries in females), as well as by certain other tissues such as the adrenal cortex. It plays a crucial role in the regulation of reproductive functions, particularly in the control of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) secretion from the anterior pituitary gland.

The primary function of inhibin is to regulate the production of FSH, a hormone involved in the development of ovarian follicles in females and the production of sperm in males. In females, inhibin acts to inhibit the secretion of FSH, thereby helping to regulate the menstrual cycle and control the development and release of eggs (ovulation). In males, inhibin regulates the production of sperm by inhibiting FSH secretion, which helps maintain spermatogenesis within normal levels.

In addition to its role in reproductive function, inhibin has also been implicated in other physiological processes, including the regulation of gonadal steroidogenesis, modulation of immune function, and potential roles in certain diseases such as cancer.