Steroid hormone feedback Negative feedback of steroid hormones in both males and females controls the pulsatile nature of GnRH secretion, subsequently increasing or decreasing the release of LH and FSH from the anterior pituitary. This is mediated by estrogen receptor α (ERα), expressed on KNDy neurons. The binding of estrogen or testosterone to this receptor in the ARC region inhibits KNDy neurons and therefore prevents GnRH release. KNDy neurons are involved in positive feedback of the HPG axis. This mechanism is best exemplified by the LH surge in the female reproductive cycle, where the increase of estrogen from the growing ovarian follicle causes positive feedback in the AVPV region, and subsequently a rise in LH from the pituitary. References Endocrine system Human female endocrine system Hypothalamus Limbic system Neuroendocrinology Neurons