The potential relevance of growth hormone to female reproductive physiology and pathophysiology.
OBJECTIVE
To assess possible interfacing between the somatotrophic and reproductive axes.


METHODS
Literature review.


METHODS
Ovarian growth hormone reception and action.


RESULTS
The available literature strongly supports a permissive role for the somatotrophic axis in the reproductive process.


CONCLUSIONS
Although a role for growth hormone in reproductive biology appears highly likely, its relevance to the process of puberty and to the normal workings of the menstrual cycle, as well as its possible application in reproductive pathology must await further investigation.
Katz
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Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore 21201.
Ricciarelli
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Adashi
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EY
D005260:Female; D005836:Genitalia, Female / Q000502:physiology* / Q000503:physiopathology; D006062:Gonadotropins / Q000502:physiology; D013006:Growth Hormone / Q000502:physiology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D006801:Humans; D007334:Insulin-Like Growth Factor I / Q000502:physiology; D008593:Menopause / Q000502:physiology; D008597:Menstrual Cycle / Q000502:physiology; D010060:Ovulation / Q000187:drug effects; D011085:Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / Q000503:physiopathology; D012016:Reference Values; D012098:Reproduction
D006062:Gonadotropins; D007334:Insulin-Like Growth Factor I; D013006:Growth Hormone