The transition from pubertal development to postmenopause discloses a gonadotropin-releasing hormone-independent mechanism regulating follicle-stimulating hormone release.
The reproductive function is tightly dependent on gonadotropin secretion and the optimal activity of the hypothalamus-pituitary axis. This study discusses evidence that supports the possible existence of a GnRH-independent modulator of FSH secretion in humans. Such a hypothesis has been consistently reported in several experimental animals. To test the hypothesis specific times during the physiological development and activity of the hypothalamus-pituitary axis have been evaluated under the use of drugs acting directly on hypothalamic GnRH-secreting neurons, such as GnRH agonists. The possible presence also in humans of such an independent FSH stimulator might be important for the understanding of anovulation and infertility.
Genazzani
A D
AD
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Modena, Italy.
Nappi
L
L
D000368:Aged; D000375:Aging / Q000378:metabolism*; D002648:Child; D005260:Female; D005640:Follicle Stimulating Hormone / Q000378:metabolism*; D007987:Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D007986:Luteinizing Hormone / Q000378:metabolism; D008597:Menstrual Cycle / Q000378:metabolism*; D008875:Middle Aged; D017698:Postmenopause / Q000378:metabolism*; D011627:Puberty / Q000378:metabolism*; D012098:Reproduction
D007987:Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone; D007986:Luteinizing Hormone; D005640:Follicle Stimulating Hormone