Growth hormone cells as co-gonadotropes: partners in the regulation of the reproductive system.
Through unique receptors, growth hormone (GH) stimulates ovarian follicles and Leydig cells, working alone or synergistically with luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). The source of GH might include a unique cell type that expresses mRNA encoding gonadotropin and GH and the antigens themselves, together with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and GH-releasing hormone (GHRH) receptors. This multifunctional cell might provide a cocktail of hormones needed to effect optimal gonadotropic activity.
Childs
G V
GV
Department of Anatomy, University of Arkansas School for Medical Science, Little Rock, AR 72205, USA. childsgwenv@exchange.uams.edu
D000818:Animals; D005260:Female; D006062:Gonadotropins / Q000378:metabolism*; D013006:Growth Hormone / Q000378:metabolism*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010053:Ovary / Q000502:physiology; D010902:Pituitary Gland / Q000502:physiology; D010903:Pituitary Gland, Anterior / Q000166:cytology / Q000378:metabolism*; D012098:Reproduction / Q000502:physiology*; D013737:Testis / Q000502:physiology
D006062:Gonadotropins; D013006:Growth Hormone