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Williams Gynecology
| Section 2 Reproductive Endocrinology, Infertility, and the Menopause > |
Chapter 15. Reproductive Endocrinology
Sections: Reproductive Endocrinology: Introduction, Reproductive Neuroendocrinology, Anatomy of the Hypothalamus, Anterior Pituitary Gland, Hypothalamic-Releasing Peptides, Other Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axes, Posterior Pituitary Gland, Clinical Hypothalamic-Pituitary Axis Abnormalities, Hormone Biosynthesis and Mechanism of Action, Receptor Structure and Function, Hormone Measurement, Menstrual Cycle, The Ovary, Endometrium, Endocrinology of Pregnancy, References.
Topics Discussed: reproductive endocrinology.
Excerpt:"Normal reproductive function requires precise quantitative and temporal regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis (Fig. 15-1). Within the hypothalamus, specific nuclei release gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) in pulses. This decapeptide binds to surface receptors on the gonadotrope subpopulation of the anterior pituitary gland. In response, gonadotropes secrete glycoprotein gonadotropins, that is, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), into the peripheral circulation. Within the ovary, LH and FSH bind to theca and granulosa cells to stimulate folliculogenesis as well as ovarian production of an array of steroid hormones (estrogens, progesterone, and androgens), gonadal peptides (activin, inhibin, and follistatin), and growth factors. Among other functions, these ovarian-derived factors feedback to the hypothalamus and pituitary gland to inhibit or, at the midcycle surge, augment GnRH and gonadotropin secretion. The ovarian steroids are also critical for preparing the endometrium for implantation of the embryo if pregnancy ensues...."
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