New approach could treat infertility caused by abnormal GnRH secretion
Reports suggest that at least 25% of ovarian disorders are due to dysfunction of the brain mechanism in the hypothalamus that controls the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which is a molecule that governs the reproductive function in men and women by regulating the release of a range of reproductive hormones into the body, particularly gonadotropins, from the pituitary gland, which is located underneath the brain.
In a healthy individual, GnRH and gonadotropins are released in pulses, while typically in individuals whose infertility is caused by hypothalmic dysfunction, the GnRH and gonadotropin pulses are supressed.
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IMAGE: This study has found that KNDy neurons are key to controlling ovarian function in mammals. These neurons express signalling molecules (peptides) in the brain that stimulate pulses of a hormone. view more
Credit: Sho Nakamura
Gonadotropins are any hormones that are released from the anterior pituitary to stimulate the gonads, or sex glands, to carry out their reproductive functions. The gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is therefore fundamental for mammalian reproduction. In a healthy reproductive system GnRH is produced by the brain in pulses. Reports suggest that at least 25% of ovarian disorders are due to dysfunction of the brain mechanism controlling the release of gonadotropins, which is a kind of reproductive disorder associated with the hypothalamus.