Roles and Novel Regimens of Luteinizing Hormone and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone in Ovulation Induction
Although FSH is universally recognized as the key driver of ovarian follicle growth and maturation, the role of LH in these processes is more controversial. LH acts on theca cells to induce androgen substrate for estrogen conversion by the aromatase system; furthermore, LH can affect granulosa cell...
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Published in | The journal of clinical endocrinology and metabolism Vol. 86; no. 4; pp. 1437 - 1441 |
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Main Authors | , |
Format | Journal Article |
Language | English |
Published |
Endocrine Society
01.04.2001
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Online Access | Get full text |
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Summary: | Although FSH is universally recognized as the key driver of ovarian
follicle growth and maturation, the role of LH in these processes is
more controversial. LH acts on theca cells to induce androgen substrate
for estrogen conversion by the aromatase system; furthermore, LH can
affect granulosa cell function starting in the mid- follicular
phase, when these cells express LH receptors. The capacity of LH to
stimulate granulosa cells in larger follicles (>10 mm diameter) may be
the critical mechanism involved in the selection of the dominant
follicle in the normal menstrual cycle. Furthermore, the addition of LH
activity can shorten and optimize FSH ovulation induction and reduce
the development of smaller preovulatory ovarian follicles that are
associated with the severe complications of this procedure. Novel mixed
gonadotropin administration regimens that incorporate graded amounts of
LH and FSH activity may improve efficacy, safety, and cost of ovulation
induction, particularly in the area of assisted reproduction. |
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ISSN: | 0021-972X 1945-7197 |
DOI: | 10.1210/jcem.86.4.7385 |