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Steroid control of gonadotropin secretion
1Service d'Endocrinologie, Hôpital de Bicêtre, France.
The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology
|January 1, 1991
Summary
Estradiol (E2) drives the LH surge in the follicular phase via pituitary feedback. Progesterone (P) regulates luteal phase hormones through hypothalamic and pituitary feedback, while androgens play no direct role in gonadotropin control.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Reproductive Biology
- Neuroendocrinology
Background:
- The menstrual cycle involves complex hormonal interactions.
- Estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P) are key reproductive hormones.
- The role of androgens in this cycle requires clarification.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the mechanism and site of action of E2 and P during the menstrual cycle.
- To elucidate the physiological role of androgens in reproductive hormonal regulation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of current knowledge on hormonal regulation during the menstrual cycle.
- Analysis of the feedback mechanisms of E2 and P at the hypothalamic and pituitary levels.
- Evaluation of the direct impact of androgens on gonadotropin secretion.
Main Results:
- E2 exerts positive feedback at the pituitary, initiating the LH surge in the follicular phase.
- P exhibits negative feedback at the hypothalamus and positive feedback at the pituitary during the luteal phase.
- Androgens do not directly influence gonadotropin regulation.
Conclusions:
- E2 and P play distinct, critical roles in regulating the menstrual cycle's hormonal fluctuations.
- Understanding these mechanisms is vital for reproductive health.
- Androgens are not primary regulators of gonadotropin secretion in the normal menstrual cycle.