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Ghrelin and reproductive disorders.

Andrea Repaci1, Alessandra Gambineri, Uberto Pagotto

  • 1St. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, University Alma Mater Studiorum, Bologna, Italy.

Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology
|April 2, 2011
PubMed
Summary

Ghrelin, a key metabolic hormone, influences reproductive functions and puberty by regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. It also acts directly on gonads and plays a role in fetal adaptation to intrauterine conditions.

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Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Reproductive Biology
  • Metabolic Signaling

Background:

  • Ghrelin is a crucial hormone linking energy balance to reproductive function.
  • Leptin and ghrelin have a coordinated role in regulating puberty onset.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To elucidate the multifaceted roles of ghrelin in reproductive physiology.
  • To explore ghrelin's systemic and local actions on the reproductive axis.
  • To investigate ghrelin's involvement in fetal and neonatal adaptation.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing literature on ghrelin's reproductive effects.
  • Analysis of studies on ghrelin's interaction with the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.
  • Examination of ghrelin's direct gonadal actions and regulation by sex hormones.

Main Results:

  • Ghrelin modulates the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, impacting reproductive functions during altered energy balance.
  • Ghrelin exerts direct effects on both female and male gonads.
  • Sex steroids and gonadotropins can modulate ghrelin's gonadal activity, as seen in PCOS and hypogonadal men.
  • Ghrelin is vital for fetal and neonatal energy balance and adaptation to intrauterine stress.

Conclusions:

  • Ghrelin is a significant regulator of reproductive functions across different life stages, from puberty to fetal development.
  • Ghrelin's actions are integrated within the broader metabolic and hormonal milieu, influencing reproductive health.
  • Further research into ghrelin's role can offer insights into reproductive disorders and developmental adaptations.