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Determination of Reproductive Competence by Confirming Pubertal Onset and Performing a Fertility Assay in Mice and Rats
Published on: October 13, 2018
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Hypothalamo-Pituitary axis and puberty.
Matteo Spaziani1, Chiara Tarantino1, Natascia Tahani2
1Section of Medical Pathophysiology and Endocrinology, Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, 00161, Italy; Centre for Rare Diseases, Policlinico Umberto I, Rome, Italy.
Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology
|December 3, 2020
Summary
Puberty marks the end of childhood, involving the neuroendocrine activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis. This review covers normal puberty onset and its pathological variations like precocious and delayed puberty.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neuroendocrinology
- Reproductive Medicine
Background:
- Puberty signifies the transition from childhood to adulthood, marked by psychophysical maturity and reproductive capability.
- It is regulated by a complex neuroendocrine mechanism involving the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis.
- The process is initiated by the kisspeptin-GnRH interaction, leading to gonadotropin and steroid hormone release.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the physiological mechanisms governing the onset of puberty.
- To discuss the main pathophysiological variations of puberty, including precocious and delayed puberty.
- To provide a comprehensive overview of puberty initiation and regulation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific articles on puberty.
- Analysis of neuroendocrine pathways involved in pubertal onset.
- Examination of genetic and hormonal factors influencing puberty.
Main Results:
- The reactivation of the HPG axis, driven by kisspeptin and GnRH pulsatility, is central to puberty.
- LH and gonadal steroid surges are key indicators of pubertal progression.
- Natural variations in onset exist, with females typically maturing earlier than males.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the intricate neuroendocrine control of puberty is crucial.
- Pathological variations such as precocious and delayed puberty require clinical attention.
- This review synthesizes current knowledge on puberty's physiological and pathophysiological aspects.
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