Androgens promote the ontogenetic development of immune response in immature male CBA mice

Abstract

FSH is a member of the pituitary glycoprotein hormone (GPH) family and consists of a non-covalently linked GPH α-subunit and a hormone-specific β-subunit. The GPH α- and FSH β-subunits contain a cysteine-knot motif and several N-linked glycosylation sites, both of which are important for biological activity. FSH as well as LH and CG have gonadotropic function and are thus grouped as gonadotropins. FSH binds to FSHR located on the plasma membrane of granulosa cells in the ovary and stimulates follicular growth. In the testis, FSH binds to FSHR in Sertoli cells and stimulates spermatogenesis. The synthesis and release of FSH are regulated by GnRH; gonadal proteins such as activin, inihibin, and follistatin; and gonadal steroids. FSH is implicated in hypergonadotropic ovarian dysgenesis, and its plasma levels are useful in the investigation of menstrual irregularities. Recombinant human FSH is used for treatment of infertility to stimulate follicular development.