Antihormones and their use in studies of reproduction.

Abstract

The biological consequences of immunological inhibition of gonadotropin activity by use of antihormones is discussed by a review of recent research. Investigation in the human male has centered on the effect of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) on spermatogenesis and the role of interstitial cell-stimulating hormone (ICSH) on male gonad tissue metabolism. Some research has indicated that ICSH has a dramatic inhibitory effect on sexual drive. Recent research indicates that FSH may not play as an important role in spermatogenesis as luteinizing hormone (LH). The relationship of the gonadotropins to female reproductive activity remains in need of abundant study. LH and FSH have been found to be responsible for follicular development ovulation and corpus luteum formation. LH and FSH immunization has resulted in a loss of libido and a reduced ability to reproduce in some test animals. The separate effects of these 2 hormones and the precise site of their activity remain to be elucidated. Studies with anti-H serum seem to indicate that the functional luteal tissue of pregnancy is regulated by a placental hormone. Again further research is necessary. Though these investigations into hormonal immunization are still preliminary and in need of clarification there appear to be ample grounds for the development of an effective immunological approach to birth control.