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Semin Reprod Med 2024; 42(01): 034-040
DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1786050
Review Article

Role of Anti-Müllerian Hormone in the Central Regulation of Fertility

Ludovica Cotellessa
1   Inserm, CHU Lille, Unit 1172, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition (LilNCog), University of Lille, Lille, France.
,
Paolo Giacobini 
1   Inserm, CHU Lille, Unit 1172, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition (LilNCog), University of Lille, Lille, France.
› Author Affiliations Funding P.G. is supported by the European Research Council (ERC) under the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation program (ERC-2016-CoG to P.G. grant number 725149/REPRODAMH and ERC-2022-POC2 to P.G. grant number 101111874/GRASP), and by the Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), France (grant number U1172).
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Abstract

In recent years, the expanding roles of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) in various aspects of reproductive health have attracted significant attention. Initially recognized for its classical role in male sexual differentiation, AMH is produced postnatally by the Sertoli cells in the male testes and by the granulosa cells in the female ovaries. Traditionally, it was believed to primarily influence gonadal development and function. However, research over the last decade has unveiled novel actions of AMH beyond the gonads, specifically all along the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis. This review will focus on the emerging roles of AMH within the hypothalamus and discusses its potential implications in reproductive physiology. Additionally, recent preclinical and clinical studies have suggested that elevated levels of AMH may disrupt the hypothalamic network regulating reproduction, which could contribute to the central pathophysiology of polycystic ovary syndrome. These findings underscore the intricate interplay between AMH and the neuroendocrine system, offering new avenues for understanding the mechanisms underlying fertility and reproductive disorders.

Keywords

AMH - hypothalamus - GnRH - PCOS - infertility


Publication History

Article published online:
12 April 2024

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