Grant: Operating Grant

The pituitary gland synthesizes two hormones that are absolutely required for reproductive function: follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). As its name indicates, FSH stimulates the development and maturation of ovarian follicles. Follicles are structures in the ovary in which the eggs (or oocytes) mature and from which the oocytes are ovulated each month. LH stimulates ovulation. The precise control of FSH synthesis and secretion is critical for reproduction. Perturbations in FSH production or action can and do cause infertility. In many instances, altered FSH levels are observed in women seeking fertility treatment, but the underlying causes are often unknown. The primary objective of the research proposed here is to understand how FSH is normally synthesized by specialized cells of the pituitary gland called gonadotropes. This information will not only aid in the identification of causes of some forms of unexplained infertility, but could lead to the development of new and improved therapeutics.