Lead researcher
Associate Professor David M. Robertson
Main finding
The endocrinology of fertility involves the hormonal interplay between the pituitary and the ovary (in this case). We have been investigating which key hormones are responsible for regulating this process. We have concluded that the ovarian hormones, estradiol, inhibin B (both well known) and anti-mullarian hormone are the major contributors regulating the pituitary hormones, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinising hormone. We reached this conclusion using multiple regression analysis of hormone profiles across the human menstrual cycle and with age.
Centre
Centre for Endocrinology and Metabolism
Journal and article title
Most surprising
The strong independent involvement of anti-mullerian hormone in regulating FSH was a big surprise. This relationship is seen across age and not within cycle in comparison with that observed with oestradiol and inhibin B. The mechanism is unknown.
Future implications
Understanding the hormonal regulation of fertility is important in fertility management particular with the advent of new assisted reproductive technologies (eg IVF).
Disease/health impact
Reproductive Endocrinology
Other points of interest
The Hudson Institute through both its Prince Henry's and MIMR connections undertook considerable research into the role of hormones in particular inhibin, follistatin, steroid hormones involved in fertility regulation, cancer etc. This present study takes a broader overview and attempts to identify the key ovarian factors responsible in this feedback mechanism.
