Open AccessThe function of bone morphogenetic proteins in the human ovary
Author(s) -
Yoshino Osamu,
Shi Jia,
Osuga Yutaka,
Harada Miyuki,
Nishii Osamu,
Yano Tetsu,
Taketani Yuji
Publication year - 2011
Publication title -
reproductive medicine and biology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.005
H-Index - 22
eISSN - 1447-0578
pISSN - 1445-5781
DOI - 10.1007/s12522-010-0072-3
Subject(s) - follicular phase , luteinizing hormone , gonadotropin , endocrinology , bone morphogenetic protein , medicine , ovary , follicle stimulating hormone , receptor , biology , folliculogenesis , chemistry , microbiology and biotechnology , hormone , embryogenesis , embryo , biochemistry , gene
The gonadotropins, follicle‐stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH), are of particular importance in ovarian physiology. However, FSH receptors and LH receptors are not expressed until the secondary follicle stage, indicating that initiation of follicular growth is independent of the gonadotropins. Among many intra‐ovarian growth factors, many studies have shown that bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs) play pivotal roles in regulating the early phases of follicular growth. The BMP system induces the gonadotropin system by modulating gonadotropin receptors in early‐stage follicles. Interestingly, the BMP system also prevents precocious maturation of the follicle by suppressing luteinization. Signals provoked by the preovulatory LH surge eliminate BMPs, enabling luteinization to progress. Thus, the BMP system and the gonadotropin system seem to cooperate in regulating follicular development, maturation, and luteinization.