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Endocrine links between fat and reproduction
Author(s) -
Sam Amir H,
Dhillo Waljit S
Publication year - 2010
Publication title -
the obstetrician and gynaecologist
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1744-4667
pISSN - 1467-2561
DOI - 10.1576/toag.12.4.231.27614
Subject(s) - leptin , endocrinology , adipose tissue , medicine , endocrine system , hormone , kisspeptin , fertility , obesity , biology , reproduction , infertility , pregnancy , population , ecology , genetics , environmental health
Key content• Adipose tissue plays an important role in the regulation of the reproductive axis. • Leptin, an adipocyte‐derived hormone, relays the status of the energy stores to the reproductive axis. • Leptin acts via hypothalamic circuitry, through modulation of gonadotropin‐releasing hormone levels; this may be mediated by neuropeptides such as kisspeptin. • Excess adipose tissue is associated with subfertility.Learning objectives• To learn about the endocrine links between adipose tissue and reproduction. • To recognise the significance of leptin in the regulation of the reproductive axis. • To understand possible mechanisms of the reproductive action of leptin. • To learn that hyperinsulinaemia associated with obesity can lead to hyperandrogenism and ovulatory dysfunction.Ethical issues• Caloric deprivation can cause menstrual abnormalities. • A critical amount of body fat is necessary for fertility and maintenance of pregnancy. • Obesity is associated with reduced fertility.Please cite this article as: Sam AH, Dhillo WS. Endocrine links between fat and reproduction. The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist 2010;12:231–236.