KNDy neurons, peptides, and the control of mammalian reproduction

• Autorzy: Lehman M.N.
• Języki publikacji: EN

Abstrakty

EN

In mammals, reproduction is governed by intricate neural and hormonal communication between the brain, pituitary gland and gonads. At the top of this hierarchy are gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons that are responsible for the pulsatile secretion of luteinizing hormone (LH) from the anterior pituitary gland. Changes in the frequency of GnRH and LH pulses have a profound effect on the reproductive system, but identification of the “GnRH pulse generator” in the brain has remained a major unanswered question. Our research has identified a subset of neurons in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus that appear to play a key role in the generation of GnRH pulses and their control by endogenous hormones and other signals. We have called these cells, KNDy neurons based on their unique co-expression of three neuropeptides (kisspeptin, neurokinin B, and dynorphin) each of which is functionally important for reproduction. In this talk, we will review current evidence for KNDy neurons as a core component of the “GnRH pulse generator”, as well as findings suggesting they play a major role in the control of reproduction by gonadal steroids and other stimuli. Finally, we will discuss recent evidence that KNDy neurons are altered in reproductive disorders characterized by defects in the feedback control of GnRH secretion.

• Wydawca: -
• Czasopismo: Acta Neurobiologiae Experimentalis
• Rocznik: 2015
• Tom: 75
• Numer: Supl.
• Opis fizyczny: p.S24-S25

Twórcy

autor

Lehman M.N.

• Department of Neurobiology and Anatomical Sciences, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS, USA