Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), a dimeric glycoprotein belonging to the transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily, is a key area of investigation for researchers focused on reproductive endocrinology, fertility, and ovarian function. Secreted by granulosa cells in preantral and small antral follicles in females, and Sertoli cells in the testes of males, AMH plays a vital role in sexual differentiation and folliculogenesis.
Key Functions and Mechanisms
- Müllerian Duct Regression: During male fetal development, AMH induces the regression of the Müllerian ducts, preventing the formation of female reproductive structures.
- Regulation of Folliculogenesis: In females, AMH inhibits the recruitment of primordial follicles and reduces the responsiveness of growing follicles to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), regulating follicle development.
- Ovarian Reserve Marker: Serum AMH levels reflect the size of the ovarian follicle pool, making it a valuable marker of ovarian reserve and reproductive potential.
Research Applications and Clinical Significance
- Fertility Assessment: AMH is used to assess ovarian reserve in women undergoing fertility treatment and to predict their response to ovarian stimulation.
- PCOS Diagnosis: AMH levels are often elevated in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and can aid in diagnosis.
- Ovarian Dysfunction: AMH is a biomarker for ovarian dysfunction, such as primary ovarian insufficiency.
- Predicting Reproductive Lifespan: AMH may be useful to predict the reproductive lifespan of women, assuming a comparable rate of follicle loss between individuals.