ReviewReproductive biology and endocrinology : RB&E2025
Integrating impact of FSH isoforms, androgens and inhibin-B on follicular development based on a two-phase model of the follicular phase.
Review in Reproductive biology and endocrinology : RB&E, 2025. The graph could read no effect estimate from its abstract, so it casts no vote on the map. Cited by 4 papers.
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Who cites it
4 citing papers in PubMed.
- Letrozole administration during ovarian stimulation: intrafollicular concentrations, effects on steroidogenesis and pregnancy outcome-a secondary analysis.Journal of assisted reproduction and genetics · 2026Trial
- Sexual Dimorphism and Aging Effects on Pituitary Gonadotroph Structure and Secretion in Dromedary Camels: Immunohistochemical and Ultrastructural Insights.Veterinary sciences · 2026Article
- Review
- Follicular development during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle: the enigma of luteinizing hormone receptor function.Frontiers in endocrinology · 2026Article
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1 author.
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Abstract
backgroundFollicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) is central to follicular growth during the menstrual cycle. It is secreted in multiple isoforms that differ in glycosylation, bioactivity, and half-life. Acidic isoforms dominate early in the follicular phase, while less acidic forms rise closer to ovulation caused by increasing oestradiol. Though well studied in vitro, the distinct physiological roles of these isoforms in vivo are not fully understood.
methodsWe conducted a narrative review of published literature focusing on FSH isoforms composition, glycosylation patterns, and their functional roles during the human menstrual cycle, with emphasis on isoform-specific actions in follicular development. MAIN
findingsIt is proposed that acidic FSH isoforms primarily support early follicular grow by stimulating inhibin-B production, which enhance androgen synthesis in synergy with LH. These androgens, in turn, increase FSH receptor expression in granulosa cells, promoting follicle sensitivity. In the later follicular phase, less acidic isoforms support final follicular maturation by upregulating aromatase and LH receptor expression in granulosa cells, facilitating the shift from androgen to oestrogen production.
conclusionThe sequential dominance of FSH isoforms appears to guide distinct stages of follicular development. Understanding this temporal regulation may lead to improvements in ovarian stimulation strategies and enhance outcomes in assisted reproduction.
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