EGF-like growth factors as LH mediators in the human corpus luteum

Abstract

Ar and Ep serve as pro-survival LH mediators in the human corpus luteum.

Low-dose human chorionic gonadotropin may improve in vitro fertilization cycle outcomes in patients with low luteinizing hormone levels after gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist administration

“…Additionally, LH acts through postreceptor paracrine factors such as amphiregulin and epiregulin. These epidermal growth factor-like factors cause cumulous cell expansion and trigger the oocyte to reenter the cell cycle and proceed through meiosis I and have been shown to increase the maturation rate of in vitro matured germinal vesicle-stage oocytes (42)(43)(44). Through stimulation of the LH/hCG receptor, low-dose hCG may result in a more reproductively competent oocyte.…”

New molecular markers for the evaluation of gamete quality

“…The expression of EGF seems to be induced by LH in the theca cells, and as a molecular cascade, it involves granulosa, cumulus, and oocyte synthesis of EGF [26], preserving these cells from apoptotic destiny. New researches have confirmed the pivotal role of different molecules of the EGF family in supporting the survival pathways, playing an anti-apoptotic action [27,28]. Other studies demonstrated that several molecules are involved in the control of apoptosis, in particular the extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK 1/2) pathway and the phosphorylation and activation of Akt [29].…”

The Use of rLH, HMG and hCG in Controlled Ovarian Stimulation for Assisted Reproductive Technologies

“…LH receptor activation leads to increases in adenylate cyclase and cAMP, resulting in increased mitochondrial transport of cholesterol necessary for steroidogeneis through upregulation of StAR (4,5). LH activity also induces the expression of EGF-like growth factors amphiregulin and epiregulin from luteinized granulosa cells (6). These factors protect these cells from apoptosis, induce pro-survival signaling cascades, and are critical in peri-ovulatory events (6,7).…”

“…LH activity also induces the expression of EGF-like growth factors amphiregulin and epiregulin from luteinized granulosa cells (6). These factors protect these cells from apoptosis, induce pro-survival signaling cascades, and are critical in peri-ovulatory events (6,7). The mid-cycle LH surge causes a cascade of events leading to ovulation of the oocyte from the ovarian follicle and take the oocyte out of meiotic arrest (8).…”