GnRH Action

Abstract

Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) mediates central control of reproductive function by activation of G-protein-coupled receptors on pituitary gonadotropes. These Gq-coupled receptors mediate acute effects of GnRH on the exocytotic secretion of luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone and also chronic regulation of the synthesis of these gonadotropin hormones. GnRH is secreted in brief pulses and GnRH effects on its target cells are dependent upon the characteristics of these pulses. Here we provide an overview of GnRH receptors and their signaling network, emphasizing novel and atypical functional features of GnRH signaling, and mechanisms mediating pulsatile hormone signaling.