Role of anti-Müllerian hormone in different reproductive aspects of female mammals: women, cow and mare.

Role of anti-Müllerian hormone in female mammalian reproduction: insights from studies on women, cows, and mares.

Introduction to Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH)

• AMH is a dimeric glycoprotein belonging to the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily.
• It has gained attention due to its critical functions related to ovarian activity and female reproductive health in mammals.
• The hormone serves as an important biomarker in reproductive studies involving women, cows, and mares.

AMH and Ovarian Reserve

• AMH levels are closely related to ovarian reserve, a measure of a woman or animal’s remaining egg supply.
• The hormone correlates with the antral follicle count (AFC) — the number of small follicles visible in the ovary at a given time.
• AMH also reflects the number of primary follicles, indicating its potential use in evaluating follicular development and reproductive potential.

AMH in Relation to Age and Fertility

• AMH concentrations vary according to age, typically declining as females grow older, which aligns with the natural depletion of the ovarian reserve.
• Higher or optimal AMH levels have been linked to increased fertility and better outcomes in reproductive technologies.
• In cows and mares, AMH concentrations provide insight into fertility potential, with applications in improving breeding programs.

Influence of AMH on Reproductive Treatments and Embryo Production

• AMH concentrations serve as predictors for responses to superovulation treatments used in assisted reproduction.
• Higher AMH levels are often associated with better embryo production in vitro, making AMH a valuable marker for selecting individuals for assisted reproductive technologies.
• This has practical implications in veterinary and human fertility treatments for optimizing protocols and improving success rates.

AMH and Reproductive Hormone Interaction

• AMH levels have associations with concentrations of other reproductive hormones, suggesting a complex interplay regulating ovarian function.
• Recent research points to the importance of AMH receptor type 2 and the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) system in controlling gonadotropin secretion.
• This indicates that AMH could be a regulatory factor in the hormonal signaling pathways governing reproductive cycles.

AMH and Reproductive System Diseases

• Alterations in AMH levels have been linked to various female reproductive diseases, providing a diagnostic and prognostic tool.
• Studying AMH may help understand conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), ovarian insufficiency, or other pathologies affecting fertility.

Genetics and Heritability of AMH in Cows

• AMH concentration is identified as a heritable trait in cows, meaning genetic factors influence its levels.
• This heritability offers opportunities to use AMH measurements in selective breeding to improve fertility traits in livestock.

Future Directions and Research Needs

• Despite extensive literature, there remain unknown mechanisms regarding AMH’s mode of action in female reproduction.
• Further investigations are necessary to fully understand AMH’s role in reproductive physiology and its potential applications.
• Advancing this knowledge could improve fertility treatments in both humans and animals, as well as contribute to reproductive health management.