Disentangling the current role of LH activity in assisted reproduction

The importance of determining the precise role of gonadotropins in assisted reproductive technology (ART) is increasingly recognized, as optimizing ovarian stimulation (OS) protocols is crucial for improving outcomes. Recent advances in reproductive biology highlight the multifaceted functions of lu...

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Detalles Bibliográficos
Autores: Bellver, José, Fabregues, Francisco, Bosch, Ernesto, Serna, José, Espinós, Juan José|||0000-0003-4838-8940
Tipo de recurso: artículo
Fecha de publicación:2025
País:España
Institución:Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona
Repositorio:Dipòsit Digital de Documents de la UAB
Idioma:inglés
OAI Identifier:oai:ddd.uab.cat:320078
Acceso en línea:https://ddd.uab.cat/record/320078
https://dx.doi.org/urn:doi:10.1016/j.rbmo.2025.105154
Access Level:acceso embargado
Palabra clave:Gonadotropins
Follicle-stimulating hormone
Luteinizing hormone
Human chrionic gonadotropin
Ovarian stimulation
Descripción
Sumario:The importance of determining the precise role of gonadotropins in assisted reproductive technology (ART) is increasingly recognized, as optimizing ovarian stimulation (OS) protocols is crucial for improving outcomes. Recent advances in reproductive biology highlight the multifaceted functions of luteinizing hormone (LH), revealing a complex interplay between its endocrine actions and local ovarian mechanisms. Traditionally, LH was primarily associated with its role in triggering ovulation and supporting the corpus luteum. However, accumulating evidence suggests that LH also influences follicular steroidogenesis, oocyte maturation, and endometrial receptivity. Despite these insights, the role of LH in OS remains controversial, particularly outside of patients with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, characterized by hypothalamic amenorrhea. Notably, recent molecular and clinical evidence supports the benefits of including LH activity in OS protocols for select patient groups. LH activity can be derived from human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG), which contains both FSH and LH activity, with LH primarily driven by human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG); recombinant LH (rLH), or recombinant FSH + LH (rFSH+rLH). This review clarifies the evolving role of LH activity in ART, bridging foundational biological insights with the emerging paradigm of patient-specific treatment strategies to optimize reproductive outcomes.