nounIntermediate
Definition
Decapeptide (pGlu-His-Trp-Ser-Tyr-Gly-Leu-Arg-Pro-Gly-NH₂), also called GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone), released in pulses from the hypothalamus to stimulate LH and FSH from the pituitary, which in turn drive sex hormone production.

Detailed Explanation

Decapeptide (pGlu-His-Trp-Ser-Tyr-Gly-Leu-Arg-Pro-Gly-NH₂), also called GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone), released in pulses from the hypothalamus to stimulate LH and FSH from the pituitary, which in turn drive sex hormone production. LHRH analogs are major drugs: agonists (leuprolide/Lupron, goserelin/Zoladex) paradoxically suppress the reproductive axis through receptor downregulation and are used to treat prostate cancer, endometriosis, precocious puberty, and in IVF protocols. Antagonists (degarelix, elagolix) block receptors directly.

Key Facts

  • Decapeptide (pGlu-His-Trp-Ser-Tyr-Gly-Leu-Arg-Pro-Gly-NH₂), also called GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone), released in pulses from the hypothalamus to stimulate LH and FSH from the pituitary, which in turn drive sex hormone production.
  • LHRH analogs are major drugs: agonists (leuprolide/Lupron, goserelin/Zoladex) paradoxically suppress the reproductive axis through receptor downregulation and are used to treat prostate cancer, endometriosis, precocious puberty, and in IVF protocols.
  • Antagonists (degarelix, elagolix) block receptors directly.
Related Terms Kisspeptin Hormone Receptor

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