Inhibiním

Inhibiním is a group of peptide hormones produced primarily by the gonads, with the testes and ovaries being the main sources. Inhibiním plays a crucial role in the regulation of the reproductive system, specifically through its negative feedback on the pituitary gland. There are two main forms, inhibiním A and inhibiním B, which are composed of alpha and beta subunits. The alpha subunit is common to both forms, while the beta subunit differentiates them into inhibiním A (containing beta-A) and inhibiním B (containing beta-B). These hormones are synthesized and secreted in response to stimulation by follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). The primary function of inhibiním is to suppress the secretion of FSH from the anterior pituitary. By reducing FSH levels, inhibiním helps to regulate the production of gametes, such as sperm in males and eggs in females, and the cyclical nature of the menstrual cycle in females. Elevated levels of inhibiním can indicate certain reproductive conditions, and measuring its levels can be a diagnostic tool in reproductive endocrinology. While its primary action is on FSH, some evidence suggests potential paracrine or autocrine roles within the gonads themselves.