The Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Ovary Axis

Human reproduction depends on an intact hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Hypothalamic gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) has been recognized as the central regulator of the production and release of the pituitary gonadotropins that, in turn, regulate the gonadal functions and the production of sex steroids. The peculiar development, distribution, and episodic activity of GnRH-producing neurons have solicited an interdisciplinary interest on the etiopathogenesis of several reproductive diseases. Moreover, growing knowledge on a new more complex interplay among integrative centers (hypothalamus and pituitary) and the effector (ovary) open to a new perception of the mechanisms controlling the reproductive axis.