AMH - Muellerian-inhibiting factor | Elisa - Clia - Antibody - Protein

Background:

Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), also known as Müllerian-inhibiting factor (MIF), is a protein hormone that plays a critical role in the development of the reproductive system, particularly in males. It is produced by cells within the testes called Sertoli cells, as well as by granulosa cells in the ovaries of females. During fetal development in males, AMH is secreted by the Sertoli cells and functions to inhibit the development of the Müllerian ducts, which are precursor structures for female reproductive organs such as the fallopian tubes, uterus, and upper vagina. By suppressing the development of these Müllerian structures, AMH helps promote the formation of male reproductive organs, including the epididymis, vas deferens, and seminal vesicles. In females, AMH is also produced by granulosa cells within ovarian follicles, but its role is different. In females, AMH levels are highest during early follicular development and decline as follicles mature. AMH is involved in regulating the growth and development of ovarian follicles and has been used as a marker of ovarian reserve, which refers to the number and quality of a woman's remaining eggs. Measurement of AMH levels in blood or serum is commonly used in clinical settings as a biomarker for ovarian function and fertility assessment. Low levels of AMH may indicate a reduced ovarian reserve, which can affect a woman's ability to conceive naturally or through assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). AMH levels can also be altered in certain medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and disorders of sex development (DSDs), which can affect reproductive health and fertility

Protein Structure:

• Molecular Weight: Approximately 140 kDa.
• Domains: AMH is synthesized as a dimeric glycoprotein consisting of two identical subunits. Each subunit contains a signal peptide, a proregion, and a mature C-terminal domain that is responsible for its biological activity.
• Post-translational Modifications: AMH undergoes glycosylation, which is essential for its proper folding and secretion.

Classification and Subtypes:

• Family: AMH belongs to the TGF-β superfamily, which includes other growth and differentiation factors like inhibins, activins, and bone morphogenetic proteins (BMPs).
• Subtypes: There are no distinct subtypes of AMH, but it interacts with different receptors and co-receptors that influence its function.

Function and Biological Significance:

• Sexual Differentiation: During male embryonic development, AMH is secreted by Sertoli cells and causes the regression of the Müllerian ducts, which would otherwise develop into female reproductive structures (uterus, fallopian tubes, and upper part of the vagina).
• Ovarian Function: In females, AMH is produced by granulosa cells of growing ovarian follicles. It regulates folliculogenesis by inhibiting the initial recruitment of primordial follicles and reducing the sensitivity of follicles to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH).
• Diagnostic Marker: AMH levels are used as a clinical marker for ovarian reserve, fertility potential, and certain reproductive disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Interactions:

• AMH Receptors: AMH primarily interacts with the AMH receptor type II (AMHR2), which is expressed in the target tissues of the Müllerian ducts. This interaction activates downstream signaling pathways that lead to Müllerian duct regression.
• TGF-β Superfamily Pathways: AMH signaling involves pathways common to the TGF-β superfamily, including Smad-dependent and Smad-independent pathways.

Clinical Issues:

• Disorders of Sexual Development: Mutations in the AMH gene or its receptor (AMHR2) can result in persistent Müllerian duct syndrome (PMDS), where individuals with XY chromosomes develop both male and female reproductive structures.
• Ovarian Function: Abnormal AMH levels are associated with conditions like PCOS, premature ovarian insufficiency, and menopause. Low AMH levels are indicative of diminished ovarian reserve.
• Cancer: AMH has been investigated as a potential therapeutic agent in ovarian and other cancers due to its role in inhibiting cell proliferation.

Summary:

AMH (Müllerian inhibiting factor) is a key hormone in sexual differentiation and reproductive function. In males, it causes the regression of Müllerian ducts during embryogenesis, preventing the development of female reproductive organs. In females, it plays a significant role in regulating ovarian follicle development and function. Clinically, AMH is an important biomarker for assessing ovarian reserve and diagnosing reproductive disorders. Understanding AMH and its interactions provides insights into various conditions related to sexual development, fertility, and potential therapeutic applications in oncology.