New insights into the role of follicle-stimulating hormone in reproduction

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) has been considered essential for normal ovarian follicular development and spermatogenesis. Although this concept remains valid, the recent reports of defects in genes encoding FSH and its receptor (FSHR) have altered the concepts, particularly with regard to the role of FSH in spermatogenesis, Complete FSH resistance caused by a mutation of the FSHR gene has demonstrated that normal FSH action is an absolute requirement for female fertility, but spermatogenesis and male fertility are possible without FSH action, Thus, while normal ovarian function is critically dependent on normal FSH action, male fertility is relatively independent of this hormone. The finding contradicts the potential of inhibition of FSH secretion or action as a means of male contraception.