GnRH
Pronunciation: gon-add-oh-TROH-pin
Also written as: GnRH — gonadotropin-releasing hormone
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone that stimulates reproduction-related hormone secretion from the pituitary.
Full Definition
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is a decapeptide hormone synthesized and released by the hypothalamus that controls reproductive function by stimulating the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the anterior pituitary. GnRH is released in a pulsatile manner, and this pulsatility is crucial for normal gonadotropin secretion and reproductive function. Disruptions in GnRH signaling can lead to various reproductive disorders, and synthetic GnRH analogs are used therapeutically in conditions such as prostate cancer, endometriosis, and precocious puberty.
Usage
Usage note: Spell out on first use; can also be referred to as LHRH in older literature.
In Context
- "The patient received GnRH analog therapy to suppress gonadal function prior to chemotherapy." — Treatment protocol
- "GnRH stimulation testing confirmed central precocious puberty in the pediatric patient." — Endocrine evaluation