In:
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Vol. 95, No. 2 ( 1998-01-20), p. 594-599
Abstract:
Strong overexpression of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) in transgenic mice leads to incomplete fetal virilization and decreased serum testosterone in the adult. Conversely, AMH-deficient mice exhibit Leydig cell hyperplasia. To probe the mechanism of action of AMH on Leydig cell steroidogenesis, we have studied the expression of mRNA for steroidogenic proteins in vivo and in vitro and performed a morphometric analysis of testicular tissue in mice overexpressing the hormone. We show that overexpression of AMH in male transgenic mice blocks the differentiation of Leydig cell precursors. Expression of steroidogenic protein mRNAs, mainly cytochrome P450 17α-hydroxylase/C17–20 lyase (P450c17), is decreased in transgenic mice overexpressing AMH and in AMH-treated purified Leydig cells. In contrast, transgenic mice in whom the AMH locus has been disrupted show increased expression of P450c17. In vitro , but not in vivo , AMH also decreases the expression of the luteinizing hormone receptor. The effect of AMH is explained by the presence of its receptor on Leydig cells. Our results provide insight into the action of AMH as a negative modulator of Leydig cell differentiation and function.
Type of Medium:
Online Resource
ISSN:
0027-8424
,
1091-6490
DOI:
10.1073/pnas.95.2.594
Language:
English
Publisher:
Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences
Publication Date:
1998
detail.hit.zdb_id:
209104-5
detail.hit.zdb_id:
1461794-8
SSG:
11
SSG:
12
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