Inhibin

Inhibin is a glycoprotein hormone produced by the gonads, ovaries in females and testes in males, and certain other tissues. It primarily functions to regulate the secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the anterior pituitary gland, thus playing a crucial role in the reproductive cycle. inhibin achieves this by selectively suppressing the release of FSH. There are two main forms, inhibin A and inhibin B, each composed of different subunits. inhibin is also involved in the regulation of gonadal steroidogenesis and has been linked to the suppression of certain types of cancers. Its levels vary significantly across the menstrual cycle and during male puberty and are utilized as clinical markers for several conditions.

Inhibin meaning with examples

• During a fertility assessment, a doctor might measure inhibin B levels in a male patient. High levels are often associated with normal sperm production, while low levels could indicate testicular dysfunction, influencing the production of sperm and thus fertility. Therefore, measuring inhibin B helps gauge reproductive potential. It can also be used to diagnose certain forms of cancer.
• Inhibin A levels are monitored during pregnancy, especially in the second trimester, as part of the triple or quadruple screen to assess the risk of Down syndrome and other chromosomal abnormalities in the developing fetus. Abnormal levels may prompt further testing. This monitoring is a critical step for many pregnant mothers.
• A research study on women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) might analyze inhibin levels alongside other hormones, to better understand how these endocrine disruptions affect ovarian function and fertility. These readings alongside other tests show patterns of abnormal hormone levels. This research can assist in developing treatment.
• In men undergoing hormone therapy, such as for testosterone replacement, clinicians sometimes monitor inhibin levels to assess the impact of the therapy on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis and to understand potential side effects, that are also important to diagnose for side effects. inhibin plays a role in feedback regulation.