HMG — Published Research

FSH-associated signaling engages FSHR, primarily expressed on ovarian granulosa cells and testicular Sertoli cells. The FSHR is a glycoprotein hormone receptor that couples to Gαs, activating adenylyl cyclase and increasing cAMP levels. Parallel signaling also engages LHCGR on theca cells and Leydig cells. Both receptors also signal through Gαq, Gαi, and β-arrestin pathways. The combined FSH/LH activity in HMG activates both receptor systems, enabling coordinated signaling research in reproductive cell models.

Simoni M et al. “The FSH Receptor: Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Physiology, and Pathophysiology.” Endocr Rev. 1997. PubMed

Highly purified HMG (HP-hMG) preparations have been compared to recombinant FSH (rFSH) in clinical research settings. Studies have characterized the pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and biological activity profiles of different glycoprotein-signal preparations. The presence of LH activity in HMG distinguishes it from FSH-only preparations and has been investigated for its effects on follicular steroidogenesis and oocyte development markers in research and clinical models.

Coomarasamy A et al. “Urinary hMG versus recombinant FSH for controlled ovarian hyperstimulation following an agonist long down-regulation protocol in IVF or ICSI exposure: a systematic review and meta-analysis.” Hum Reprod. 2008. PubMed

The two-cell, two-glycoprotein-signal model describes the coordinated action of LH on theca cells and FSH on granulosa cells in follicular steroidogenesis. LH stimulates theca cell androgen production (androstenedione), which is then aromatized to estradiol by FSH-stimulated aromatase in granulosa cells. Research using HMG in cell culture and in vivo models investigates the effects of combined FSH/LH stimulation on estradiol production, follicular growth markers, and downstream steroidogenic enzyme expression.

Hillier SG. “Current concepts of the roles of FSH and LH in folliculogenesis.” Hum Reprod. 1994. PubMed