The Effects of the Phytoestrogen, Coumestrol, on Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) mRNA Expression in GT1-7 GnRH Neurones.

摘要

Phytoestrogens can produce inhibitory effects on gonadotropin secretion in both animals and humans, although little is known about the mechanisms and the role of direct action on oestrogen receptors (ER) in this process. We examined the effect of coumestrol, alone and combined with ER antagonists, on gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) mRNA expression in GT1-7 cells. Coumestrol was found to have an inhibitory effect compared to controls, which was blocked by R,R-THC, a selective ERbeta antagonist. These results suggest that ERbeta is involved in the suppression of GnRH mRNA expression by coumestrol.