Activin and inhibin

Activin and Inhibin are two closely related protein complexes that have almost directly opposite biological effects. Identified in 1986, Activin enhances FSH biosynthesis and secretion, and participates in the regulation of the menstrual cycle. Many other functions have been found to be exerted by activin, including roles in cell proliferation, differentiation, apoptosis, metabolism, homeostasis, immune response, wound repair, and endocrine function. Conversely, inhibin downregulates FSH synthesis and inhibits FSH secretion.

Activin

Activin is a protein complex that is involved in a number of important biological functions. It is a dimeric protein composed of two identical or very similar beta subunits. Activin is produced in the gonads, pituitary gland, placenta, and other organs.

Activin has a wide range of biological activities, including stimulation of FSH secretion, regulation of menstrual cycle, cell proliferation, differentiation, wound repair, and immune response. It also plays a role in the regulation of homeostasis and metabolism.

Inhibin

Inhibin is a protein complex that inhibits the secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). It is a heterodimeric protein composed of an alpha and a beta subunit. The alpha subunit is common to both inhibin and activin, while the beta subunit is distinct.

Inhibin is produced in the gonads (testes in males and ovaries in females) and acts to inhibit the production of FSH by the pituitary gland. In addition to its role in the regulation of the menstrual cycle, inhibin has been implicated in the regulation of reproductive and developmental processes.

Relationship between Activin and Inhibin

Activin and inhibin are two closely related proteins that have almost directly opposite biological effects. They are both dimeric proteins that are produced in the gonads and other organs. The main difference between them is that activin stimulates the secretion of FSH, while inhibin inhibits it.

The balance between activin and inhibin is crucial for the regulation of the menstrual cycle and other reproductive processes. Disruptions in this balance can lead to a variety of reproductive disorders.

See also

• Follicle-stimulating hormone
• Menstrual cycle
• Gonads