A3 Refereed book chapter or chapter in a compilation book
Luteinizing Hormone Receptor: Structure, Signaling Mechanisms, and Physiological Functions in Leydig Cells
Authors: Rivero-Müller, Adolfo; Jonas, Kim Carol; Huhtaniemi, Ilpo
Editors: Zirkin, Barry; Huhtaniemi, Ilpo; Lamb, Dolores J.; Papadopoulos, Vassilios
Edition: 1. edition
Publisher: Springer Science+Business Media
Publication year: 2025
Book title : Leydig Cells: Formation Regulation and Function in Health and Disease
First page : 227
Last page: 263
ISBN: 978-3-031-96375-9
eISBN: 978-3-031-96376-6
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-96376-6_8
Publication's open availability at the time of reporting: No Open Access
Publication channel's open availability : No Open Access publication channel
Web address : https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-031-96376-6_8
Pioneering studies suggested the existence of a specific receptor for LH (Lhr/LHCGR) in Leydig cells based on LH-induced testicular testosterone production. This was further supported by the specific high-affinity binding of radiolabeled hCG (a strong LH agonist) to Leydig cells. A plethora of information on the physiological function and regulation of the putative Lhr was subsequently obtained through ligand binding studies. The next milestone was the cloning of the Lhr gene, which opened up access to its molecular and structural biology, including detailed molecular mechanisms of its action. The purpose of this chapter is to briefly review the history of Lhr studies, concentrating on key findings on its role in the regulation of Leydig cell function in humans and experimental rodent models.
