Korean J Obstet Gynecol.  2009 Mar;52(3):285-300.

Anti-Mullerian hormone and female reproduction

• Lee JR
• Kim SH

Abstract

Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), also called Mullerian-inhibiting substance, is a member of the transforming growth factor (TGF)-beta superfamily. It is well known that AMH is expressed by Sertoli cells in fetal testis, and that it induces Mullerian duct degeneration during male fetal development. However, in females AMH is produced by granulosa cells of the ovarian follicles. Recently, numerous studies have demonstrated that AMH could be a useful marker of ovarian function. Serum AMH levels decrease progressively with age, become undetectable after menopause, and show high cycle-to-cycle reproducibility. It has been shown that AMH level is correlated with various outcomes of controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH). Many studies showed that AMH can discriminate very effectively poor responders, cycle cancellation, and ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome after COH. AMH also has a functional role in folliculogenesis and could be a qualitative marker of ovarian follicular states. In addition, AMH has been associated with various clinical statuses such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, endometriosis, obesity, granulosa cell tumor, and premature ovarian failure. AMH is an effective and promising biomarker of various conditions in female reproduction. In this article, current research results on role of AMH as a marker of ovarian function and dysfunction are discussed.

Keyword

Anti-Mullerian hormone; Ovarian reserve; Controlled ovarian hyperstimulation; Outcome predictor; Folliculogenesis

MeSH Terms

Anti-Mullerian Hormone
Endometriosis
Female
Fetal Development
Granulosa Cell Tumor
Granulosa Cells
Humans
Male
Menopause
Obesity
Ovarian Follicle
Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Primary Ovarian Insufficiency
Reproduction
Sertoli Cells
Testis
Transforming Growth Factors
Anti-Mullerian Hormone
Transforming Growth Factors