Metformin decreases IGF1-induced cell proliferation and protein synthesis through AMP-activated protein kinase in cultured bovine granulosa cells.

Although its mechanism of action is still unclear, metformin is an anti-diabetic drug effective to restore cyclicity and spontaneous ovulation in women with polycystic ovary syndrome. It may also reduce the risk of cancer. We have recently shown that metformin treatment decreases steroidogenesis through AMP-activated kinase (AMPK) in granulosa cells of various species.

Role of adiponectin receptors, AdipoR1 and AdipoR2, in the steroidogenesis of the human granulosa tumor cell line, KGN.

Background: Adiponectin is involved in the regulation of energy homeostasis and more recently in the reproductive functions. We have previously shown that adiponectin receptors (AdipoR1 and AdipoR2) are expressed in human granulosa cells. However, it remains to be investigated whether both AdipoR1 and AdipoR2 or only one of these receptors serve as the major receptor(s) for adiponectin in human granulosa cells.

Adiponectin increases insulin-like growth factor I-induced progesterone and estradiol secretion in human granulosa cells.

Objective: To identify adiponectin and its receptors (AdipoR1 and AdipoR2) in human granulosa cells (GC) and to study the effects of recombinant human adiponectin on P and E(2) secretion from these cells.

Design: The effects of recombinant human adiponectin on the secretion of P and E(2) by cultured human GCs were investigated.

Setting: Academic institutions.

[Adipose tissue, nutrition and reproduction: what is the link?].

The body mass index, and especially the lean/fat tissue ratio, are determinants of female fertility. In 1996, it was claimed that leptin might be the "missing link" between fat and reproduction. Leptin belongs to the adipokine family, which also contains adiponectin and resistin.