A validated model of serum Anti-Müllerian hormone from conception to menopause

Kelsey, T.W., Wright, P., Nelson, S.M. , Anderson, R.A. and Wallace, W.H.B. (2011) A validated model of serum Anti-Müllerian hormone from conception to menopause. PLoS ONE, 6(7), e22024. (doi: 10.1371/journal.pone.0022024)

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Publisher's URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0022024

Abstract

<p><b>Background:</b> Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) is a product of growing ovarian follicles. The concentration of AMH in blood may also reflect the non-growing follicle (NGF) population, i.e. the ovarian reserve, and be of value in predicting reproductive lifespan. A full description of AMH production up to the menopause has not been previously reported.</p> <p><b>Methodology/Principal Findings:</b> By searching the published literature for AMH concentrations in healthy pre-menopausal females, and using our own data (combined n=3,260) we have generated and robustly validated the first model of AMH concentration from conception to menopause. This model shows that 34% of the variation in AMH is due to age alone. We have shown that AMH peaks at age 24.5 years, followed by a decline to the menopause. We have also shown that there is a neonatal peak and a potential pre-pubertal peak. Our model allows us to generate normative data at all ages.</p> <p><b>Conclusions/Significance:</b> These data highlight key inflection points in ovarian follicle dynamics. This first validated model of circulating AMH in healthy females describes a transition period in early adulthood, after which AMH reflects the progressive loss of the NGF pool. The existence of a neonatal increase in gonadal activity is confirmed for females. An improved understanding of the relationship between circulating AMH and age will lead to more accurate assessment of ovarian reserve for the individual woman.</p>

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Nelson, Professor Scott
Authors: Kelsey, T.W., Wright, P., Nelson, S.M., Anderson, R.A., and Wallace, W.H.B.
College/School:College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing
Journal Name:PLoS ONE
Publisher:Public Library of Science
ISSN:1932-6203
ISSN (Online):1932-6203
Published Online:15 July 2011
Copyright Holders:Copyright © 2011 The Authors
First Published:First published in PLoS ONE 6(7):e22024
Publisher Policy:Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher

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