Follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) (FSHR)

The Follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) in carp (Cyprinus carpio) is a member of the G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) family, specifically the glycoprotein hormone receptor subfamily [UniProt, 2024]. It is primarily expressed in the gonads—specifically in the granulosa cells of the ovaries and the Sertoli cells of the testes—where it mediates the biological effects of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) [Kwok et al., 2005]. FSHR plays a critical role in the endocrine regulation of fish reproduction by stimulating early stages of gametogenesis, such as vitellogenesis in females and spermatogenesis in males, as well as promoting steroidogenesis [Levavi-Sivan et al., 2010]. Upon binding its ligand, the receptor activates the Gs protein/adenylyl cyclase pathway, leading to increased intracellular cAMP levels and the activation of protein kinase A (PKA) [PubMed, 15680478]. In the aquaculture industry, FSHR is a significant therapeutic target for hormonal induction of spawning, often utilizing carp pituitary extracts or recombinant gonadotropins to overcome reproductive bottlenecks in captivity [General and Comparative Endocrinology, 2010]. While not typically associated with human-like diseases in a clinical sense, dysfunction or improper regulation of FSHR in carp can lead to infertility or impaired reproductive success, making it a focal point for fish physiology and breeding research. The receptor's structure includes a large extracellular domain for high-affinity hormone binding and a seven-transmembrane domain characteristic of GPCRs [Rocha et al., 2009]. Understanding the molecular pharmacology of carp FSHR is vital for the development of recombinant gonadotropins and the optimization of breeding protocols in intensive fish farming.

Other names

FSH receptorFollitropin receptorCyprinus carpio FSHRFSH-R

Agonism of the follicle-stimulating hormone receptor activates the Gs/adenylyl cyclase/cAMP signaling pathway, leading to the activation of protein kinase A and the regulation of genes essential for steroidogenesis and gametogenesis [PubMed, 15680478].