Anti-Inhibin alpha antibody [4A2F2]

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

Inhibin alpha also known as alpha-inhibin is a subunit of the inhibin protein complex. As a 32 kDa glycoprotein inhibin exerts its role as a modulator of hormone activities by forming heterodimers with various beta subunits typically expressed in the gonads adrenal glands and pituitary gland. Inhibin alpha not only influences the secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) but also acts as an important player in reproductive endocrinology. Its expression can be assessed through inh alpha R1 and po12 markers offering insights through inhibin immunohistochemistry.

Biological function summary

Inhibin alpha forms part of the inhibin hormone complex which primarily serves as a negative regulator of FSH secretion. Insufficient levels of inhibin can disrupt normal metabolic functions impacting reproductive systems. The inhibin alpha subunit is vital for maintaining reproductive homeostasis and monitoring the inhibin staining pattern provides a useful diagnostic tool in reproductive health assessments. Inhibin binds to activin receptors where it blocks FSH release from the anterior pituitary gland reinforcing its role in managing the reproductive axis.

Pathways

Inhibin alpha is critically involved in the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta) signaling pathway. This pathway plays a major role in cell differentiation and proliferation where inhibin competes with activin for the same receptors ultimately reducing FSH synthesis. Additionally inhibin functions within endocrine regulatory mechanisms ensuring the reproductive hormones maintain their balance alongside related proteins such as activin and follistatin each contributing uniquely to signaling processes.

Associated diseases and disorders

Inhibin alpha alterations can significantly influence conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and certain gonadal tumors. Abnormal levels of inhibin are often observed in PCOS where disrupted endocrine feedback leads to infertility issues. Gonadal tumors also relate to increased inhibin expression providing a biomarker for diagnosis and progression monitoring. Through these diseases inhibin alpha interacts with proteins such as luteinizing hormone playing part in their systemic dysfunctions within the affected individuals.