Abstract

Background: Corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH), the main peptide-mediator of stress, has been found in the female reproductive system.

Objective: Herein, the role of CRH receptors in the female reproductive system is presented.

Results: It is clear that CRH receptors are involved in the regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitaryovarian axis, while locally are associated with decidualization, embryonic implantation, early fetal development and triggering of parturition.

Conclusion: Abnormal CRH signaling may contribute to obstetrical pathophysiology, such as preeclampsia, abnormal placenta invasion, endometrial growth retardation and preterm delivery.

Keywords: CRH receptors, ovary, implantation, fetal immunotolerance, receptivity, parturition.

Graphical Abstract