Inadequate Detection of the FSHR Complicates Future Research on Extragonadal FSHR Localization

Overview

Journal Front Endocrinol (Lausanne)

Specialty Endocrinology

Date 2023 Mar 6

PMID 36875462

Authors

Victoria N Tedjawirja

Gerrit K J Hooijer

C Dilara Savci-Heijink

Kristina Kovac

Ron Balm

Vivian de Waard

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Introduction: Recently, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) through interaction with its receptor (FSHR) has been proposed to play a role in postmenopausal osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease, rather than the loss of estrogen. To explore this hypothesis, unravelling which cells express extragonadal FSHR on protein level is key.

Methods: We used two commercial anti-FSHR antibodies and validated them by performing immunohistochemistry on positive (ovary, testis) and negative controls (skin).

Results: The monoclonal anti-FSHR antibody could not identify the FSHR in ovary or testis. The polyclonal anti-FSHR antibody stained the granulosa cells (ovary) and Sertoli cells (testis), yet there was equally intense staining of other cells/extracellular matrix. Furthermore, the polyclonal anti-FSHR antibody also stained skin tissue extensively, suggesting that the antibody stains more than just FSHR.

Discussion: The findings in this study may add accuracy to literature on extragonadal FSHR localization and warrants attention to the use of inadequate anti-FSHR antibodies to value the potential role of FSH/FSHR in postmenopausal disease.

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