Physiological consequences of the loss of inhibin activity

Gonadal-derived inhibin A and inhibin B are essential factors in mammalian reproduction, negatively regulating pituitary production of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). Interestingly, declines in inhibin levels across the menopause transition do not only correlate with an increase in FSH, but also a rapid decrease in bone and muscle mass. Based on these clinical findings, and the recent demonstration that transgenic inhibin A increases bone mass and strength, we hypothesise: 1. That inhibin A and B have important physiological roles outside the reproductive axis, primarily the stimulation of bone and muscle growth. 2. That inhibin mimetics could be utilised as novel therapeutics to treat postmenopausal complications, including osteoporosis and sarcopenia.