Dr. Courtney Marsh is an associate professor in the Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Cell Biology and Physiology, at the University of Kansas School of Medicine (KUMC). She is the KUMC Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility Division Director, joining the practice in 2013. Dr. Marsh is actively involved with hormonal research involving estrogen and has multiple publications in sex steroid feedback and hormonal therapy to her credit.
Estrogen - Recent Advances explores the role of estrogen in many disease processes and organ systems. Chapters discuss G-protein estrogen receptor signaling and estrogen’s effect on the oral cavity, olfactory mucosae, and the prostate. The book presents cutting-edge research and developments in the field. Understanding the many effects estrogen has on the body will help the reader better understand disease processes and provide a framework for future discoveries.
Go to the bookThis chapter will explore the latter phase of the menstrual cycle focusing on the secretory phase of the endometrium. In particular, focus will be on the mid-secretory endometrium and appropriate markers and hormonal environment for successful implantation. This will be put in the context of the luteal phase of ovulation and the hormonal support that progesterone provides. We will also review pathologic states, such as endometriosis and related progesterone resistance, which affect mid-secretory phase and implantation. Finally, we will provide a detailed review of the literature on what the current state of knowledge is regarding receptivity and the microenvironment of the mid-secretory endometrium which is essential to implantation.
Part of the book: Menstrual Cycle
Kisspeptins are a group of neuropeptides with regulatory functions related to puberty, fertility, and reproduction. They are primarily produced by hypothalamic nuclei and are thought to regulate the activity of neurons that produce gonadotropin-releasing hormone. They are also expressed by placental syncytiotrophoblasts in developing pregnancies and are likely involved in the processes of trophoblast invasion and placentation. Similarly to beta-hCG, kisspeptins are found in maternal plasma during the first trimester of pregnancy and increase proportionately with gestational age. Because of their role in implantation, there is currently interest in the use of kisspeptins as minimally invasive biomarkers. It is suspected that maternal kisspeptin levels have diagnostic potential in identifying viable early pregnancies.
Part of the book: Infertility and Assisted Reproduction