Role of reproductive hormones in islet adaptation to metabolic stress

Abstract

There is an interaction between reproduction and energy stores. Both the production and secretion of insulin by pancreatic islet β-cells must adapt to the metabolic demands of various environmental stresses related to reproduction and energy status. These adaptations must occur in a sex-specific manner. It is therefore conceivable that reproductive hormones play a role in β-cell adaptation to environmental stresses. This review explores the roles of estrogen, androgen, progesterone, and lactogens in pancreatic β-cell mass and function under conditions of metabolic stress such as pregnancy, obesity, and diabetes.