Molecular loci for potential drug toxicity in ovaries.

Ovarian follicular development is dependent on the actions and interactions of the pituitary gonadotropins, FSH and LH, and the ovarian steroid hormone, estradiol. Agents which might block the effects of these hormones would increase follicular atresia and reduce fertility. In addition, any substance toxic to the oocyte and its normal pattern of growth and meiosis would lead to reduced numbers of oocytes and follicles and impaired fertility. Autoimmune diseases may be one major cause of premature ovarian failure, and such diseases might be triggered by toxic external stimuli.