Luteinizing Hormone and Human Chorionic Gonadotropin Decrease Type 2 5α-Reductase and Androgen Receptor Protein Levels in Women's Skin

The study investigated the effects of luteinizing hormone (LH) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) on type 2 5α-reductase and androgen receptor protein levels in women's skin. Skin samples from women undergoing surgery were treated with hCG, and results showed a significant, though modest, decrease in these protein levels in a time- and dose-dependent manner. LH produced similar effects, while other glycoprotein hormones did not. The study concluded that human skin is responsive to LH and hCG, although the clinical significance of this regulation was not determined.