Involving the life inside: The complex interplay between reproductive axis hormones and gut micorbiota

Abstract The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis feedback loop is critical in the regulation of the endocrine system. Dysregulation or dysfunction of the HPG axis can impact reproductive, psychiatric, and metabolic health. The gut microbiota is suggested to influence the endocrine system; however, causal effects of the gut microbiota on the HPG axis are unknown. This review summarizes current knowledge of gut microbial influence on components of the HPG axis, including gonadotropin-releasing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and sex steroids and their subsequent impact on host physiology. Understanding the role of the gut microbiota in modulating the HPG axis may contribute to the development of novel therapeutics for HPG axis-related illnesses.