Targeting FSH for osteoporosis, obesity, and Alzheimer's disease.

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), traditionally known for regulating gonadal development, maturation, and estrogen secretion, has now been implicated in regulating fat and bone metabolism and cognition. Preclinical evidence from genetic and pharmacological studies in rodent models, combined with human data from population-based observations, genetic studies, and a limited number of interventional trials, supports the notion of independent effects of FSH on the skeleton, fat, and brain. This evolving understanding of the nonreproductive roles of FSH presents potential therapeutic opportunities to mitigate age-related health challenges, which include osteoporosis, obesity, cardiovascular risk, and dementia. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the interplay between pituitary-derived FSH and peripheral and central tissues, as well as recent progress in therapeutic development.