Gonadorelin Mechanism of Action
How Gonadorelin works: receptor targets, signalling pathways, and molecular profile.
The Body's Own Upstream Testosterone Trigger
Gonadorelin is a synthetic copy of native GnRH, the decapeptide the hypothalamus releases in pulses to trigger LH and FSH secretion from the pituitary — the same upstream signal exogenous testosterone therapy suppresses. By replacing that signal, gonadorelin keeps the testes actively producing their own testosterone and sperm, rather than going dormant.
Why TRT Clinics Use It
Exogenous testosterone shuts down the body's own HPG axis signaling via negative feedback — the testes stop receiving the LH signal and shrink/reduce function over time. Pulsed gonadorelin dosing alongside TRT is meant to keep that signal alive, preserving testicular size and fertility potential, similar in purpose to hCG but acting one step further upstream.
References
- Induction of testicular growth and spermatogenesis by pulsatile, intravenous administration of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone · Delemarre-van de Waal HA · 1993