Anti-Mullerian hormone, β-catenin and Mullerian duct regression

The embryo is initially sexually indifferent, and correct sexual development is dependent on gonadal hormone production. Thus, in the male embryo, anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), secreted by the Sertoli cells of the testis, induces regression of the Mullerian duct, the anlagen of female reproductive tract. This hormone causes ductal epithelial regression through a paracrine mechanism originating in periductal mesenchyme and the cross-talk between the mesenchymal and epithelial layers accounts for the cranial-to-caudal pattern of Mullerian regression. Here, we review and discuss recent developments concerning the relationship of apoptosis of Mullerian duct to tissue remodeling, mesenchymal-epithelial interactions, and involvement of p-catenin in AMH signaling in periductal mesenchyme. Determining the role of beta-catenin/LEF-1 signaling is critical for understanding AMH action during Mullerian duct regression. (C) 2003 Elsevier Ireland Ltd. All rights reserved.