Abstract: The follicle stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) was thought to be expressed in ovarian and testis tissues in the past. However, it has been found in the whole reproductive system, including endometrium, uterine myometrium and fallopian tube. FSHR participated in the regulation of steroidogenesis, uterine myometrium contraction and reproductive endocrine. Other studies suggested that the FSHR expressed in the endothelial cells of blood vessels in tumor and placenta played an important role in stimulating angiogenesis. In normal pregnancy, the proper development of placenta vasculature after implantation is essential for the embryonic development. The disorder of angiogenesis, and poor blood supple at early stage, is one of the factors of spontaneous miscarriage. The poor blood supply in the middle and late stages of pregnancy may lead to premature delivery, fetal growth restriction, pregnancy-induced hypertension and other complications. We summarized the roles of FSHR, as well as the research progress, in female reproductive system and placental angiogenesis during pregnancy.

Key words: Follicle stimulating hormone, Abortion, spontaneous, Neovascularization, physiologic, Placenta, Pregnancy