Protein kinases and ovarian functions

J Cell Physiol. 2011 Jan;226(1):37-45. doi: 10.1002/jcp.22364.

Abstract

The present focus survey represents a short review of current knowledge concerning involvement of protein kinases in control of basic ovarian functions. Ovarian cells produce a number of protein kinases, whose expression depends on type of cells, their state and action of hormones and other protein kinases. A number of protein kinases are involved in control of ovarian cell proliferation, apoptosis, oocyte maturation, hormone release, reception and response to hormones, as well as in mediating action of hormones on these ovarian functions. Complexity of interrelationships between different protein kinase-dependent signaling pathways occurs. Protein kinases and their regulators could be used for characterization, prediction and control of ovarian folliculogenesis and atresia, Corpus luteum functions, oocyte maturation, fertility, release of hormones, response of ovarian structures to hormonal regulators, as well as for treatment of some reproductive disorders. The present data demonstrate importance of protein kinases in control of basic ovarian function and potential usage of protein kinases for characterization, prediction and control of these functions.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Female
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Enzymologic / physiology
  • Gonadal Steroid Hormones / metabolism
  • Oocytes / cytology
  • Oocytes / physiology
  • Ovary / drug effects
  • Ovary / enzymology*
  • Ovary / physiology*
  • Protein Kinase Inhibitors / pharmacology
  • Protein Kinases / genetics
  • Protein Kinases / metabolism*

Substances

  • Gonadal Steroid Hormones
  • Protein Kinase Inhibitors
  • Protein Kinases