Mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPKs) as regulators of spermatogenesis and spermatozoa functions

Mol Cell Endocrinol. 2008 Jan 30;282(1-2):39-44. doi: 10.1016/j.mce.2007.11.011. Epub 2007 Nov 22.

Abstract

Spermatogenesis, culminating in the generation of mature motile spermatozoa, is a complex biological process that is regulated by cytokines and hormones of the male reproductive system. Spermatozoa must first undergo a series of biochemical processes termed capacitation, which is followed by acrosome reaction and egg fertilization. Here we review the role of mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK) cascades in spermatogenesis and spermatozoa functions.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acrosome Reaction / physiology
  • Animals
  • Extracellular Signal-Regulated MAP Kinases / physiology
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Kinases / physiology*
  • Sperm Capacitation / physiology
  • Sperm Motility / physiology
  • Spermatogenesis / physiology*
  • Spermatozoa / physiology*

Substances

  • Extracellular Signal-Regulated MAP Kinases
  • Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Kinases