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Insulin‐like Growth Factors and Ovarian Physiology
Author(s) -
Yoshimura Yasunori
Publication year - 1998
Publication title -
journal of obstetrics and gynaecology research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.597
H-Index - 50
eISSN - 1447-0756
pISSN - 1341-8076
DOI - 10.1111/j.1447-0756.1998.tb00103.x
Subject(s) - ovulation , paracrine signalling , follicular phase , folliculogenesis , oocyte , autocrine signalling , insulin like growth factor , ovary , endocrinology , medicine , follicular fluid , ovarian follicle , infertility , receptor , biology , andrology , growth factor , microbiology and biotechnology , hormone , embryogenesis , pregnancy , embryo , genetics
Objective: To review the available information regarding the roles of insulin‐like growth factor (IGF)‐IGF binding protein (IGFBP) system in ovarian physiology. Design: Studies that specifically relate to the roles of ovarian folliculogenesis, oocyte maturation, and ovulation were identified through the literature and Medline searches. Results: Numerous actions of the IGFs have been demonstrated in the ovary, including an enhancement of cell proliferation, aromatase activity, and progesterone biosynthesis. The ovarian IGF system, comprised of IGF‐I and IGF‐II peptides, IGFBPs and IGF receptors, plays a significant role in the process of follicular development. In addition, IGF‐I stimulates the meiotic maturation of follicle‐enclosed oocytes in vitro via the IGF‐I receptors. IGFBP‐3 significantly inhibit gonado‐tropin‐induced ovulation and oocyte maturation by neutralizing endogenously produced IGF‐I. Thus, the intraovarian IGF‐IGFBP system play a significant role in the processes of follicular development, oocyte maturation, and ovulation. Conclusion: IGF‐IGFBP systems have autocrine/paracrine regulatory actions in ovarian physiology. The disturbance of the IGF‐IGFBP system in human ovaries may lead to an ovulation, disorders of androgen excess, and infertility.