Endothelins in regulating ovarian and oviductal function

Front Biosci (Schol Ed). 2011 Jan 1;3(1):145-55. doi: 10.2741/s140.

Abstract

In the last 30 years, remarkable progress has been made in our understanding of the biological role of endothelins in the regulation of reproductive function and fertility. A peptide hormone identified for its ability to regulate blood pressure has now been shown as a potent mediator of several reproductive pathways. Ligand- and receptor-specific roles have been identified and/or postulated during follicular development and ovulation as well as in the function and regression of the corpus luteum. In this review we have attempted to organize endothelin-mediated ovarian processes in a process-specific manner, rather than compile a review of ligand- or isoform-specific actions. Further, we have included a discussion on "post-ovarian" or oviductal function, as well as the future directions that we believe will increase our understanding of endothelin biology as a whole.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cattle
  • Endothelins / metabolism*
  • Endothelins / physiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Luteolysis / physiology*
  • Mice
  • Ovarian Follicle / physiology*
  • Oviducts / physiology*
  • Ovulation / physiology*

Substances

  • Endothelins