Mitogen-activated protein kinases in male reproductive function

Trends Mol Med. 2009 Apr;15(4):159-68. doi: 10.1016/j.molmed.2009.02.002. Epub 2009 Mar 18.

Abstract

Recent studies have shown that male reproductive function is modulated via the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) cascade. The MAPK cascade is involved in numerous male reproductive processes, including spermatogenesis, sperm maturation and activation, capacitation and acrosome reaction, before fertilization of the oocyte. In this review, we discuss the latest findings in this rapidly developing field regarding the role of MAPK in male reproduction in animal models and in human spermatozoa in vitro. This research will facilitate the design of future studies in humans, although much work is needed before this information can be used to manage male infertility and environmental toxicant-induced testicular injury in men, such as blood-testis-barrier disruption.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases / genetics
  • Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases / metabolism
  • Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases / physiology*
  • Models, Biological
  • Reproduction / genetics
  • Reproduction / physiology*
  • Signal Transduction / genetics
  • Signal Transduction / physiology
  • Spermatogenesis / genetics
  • Spermatogenesis / physiology
  • Spermatozoa / metabolism

Substances

  • Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases