Regulatory role of microRNAs in ovarian function

Fertil Steril. 2014 Jun;101(6):1524-30. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.04.024.

Abstract

MicroRNAs have recently begun to be explored in ovarian cells, uncovering their influence on fundamental ovarian features like steroidogenesis, ovulation, and curpos luteum development and function. We provide a review of the current knowledge on microRNAs, specifically relating to human ovarian cell function and microRNAs' role in the ovarian physiologic process and ovulation dysfunction. Because of microRNAs' known stability in body fluids, we enlighten also their potential use in the clinical setting as novel biomarkers for ovarian function. Future research of the role of microRNAs in physiologic and dysfunctional ovulation may offer new diagnostic and treatment strategies for infertility and other ovarian disorders.

Keywords: PCOS; POF; corpus luteum; microRNA; ovulation; serum biomarkers.

Publication types

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

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cumulus Cells / metabolism
  • DEAD-box RNA Helicases / metabolism
  • Female
  • Fertility
  • Gene Expression Regulation*
  • Humans
  • Infertility, Female / genetics
  • Infertility, Female / metabolism
  • Infertility, Female / physiopathology
  • Infertility, Female / therapy
  • Luteal Cells / metabolism
  • MicroRNAs / metabolism*
  • Oocytes / metabolism
  • Ovarian Diseases / genetics
  • Ovarian Diseases / metabolism
  • Ovarian Diseases / physiopathology
  • Ovarian Diseases / therapy
  • Ovary / metabolism*
  • Ovary / physiopathology
  • Ovulation* / genetics
  • Pregnancy
  • Ribonuclease III / metabolism
  • Signal Transduction* / genetics

Substances

  • MicroRNAs
  • DICER1 protein, human
  • Ribonuclease III
  • DEAD-box RNA Helicases