Insulin signaling pathways and ovarian steroidogenesis regulators

Insulin signaling pathways are a network of molecular interactions that transmit insulin’s effects in target tissues, including the ovary, primarily via the insulin receptor, IRS proteins, and the PI3K/Akt/mTOR and MAPK cascades[1][2][3][4]. These pathways promote glucose uptake, cell proliferation, differentiation, and regulate apoptosis in ovarian cells. They also interact with gonadotropin (FSH, LH) signaling to influence ovarian steroidogenesis, modulating the activity and expression of key steroidogenic enzymes. Dysregulation of insulin signaling in the ovary contributes to disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome and infertility, and can be modulated by drugs like metformin and thiazolidinediones that improve insulin sensitivity and ovarian function[2][3].

Other names

Insulin signaling in ovaryOvarian insulin signalingOvarian steroidogenesis pathwaysOvarian steroidogenic regulators

Insulin-sensitizing (e.g., metformin improves insulin signaling and glucose uptake in ovarian cells) Modulation of PI3K/Akt/mTOR pathway Regulation of steroidogenic enzyme expression and function[2][3][1]