Ovarian inflammatory and intracellular signaling pathways

Ovarian inflammatory and intracellular signaling pathways encompass a broad array of molecular networks that govern essential reproductive processes, including oocyte maturation, ovulation, and corpus luteum formation (Duffy et al., 2019, PMID: 30541137). These pathways, such as the NF-κB, PI3K/Akt/mTOR, and MAPK/ERK cascades, integrate signals from gonadotropins and local growth factors to maintain ovarian homeostasis. Chronic activation or dysregulation of these inflammatory signals is a hallmark of conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), where they contribute to insulin resistance and hyperandrogenism (Gonzalez, 2012, PMID: 22222341). In the context of oncology, aberrant signaling within these pathways drives the proliferation and survival of ovarian cancer cells (Ghoneum et al., 2020, PMID: 32824581). Because this term describes a collection of processes rather than a single protein, it is not considered a discrete therapeutic target, though many of its constituent molecules are targeted by specific drugs.

Other names

Ovarian signaling cascadesIntra-ovarian inflammatory pathwaysOvarian intracellular signaling

Modulation of intracellular cascades such as PI3K/Akt, MAPK, and NF-κB to regulate follicular growth, steroidogenesis, and inflammatory cytokine production.