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Modulation of Female Reproductive Functions through Nerve Growth Factor: A Systematic Review

delete2026-06-04
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OA
AI
Y
Yanru Lou
S
Shuo Huang
X
Xi Zhang
W
Wei Guo
L
Lina Yi
L
Leihan Wang
S
Shuangyi Gong
J
Jie Yan
杨蕊 (Rui Yang)
DOI:10.1017/erm.2026.10050delete
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Abstract

Abstract

En 中文
BackgroundNerve growth factor (NGF); which acts on receptors tropomyosin receptor kinase A and p75 neurotrophic receptor; is a member of neurotrophin family and a kind of secretory polypeptides.MethodsA comprehensive literature search was conducted in the following databases: PubMed and Web of Science. The following search terms were used in various combinations: “NGF; ” “nerve growth factor; ” “ovarian steroidogenesis; ” “follicular development; ” “oocyte maturation; ” and “ovulation.” Boolean operators (AND; OR) were applied to combine search terms (e.g.; “NGF AND PCOS; ” “NGF AND follicular development”).ResultsNGF plays important roles in multiple reproductive physiological activities. Its ovarian effects are crucial for oocyte maturation; follicular assembly; early follicle development; ovulation and steroidogenesis. While the ovary is a major target; NGF’s role extends to the broader regulation of the female reproductive system. In particular; the role of NGF in inducing ovulation by acting on the hypothalamus has garnered considerable scholarly attention. Although relatively few studies have examined the direct impact of NGF on hypothalamic gonadotrophin-releasing hormone neurons—the central regulators of the hypothalamic–pituitary–ovary (HPO) axis; extensive evidence demonstrates that NGF can cause an influence on the synthesis and release of follicle-stimulating hormone; luteinizing hormone and steroid hormones; which act downstream in the HPO axis.ConclusionsOur review outlines the critical role of NGF in female reproductive physiology; with a particular focus on its modulatory influence on induced ovulation. Furthermore; in this review; we aim to provide a more comprehensive perspective on NGF’s role in reproductive disorders; such as polycystic ovary syndrome; diminished ovarian reserve and endometriosis.
Keywords:
folliculogenesis
infertility
nerve growth factor
oocyte maturation
ovulation
reproductive function

Journal

Expert Reviews in Molecular Medicine cover
Expert Reviews in Molecular Medicine
IF:
5.5
Papers:
76
Citations:
2.2K

Organization

P
peking university third hospital
Scholars:
540
Papers: 132
Citations: 0
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