ERK1/2-SOX9/FOXL2 axis regulates ovarian steroidogenesis and favors the follicular-luteal transition.

ABSTRACT: Estradiol and progesterone are the primary sex steroids produced by the ovary. Upon luteinizing hormone surge, estradiol-producing granulosa cells convert into progesterone-producing cells and eventually become large luteal cells of the corpus luteum. Signaling pathways and transcription factors involved in the cessation of estradiol and simultaneous stimulation of progesterone production in granulosa cells are not clearly understood. Here, we decipher that phosphorylated ERK1/2 regulates granulosa cell steroidogenesis by inhibiting estradiol and inducing progesterone production. Down-regulation of transcription factor FOXL2 and up-regulation of SOX9 by ERK underpin its differential steroidogenic function. Interestingly, the incidence of SOX9 is largely uncovered in ovarian cells and is fo

SUBMITTER: Baddela VS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10397509 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature