Cathepsin B Regulates Ovarian Reserve Quality and Quantity via Mitophagy by Modulating IGF1R Turnover.

ABSTRACT: The quality and quantity of the ovarian reserve are meticulously regulated through various cell death pathways to guarantee the availability of high-quality oocytes for fertilization. While apoptosis is recognized for contributing to maintaining ovarian reserve, the involvement of other cell death pathways remains unclear. Employing chemical genetics and proteomics, this study reveals the crucial involvement of Cathepsin B in maintaining the ovarian reserve. Results indicate that apoptosis and autophagy play pivotal roles, and inhibiting these pathways significantly increases follicle numbers. Proteomics reveals a dynamic shift from apoptosis to autophagy during follicular development, with Cathepsin B emerging as a key player in this transition. Inhibiting Cathepsin B not only mimics the

SUBMITTER: Mohanty A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12266751 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature