Exploring stem cells in the mammalian ovary has unleashed a Pandora's box of new
insights and questions. Recent evidence supports the existence of stem cells of a number of …

Contents It is generally accepted that progesterone (P4) is a key regulator of reproductive
function in mammals. In cattle, the primary focus of P4's actions has been uterine receptivity …

Abnormalities in cell-cell communication and growth factor signaling pathways can lead to
defects in maternal-fetal interactions during pregnancy, including immunologic rejection of …

BACKGROUND Oocyte maturation is under strict regulatory control, not only from intrinsic
cellular processes, but also extrinsic influences. While the oocyte is directly connected to the …

The LH receptor (LHR) activates several families of heterotrimeric G proteins, but only the
activation of Gs and subsequent generation of cAMP are universally accepted as important …

Connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) is a cysteine-rich protein the synthesis and secretion
of which are hypothesized to be selectively regulated by activins and other members of the …

Progestins, progesterone derivatives, are the most critical signaling steroid for initiating final
oocyte maturation (FOM) and ovulation, in order to advance fully-grown immature oocytes to …

Decidualization of endometrium, which is characterized by endometrial stromal cell (ESC)
decidualization, vascular reconstruction, immune cell recruitment, and plentiful molecule …

Contents Progesterone is critical for successful ovulation in the ovary and for the multi‐
faceted role of the oviduct in mammalian reproduction. Its effects are mediated by …

It is well established that the luteinizing hormone surge triggers ovulation, a dynamic
process leading to the release of the mature oocyte from the ovarian follicle. But how this …