Regulatory role of microRNAs in ovarian function

Abstract

MicroRNAs have recently begun to be explored in ovarian cells, uncovering their influence on fundamental ovarian features like steroidogenesis, ovulation, and curpos luteum development and function. We provide a review of the current knowledge on microRNAs, specifically relating to human ovarian cell function and microRNAs' role in the ovarian physiologic process and ovulation dysfunction. Because of microRNAs' known stability in body fluids, we enlighten also their potential use in the clinical setting as novel biomarkers for ovarian function. Future research of the role of microRNAs in physiologic and dysfunctional ovulation may offer new diagnostic and treatment strategies for infertility and other ovarian disorders.

Keywords: PCOS; POF; corpus luteum; microRNA; ovulation; serum biomarkers.