Roles and Mechanisms of Lysophosphatidic Acid in Follicular Development

doi:10.12280/gjszjk.20260270

Abstract

Abstract:

Follicular development is an essential component of ovarian function, which is jointly regulated by the follicular fluid microenvironment, local cell-cell communication, and endocrine signals. Recent studies have shown that the level of lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) in follicular fluid, and the changes of related metabolic enzymes and receptors in the follicular microenvironment, are closely associated with follicular development. LPA mediates signaling pathways such as phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)/protein kinase B (Akt) and extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 (ERK1/2) through its receptors, regulating the proliferation, autophagy and apoptosis of granulosa cells, promoting cumulus expansion and oocyte maturation, and potentially participating in the production and regulation of ovarian steroid hormones. Current studies indicate that LPA exerts certain protective and promotive effects in assisted reproductive related processes including in vitro oocyte maturation, chemotherapy-induced ovarian damage, and ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation. However, its safety and clinical translational value remain to be further validated. Future research should further elucidate the roles and key mechanisms of LPA at the different stage of follicular development, thereby providing a basis for interventions in those diseases related to follicular development disorder.

Key words: Lysophospholipids, Ovarian follicle, Follicular fluid, Granulosa cell, Oocyte maturation, In vitro oocyte maturation techniques

HUANG Jun, MAO Fei, FENG Rui-zhi, QIAN Yun. Roles and Mechanisms of Lysophosphatidic Acid in Follicular Development[J]. Journal of International Reproductive Health/Family Planning, 2026, 45(4): 326-330.

References 36

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