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XIAP: a potential determinant of ovarian follicular fate

Hollian R Phillipps1, Peter R Hurst

  • 1Department of Anatomy, School of Medical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin 9016, New Zealand. hollian.phillipps@anatomy.otago.ac.nz

Reproduction (Cambridge, England)
|June 2, 2012
PubMed

Insights

X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP) is an anti-apoptotic factor in the ovary. This review explores XIAP

Area of Science:

  • Cellular biology
  • Apoptosis research
  • Reproductive biology

Background:

  • X-linked inhibitor of apoptosis protein (XIAP) is a key regulator of apoptosis.
  • XIAP functions as an endogenous caspase inhibitor.
  • XIAP is implicated as an anti-apoptotic factor in ovarian granulosa cells.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To summarize current knowledge on XIAP and its caspase interactions.
  • To explore XIAP's role in the mammalian ovary.
  • To compare XIAP functions in the ovary and mammary gland.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of in vitro and in vivo studies.
  • Analysis of signalling networks regulating XIAP.
  • Comparative functional analysis.

Main Results:

  • XIAP's interaction with caspases is well-characterized.
  • Studies reveal stimuli and signalling pathways for XIAP upregulation in granulosa cells.
  • XIAP's role in ovarian function is emerging.

Conclusions:

  • XIAP is a significant anti-apoptotic factor in the ovary.
  • XIAP may function as a molecular switch in granulosa cells.
  • XIAP's role in follicular atresia warrants further investigation.

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