Basic Leucine Zipper Transcription Factors as Important Regulators of Leydig Cells' Functions

Transcription factors members of the basic leucine zipper (bZIP) class play important roles in the regulation of genes and functions in testicular Leydig cells. Many of these factors, such as cAMP responsive element binding protein 1 (CREB1) and CCAAT enhancer binding protein beta (CEBPB), are regulated by the cAMP/protein kinase A (PKA) pathway, the main signaling pathway activated following the activation of the luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin membrane receptor LHCGR by the - hormone LH. Others, such as X-box binding protein 1 (XBP1) and members of the cAMP responsive element binding protein 3 (CREB3)-like superfamily, are implicated in the endoplasmic reticulum stress by regulating the unfolded protein response. In this review, the influences of bZIP transcription factors, including CREB1, CEBPB and activator protein 1 (AP-1) family members, on the regulation of genes important for cell proliferation, steroidogenesis and Leydig cell communication will be covered. In addition, unresolved questions regarding the mechanisms of actions of bZIP members in gene regulation will be identified.