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Updated: Feb 14, 2026
Identification of Fatty Acids in Bacillus cereus
Published on: December 5, 2016
Fatty Acid Amide Hydrolase Signaling and Ovarian Disorders: From Molecular Mechanism to Clinical Significance
Qinghe Lin1, Zhenghong Zhang1,2, Defan Wang3
1Provincial Key Laboratory for Developmental Biology and Neurosciences, College of Life Sciences, Fujian Normal University, Fuzhou 350007, China.
Abstract:
Fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) is a central component of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), where it primarily regulates intracellular levels of anandamide (AEA) through enzymatic hydrolysis. Although FAAH has been extensively studied in neural and immune contexts, its involvement in female reproductive physiology is receiving increasing attention. Accumulating evidence indicates that FAAH participates in several important ovarian processes, including follicular development, steroid hormone synthesis, ovulation, and luteal function. In this review, we outline the biochemical properties of FAAH and its spatial distribution in ovarian tissues, with a particular focus on how FAAH-mediated AEA metabolism contributes to intraovarian signaling. Furthermore, we highlight the potential implications of altered FAAH activity in ovarian disorders such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), and infertility. By integrating molecular observations with clinical findings, this work provides updated perspectives on FAAH as both a physiological regulator and a potential therapeutic target in reproductive medicine.
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