Prostaglandins and their receptors: implications for ovarian physiology

The ovarian response to the stimulatory actions of pituitary gonadotropins is modulated by the local production and action of local factors. Current advances in biochemical and molecular research techniques have facilitated the progress in our understanding of how prostaglandins (PGs) are inherently involved in the physiological events influencing ovarian cellular function in all mammalian species, particularly during ovulation and luteolysis. The purpose of this review is to incorporate recent findings with previous data, highlighting the novel characterization of the PG F2 alpha receptor and other PG receptors, and their intracellular signaling mechanisms in relation to ovarian function.