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Biomedicines
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Ovarian Physiology and Reproduction
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Ovarian Physiology and Reproduction

A special issue of Biomedicines (ISSN 2227-9059). This special issue belongs to the section "Molecular and Translational Medicine".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 30 November 2025 | Viewed by 7312

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Atefeh Najafi

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
Interests: infertility; fertility preservation; cryopreservation; apoptosis; oxidative stress and ART

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue delves into the intricate and dynamic processes that govern ovarian physiology and reproduction. It highlights the latest advancements in our understanding of the ovary’s essential role in female fertility and reproductive health. Featuring a diverse range of articles, this issue explores critical aspects such as hormonal regulation, folliculogenesis, oocyte maturation, and the broader implications of ovarian health.

The collection also addresses key factors influencing ovarian function, including health conditions, environmental and lifestyle factors, age-related changes, and genetic and epigenetic modifications influencing ovarian health and fertility outcomes. By focusing on these diverse factors, this Special Issue fosters a deeper comprehension of ovarian physiology and its relevance to women’s health.

These contributions advance scientific knowledge and pave the way for us to integrate insights from basic research into clinical applications and foster innovative therapeutic strategies to address female infertility and related disorders. Researchers and practitioners are invited to engage with the cutting-edge studies in this collection, which reflect the dynamic nature of ovarian research and its pivotal role in advancing women's reproductive health.

Join us in exploring this vital area of research as we continue to uncover new insights into ovarian function and work toward improving fertility outcomes for women worldwide.

Dr. Atefeh Najafi
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 100 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for announcement on this website.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Biomedicines is an international peer-reviewed open access monthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • ovarian physiology
  • female fertility
  • folliculogenesis
  • oocyte
  • hormonal regulation
  • endocrine disruptors
  • ovarian aging
  • genetic modifications
  • environmental factors and female fertility
  • female reproductive health and disorders

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Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

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13 pages, 1533 KB  
Article
Co-Expression of TWIK-Related Acid-Sensitive K+ Channel 1 (TASK-1/KCNK3) and Platelet-Derived Growth Factor Receptor Alpha (PDGFRα/Pdgfra) in Adult Mouse Ovary
by Byeonggyu Ahn, Eun-Jin Kim, Jin-Mok Kim, Sohi Kang, Sumi Hwang, Chang-Woon Kim, In Ae Cho, Jeong Kyu Shin, Eun-A Ko, Dong-Kun Lee and Dawon Kang
Biomedicines 2025, 13(8), 1941; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13081941 - 8 Aug 2025
Viewed by 548
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRα) is a receptor involved in cell growth and differentiation, with unclear roles in ovarian tissues and potential interactions with KCNK3 (potassium two-pore domain channel subfamily K member 3), a member of the two-pore domain K [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Platelet-derived growth factor receptor alpha (PDGFRα) is a receptor involved in cell growth and differentiation, with unclear roles in ovarian tissues and potential interactions with KCNK3 (potassium two-pore domain channel subfamily K member 3), a member of the two-pore domain K+ channel involved in cellular homeostasis. This study aims to map PDGFRα expression across mouse tissues and to explore its co-expression with KCNK3 in the ovary. Methods: We visualized PDGFRα expression using RNA-seq data from the genotype-tissue expression (GTEx) BodyMAP across 54 human tissues and Cap Analysis of Gene Expression (CAGE) data for various mouse tissues. In PDGFRαEGFP mice expressing EGFP in PDGFRα+ cells, histological and fluorescence imaging were used to assess ovarian expression. Immunohistochemistry determined the co-localization of PDGFRα and KCNK3, and qPCR quantified their mRNA levels in the ovary, oviduct, and uterus. Results: PDGFRα showed high expression in human and mouse female reproductive tissues, particularly the ovary. In the PDGFRαEGFP mouse model, PDGFRα was primarily found in the thecal layer and stromal cells, not in granulosa cells or oocytes. Immunohistochemistry indicated that 90.2 ± 8.7% of PDGFRα+ cells expressed KCNK3 in the ovarian stroma. qPCR revealed lower PDGFRα and KCNK3 expression in the ovary compared to the oviduct and uterus. Conclusions: This study shows that PDGFRα is predominantly expressed in ovarian stromal and theca cells and is highly co-localized with KCNK3, suggesting a potential role for PDGFRα+ cells in ionic regulation and their possible involvement in follicular development and ovarian physiology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ovarian Physiology and Reproduction)
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Review

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18 pages, 867 KB  
Review
Platelet-Rich Plasma in Reproductive Endocrinology: Mechanisms and Clinical Applications for Ovarian Reserve, PCOS, and Endometrial Receptivity
by Zaher Merhi, Catrina Wiltshire McLeod and Fawziyah Shamim
Biomedicines 2025, 13(10), 2488; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13102488 - 13 Oct 2025
Viewed by 271
Abstract
Infertility remains a major global health concern, with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR), premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and impaired endometrial receptivity representing key contributors to poor assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP), an autologous blood-derived concentrate enriched with [...] Read more.
Infertility remains a major global health concern, with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR), premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and impaired endometrial receptivity representing key contributors to poor assisted reproductive technology (ART) outcomes. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP), an autologous blood-derived concentrate enriched with growth factors and cytokines, has emerged as a promising regenerative therapy with angiogenic, anti-apoptotic, and proliferative properties. In reproductive medicine, intraovarian PRP has been evaluated for its potential to restore ovarian function in women with DOR and POI, improve oocyte competence and embryo euploidy, and promote ovulation in PCOS. Similarly, intrauterine PRP infusion or subendometrial zone injections has shown encouraging results in women with recurrent implantation failure and thin endometrium, enhancing endometrial thickness, receptivity, and implantation potential. Evidence from preclinical animal models and early clinical studies suggests multi-level mechanisms of action, including modulation of endocrine pathways, reduction in oxidative stress, activation of dormant follicles, and improvement of endometrial angiogenesis and receptivity. Despite these promising findings, results remain inconsistent due to heterogeneity in PRP preparation protocols, administration routes, timing, and study designs. Even though robust randomized controlled trials with standardized methodologies are needed to determine the efficacy and long-term reproductive outcomes of PRP in infertility treatment and anovulation in PCOS, PRP represents a novel and potentially transformative adjunct in reproductive endocrinology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ovarian Physiology and Reproduction)
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34 pages, 5074 KB  
Review
Natural Metabolites as Modulators of Sensing and Signaling Mechanisms: Unlocking Anti-Ovarian Cancer Potential
by Megha Verma, Prem Shankar Mishra, SK. Abdul Rahaman, Tanya Gupta, Abid Ali Sheikh, Ashok Kumar Sah, Velilyaeva Aliya Sabrievna, Karomatov Inomdzhon Dzhuraevich, Anass M. Abbas, Manar G. Shalabi, Muhayyoxon Khamdamova, Baymuradov Ravshan Radjabovich, Feruza Rakhmatbayevna Karimova, Ranjay Kumar Choudhary and Said Al Ghenaimi
Biomedicines 2025, 13(8), 1830; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13081830 - 26 Jul 2025
Viewed by 1388
Abstract
Cancer presents significant challenges owing to its complex molecular pathways and resistance to therapy. Natural metabolites have significant medicinal potential by regulating the sensing and signaling pathways associated with cancer development. Recognizing their interactions within the tumor microenvironment may unveil innovative techniques for [...] Read more.
Cancer presents significant challenges owing to its complex molecular pathways and resistance to therapy. Natural metabolites have significant medicinal potential by regulating the sensing and signaling pathways associated with cancer development. Recognizing their interactions within the tumor microenvironment may unveil innovative techniques for inhibiting malignant activities and improve therapy success. This article highlights studies regarding ovarian cancer metabolism, signaling mechanisms, and therapeutic natural substances. This study summarizes clinical and experimental results to emphasise the synergistic effects of alkaloids, flavonoids, and terpenoids in improving therapeutic effectiveness and alleviating drug resistance. Bioactive compounds are essential in regulating ovarian cancer metabolism and signaling pathways, affecting glycolysis, lipid metabolism, and the survival of tumor cells. This review examines metabolic programming and essential pathways, including glycolysis, TCA cycle, lipid metabolism, PI3K/AKT/mTOR, AMPK, and MAPK, emphasizing their therapeutic significance. The integration of metabolic treatments with medicines based on natural compounds has significant potential for enhancing treatment effectiveness and mitigating therapeutic resistance. Ovarian cancer needs an integrated strategy that includes metabolic reprogramming, signaling modulation, and drugs derived from natural products. Natural chemicals provide intriguing approaches to address chemotherapy resistance and improve treatment efficacy. Further research is required to enhance these methodologies and evaluate their practical applicability for improved patient outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ovarian Physiology and Reproduction)
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16 pages, 263 KB  
Review
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) in Reproductive Medicine: A Critical Review of PRP Therapy in Low-Reserve and Premature Ovarian Insufficiency
by Efthalia Moustakli, Anastasios Potiris, Athanasios Zikopoulos, Athanasios Zachariou, Spyridon Topis, Periklis Panagopoulos, Ekaterini Domali, Peter Drakakis and Sofoklis Stavros
Biomedicines 2025, 13(5), 1257; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13051257 - 21 May 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3729
Abstract
Background: Intraovarian platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has emerged as a novel intervention at the intersection of reproductive medicine and regenerative biology. As women with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR), poor response to stimulation, or premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) seek fertility solutions, PRP provides a scientifically [...] Read more.
Background: Intraovarian platelet-rich plasma (PRP) has emerged as a novel intervention at the intersection of reproductive medicine and regenerative biology. As women with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR), poor response to stimulation, or premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) seek fertility solutions, PRP provides a scientifically plausible—yet exploratory—strategy to restore or augment ovarian function. The proposed pathways include the stimulation of local stem cells, tissue remodeling, neoangiogenesis, and the potential reawakening of dormant follicles. Methods: This narrative review critically synthesizes the existing literature on intraovarian PRP therapy. It draws from published case series, pilot studies, and preclinical data to evaluate the biological rationale, clinical outcomes, and current limitations of PRP use in women with DOR and POI. Results: Early clinical findings, albeit limited to modest case series and pilot investigations, reveal promising outcomes such as improved ovarian reserve markers, menstrual restoration, and infrequent spontaneous pregnancies in women who had previously been unresponsive to treatment. However, the variability in preparation techniques, patient selection criteria, and outcome measures limits the generalizability of these results. Conclusions: While intraovarian PRP presents an exciting frontier in reproductive medicine, the absence of defined protocols, controlled trials, and long-term safety data underscores its experimental nature. Future research should focus on standardizing methodologies, conducting randomized controlled trials, and elucidating the molecular mechanisms underlying observed clinical effects to establish PRP’s role in managing poor ovarian response and POI. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ovarian Physiology and Reproduction)

Other

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11 pages, 773 KB  
Viewpoint
Melatonin in the Treatment of Female Infertility: Update on Biological and Clinical Findings
by Jan Tesarik and Raquel Mendoza Tesarik
Biomedicines 2025, 13(10), 2434; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13102434 - 6 Oct 2025
Viewed by 703
Abstract
Many experimental and clinical studies published so far demonstrate that melatonin—produced mainly by the pineal gland located deep in the middle of the brain, between the two cerebral hemispheres, and in smaller quantities in a number of other organs and cells of the [...] Read more.
Many experimental and clinical studies published so far demonstrate that melatonin—produced mainly by the pineal gland located deep in the middle of the brain, between the two cerebral hemispheres, and in smaller quantities in a number of other organs and cells of the body—can be successfully used to treat different types of human female infertility. To accomplish this, melatonin acts mainly on the ovary, the uterus, and the preimplantation embryo, through its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects, in addition to acting as a hormone and cytokine modulator. In particular, it increases oocyte developmental competence and uterine receptivity for the implanting embryo, improves placental health and function, prevents immune rejection of the implanting embryo and spontaneous pregnancy loss, and alleviates symptoms of endometriosis and adenomyosis. Yet, the use of melatonin in these contexts remains relatively limited, despite its convincing safety profile. This may be partly due to the fact that pertinent data concerning the use of melatonin in female infertility treatment are dispersed across various specialized scientific and medical journals, making it difficult for doctors and embryologists confronted with female infertility issues to access all of them. Therefore, this article was written to provide data that are easily understood. It draws from recent findings collected from different specialized journals focused on the molecular mechanisms of action, the clinical data, and the safety of this multifaceted biomolecule in the treatment of female infertility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ovarian Physiology and Reproduction)
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