Fibroblast growth factors in female reproductive disorders: A systematic review
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Abstract
Background: Fibroblast Growth Factors (FGFs) are a family of signaling proteins that play key roles in various biological processes, including cell proliferation, differentiation, and tissue repair. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the role of FGFs in reproductive biology, particularly in the context of female fertility and assisted reproductive technologies (ART).
Objective: This systematic review aimed to evaluate the role of Fibroblast Growth Factors (FGFs) in female reproductive disorders with a focus on repeated implantation failure (RIF), diminished ovarian reserve (DOR), polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and premature ovarian insufficiency (POI).
Materials and methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus databases for studies published between January 2014 and December 2024, yielding 8 eligible studies.
Results: The review found: reduced FGF-2 levels in PCOS patients’ serum and follicular fluid, contrasting with earlier research; lower serum FGF-1 levels and specific genetic variants in RIF patients; elevated FGF-13 levels associated with increased androgen levels and ovarian volume in PCOS; altered FGF-5 expression in DOR cases; and unexpectedly elevated FGF-2 levels in biochemical POI.
Conclusion: FGF isoforms may be a contributor to the pathophysiology of female reproductive disorders. However, these findings while important, the review identified important limitations including small sample sizes and the tendency to focus on individual FGF isoforms. For future studies, there’s a need for larger and more comprehensive studies examining the entire FGF family and their connections in reproductive dysfunction.
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Personal views expressed by the contributors in their articles are not necessarily those of the Journal of Associated Medical Sciences, Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University.
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