PI3K/PTEN/AKT Signaling Pathways in Germ Cell Development and Their Involvement in Germ Cell Tumors and Ovarian Dysfunctions

Several studies indicate that the PI3K/PTEN/AKT signaling pathways are critical regulators of ovarian function including the formation of the germ cell precursors, termed primordial germ cells, and the follicular pool maintenance. This article reviews the current state of knowledge of the functional role of the PI3K/PTEN/AKT pathways during primordial germ cell development and the dynamics of the ovarian primordial follicle reserve and how dysregulation of these signaling pathways may contribute to the development of some types of germ cell tumors and ovarian dysfunctions.

Automated summary

Several studies have demonstrated that the PI3K/PTEN/AKT signaling pathways play critical roles in regulating ovarian function, including primordial germ cell development and maintenance of the ovarian primordial follicle reserve. Dysregulation of these pathways may contribute to the development of certain types of germ cell tumors and ovarian dysfunctions.