Expression and function of G-protein-coupled receptorsin the male reproductive tract

Anais da Academia Brasileira de Ciências

Maria Christina W. Avellar¹  Maria Fatima M. Lázari¹  Catarina S. Porto¹ 

[1] ,Universidade Federal de São Paulo Escola Paulista de Medicina Departamento de FarmacologiaSão Paulo SP ,Brasil

关键词: muscarinic acetylcholine receptors;    α1-adrenoceptors;    relaxin receptors;    male reproductive tract;    receptores muscarínicos;    adrenoceptores α1;    receptores para relaxina;    sistema reprodutor masculino;   

DOI  :  10.1590/S0001-37652009000300002

来源: SciELO

【 摘 要 】

This review focuses on the expression and function of muscarinic acetylcholine receptors (mAChRs), α1-adrenoceptors and relaxin receptors in the male reproductive tract. The localization and differential expression of mAChR and α1-adrenoceptor subtypes in specific compartments of the efferent ductules, epididymis, vas deferens, seminal vesicle and prostate of various species indicate a role for these receptors in the modulation of luminal fluid composition and smooth muscle contraction, including effects on male fertility. Furthermore, the activation of mAChRs induces transactivation of the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and the Sertoli cell proliferation. The relaxin receptors are present in the testis, RXFP1 in elongated spermatids and Sertoli cells from rat, and RXFP2 in Leydig and germ cells from rat and human, suggesting a role for these receptors in the spermatogenic process. The localization of both receptors in the apical portion of epithelial cells and smooth muscle layers of the vas deferens suggests an involvement of these receptors in the contraction and regulation of secretion.

【 授权许可】

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