Role of AMP-Activated Protein Kinase (AMPK) in Female Reproduction: A Review

Abstract

The adenosine monophosphate (AMP)-activated protein kinase (AMPK) signalling pathway regulates cell metabolism, inflammation and the immune response. This signalling pathway is essential for maintaining reproductive homeostasis and influencing steroidogenesis, implantation, and embryonic development. The central sensor, AMPK, regulates cell function in response to metabolic stress. The dysregulation of AMPK signalling has been implicated in several female reproductive disorders, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, infertility, and reproductive ageing. This review provides an overview of the role of AMPK in reproductive function and disorders, as well as potential therapeutic targets to restore balance in this signalling pathway. It discusses AMPK signalling in folliculogenesis, oocyte maturation, pregnancy maintenance, pre-eclampsia (PE) pathogenesis, PCOS, preterm birth, endometriosis, dysmenorrhoea and other disorders related to female reproduction. A deeper understanding of AMPK signalling in these contexts could provide new insights for the development of therapeutic interventions for reproductive health.