Chapter 9 - Stem cells and signaling pathways in human reproductive system

Abstract

Stem cells are undifferentiated cells, which have the ability to undergo self-renewal and also to differentiate into various cell types. The human reproductive system has some of the most actively proliferating and differentiating tissues, with stem cells being identified in the ovarian tissue, endometrial and myometrial tissue, and the testicular tissue in the form of spermatogonial stem cells. Cell proliferation requires effectual communication within cells and from the extracellular environment through signaling pathways. Appropriate cellular proliferation and normal intercellular and extracellular signaling pathways are essential for the normal development and functioning of any system in the human body. This chapter explains the role of these stem cells and the signaling pathways in the human reproductive system.