The role of extracellular ATP in the male reproductive tract.

Wen Liang Zhou, Wu Lin Zuo, Yechun Ruan, Zhe Wang, Jian Yang DU, Yuan Xiong, Hsiao Chang Chan

Research output: Journal article publicationReview articleAcademic researchpeer-review

9 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

In addition to its well established role as a neurotransmitter, extracellular ATP has been considered as a paracrine/autocrine factor, either released from sperm or epithelial cells, in the male reproductive tract and shown to play a versatile role in modulating various reproductive functions. This review summarizes the signal pathways through which ATP induces anion secretion by the epithelia of the epididymis, as well as its epithelium-dependent modulation of smooth muscle contraction of the vas deferens. Finally, the overall role of ATP in coordinating various reproductive events in the male genital tract is discussed.
Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)487-494
Number of pages8
JournalSheng li xue bao : [Acta physiologica Sinica]
Volume59
Issue number4
Publication statusPublished - 25 Aug 2007

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General Medicine

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