Research progress of stem cell factor in female reproductive development and related diseases

Stem cell factor (SCF), also called as mast cell growth factor or tyrosine kinase receptor (c-Kit) ligand, is an acidic glycoprotein epithelial growth factor in interleukin superfamily that can bind to c-Kit. It is mainly synthesized and secreted by granulosa cells in female ovaries. SCF plays important roles in the regulation of the proliferation and differentiation of granulosa cells, follicular membrane cells, stromal cells and endometrial epithelial cells as well as follicular recruitment, growth, development and maturation by binding to c-Kit. Meanwhile, it also participated in some certain diseases in female reproductive system. In this paper, it describes the role of SCF in female reproductive development and its relationship with related reproductive diseases in order to guide the clinical work better. Key words: Stem cell factor; Endometriosis; Polycystic ovary syndrome