The physiological functions of cells in response to external stimuli depend on signal transduction. First and second messengers exert crucial roles in cell signaling. First messengers mainly refer to extracellular ligands or cytokines that activate receptors, such as hormones, neurotransmitters, cytokines, lymphokines, growth factors and chemical inducers. Subsequently, cells perform corresponding physiological functions directly or indirectly through second messengers. The second messenger, including IP3, cAMP, cGMP, diacylglycerol, zinc, reactive oxygen species and calcium, is produced after the stimulation of the cell by the first messenger, which mainly functions as a signal inside the cell. First and second messengers are also important for reproduction. Its dysfunction might lead to infertility. Hence, systematic and in-depth research is essential for human health.

This Research Topic aims to provide up-to-date findings and an understanding of the roles and mechanisms of first and second messengers in reproduction. In particular, studies and reports with substantial associations or evidence of infertility are very welcome.

We welcome submissions of Original Research, Reviews, and Case Reports on the following sub-topics, including but not limited to:

• Novel functions of first messengers, such as hormones, secreted proteins or peptides, cytokines, amino acids and their derivatives, fatty acid derivatives, steroid hormones, CO and NO, in male reproduction especially in spermatogenesis and sperm function regulation;
• The roles of the first messenger in female reproduction including oogenesis, fertilization, embryogenesis, etc.;
• New findings of second messengers (IP3, cAMP, cGMP, Diacylglycerol, Zinc, Reactive oxygen species and Calcium) in male and female reproduction;
• The roles of upstream and downstream regulatory molecules of first and second messengers in reproduction;
• Possible practices and applications of first and second messengers in reproduction;
• The studies of the receptors or targets of first and second messengers in reproduction.

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Frontiers in Endocrinology

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