The enzymatic protein PLCz: what is known, how does it work, and which are the prospective use? A mini review

Within the fertilization process, it is known that the link between sperm and oocyte generates a chain of chemical reactions leading to major changes in ovocitological morphology and physiology. The biological mechanism involves the opening of the Ca2+ channels, and the repeated oscillations of the ion concentration lead the macroscopic occurrence of numerous changes in the oocyte. The protein responsible for the begin of the chain of changes within the oocyte is the PLCz (1-phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate phosphodiesterase zeta-1). The major function of this protein will be reviewed and discussed in this manuscript.