Which enzyme is responsible for removing inhibitory phosphates from M-Cdk during oocyte maturation?

Cdc25 is the enzyme responsible for removing inhibitory phosphates from M-Cdk, a crucial step during oocyte maturation. In this process, M-Cdk (Mitosis Cyclin-dependent Kinase) is initially activated by binding to cyclin, but it is also negatively regulated by phosphorylation at specific sites, typically by the action of Wee1 kinase.

Cdc25 acts to counteract this negative regulation by dephosphorylating M-Cdk, effectively removing the inhibitory phosphates. This activation allows M-Cdk to promote the processes that are vital for entering and progressing through mitosis, such as chromosome condensation and nuclear envelope breakdown. During oocyte maturation, the activity of Cdc25 is particularly important as it helps to ensure that oocytes are properly prepared for subsequent fertilization and early development.