It is well known that female reproduction ability decreases around the ages of 40 due to age-related change; however, in recent years, the number of women who are over the age of 40 and trying to conceive has increased remarkably.

Cryopreservation of oocytes and ovarian tissue was considered a secure tool in human fertility preservation, however, these methods are invasive, involve surgical procedures with concomitant risks and can be costly. Some studies are focusing on identifying factors in the ovary that are differentially regulated between young and advanced-age women. In addition, altered gut microbiota, removal of senescent cells, blood factors obtained from young individuals and drugs can also improve animal late-life health. Biological studies to maintain the quality of follicles in ovary through manipulating pathways involved in aging can potentially prolong female reproductive lifespan.

Follicular development is a highly complex process regulated by multiple factors in gonadotropin-independent and dependent phases. The growth and maturation of the ovarian follicle requires the coordinate function of somatic cells and the oocyte. Crosstalk between the oocyte and the microenvironment is mediated by direct contact with surrounding cells, the extracellular matrix, and signaling molecules, including hormones, growth factors, and metabolic products For example, FSHR expression in granulosa cells initiates follicle growth, while the inhibition of FSHR signal keeps follicles intact.

The heterogeneous expression of PD-L1 plays an important role in the accumulation of senescent cells and inflammation associated with ageing, and the elimination of PD-L1+ senescent cells by immune checkpoint blockade may be a promising strategy for anti-ageing therapy. It has been reported that certain factors in the ovary are differentially regulated between young and advanced age women. Geroprotectors slow down aging and promote healthy longevity in model animals. Thus, there may be a way to improve fertility in aging women by focusing on local follicle and/or by systematic adjustments of whole body.

A better understanding of the molecular basis of ovarian aging will lead to therapeutic advancements that would provide women with information to make life decision.

We call for submissions of Reviews, Original Research, and Systematic Reviews, including but not limited to the following:

• The molecular basis of ovarian aging;
• Geroprotectors slowing down ovarian aging;
• The elimination senescent cells by immune checkpoint blockade;
• Growth factors stimulating follicle growth;
• Factors preventing follicle growth;
• Regulation of FSH receptor expression;
• Regulation of LH receptor expression;
• Signaling molecules of gonadotropins.

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Frontiers in Endocrinology

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