The depletion of the oocyte stock is an inevitable process during a woman's lifetime. Reproductive aging begins in a woman's mid-30s, while menopause usually occurs between the ages of 48 and 50. Female fertility declines and birth defects increase that occur with aging are primarily attributed to ovarian aging, including decreased follicle count and oocyte quality. Therefore, exploring the mechanisms underlying ovarian aging is of great importance for prolonging female fertility and improving population quality.
Although the human lifespan has been extended significantly since World War II, menopause age has remained largely unchanged, suggesting the rate of ovarian aging is more dependent on the genetic characteristics. Recent studies have identified genetic polymorphisms as a major contributor to the heterogeneity in natural menopause age, especially for the genes involved in DNA repair pathway. Pathological ovarian aging, such as premature ovarian insufficiency and early menopause, also demonstrate similar genetic susceptibility. In addition, research on epigenetics in follicular development and ovarian function maintenance offers possibilities for revealing the influence of interaction between genetics and the environment on ovarian aging.
This Research Topic aims to further expand the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms of physiological and pathological ovarian aging, providing insight into potential treatment to extend female reproductive lifespan.
We call for submissions of Reviews, Original Research, and Systematic Reviews, including but not limited to the following:
• Genetic and epigenetic factors related to natural menopause age;
• Genetic and epigenetic changes responsible for premature ovarian insufficiency;
• Genetic and epigenetic changes responsible for early menopause;
• New methods to prevent ovarian aging or extend female reproductive lifespan.
Special Note for authors:We strongly recommend authors to have a look at several papers within a closed Research Topic addressing ovarian aging “
Aging and the Oocyte”.
Please make sure your submission with a focus on Genetics or Epigenetics and Treatment for ovarian aging, otherwise submit to the following open topics:
• Cardiovascular diseases related:
Cardiometabolic diseases in postmenopausal women• Pathophysiology related:
Ovarian Aging: Pathophysiology and Recent Development of Maintaining Ovarian Reserve: Volume III (closed for submissions)
