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Updated: Jun 20, 2026
09:09
Gene Expression Analyses in Human Follicles
Published on: February 17, 2023
Is antral follicle count a genetic trait?
Mitchell P Rosen1, Erica B Johnstone, Sara J Gillham
1Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA.
Menopause (New York, N.Y.)
|September 16, 2009
Summary
Maternal menopause age predicts a woman's ovarian reserve, influencing antral follicle count. This suggests a genetic link to reproductive aging and fertility.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Genetics
- Women's Health
Background:
- Antral follicle count (AFC) is a key indicator of ovarian reserve.
- Ovarian aging is influenced by genetic and environmental factors.
- Maternal factors may play a role in a woman's reproductive timeline.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between a mother's age at menopause and her daughter's antral follicle count.
- To determine if maternal menopause age can predict the rate of decline in ovarian reserve.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study of 124 women (aged 25-48) presenting with infertility.
- Collected data on maternal age of menopause and performed transvaginal ultrasound for AFC assessment.
- Utilized multiple linear regression to analyze relationships between participant age, maternal menopause age, and AFC.
Main Results:
- Lower maternal menopause age was associated with lower AFC in daughters.
- Women with earlier maternal menopause experienced a slower decline in AFC until age 37.
- Maternal menopause age was a significant predictor of AFC and its decline.
Conclusions:
- Maternal age of menopause is a significant predictor of a woman's antral follicle count.
- The findings suggest a potential genetic component influencing ovarian reserve and reproductive aging.
- This highlights the role of maternal lineage in predicting fertility potential.
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