Exploring potential pathways from oxidative stress to ovarian aging
Hiroshi Kobayashi1,2, Shogo Imanaka1,2
1Department of Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Ms.Clinic MayOne, Kashihara, Japan.
The Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research
|November 22, 2024
Summary
Ovarian aging, driven by oxidative stress damaging mitochondria, reduces egg quality and live birth rates in women over 40. Understanding this pathway can improve in vitro fertilization (IVF) success.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Cellular aging
- Mitochondrial function
Background:
- Delayed childbearing in developed nations increases demand for infertility treatments.
- In vitro fertilization (IVF) live birth rates for women over 40 remain suboptimal.
- Mitochondrial dysfunction is a key factor in age-related decline of oocyte quantity and quality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize current understanding of ovarian aging.
- To focus on pathways impairing mitochondrial function.
- To explore future research directions in ovarian aging and mitochondrial health.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature search of electronic databases.
- Articles published up to June 30, 2024, were included.
Main Results:
- Ovulation, luteolysis, and menstruation cause oxidative stress, damaging mitochondrial DNA.
- Reduced mitochondrial function impairs adenosine 5' triphosphate production and nuclear gene expression.
- Endogenous reactive oxygen species (ROS) exacerbate mitochondrial DNA damage, leading to aneuploidy and oocyte aging.
Conclusions:
- A clear pathway exists from oxidative stress to ovarian aging.
- Early detection and management of ovarian aging are crucial.
- Addressing ovarian aging can enhance in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment strategies.
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