Pathogenic mechanisms and therapeutic potential of the microbiome in premature ovarian insufficiency

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Biology
• Microbiome Research
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Delayed childbearing and environmental factors increase premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) incidence.
• POI negatively affects reproductive function and increases risks for depression, cognitive decline, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular disease.
• Current research on female reproductive health rarely addresses the microbiome's role in POI.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose the 'Microbiota-Ovary Axis' as a regulatory framework for understanding microbiota's influence on ovarian function.
• To elucidate the mechanisms through which microbial signals impact ovarian health.
• To explore novel microbiota-targeted strategies for POI prevention and treatment.

Main Methods:

• Theoretical modeling of the 'Microbiota-Ovary Axis'.
• Identification of four key regulatory pathways: HPO axis, metabolism, immunoregulation, and oxidative stress.
• Review of existing animal model and preliminary clinical studies on interventions like dietary changes, probiotics, and microbiota transplantation.

Main Results:

• The 'Microbiota-Ovary Axis' model systematically explains microbial influence on ovarian function.
• Identified four critical pathways mediating the microbiota-ovary interaction.
• Preliminary evidence suggests potential efficacy of microbiota-targeted interventions.

Conclusions:

• The 'Microbiota-Ovary Axis' provides a novel framework for POI research.
• Microbiota-targeted interventions hold promise for preventing ovarian aging and treating POI.
• Further research is needed to validate these strategies for enhancing female reproductive health.