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Updated: May 29, 2026

Cell-Specific Paired Interrogation of the Mouse Ovarian Epigenome and Transcriptome
Published on: February 24, 2023
Multi-omics pleiotropic association analyses reveal functionally relevant genes and druggable pathways for ovarian
Xuan Lian1,2, Shuang Song3,4,5,6, Chen Lou2
1Reproductive Medicine Center, Zhongshan Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
Background:
Ovarian aging, marked by the gradual decline in both the number and quality of oocytes, significantly impacts women's reproductive lifespan and overall health. However, the biological mechanisms driving ovarian aging remain poorly understood and current treatment strategies are limited.
Results:
We perform an integrative analysis using multi-omics summary data and genome-wide association studies for ovarian aging to identify molecular traits linked to ovarian aging. By applying Mendelian randomization and cross-omics association approaches, we prioritize key proteins, gene expressions, splicing events, and metabolites. Our analysis identifies conservation of key genes across species and cell types, with the mismatch repair gene MSH6 (MutS Homolog 6) emerging as a consistently prioritized candidate. Experimental validation shows that targeting DNA repair through PD-L1 (Programmed Death-Ligand 1) blockade may offer a potential therapeutic strategy to delay ovarian aging.
Conclusions:
This study uncovers the multi-layered genetic and molecular architecture underlying ovarian aging. The identified molecular traits provide promising candidates for functional studies and suggest new avenues for developing therapies aimed at preserving ovarian function and preventing age-related decline.
Insights
Ovarian aging, a decline in egg quality and number, is poorly understood. Targeting DNA repair via PD-L1 blockade shows promise for delaying ovarian aging and preserving fertility.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Genetics
- Molecular biology
Background:
- Ovarian aging involves decreased oocyte quantity and quality, impacting female reproduction.
- The underlying biological mechanisms of ovarian aging are not well understood.
- Current therapeutic options for ovarian aging are limited.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify molecular traits associated with ovarian aging.
- To explore potential therapeutic targets for delaying ovarian aging.
Main Methods:
- Integrative analysis of multi-omics data and genome-wide association studies.
- Mendelian randomization and cross-omics association approaches.
- Experimental validation of identified targets.
Main Results:
- Prioritized key proteins, gene expressions, splicing events, and metabolites linked to ovarian aging.
- Identified conserved genes across species and cell types.
- Highlighted the mismatch repair gene MSH6 (MutS Homolog 6) as a key candidate.
- Experimental validation suggested targeting DNA repair through PD-L1 (Programmed Death-Ligand 1) blockade.
Conclusions:
- Uncovered the complex genetic and molecular basis of ovarian aging.
- Identified molecular traits offering potential for functional studies.
- Suggested novel therapeutic strategies for preserving ovarian function and mitigating age-related decline.
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