Numerous stem cell populations and oocytes are affected by age, in part due to changes in their respective niches. For oocytes, located in the ovarian follicle, researchers have found that placing aged oocytes in a young follicular environment can lead to functional rejuvenation. By analyzing metrics like epigenetic profile and mitochondrial function, the researchers observed improvements. This study utilized hybrid ovarian follicles created through a 3D culturing platform, allowing for the transfer of oocytes between aged and young environments. The team discovered that aged granulosa cells can negatively impact the quality of a young oocyte, but this effect can be mitigated by placing the aged oocyte in a young follicular environment. The young granulosa cells in the new environment played a key role in restoring the aging oocyte’s quality by reshaping its metabolism and gene expression. This research highlights the importance of the follicular environment in preserving oocyte health and function.
Link: https://news.nus.edu.sg/novel-approach-to-rejuvenate-aged-egg-cells/
