Senescence-Linked Fibrosis In The Aging Human Ovary Revealed By P16-Based Histological Profiling And Spatial Transcriptomics
As women age, their ovaries undergo changes that contribute to the overall aging process and can impact health. A recent study sheds light on a key player in this process: cellular senescence. This is a state where cells stop dividing but remain metabolically active, often releasing substances that can harm surrounding tissues and contribute to aging.
Researchers utilized advanced techniques, including detailed mapping of specific protein markers and “spatial transcriptomics” – a method that allows scientists to see which genes are active in different locations within a tissue – to precisely locate and characterize these senescent cells in postmenopausal human ovaries. They discovered that these cells don’t just appear randomly; instead, they form distinct clusters within the ovarian tissue. These clusters are not only rich in senescent cells but also show signs of inflammation and fibrosis, which is the thickening and scarring of tissue.
Furthermore, the study identified a unique set of genes that are active in these senescent regions, indicating changes in how cells regulate their growth and how the surrounding tissue is remodeled. The presence of these “fibro-inflammatory” (meaning both fibrotic and inflammatory) senescent areas strongly suggests they are significant contributors to ovarian aging. Understanding these specific senescent microenvironments opens up exciting possibilities for developing new treatments aimed at targeting these cells to potentially maintain or even restore ovarian function, ultimately improving women’s health as they age.
Source: link to paper