The Post-Reproductive Ovary Shifts From A Reproductive To An Immune-Like Organ
For a long time, it was thought that once a female’s reproductive years were over, her ovaries became largely inactive. However, new research challenges this idea, revealing that these small, almond-shaped organs, responsible for producing eggs and hormones during reproductive life, undergo a significant transformation after they stop releasing eggs.
Using detailed analyses of ovarian tissue, scientists have discovered that the post-reproductive ovary shifts from its primary role in reproduction to one that is more akin to an immune organ. This change involves a noticeable increase in immune cells, such as T cells and macrophages, which are key players in the body’s defense system. These findings suggest that even after a female’s reproductive years, the ovaries continue to be dynamic, undergoing molecular changes and potentially becoming a source of molecules that promote inflammation throughout the body. This new understanding could have important implications for how we view female aging and the potential role of the ovaries in influencing overall health beyond their reproductive function.
Source: link to paper