Faster aging of the ovaries affects the entire body

Nina Ruge , biologist and TV expert, looks back on over 30 years of media experience. She is a bestselling author and podcaster in the field of cell biology of aging, and is committed to "Healthy Longevity." She is part of our EXPERTS Circle . The content represents her personal perspective based on her individual expertise.

The aging process of the ovaries differs from that of other tissues in the body. While aging is typically a steady process, the ovaries exhibit accelerated aging. This has far-reaching consequences, as the ovaries are not only responsible for fertility but also produce important hormones.

When hormone levels become unbalanced due to ovarian aging , the risk of heart disease, osteoporosis, Alzheimer's disease, and other age-related diseases increases. Ovarian function therefore significantly influences the aging process and the lifespan of women. Particularly affected by the aging process are the cells that form the follicle—the sac surrounding the egg cell, which is essential for fertility.

The good news: Researchers have identified proteins and genetic variants that could influence the aging process. One of these proteins is directly linked to the so-called mTOR signaling pathway, a well-known element in longevity research . The mTOR signaling pathway acts like a switch that determines whether cells grow or slow down their division and regenerate.

With age, mTOR becomes overactive, driving ovarian cells to consume their follicles more rapidly. This leads to ovarian dysfunction, faster depletion of egg reserves, and loss of hormonal function. Menopause occurs, and at the same time, important repair processes are blocked.

Previous studies have shown that mTOR can be inhibited – through drugs such as rapamycin, currently considered one of the most promising drugs in longevity research, or through targeted lifestyle interventions such as fasting . "Slowing down the aging of the ovaries and thus the entire female body" – an ingenious goal, yet one that is far from being achieved. But research is on the way there.

What role do diet, exercise, and hormones play in cell rejuvenation? Can a consistently "rejuvenating lifestyle" actually help us age more healthily? In their new book , " Rejuvenation is Possible: Scientifically Researched - What Really Helps, " Nina Ruge and Dr. Dominik Duscher explore this – scientifically proven – lifestyle.

This article is from the EXPERTS Circle – a network of select experts with in-depth knowledge and many years of experience. The content is based on individual assessments and is aligned with the current state of science and practice.