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This perspective article argues that ovaries have been incorrectly understood as solely reproductive organs, when they actually function as systemic regulators of overall female physiology and health. The author proposes that ovarian aging should be recognized as a primary factor determining healthspan in women and should be central to the scientific study of aging (geroscience). The traditional narrow focus on reproduction has prevented proper understanding of how ovarian function affects broader health outcomes throughout a woman's life.
Why it matters
Reframing ovarian health as a whole-body health issue rather than purely reproductive could transform medical research priorities and clinical approaches to women's health across the lifespan. This perspective could lead to new interventions targeting ovarian aging to extend healthspan and prevent age-related diseases in women.
by Jennifer L. Garrison
Classifying ovaries solely as reproductive organs has obscured their role as systemic regulators of female physiology. This Perspective makes the case that ovarian aging is a primary determinant of healthspan and belongs at the center of geroscience.
Classifying ovaries solely as reproductive organs has obscured their role as systemic regulators of female physiology. This Perspective discusses that ovarian aging is a primary determinant of healthspan and belongs at the center of geroscience.
Source: Beyond reproduction: The ovary as a systemic regulator of female health and aging