Intraperitoneal ZP123 improves aged oocyte quality by restoring granulosa cell gap junctions and improving mitochondrial function.

Hui Teng, Qijun Xie, Cheng Zhou, Rujun Ma, Xie Ge, Jun Jing, Zhichuan Zou, Yuming Feng, Li Chen, Bing Yao

Department of Reproductive Medicine, Jinling Clinical Medical College, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, Jiangsu, 210002, China. · pubmed

Paper

Abstract

Female reproductive aging is the most critical determinant of decreased fertility because the quality of oocytes gradually deteriorates with age, leading to poor embryo development, increased miscarriage rates, and reduced live births. Oocyte growth and maturation depend on bidirectional communication with surrounding granulosa cells through gap junctions, which are composed mainly of connexin 43 (CX43). Although intercellular communication mediated by CX43 is essential for folliculogenesis, how it becomes altered in the context of ovarian aging and drives oocyte deterioration remains largely unclear. This study aimed to clarify age-related alterations in gap junction communication and investigate whether augmenting CX43-mediated coupling via the peptide ZP123 might restore oocyte competence and enhance fertility outcomes in older females.

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Research summary

The paper claims that intraperitoneal ZP123 can restore granulosa cell gap junctions and improve mitochondrial function in aged oocytes. This research is relevant as it addresses the mechanisms of reproductive aging and seeks to enhance oocyte quality, which is a fundamental aspect of fertility and longevity in females.

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