Rapamycin may help reduce the age-related fertility decline

Researchers found that ribosome-related genes are more active in women's oocytes (egg cells) and cumulus cells (the surrounding support cells) as they age. This suggests a disturbed protein balance, which could be a factor in decreased fertility.

In laboratory tests, rapamycin, a universal medication already known in longevity research, was able to restore that balance by lowering these cells' overproduction of proteins.
Short-term rapamycin treatment decreased chromosome abnormalities in older egg cells, decreased harmful reactive oxygen species, and decreased signs of cellular aging in mice. This implies that it aids in delaying the ovaries' cellular aging.

Research was held in a small human clinical trial with approximately 100 women undergoing IVF, all without lowering the live birth outcomes.
The study also suggested that rapamycin-treated embryos might benefit from being transferred a little later in their development (days 5-6).

How It Works

As women age, their egg cells and support cells start to produce an excessive amount of ribosomal proteins. Their processes for breaking down damaged proteins become less efficient. Rapamycin aids in the restoration of balance by decreasing this overproduction and promoting greater protein recovery.

The researchers discovered that rapamycin seems to repair some of the age-related changes in chromatin (the structure of DNA + protein) and DNA methylation, which could increase the activity of genes linked to ribosomes.

Why This Matters

One of the first signs of aging in women can be a decline in fertility. Rapamycin is a promising candidate to solve this problem because it has been already extensively studied.

Women who want to postpone having children might have more options if rapamycin can safely maintain egg quality.

Also, this could open the way for "anti-aging" fertility treatments that improve the molecular health of eggs instead of preserving them.

What to Keep in Mind

The study remains in its early stages. The human study was relatively small, and the most effective rapamycin regimen (amount and duration) has yet to be determined.

Larger research studies will be required to verify safety, benefits, and determine any long-term risks. By figuring out when to begin, when to stop, and whether the timing of embryo transfer is important for rapamycin users, researchers are also hoping to improve the treatment.