Pharmacologic interventions targeting ovarian aging, cancer, and mitochondrial dysfunction: An updated evidence

Abstract

Ovarian aging is a major determinant of female reproductive longevity, characterized by declining oocyte quality and reduced ovarian reserve. With more women delaying childbearing, age-related infertility has become an urgent biomedical concern. Mitochondrial dysfunction plays a central role in this process, leading to oxidative damage and metabolic disturbances that impair oocyte competence. These alterations are linked to poorer outcomes in assisted reproductive technology (ART), particularly for women over 35, who face significantly reduced success rates. This review examines the key mechanisms of ovarian aging, including oxidative stress, DNA damage, telomere shortening, and mitochondrial dysfunction, all contributing to diminished oocyte quality and quantity. Special focus is given to sirtuins, especially SIRT1 and SIRT3, as critical regulators of redox balance in oocytes and granulosa cells. The review also addresses the impact of age-related changes on chromosomal cohesion and ovarian fibrosis. Importantly, mitochondrial insufficiency is increasingly recognized as a factor in broader age-related diseases, such as metabolic disorders and cancer, suggesting shared molecular pathways between reproductive aging and systemic health. Recent advances highlight the potential of targeted nutrient supplementation to modulate redox homeostasis, enhance sirtuin activity, and preserve mitochondrial function—strategies that may benefit both ovarian health and overall aging. This intersection of reproductive biology and mitochondrial medicine is driving interest in pharmacologic interventions to improve oocyte quality and mitigate age-related comorbidities.