Genomics and Epigenomics of Reproductive Aging and Menopause: Translating Hormonal Transitions into Healthy Longevity

Female reproductive aging, particularly ovarian senescence and the menopause transition, represents a critical but understudied pacesetter of systemic aging. While the ovaries age decades ahead of other organ systems, the molecular mechanisms linking reproductive decline to accelerated cellular aging across the body remain poorly defined. This Research Topic aims to bridge this gap by gathering cutting-edge research focused on the genomic, transcriptomic, and epigenomic landscapes of ovarian aging, premature ovarian insufficiency, and the menopause transition. Our objective is to understand how these hormonal and cellular transitions can be decoded and manipulated to promote healthy longevity in women.Recent advances in high-throughput sequencing and multi-omics technologies have opened new avenues to explore the molecular underpinnings of reproductive aging. Epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation shifts, histone alterations, and non-coding RNA regulation, play a vital role in regulating the ovarian reserve and oocyte quality. Furthermore, the development of tissue-specific epigenetic clocks has highlighted a distinct divergence between reproductive age and chronological age. By investigating these mechanisms, we can identify key genetic variants and epigenetic signatures that predict the rate of reproductive decline and its subsequent impact on cardiovascular, metabolic, cognitive, and musculoskeletal health.We welcome studies exploring the interface of genetics, genomics, epigenomics, and reproductive longevity. Specific areas of interest include, but are not limited to:- Epigenetic remodeling, histone modifications, and chromatin accessibility in oocytes and surrounding ovarian niche cells during aging.- Development, refinement, and validation of reproductive-specific or ovarian-specific epigenetic clocks to monitor healthspan.- Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and transcriptomic profiling of natural menopause, early menopause, and premature ovarian insufficiency.- Multi-omics integration of the menopause transition to identify systemic biomarkers of post-menopausal accelerated aging.- Novel genetic, epigenetic, or therapeutic interventions aimed at preserving ovarian function, delaying reproductive senescence, and extending female healthspan.By characterizing the precise genomic and epigenomic alterations during reproductive transitions, this collection seeks to establish a foundation for translating basic scientific discoveries into clinical interventions. Ultimately, these insights will help mitigate the health risks associated with menopause and pave the way for precision medicine approaches to healthy longevity. Topic editors: Manuel Sánchez-Prieto, Yan Rong, Yu Liu Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/84043/genomics-and-epigenomics-of-reproductive-aging-and-menopause-translating-hormonal-transitions-into-healthy-longevity