Healthcare (Commonwealth Union) – A recent review conducted by researchers from Oxford Population Health and the University of Iceland, and published in Nature Aging, highlights the influence of DNA on reproductive health, fertility, and life expectancy.
The review, spearheaded by experts at the Leverhulme Centre for Demographic Science at the University of Oxford and the University of Iceland, delves into how genetic variations account for differences in reproductive health and lifespan.
Touted as the most extensive analysis of male and female genetic factors related to reproductive traits, the study sheds light on how DNA impacts key aspects like the age at which people have children, the timing of menopause, and the links between these factors and longevity.
The researchers utilized the GWAS Catalog, a comprehensive database of Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS), to analyze 159 genetic studies and identify 37 critical genes connected to reproductive traits. These traits include the age at first childbirth, menopause timing, and hormone levels such as follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and testosterone. The findings underscore the significant role genetics play in fertility and broader health outcomes.
One standout gene, FSHB (follicle-stimulating hormone subunit beta), was linked to 11 different reproductive outcomes. This gene regulates processes like the onset of menstruation and menopause, emphasizing its central role in reproductive health and aging. The review also uncovered links between these reproductive genes and rare genetic disorders, offering further insight into the genetic underpinnings of fertility and overall health.
Professor Melinda Mills, senior lead author and Director of the Leverhulme Centre for Demographic Science and the Demographic Science Unit at Oxford Population Health, indicated that with more individuals postponing parenthood to later stages of life, it is crucial to explore the genetic influences on reproductive health and the fertility window. Professor Mills further pointed out that their research combines findings on the genetics of reproduction, uncovering shared genetic traits and connections to broader health issues, such as body mass index (BMI), obesity, hormone-sensitive cancers, and even psychiatric and behavioral characteristics.
Dr. Stefanía Benónísdóttir, the first author of the study, as well as a Postdoctoral Researcher at the Leverhulme Centre for Demographic Science and the University of Iceland, stated that by integrating this body of research, they provide a more comprehensive understanding of the way genetics impact reproductive health. Dr. Benónísdóttir, further indicated that this knowledge is vital for improving healthcare, particularly in addressing infertility and the challenges of reproductive ageing.
The review examined the relationship between reproductive genes and longevity, highlighting that genes such as ESR1 (estrogen receptor 1) influence both reproductive traits and cancer risk. For instance, earlier onset of puberty or later menopause can elevate the likelihood of developing hormone-sensitive cancers like breast cancer, yet these same characteristics are associated with an extended lifespan. The FTO (fat mass and obesity associated) gene—previously linked to BMI, obesity, and type 2 diabetes—was also found to influence various reproductive traits. Understanding these genetic connections is increasingly important as more individuals choose to delay parenthood, further intertwining reproductive health with aging.
While much of the previous research has concentrated on female reproductive health, this study also explores the genetics of male fertility. Genes such as DNAH2 are identified as significant in regulating testosterone levels and sperm function, emphasizing their critical role in male reproductive health.
Co-author Vincent Straub, DPhil student at the Leverhulme Centre for Demographic Science and Oxford Population Health, says “Male reproductive health is critical to overall fertility but often under-researched. By exploring the genetics of male infertility, we can uncover new insights and potential treatments for those struggling with reproductive challenges.”
Researchers indicated that this extensive analysis provides vital information on how our genetic makeup influences reproductive health, fertility, and life span, laying the groundwork for more tailored healthcare strategies that may enhance results for individuals and their descendants over multiple generations.
