A collaborative team of Japanese scientists has identified a specific protein that plays a vital role in maintaining chromosome stability in egg cells. The discovery, published Thursday in the journal Nature Aging, offers a potential breakthrough in understanding the biological mechanisms behind age-related fertility decline.
The Role of OMC1
Researchers from Chiba University, Kumamoto University, and the Riken research institute identified the protein, named OMC1, as a key factor in preserving the integrity of egg cells. In the human body, egg cells begin the division process of meiosis during the fetal stage and remain dormant for decades. During this time, a protein complex known as REC8 cohesin acts as "molecular glue" to hold chromosomes together.
The study found that OMC1 prevents the degradation of this cohesin complex. In experiments involving mice, the removal of OMC1 led to chromosome abnormalities typically associated with aging, while reintroducing the protein helped suppress premature chromosome separation. The team also noted that embryos derived from eggs lacking OMC1 showed lower rates of normal development.
Implications for Fertility
The findings may help explain why individuals who ovulate face increased risks of infertility, miscarriage, and chromosomal disorders in offspring as they age. The research also touched upon the human gene CCDC201, which has been previously linked to premature menopause.
While the discovery provides a promising foundation for future fertility treatments, lead researcher Keiichiro Ishiguro of Chiba University emphasized that the results are currently based on mouse models. Further investigation is required to confirm if the protein functions identically in humans and to determine the feasibility of clinical applications for preventing age-related egg quality deterioration.
