single cell RNA sequencing of human ovaries of different age

The aging-related cellular and molecular changes in human ovaries have not been elucidated. Here, we performed single-cell RNA sequencing of human ovaries of different ages to delineate ovarian microenvironment in women of reproductive age. We successfully dissected the immune cell population heterogeneity, especially macrophage, and further recognized its central role in ovarian aging. Through the in-depth analysis of the altered landscape of intercellular communication in young and aged human ovaries, we revealed that the ovarian immuno-microenvironment was remodeled by pyroptotic macrophages in middle-aged females, which led to the accelerated reproductive decline. Thus, our study is the first to elaborate on the immune mechanisms of human ovarian aging in detail, which has important implications in developing novel strategies to delay senescence and promote reproductive health.