The Correlation between Th17/Treg Ratio Imbalance and Ovarian Aging

doi:10.12280/gjszjk.20250477

Abstract

Abstract:

Ovarian aging is divided into the physiological and pathological categories, characterized by decreased ovarian reserve function, reduced follicle numbers, and hormonal imbalances. Ovarian aging is associated with the risk of various chronic diseases. Research has found that immune imbalance plays a central role in ovarian aging, particularly the dysregulation of the ratio between helper T cell 17 (Th17 cell) and regulatory T cell (Treg cell). The Th17/Treg balance is precisely regulated by inflammatory factors, nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) pathway, and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. Its imbalance exacerbates ovarian local inflammation and accelerates follicular depletion. Currently, intervention strategies targeting the Th17/Treg imbalance have made progress in the treatment of autoimmune diseases, providing new approaches for clinical intervention in ovarian aging. We review the critical role of Th17/Treg imbalance in ovarian aging, offering a theoretical basis for the formulation of immunotherapy strategies to postpone ovarian aging.

Key words: Th17 cells, T-lymphocytes, regulatory, Immunomodulation, Ovarian aging, Cellular imbalance

ZHANG Jun-rong, CHEN Qian-li, CHENG Xi, XU Yun-zhao. The Correlation between Th17/Treg Ratio Imbalance and Ovarian Aging[J]. Journal of International Reproductive Health/Family Planning, 2026, 45(1): 54-59.

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