Grant: Canada Postdoctoral Research Award (CPRA) program

Aging of the female reproductive system occurs earlier than in any other organ system. Egg number and quality begin to decline in the mid-thirties, before reproductive function ends at menopause. Menopause usually occurs around age 51 in Canada, but in some cases, it happens earlier than expected. This not only shortens the reproductive years but also increases the risk of health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and dementia. One factor that may speed up reproductive aging is high insulin. Insulin is a metabolic hormone that regulates blood sugar levels. Elevated insulin is associated with obesity and type 2 diabetes, two conditions on the rise among younger Canadians. Insulin also plays a key role in female reproduction-high insulin levels are linked to earlier menopause and female reproductive dysfunction. To support healthy aging, it is critical to determine whether lowering insulin can preserve ovarian and uterine function. To address this, I will use a genetically engineered female mouse model with naturally reduced insulin levels. I will compare mice with normal or reduced insulin who receive either standard or high-fat, high-sugar diets. I will examine them at young, middle, and older reproductive ages. Using advanced methods to study genes, body functions, and how cells turn genes on and off, I will find out how insulin affects reproductive hormones, the health of the ovaries and uterus, and fertility. Because insulin works in similar ways in mice and humans, this research will provide new insight into how reproductive aging happens. The findings will inform strategies to prevent early menopause, preserve reproductive health, and improve long-term health for Canadian women.