A new experimental treatment reduced stiffness in the ovaries of older mice and rats, leading to higher conception rates and larger litters. Researchers say the approach could one day help women conceive later in life, though human trials are still needed.
Scientists at Huazhong University of Science and Technology tested an experimental drug that blocks the protein interleukin-11. Injections given twice a week for four weeks to 36-week-old mice made their ovaries 36 percent less stiff.
The treated mice doubled their conception rate from 25 percent to 50 percent and raised average litter size from three to five pups. Similar results appeared in rats, where conception rose from 20 percent to 50 percent and litters grew from one to five pups.
The team also created mice unable to respond to interleukin-11. These animals showed reduced ovarian stiffness and ovulated more than untreated controls as they aged. Experts note the drug must now be tested for safety and effectiveness in people before any clinical use.