Research Discovers Gene Responsible for Release of Eggs

Researchers recently identified a gene that plays an important role in a woman’s monthly release of eggs for fertilization. The gene, called FoXo3a, is responsible for transforming one follicle in the ovary from a resting to an active stage, in which an egg matures and is released for fertilization.

The study found that in females who miss this gene, ovulation and egg depletion both occurred at a much earlier age. This early failure of follicular function is observed in about 1 percent of women who are diagnosed infertile. These findings are promising. Researchers will continue to investigate FoXo3a gene and possibly develop a contraceptive to prevent early activation and depletion of eggs.