Northwestern University study reveals new role for ovaries after menopause

Researchers at Northwestern University have discovered that ovaries may play a significant role in the female body decades after menopause. Previously, scientists believed the organs became largely redundant once estrogen production ceased.

By analyzing 5,812 protein groups from 28 ovaries of women aged 50 to 75, the study identified increased inflammation and tissue changes. These findings suggest the organs undergo a functional shift rather than simply becoming inactive. Associate Professor Francesca Duncan noted that the ovaries appear to lose their original identity to perform a different, yet still active, function that may influence how women age.