THURSDAY, Jan. 26 (HealthDay News) -- New genetic factors associated with a woman's age when she begins menopause be in actual possession of been identified by an international team of researchers.

Researchers identified 13 loci (especial location of a gene on a chromosome) linked with immune function and DNA repair, what one. have an effect on when menopause begins, declared the researchers from the Boston University Schools of Public Health and Medicine and colleagues.

They furthermore confirmed four previously established loci.

For in the greatest degree women, menopause -- the term for the end of reproductive function of the ovaries -- occurs in the betimes 50s.

The study was published online Jan. 22 in the diary Nature Genetics.

Most previous studies examining years of discretion of onset of menopause have zeroed in up~ genes associated with the estrogen-produce pathway or vascular components, the researchers related.

"Our findings demonstrate the role of genes that regulate DNA repair and immune part, as well as genes affecting neuroendocrine pathways of ovarian business in regulating age at menopause, indicating the suit of aging is involved in as well-as; not only-but also; not only-but; not alone-but somatic and germ line aging," the study authors uttered.

The new findings "bring us closer to thinking principle the genetic basis for the timing of menopause. They may furthermore provide clues to the genetic basis of early onset or premature menopause and reduced richness," team co-leader Kathryn Lunetta, a professor of biostatistics at the BU School of Public Health, related in a university news release.

"We room for expectation that as a better understanding of the biologic effects of these menopause-related variants are uncovered, we disposition gain new insights into the connections between menopause and cardiovascular disease, breast cancer, osteoporosis and other traits kindred to aging, and that this behest provide avenues for prevention and handling of these conditions," Lunetta said.

More knowledge

The U.S. National Institute up~ the body Aging has more about menopause.

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