The cellular mechanism of the whole-grain black rice diet delays ovarian aging. [Photo/news.hzau.edu.cn]

A research team led by Chen Zhenxia from the College of Life Science & Technology and the College of Biomedicine & Health at Huazhong Agricultural University has discovered a promising dietary strategy to address reproductive decline. Their findings, recently published in Science China Life Sciences, show that a whole-grain black rice diet (BRD) can significantly alter the transcriptomic landscape of aging ovaries.

As more individuals delay childbearing, declining ovarian function has become a major public health issue. Unlike invasive drug or hormone treatments, sustainable dietary methods offer high potential for clinical use. Using a long-term mouse model, the researchers compared a BRD (rich in anthocyanins and fiber) against a polished rice control diet. The results were notable: the black rice group exhibited markedly improved ovarian structures, increased follicle quantity and quality, and restored levels of key reproductive hormones.

In addition to physical improvements, single-cell RNA sequencing revealed that the diet systematically reshapes the ovary's cellular environment. Granulosa cells showed reduced DNA damage and oxidative stress, while stromal cells exhibited decreased fibrosis. Additionally, the diet enhanced immune homeostasis by improving macrophage function.

The study provides strong single-cell evidence connecting dietary patterns to reproductive longevity. By coordinating multicellular regulation, whole-grain black rice serves as a safe, natural food capable of maintaining ovarian health. This research lays a scientific groundwork for developing whole-grain-based strategies to delay reproductive aging and support healthy aging for women worldwide.