Industrial endocrine disruptors and polycystic ovary syndrome

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex and enigmatic syndrome of unknown origin and etiology enclosing a broad spectrum of phenotypic manifestations. PCOS pathophysiology combines reproductive and metabolic abnormalities into a heterogeneous disorder that has pervasive and devastating health consequences. Inquiring the generative roots of the syndrome, it has become increasingly apparent the role of the environment as a determinant factor. Experimental exposure to industrial endocrine disruptors has been related with the impairment of normal reproductive function and metabolic regulation possibly favoring the development of or aggravating PCOS-resembling clinical disorders. Industrial chemicals may reflect the contributing role of an unfavorable environment to unveil PCOS characteristics in genetically predisposed individuals or further deteriorate the hormonal and fertility imbalances of PCOS-affected females.