Metabolic pathways of oleic and palmitic acid are intensified in PCOS patients with normal androgen levels

Abstract

ContextThe aetiology and pathogenesis polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) remain uncertain and thus the relative studies are still crucial. ObjectiveOur aim was to analyse the fatty acids profiles of the main phospholipids species in serum from women with PCOS classified into phenotypes, and to diagnose women more susceptible to the occurrence of inflammatory state. DesignPCOS screening tests were performed in The Clinic of Gynecology and Urogynecology of Pomeranian Medical University in the 2014–2015 years. SettingThe study are designed for general community and a primary care or referral center. Patients39 patients with PCOS, diagnosed according to Rotterdam's criteria, and 14 healthy women, as a control group, participated in this study. Fatty acid profiles were investigated using gas chromatography. A total of 36 fatty acids and their derivatives were identified and quantified. Main outcome measureChanges in fatty acids profile in plasma from women with PCOS phenotypes are not identical. ResultsThe analyses showed lowered level of total SFA, increase in the concentration of caprylic acid and the activation of palmitic and oleic acids pathways. The level of nervonic acid was several times higher than in the control group, and the levels of behenic and tricosanoic acids were reduced. ConclusionsIn both phenotypes the alternative metabolic pathways of oleic acid were activated, but they were more pronounced in women with proper level of androgens. Gamma-linolenic acid (C18:3n6) can be a factor protecting hyperandrogenic women