Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors and placental function in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the major endocrine disorders affecting women during their reproductive ages. Given its association with other pathologies, such as insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes and obesity, women with PCOS could present high-risk pregnancies, including a high abortion rate, implantation failure, an increased risk of gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, and intrauterine growth restriction. These adverse pregnancy outcomes are often attributed, at least in part, to defects in placental functions. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are important transcription factors that participate in various placental pathways, regulating the expression of genes involved in lipid and glucose metabolism and inflammation. Furthermore, PPARs have been shown to play a role in placental development and function. Taking together this evidence, the present review focuses on the role of PPARs in placental tissue and discusses their implications in the pregnancy outcomes commonly associated with the presence of PCOS. In addition, the main treatments frequently employed had been also discussed.