The hallmark of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokine ratios in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

Abstract

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous endocrinopathy considered to be the most common metabolic disorder in women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS present with an increased risk of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs), especially low-grade chronic inflammation mediated by proinflammatory cytokines, and insulin resistance. This study aimed to investigate cytokine levels and their ratios in PCOS women compared to a healthy control group. This study evaluated 97 women with PCOS and 99 healthy women as controls. The PCOS diagnosis was performed according to ESHRE/ASRM. Plasma cytokines were evaluated by flow cytometry. We observed lower TNF levels, and decreased TNF/IL-6, TNF/IL-2, and TNF/IL-4 ratios in PCOS patients compared to the control group (p < 0.05). These results indicate an imbalance between pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines, with prominent counter-regulatory cytokine production. These changes may be important in explaining the phenotypes present in PCOS and to direct better interventions for patients with this syndrome.