Polycystic Ovary Research Articles

Renometabolic disorder in experimental rat model of polycystic ovarian syndrome is reversed by acetate-mediated inhibition of pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4

BackgroundChronic Kidney disorders is a global public health problem, including in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and is characterized by renal fibrosis, nephrotoxicity and glomerulonephritis, which increases the possibility of renal failure and organ transplant. Pyruvate dehydrogenase kinase 4 (PDK4) has been implicated in mitochondria dysfunction, contributing to metabolic dysregulation in different organs, including kidney. Studies have shown that short chain fatty acids, particularly acetate, alleviates metabolic alterations in experimental models. Hence, the present study investigated the therapeutic potential of acetate on renometabolic disorders associated with experimental PCOS model. The study in addition elucidates the probable involvement of PDK4 in PCOS-associated renometabolic disorders.MethodsEight-week-old nulliparous female Wistar rats were randomly allotted into four groups (n = 5). Letrozole (1 mg/kg bw) was used to induce PCOS for 3 weeks. Thereafter, acetate (200 mg/kg bw) was administered for 6 weeks, uninterruptedly. Biochemical parameters from the plasma and renal tissue, as well as histology of ovaries were performed with appropriate methods.ResultsExperimental PCOS rats were characterized with elevated circulating testosterone and the presence of multiple ovarian cysts. In addition, rat with PCOS also manifested insulin resistance, increased plasma urea and creatinine levels, increased renal Gamma glutamyl transferase (GGT), malondialdehyde (MDA), Nuclear factor -kappa B (NF-kB), Tumor necrosis factor -alpha (TNF-a), Transforming growth factor -beta 1 (TGF-B1), caspase-6, Histone deacetylase 2 (HDAC2), while a decrease in glucose-6 phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), reduced glutathione (GSH), renal nitric oxide (NO) and endothelial nitric oxide synthesis (eNOS), when compared with animals in the control group. These were associated with elevated level of PDK4 in the renal tissue. However, administration of acetate ameliorates these renal/metabolic abnormalities.ConclusionAltogether, the results from the present study suggests that acetate ameliorates renal dysfunction in PCOS via downregulation of PDK4.

Distribution of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) phenotypes in Iranian women: a cross-sectional study

ObjectivePolycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous disorder characterized by diverse clinical and metabolic manifestations. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of PCOS phenotypes and their association with hematological, biochemical, and hormonal parameters in PCOS, with a particular focus on infertile women and those with recurrent pregnancy loss (RPL).ResultsPhenotype A was the most prevalent phenotype overall and within both infertile and RPL subgroups. However, no significant differences in hematological, biochemical, or hormonal parameters were observed among the PCOS phenotypes, except for lower RBC and hematocrit levels in phenotype F. PCOS women with RPL demonstrate significantly lower levels of RBC, hemoglobin, and hematocrit in phenotype F.

Sleep disorders and psychological comorbidities in women with polycystic ovary syndrome - a cross-sectional study.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a metabolic and hormonal disorder that affects physical and emotional well-being. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to assess associated factors like sleep disturbance, obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), anxiety and depression in a German-speaking population with PCOS. We designed an anonymous online survey with items from validated questionnaires, including the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD-7), the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and the STOP-Bang questionnaire to screen for OSA. The survey was mainly distributed via social media in Austria, Germany and Switzerland. Data from 587 questionnaires were analyzed. Based on the STOP Bang questionnaire, 19.5% of women had a high probability for OSA. BMI and insulin resistance were identified as independent associated factors with OSA (both p < 0.001). Overall, the median anxiety score (GAD-7) was in the moderate range (Median 10.0, Interquartile range (IQR) 8.0). According to the HADS, association with moderate to severe anxiety (HADS-A) was 52.0% and with moderate to severe depression (HADS-D) 27.8%. There was a significant positive correlation between HADS-A/ HADS-D and BMI (r = 0.122, (HADS-A)/ r = 0.223 (HADS-D), both p < 0.01). According to the PSQI, 60.5% had mild sleep disturbance and 29.7% had chronic sleep disturbance. Chronic sleep disturbance was associated with anxiety disorders and depression, as well as a high probability of OSA (p < 0.001) after adjustment for age. Our study highlights the probability of depression, anxiety and sleep disorders, including OSA, in women with PCOS and their association with BMI and insulin resistance.

Exploring the role of Myo-inositol in alleviating insulin resistance in polycystic ovary syndrome through the AMPK/GLUT4 pathway.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a multifactorial disorder associated with insulin resistance, hyperandrogenism, and metabolic dysfunction. Myo-inositol, a promising therapeutic alternative, may improve glucose and lipid metabolism through the 5'-adenosine monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK)-glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) pathway. This study aimed to investigate the molecular and metabolic effects of Myo-inositol in a letrozole-induced rat model of PCOS. We divided rats into six groups: controls, PCOS, and different doses of Myo-inositol- or metformin-treated groups. We examined the rat blood glucose, insulin, lipid profiles, and hormone levels alongside ovarian histology and AMPK/GLUT4 expression via polymerase chain reaction and western blotting assays. Myo-inositol treatment demonstrated dose-dependent improvements in glucose homeostasis, lipid profiles, and GLUT4 expression, with high-dose treatment reducing glucose by 0.85-fold and improving lipid metabolism compared to metformin treatment. Ovarian histology revealed partial restoration of follicular development, and AMPK activation supported enhanced glucose uptake. Myo-inositol effectively alleviated insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction, offering a promising alternative to conventional PCOS treatments.

Efficacy and safety of GLP-1 receptor agonists on weight management and metabolic parameters in PCOS women: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

This meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) when compared to metformin and placebo in the management of body weight, glucose homeostasis and hormone levels in women polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). A systematic search of “PubMed”, “EMBASE”, “Cochrane Library”, “Web of Science” and “Google Scholar” was conducted up to October 2024 for randomized controlled trials involving adult women with PCOS treated with GLP-1RAs compared to metformin or placebo. The primary outcomes were changes in body mass index (BMI), body weight, waist circumference (WC), waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and abdominal girth (AG). Secondary outcomes included glucose homeostasis (fasting glucose, fasting insulin, OGTT results and HOMA-IR), hormone levels (DHEAS, SHBG, total and free testosterone and FAI), lipid profiles (total cholesterol, HDL, LDL and triglycerides) and safety. GLP-1RAs significantly reduced BMI, body weight, WC, WHR and AG (P < 0.0001 in all cases). For glucose homeostasis, GLP-1RAs significantly reduced fasting insulin, glucose level at 2 h after OGTT, and HOMA-IR. There was also a reduction in HDL. All the other parameters measured were unchanged. In addition, GLP-1RAs increased nausea (P = 0.02), vomiting (0.04) and dizziness (0.03). GLP-1RAs effectively reduced body weight, BMI and insulin resistance in patients with PCOS, although they were accompanied by nausea, vomiting and dizziness. Further studies are needed to explore their long-term effects on glucose homeostasis and lipid profiles.

Society for Endocrinology Clinical Practice Guideline for the Evaluation of Androgen Excess in Women.

Androgen excess is common in women and refers to clinical or biochemical evidence of elevated androgenic steroids such as testosterone. It is associated with underlying polycystic ovary syndrome in the majority of cases. However severe androgen excess is less common and may indicate the presence of underlying adrenal or ovarian neoplasms, genetic disorders or severe insulin resistance syndromes. Currently there are few consensus guidelines to assist clinicians with a standardised management approach to the patient with severe androgen excess. Clinical practice guideline. This guideline has been developed with expertise from colleagues in endocrinology, gynaecology, clinical biochemistry and nursing, and furthermore provides a unique patient perspective to guide clinicians. The Society for Endocrinology commissioned this new guideline to collate multi-disciplinary guidance for clinical practitioners in the investigation of severe androgen excess. Recommendations have been made in the areas of clinical assessment, biochemical work up, dynamic testing and imaging, informed where possible by the best available evidence. This guideline will provide guidance for clinicians in their approach to patients with severe androgen excess.

Pancreatic body and hepatic fat content predict impaired glucose regulation in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are more prone to glucose metabolism abnormalities, likely due to increased visceral adiposity. This study aimed to investigate the association of pancreatic and hepatic fat content with glucose metabolism in PCOS. This study included 160 women with PCOS. All participants underwent an oral glucose tolerance test. Magnetic resonance imaging - derived proton density fat fraction was used to measure fat content in different visceral organs. Pancreatic interlobular fat volume, pancreatic body fat and hepatic fat were significantly higher in PCOS with diabetes than in those with normal glucose tolerance (P < 0.05). Elevated pancreatic body fat [OR 2.21 (95% CI 1.01 - 4.85), P = 0.047] and hepatic average fat [OR 2.92 (95% CI 1.13 - 7.51), P = 0.026] were independently associated with higher impaired glucose regulation (IGR) risks. Only patients with elevated levels of both pancreatic body fat and hepatic average fat exhibited increased risk of IGR after multiple confounding adjustments [OR 5.49 (95% CI 1.63 - 18.47), P = 0.006]. The hepatic average fat to pancreatic body fat ratio lost its significant association with IGR risk after multivariable adjustment (P = 0.705). The combination of pancreatic body fat and hepatic average fat with traditional risk factors (age, BMI, WHR, TG and FAI) demonstrated a trend toward improved predictive performance for IGR, with the highest AUC (0.789) observed. Pancreatic body and hepatic fat content predict IGR and synergistically regulate glucose metabolism in PCOS.

Next-generation Approaches in Targeting Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: Innovative Strategies.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disorder that affects millions of women worldwide and is characterized by ovarian dysfunction, hyperandrogenism, and metabolic abnormalities. The traditional diagnostic and therapeutic approaches often fail to address the multifaceted nature of PCOS. Recent advancements in next-generation sequencing (NGS), bioinformatics, and precision medicine have paved the way for innovative research and therapeutic strategies that promise to revolutionize PCOS management. This review focuses on exploring the genetic and molecular mechanisms of PCOS using innovative methodologies, such as genome-wide association studies (GWAS), transcriptomics, and computational approaches. The integration of big data analytics and machine learning algorithms enhances the predictive accuracy of PCOS diagnoses and treatment outcomes. In addition, the emergence of personalized medicine has enabled tailored therapeutic interventions based on individual genetic profiles and phenotypic expression. Furthermore, we explored the development of novel pharmacological agents and combinational therapies to enhance the understanding of PCOS pathophysiology. These approaches also focus on reducing inflammation, improving insulin sensitivity, and optimizing hormonal balance to achieve optimal health outcomes. The potential of digital health tools, including mobile applications and wearable technologies, to support self-monitoring and patient engagement in PCOS management is also highlighted. In conclusion, the integration of next-generation technologies and innovative research is necessary to transform the field of PCOS diagnosis and treatment, offering hope for more effective and individualized care. These underscore the importance of continued investment in advanced research methodologies and adoption of personalized therapeutic strategies to address the complexities of PCOS.

The Role of Gene Alterations in the Pathogenesis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Family studies have shown that polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has probable genetic transmission because of a high incidence of relatives who present clinical or biochemical characters of the syndrome. However, initial candidate gene studies were unsuccessful. Genome wide association studies (GWASs) have shown that at least 29 gene alterations are common in PCOS, but it has been calculated that the altered genes found by GWASs may represent only 10% of affected patients. Rare altered uncoding genes may explain the syndrome in an additional group of patients. In many other patients, the altered genes found by GWASs may represent a risk condition for the development of the syndrome, and new candidate gene studies have shown that some gene alterations that mainly concern androgen production may be common in PCOS. Finally, in most patients, epigenetic and environmental factors may be necessary to transform a risk condition into this common and important syndrome.

Effect of myo-inositol and d-chiro-inositol on improving hormonal, metabolic and reproductive parameters in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A review of studies

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a leading cause of anovulatory infertility, affecting 6–12% of women of reproductive age. It is characterized by hormonal and metabolic disturbances, including insulin resistance, hyperandrogenism, and dyslipidemia, which significantly impair reproductive function and overall health. Effective management of PCOS requires a multifactorial approach combining pharmacotherapy, dietary intervention, and physical activity. This literature review aims to evaluate the therapeutic potential of inositol, particularly myo-inositol (MI), in the treatment of PCOS, with a focus on its impact on metabolic, hormonal, and reproductive parameters. Scientific articles published within the last 10 years were selected from PubMed and Google Scholar using specific keywords related to inositol supplementation in PCOS. The analysis demonstrates that MI supplementation improves insulin sensitivity, lowers androgen levels, enhances follicular development, and improves oocyte quality. Furthermore, combination therapy with MI and metformin yields superior outcomes compared to monotherapy, including improved menstrual regularity, reduced hyperandrogenic symptoms, and increased conception rates. Evidence also suggests enhanced outcomes in assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), following MI use. The combined application of MI, D-chiro-inositol, metformin, and lifestyle modifications appears to exert a synergistic effect, optimizing hormonal balance and fertility, while also mitigating long-term metabolic and cardiovascular risks in women with PCOS.

Role of polymorphism of MTHFR, MTR, MTRR, FUT2 genes in the risk of developing polycystic ovary syndrome

Objective: To determine the MTHFR rs1801133, MTR rs1805087, MTRR rs1801394, and FUT2 rs602662 genes frequency and an influence of their polymorphism on the level of homocysteine, folic acid, and vitamin B12 and to establish their link to the risk of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) development. Materials and methods: 136 PCOS patients and 117 healthy women were provided health check-ups. The content of homocysteine, folic acid, and vitamin B12 in blood serum was examined using the immunochemiluminescent assay (DxI800 analyzer, Beckman Coulter). The polymorphism of MTHFR rs1801133, MTR rs1805087, MTRR rs1801394, and FUT2 rs602662 genes was determined in buccal epithelial scrapes by polymerase chain reaction on the Bio-Rad CFX96 DNA amplifier (Novosibirsk, Russia, LLC "Basis Genotech"). Statistical analysis was carried out using the StatTech program v. 4.7.0. Results: The indicators of homocysteine, folic acid, and vitamin B12 in the PCOS group and control group were significantly different (p &lt; 0.05). A direct correlation relationship (r = 0.196, ρ &lt; 0.022) between body mass index and homocysteine level with PCOS was revealed. The T/T MTHFR rs1801133 genotype was more common in PCOS patients compared to healthy women (OR = 3.77). Homocysteine levels differed between MTHFR genotypes (p = 0.007); the carriage of T/T in PCOS was accompanied by elevated homocysteine levels compared to C/T and C/C. The A/A MTRR rs1801394 genotype was more common in healthy women; the OR of 0.57 may serve as a protective factor. The G/G genotype is more common in PCOS compared to healthy women (OR = 1.94). Differences were found between PCOS patients and the control group for the carriage of A/G MTR rs1805087 (OR = 2.23; CI = 1.31–3.77). Conclusion: The risk of developing PCOS is linked to the T/T MTHFR rs1801133, A/G MTR rs1805087, and G/G MTRR rs1801394 genotypes. A direct correlation was found between body mass index and homocysteine levels in PCOS patients. The A/A MTRR rs1801394 genotype may serve as a protective factor.

Is obesity a contributing factor to female infertility? - a literature review

Introduction and purpose: Obesity has emerged as one of the most pressing public health issues worldwide, with significant implications for female reproductive health. This review examines the complex relationship between obesity and infertility, emphasizing how obesity disrupts hormonal balance, metabolic processes, and ovarian function, leading to infertility. Material and methods: Medical databases like PubMed and Google Scholar were searched for scientific papers on impact of obesity on female infertility. These were analyzed and summarized in this review. State of knowledge: The hormonal imbalances associated with obesity, such as insulin resistance and elevated androgen levels, are closely linked to ovulation disorders, particularly in conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Furthermore, obesity negatively impacts oocyte quality, endometrial receptivity, and the success of assisted reproductive technologies (ART), such as in vitro fertilization (IVF). The review also explores potential interventions, including lifestyle modifications, pharmacological treatments, and bariatric surgery, to improve fertility outcomes in obese women. Conclusion: Addressing obesity is crucial in managing female infertility, and an integrative approach combining prevention, treatment, and ART advancements is essential for improving reproductive health. This work underscores the need for continued research and multidisciplinary collaboration to optimize fertility outcomes for obese women.

Therapeutic Potential of Lythrum salicaria L. Ethanol Extract in Experimental Rat Models of Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetes Mellitus and Letrozole-Induced Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and diabetes mellitus (DM) are prevalent endocrine disorders with overlapping pathophysiological mechanisms. Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is commonly associated with PCOS, with both conditions strongly linked to insulin resistance (IR), while recent studies have also reported an increased prevalence of PCOS among women with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). This study evaluated the potential of Lythrum salicaria L. ethanol extract (LSEE) to mitigate oxidative stress (OS), inflammation, and metabolic and hormonal imbalances in separate experimental models of Streptozotocin (STZ)-induced DM and Letrozole (LET)-induced PCOS. LSEE underwent phytochemical analysis to quantify total phenolic and flavonoid content and HPLC-MS for polyphenols identification. In vitro, antioxidant capacity was investigated through FRAP, DPPH, NO, and H2O2 scavenging assays. Subsequently, in vivo, studies utilized STZ-induced DM and LET-induced PCOS rat models, with 10-day treatments of LSEE, metformin, or trolox (TX) administered by gavage. Dysregulation of hormonal profiles, ultrasound, and histological examinations confirmed PCOS development. At the end of the treatment period, serum samples were collected to assess OS markers (TOS, OSI, MDA, AOPP, 8-OHdG, NO, 3-NT, AGEs, TAR, SH) in both models. Inflammatory markers were also measured (IL-1β, NF-κB, IL-18, and Gasdermin D in DM and IL-1β, NF-κB, IL-18, and IL-10 in PCOS). Additionally, metabolic markers (glucose, lipids, TG-glucose index, liver enzymes) were assessed in DM rats, and hormones (LH, FSH, estrogen, testosterone, insulin, HOMA-IR) were determined in PCOS rats. LSEE demonstrated a high polyphenolic content and notable in vitro antioxidant activity. In vivo, it effectively reduced OS by lowering oxidant levels and enhancing antioxidant defenses, reduced inflammatory markers and blood glucose levels, and improved lipid profiles along with the TyG index and liver injury markers in diabetic rats. In PCOS rats, LSEE lowered the total oxidants, increased antioxidants, reduced LH, FSH, testosterone, and insulin, and increased estrogen levels. The effects exhibited a dose-dependent pattern, with higher doses producing more pronounced benefits comparable to those observed with metformin and TX. In conclusion, LSEE may be a promising complementary treatment for DM and PCOS.

Comparative Efficacy of Metformin and Combined Oral Contraceptives in the Management of Adolescent Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

Comparative Efficacy of Metformin and Combined Oral Contraceptives in the Management of Adolescent Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials

Revolutionizing PCOD Detection with Early Machine Learning Methods

Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) poses significant challenges in early detection due to its diverse symptomatology and the absence of accessible, real-time diagnostic tools. A compact, intelligent system has been developed to enable non-invasive monitoring of physiological and hormonal indicators associated with early-stage PCOD. The architecture integrates embedded computing with a multimodal sensor array to collect data related to cardiovascular activity, hormonal fluctuations, body temperature, and bioelectrical signals. Real-time signal acquisition and preprocessing are handled through an edge-computing platform with wireless communication capabilities. Machine learning algorithms are employed to analyze temporal patterns and anomalies in the acquired data, enabling the identification of early markers linked to PCOD. Preliminary validation demonstrates the potential of the system to support low-cost, portable, and proactive screening, thereby contributing to improved diagnostic timelines and enhanced outcomes in women’s reproductive health.

Prenatally androgenized PCOS mice have ovary-independent uterine dysfunction and placental inflammation aggravated by high-fat diet.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hyperandrogenic and metabolic condition in women. The syndrome is linked to subfertility and pregnancy complications, yet the independent effects of exposure to hyperandrogenism and obesity on endometrial function remain unclear. Here, PCOS-like mice were generated using prenatal androgenization (PNA) with dihydrotestosterone, followed by a prepubertal high-fat (HF) or standard diet. In ovariectomized mice, PNA impaired uterine closure during the implantation window, disrupted decidualization, and altered extracellular matrix- and inflammation-related gene expression. The effects were aggravated by the HF diet. In naturally mated, ovary-intact mice, PNA and HF diet affected decidual and placental gene expression, suggestive of placental dysfunction and inflammation, and induced fetal growth restriction. This study underlines the role of the uterus in adverse pregnancy outcomes in PCOS and identifies possible underlying mechanisms for future studies. Prepregnancy interventions targeting metabolic health and hyperandrogenism should be the next steps to optimize PCOS pregnancy outcomes.

Semaglutide and Taste in Women with Obesity and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: a Randomized Placebo-Controlled Study.

Relationship between obesity and the taste is complex with many inconsistent and conflicting findings that are largely methodology dependent. The impact of glucagon-like peptide-1 analogues on the taste remains largely unaddressed. In this 16-week, single-blinded, placebo-controlled study, 30 women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), aged 33.7 ± 6.1 years with a body mass index of 36.4 ± 4.4 kg/m2 were randomized to semaglutide 1.0 mg QW or placebo. Change in taste recognition was assessed by 16 strips impregnated with four different concentrations of the four basic tastes. Tongue biopsies were performed for the gene expression analysis. Brain responses to visual cues of sweet and savory foods and to sweet solution dripping on the tongue were evaluated by functional MRI. Semaglutide improved overall taste recognition score from 11.9 ± 1.9 points to 14.4 ± 1.0 points, with an estimated treatment difference of 2.5 points [95% CI, 1.7 to 3.3]. The genes EYA, PRMT8, CRLF1, and CYP1B1, that are associated with taste signaling transduction pathways, neural plasticity, and renewal of taste buds, showed differential RNA expression by a multi-tiered analytical pipeline. Semaglutide decreased activation of putamen in response to visual food cues and increased activity in the angular gyrus of the parietal cortex in response to sweet solution after meal intake (semaglutide vs. placebo, p<0.001). In women with obesity and PCOS, semaglutide improved an overall taste recognition score, altered RNA expression in the tongue and modified brain activity in response to sweet and savory food cues and to tasting sweet solution.

Metabolic mediators of the overweight’s effect on infertility in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) often experience infertility, potentially mediated by metabolic factors altered by elevated body mass index (BMI). While triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and fasting blood sugar (FBS) are known mediators in the BMI-infertility relationship, the extent of their mediation effects remains unquantified in prior studies. This study quantifies the mediation effect of these metabolic factors. We conducted a cross-sectional study on 669 women diagnosed with PCOS at a tertiary hospital in Tehran, Iran, from 2021 to 2023. Data on BMI, TG, LDL, HDL, and FBS were collected, with infertility defined as the inability to conceive after 12 months of unprotected intercourse. Mediation analysis was performed using the Karlson Holm Breen (KHB) method, adjusting for age. Higher BMI was associated with increased levels of TG, LDL, and FBS and decreased HDL, all of which (except for LDL) were linked to infertility. Mediation analysis revealed that after adjusting for age, TG, HDL, and FBS significantly mediated the BMI-infertility association, accounting for 52.98%, 79.19%, and 49.7% of the effect, respectively. Our study identified TG, HDL, and FBS as significant mediators of the BMI-infertility link, with over half of the association mediated through these factors. Targeting metabolic improvements may help reduce infertility risk in this population.

Phenolic-loaded nanofiber from Arctium lappa root: a potential therapy for testosterone-induced ovarian oxidative stress

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age, often associated with oxidative stress and inflammation. This study explores the therapeutic potential of Arctium lappa phenolic-rich fraction encapsulated nanofiber (ALPRF-NF) in a testosterone-induced PCOS mouse model. All experiments were performed in triplicate and Duncan’s Multiple Range Test was used to assess significant differences between means, with significance determined at p < 0.05. The ALPRF-NF formulation demonstrated favorable physicochemical properties, including a ribbon-like structure (216.9 nm), a zeta potential of -19.3 mV, and a high encapsulation efficiency (93.1%). In vivo findings showed that ALPRF-NF significantly improved body weight, feed intake, and liver enzyme profiles in PCOS-induced mice (p ≤ 0.05). It also enhanced the antioxidant defense system by elevating levels of glutathione peroxidase (GPX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and catalase (CAT). Mechanistically, ALPRF-NF reduced oxidative stress and inflammation by delivering phenolic compounds that scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) and modulate gene expression in ovarian tissue. This included downregulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and upregulation of SOD expression. These results suggest that ALPRF-NF effectively mitigates testosterone-induced ovarian oxidative damage and inflammation, offering a targeted, nanotechnology-based therapeutic approach for PCOS. The study provides valuable insights into novel strategies for improving women’s reproductive health through bioactive compound delivery.

Evidence for bone marrow adipose tissue dysfunction in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Evidence for bone marrow adipose tissue dysfunction in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)