Mulheres com síndrome do ovário policísticos que desenvolveram diabetes melitus 2 antes dos 35 anos: ansiedade, má qualidade do sono e não controle glicêmico / Women with polycystic ovarian syndrome who developed diabetes mellitus 2 before the age of 35: anxiety, poor sleep quality and lack of glycemic control / Mujeres con síndrome de ovario poliquístico que desarrollaron diabetes melitus 2 antes de los 35 años: ansiedad, mala calidad del sueño y sin control glucémico

Introdução: A síndrome dos ovários policísticos (SOP) consiste em uma desordem de origem endocrinológica de grande prevalência nas mulheres em idade fértil, sendo acometidas por ela aproximadamente de 6 a 16% da população feminina - em consonância com diversos critérios diagnósticos 1-4. Essa síndrome é associada ao hiperandrogenismo e à resistência insulínica (RI), com manifestações clínicas relacionadas a alterações reprodutivas 4, desenvolvimento de diabetes mellitus (DM2) e obesidade. Esta pesquisa objetiva compreender o perfil das mulheres com DM 2 antes dos 35 anos e os fatores que podem levar a esta condição. Metodologia: Este estudo se deu por meio de inquérito on-line feito a mulheres diagnosticadas com SOP, e com menos de 35 anos de idade. Foi desenvolvido de maneira virtualizada via plataforma GoogleForms® em função da pandemia do COVID-19. Tratou-se de um levantamento sobre presença de fatores de risco para DM 2, como sobrepeso e alimentação, sedentarismo e qualidade do sono; em grupos de mulheres com SOP diabéticas e não diabéticas, para efeito de comparação. Resultados e discussão: Um total de 198 mulheres responderam ao questionário, sendo divididas em Diabéticas (DM) e não diabéticas (NDM). O grupo DM foi o que mais apresentou IMC elevado (acima de 30), e o que mais se declarou seguir orientações nutricionais. Atividade física não diferenciou entre os grupos. O grupo DM foi o que declarou dormir mais tarde (pós 23:00) quando comparado com o grupo NDM. O sobrepeso indica ser um fator importante para o advento da DM 2 neste grupo, sendo as orientações nutricionais não tão efetivas, devido muito a dificuldade de aderir às orientações. O hábito de dormir tarde implica em alterações que levam a aumento da RI via estresse oxidativo, contribuindo para obesidade e DM 2. Conclusões: A obesidade é um fator decisivo para a precocidade da DM 2 em mulheres com SOP, e sua condição é multifatorial, associada a seguimento de orientações nutricionais, atividade física e qualidade do sono. O evitar da precocidade da DM 2 neste grupo passa por esta compreensão.

Introduction: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrinological disorder with high prevalence in women of childbearing age, affected by approximately 6 to 16% of the female population - in line with several diagnostic criteria 1-4. This syndrome is associated with hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance (IR), with clinical manifestations related to reproductive changes 4, development of diabetes mellitus (DM2) and obesity. This research aims to understand the profile of women with DM 2 before the age of 35 and the factors that can lead to this condition. Methodology: This study was carried out through an online survey made to women diagnosed with PCOS, and under 35 years of age. It was developed in a virtualized way via the GoogleForms® platform due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This was a survey on the presence of risk factors for DM 2, such as overweight and diet, sedentary lifestyle and sleep quality; in groups of women with diabetic and non-diabetic PCOS for comparison purposes. Results and discussion: A total of 198 women answered the questionnaire, divided into Diabetic (DM) and non-diabetic (NDM). The DM group was the one with the highest BMI (above 30), and the one that most declared to follow nutritional guidelines. Physical activity did not differ between groups. The DM group was the one who reported sleeping later (after 11 pm) when compared to the NDM group. Overweight is an important factor for the advent of DM 2 in this group, and nutritional guidelines are not so effective, due to the difficulty in adhering to the guidelines. The habit of sleeping late implies changes that lead to increased IR via oxidative stress, contributing to obesity and DM 2. Conclusions: Obesity is a decisive factor for the precocity of DM 2 in women with PCOS, and its condition is multifactorial, associated with following nutritional guidelines, physical activity and sleep quality. Avoiding the precocity of DM 2 in this group involves this understanding.

Introducción: El síndrome de ovario poliquístico (SOP) es un trastorno de origen endocrinológico de alta prevalencia en mujeres en edad fértil, afectando aproximadamente entre el 6 y el 16% de la población femenina, de acuerdo con diversos criterios diagnósticos 1- 4 . Este síndrome se asocia con hiperandrogenismo y resistencia a la insulina (RI), con manifestaciones clínicas relacionadas con cambios reproductivos 4, desarrollo de diabetes mellitus (DM2) y obesidad. Esta investigación tiene como objetivo conocer el perfil de las mujeres con DM 2 antes de los 35 años y los factores que pueden conducir a esta condición. Metodología: Este estudio se realizó a través de una encuesta online realizada entre mujeres diagnosticadas con SOP y menores de 35 años. Fue desarrollado de manera virtualizada a través de la plataforma GoogleForms® debido a la pandemia de COVID-19. Se realizó una encuesta sobre la presencia de factores de riesgo para DM 2, como sobrepeso y alimentación, sedentarismo y calidad del sueño; en grupos de mujeres diabéticas y no diabéticas con síndrome de ovario poliquístico, con fines de comparación. Resultados y discusión: Respondieron al cuestionario un total de 198 mujeres, divididas en diabéticas (DM) y no diabéticas (NDM). El grupo DM fue el que presentó un IMC más elevado (superior a 30), y el que más declaró seguir las pautas nutricionales. La actividad física no difirió entre los grupos. El grupo DM fue el que reportó dormir más tarde (después de las 11:00 pm) en comparación con el grupo NDM. El sobrepeso indica que es un factor importante en la aparición de DM 2 en este grupo, siendo las pautas nutricionales no tan efectivas, en gran parte por la dificultad para cumplirlas. El hábito de dormir tarde implica cambios que conducen a un aumento de la RI vía estrés oxidativo, contribuyendo a la obesidad y la DM 2. Conclusiones: La obesidad es un factor decisivo en la aparición temprana de la DM 2 en mujeres con SOP, y su condición es multifactorial, asociado con el seguimiento de pautas nutricionales, actividad física y calidad del sueño. Evitar la precocidad de la DM 2 en este grupo requiere esta comprensión.

Improvement effects of poria acid on insulin resistance in rats with polycystic ovary syndrome and its mechanism / 中国药房

OBJECTIVE To study the improvement effects of poria acid on insulin resistance in rats with polycystic ovary syndrome （PCOS） and its mechanism. METHODS One hundred and twenty-six female rats were randomly separated into blank group， PCOS group， poria acid low-dose group （8.33 mg/kg）， pachymic acid high-dose group （33.32 mg/kg）， ethinylestradiol cyproterone group （positive control group， 0.34 mg/kg）， recombinant rat high mobility group protein B1 protein （rHMGB1） group （8 μg/kg）， and poria acid high dose+rHMGB1 group （33.32 mg/kg poria acid+8 μg/kg rHMGB1）， with 18 rats in each group. Except for the blank group， the rats in all other groups were given Letrozole suspension intragastrically to construct the PCOS model. After successful modeling， administration was performed once a day for 4 weeks. After medication， the fasting blood glucose and fasting insulin levels， and insulin resistance index （HOMA-IR） were measured in rats； the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone （FSH）， luteinizing hormone （LH） and testosterone （T） in rat serum， and the levels of interleukin-1β （IL-1β） and tumor necrosis factor- α （TNF- α） in ovarian tissue were detected； ovarian coefficients of rats were calculated； the pathological changes of ovarian tissue were observed； the expressions of HMGB1， receptor for advanced glycosylation elaine_ tanghong@sina.com end product （RAGE） and phosphorylated nuclear factor κB p65 （p-NF-κB p65） proteins were determined in ovarian tissue of rats. RESULTS Compared with the blank group， the pathological injury of ovarian tissue of rats in the PCOS group was serious， the levels of fasting blood glucose and fasting insulin， HOMA-IR and ovarian coefficient were increased， the levels of serum LH and T were increased， while the levels of FSH were decreased； the levels of IL-1β and TNF-α， the expressions of HMGB1， RAGE and p-NF-κB p65 protein in ovarian tissue were increased， with statistical significance （P＜0.05）. Compared with the PCOS group， pathological damage of ovarian tissue was reduced in poria acid low-dose and high-dose groups and ethinylestradiol cyproterone group， and fasting blood glucose， fasting insulin levels， HOMA-IR and ovarian coefficient were decreased； serum LH and T levels were decreased， while FSH levels were increased； the levels of IL-1β and TNF-α and the expressions of HMGB1， RAGE and p-NF-κB p65 protein in ovarian tissue were decreased， with statistical significance （P＜0.05）. The trend of corresponding indexes in rHMGB1 group was opposite to the above （P＜0.05）. Compared with poria acid high-dose group， the changes of the above indexes were reversed significantly in poria acid high-dose+rHMGB1 group （P＜0.05）. CONCLUSIONS Poria acid may improve insulin resistance and inhibit inflammatory reaction in PCOS rats by inhibiting HMGB1/ RAGE pathway.

Importância do diagnóstico por imagem em pacientes com sangramento uterino anormal / Importance of diagnostic imaging in patients with abnormal uterine bleeding

O sangramento uterino anormal é diagnóstico sindrômico comum no consultório do ginecologista e pode comprometer substancialmente a qualidade de vida. O objetivo no diagnóstico de sangramento uterino anormal é distinguir pacientes com causas estruturais (anatômicas), como pólipo, adenomiose, leiomioma, malignidade e hiperplasia, de pacientes que apresentam anatomia normal, nas quais o sangramento pode ser devido a alteração dos mecanismos de coagulação, distúrbios ovulatórios, distúrbios primários do endométrio, iatrogenia, ou ter outra causa não classificada. O diagnóstico se inicia a partir de anamnese detalhada e exame físico geral e ginecológico completos, seguidos da solicitação de exames complementares (laboratoriais e de imagem), conforme indicado. O exame de imagem de primeira linha para identificação das causas estruturais inclui a ultrassonografia pélvica. Histerossonografia, histeroscopia, ressonância magnética e amostragem endometrial para exame de anatomia patológica são opções que podem ser incluídas no diagnóstico a depender da necessidade. O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar a relevância dos exames de imagem na investigação das causas de sangramento uterino anormal.

Abnormal uterine bleeding is one of the commonest presenting complaints encountered in a gynecologist's office and may substantially affect quality of life. The aim in the diagnosis of abnormal uterine bleeding is to distinguish women with anatomic causes such as polyp, adenomyosis, leiomyoma, malignancy and hyperplasia from women with normal anatomy where the cause may be coagulopathy, ovulatory disorders, endometrial, iatrogenic and not otherwise classified. Diagnosis begins with a thorough history and physical examination followed by appropriate laboratory and imaging tests as indicated. The primary imaging test for the identification of anatomic causes include ultrasonography. Saline infusion sonohysterography, magnetic resonance, hysteroscopy, endometrial sampling are options that can be included in the diagnosis depending on the need. The aim of this article is to present the relevance of imaging exams in the investigation of the causes of abnormal uterine bleeding.

Frecuencia de la sintomatología del síndrome de ovario poliquístico y el síndrome premenstrual, relacionado con el estrés académico en estudiantes de medicina de una Universidad Privada del Perú

Introducción: El síndrome de ovario poliquístico y el síndrome premenstrual son prevalentes. Objetivo: Determinar la frecuencia de la sintomatología del síndrome de ovario poliquístico y del síndrome pre menstrual y su relación con el estrés en estudiantes de medicina. Material y métodos: Estudio analítico transversal. La población de estudio fue de 322 estudiantes de medicina del primer al sexto año, elegidas por conveniencia de una universidad privada de Trujillo. Mediante un formulario de google se aplicó el cuestionario "SPM", "el inventario SISCO del Estrés académico", y "el cuestionario sobre ovario poliquístico"; previo conocimiento informado, tuvo la aprobación del Comité de Bioética de la universidad. Resultados: El SOP presentó una probabilidad alta de 5,28%, media de 46,58% y baja de 48,13%. La frecuencia del SPM en los niveles, leve, moderado y alto fueron de 47,52%, 25,47% y 4,04% respectivamente. Los niveles de estrés fueron: leve, moderado y profundo de 4,35%, 65,22% y 30,43%, respectivamente. Se encontró asociación altamente significativa entre el estrés y SPM; estrés y SOP; p= 0,000915106 y p= 1.8589E-25 respectivamente. Conclusiones: La frecuencia de SPM, la probabilidad alta de SOP y los niveles de estrés fueron altos y existe asociación significativa entre el estrés, SPM y SOP.

Introduction: Polycystic ovarian syndrome and premenstrual syndrome are prevalent. Objective: to determine the frequency of the symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome and premenstrual syndrome and its relationship with stress in medical students. Methods: Cross-sectional analytical study. The study population was 322 medical students from the first to the sixth year, chosen for convenience from a private university in Trujillo. Using a google form, the "SPM" questionnaire, "the SISCO inventory of academic stress", and "the polycystic ovary questionnaire" were applied; prior informed knowledge, it had the approval of the Bioethics Committee of the university. Results: The SOP presented a high probability of 5.28%, a medium of 46.58% and a low of 48.13%.The frequency of PMS at the levels, mild, moderate and high were 47.52%, 25.47% and 4 04% respectively.The levels of stress were: mild, moderate and deep of 4.35%, 65.22% and 30.43%, respectively.A highly significant association was found between stress and SPM, stress and PCOS, p = 0.000915106 and p= 1.8589E-25 respectively. Conclusions: The frequency of PMS, the high probability of SOP and the stress levels were high and there is a significant association between stress, SPM and SOP.

Network pharmacology and molecular docking study of the active ingredients in Saptasaram kashayam for the treatment of Polycystic ovary syndrome-Supplemenntary data

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most prevalent endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age characterized by hyperandrogenism (HA). Current treatment options for PCOS are either with adverse effects or ineffective. Saptasaram kashayam (SK), an ayurvedic formulation is often been a safe traditional alternative medicine to improve the PCOS symptoms as well as its pathological development. However, its principle phytoconstituents or underlying mechanisms have not been investigated. In order to achieve this, the current study systematically utilized computational tools, network pharmacology approaches and molecular docking studies. All identified phytoconstituents of SK were screened by QikProp ADME prediction and 47 were selected based on oral bioavailability and drug likeliness scores. Their 3D structures were submitted to three online target fishing webservers PharmMapper, ChemMapper and Swiss Target Prediction which produced 1084 biological targets for SK comprehensively. 350 known PCOS therapeutic targets were retreived as common targets from three different interrogative disease centric bioinformatic platforms DisGeNET, OMIM and GeneCards. Intersection of 1084 biological targets of SK and 350 PCOS therapeutic targets produced, 88 potential therapeutic targets of SK against PCOS. STRING PPI and Compound-Target-Pathway networks were constructed and analysed using Cytoscape software. GO & KEGG pathway enrichment analysis was performed using DAVID database. 15 PCOS therapeutic target proteins were short listed from network analysis report- PIK3CA, PDPK1, AKT1, PIK3R1, STAT3, MAPK1, MAPK3, EGFR, AR, ESR1, ESR2, SHGB, NOS3, F2 & CREBBP. Targets that were likely to be inhibited/modulated by SK for treatment of PCOS were docked against the screened phytoconstituents and their respective standard inhibitors using GLIDE-SP of Schrodinger suite, Maestro version- 13.0. Results showed that Quercetin, Catechin, Boeravinone J, Genistein, Protocatechuic Acid, Gentisic Acid, Xanthoarnol, Luteolin, Boeravinone F, Tyrosine, Kaempferol, Dalbergioidin, etc exhibited good binding affinities when compared to standard drugs and might be responsible for synergistic/additive protective effect of SK against PCOS. Meanwhile PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, Prolactin signaling pathway, AGE-RAG diabetic complications, HIF-1 signaling pathway and Estrogen signaling pathway were found to be involving the hub genes of interest and in this way, they might be intervened during treatment of PCOS by SK. Present study succeeded in identifying the drug like principle phytoconstituents, probable PCOS therapeutic targets and the underlying molecular mechanism of SK apart from providing reliable evidence for therapeutic potential of SK against PCOS. However further validation by in vitro and in vivo investigations is necessary.

Network pharmacology and molecular docking study of the active ingredients in Saptasaram kashayam for the treatment of Polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most prevalent endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age characterized by hyperandrogenism (HA). Current treatment options for PCOS are either with adverse effects or ineffective. Saptasaram kashayam (SK), an ayurvedic formulation is often been a safe traditional alternative medicine to improve the PCOS symptoms as well as its pathological development. However, its principle phytoconstituents or underlying mechanisms have not been investigated. In order to achieve this, the current study systematically utilized computational tools, network pharmacology approaches and molecular docking studies. All identified phytoconstituents of SK were screened by QikProp ADME prediction and 47 were selected based on oral bioavailability and drug likeliness scores. Their 3D structures were submitted to three online target fishing webservers PharmMapper, ChemMapper and Swiss Target Prediction which produced 1084 biological targets for SK comprehensively. 350 known PCOS therapeutic targets were retreived as common targets from three different interrogative disease centric bioinformatic platforms DisGeNET, OMIM and GeneCards. Intersection of 1084 biological targets of SK and 350 PCOS therapeutic targets produced, 88 potential therapeutic targets of SK against PCOS. STRING PPI and Compound-Target-Pathway networks were constructed and analysed using Cytoscape software. GO & KEGG pathway enrichment analysis was performed using DAVID database. 15 PCOS therapeutic target proteins were short listed from network analysis report- PIK3CA, PDPK1, AKT1, PIK3R1, STAT3, MAPK1, MAPK3, EGFR, AR, ESR1, ESR2, SHGB, NOS3, F2 & CREBBP. Targets that were likely to be inhibited/modulated by SK for treatment of PCOS were docked against the screened phytoconstituents and their respective standard inhibitors using GLIDE-SP of Schrodinger suite, Maestro version- 13.0. Results showed that Quercetin, Catechin, Boeravinone J, Genistein, Protocatechuic Acid, Gentisic Acid, Xanthoarnol, Luteolin, Boeravinone F, Tyrosine, Kaempferol, Dalbergioidin, etc exhibited good binding affinities when compared to standard drugs and might be responsible for synergistic/additive protective effect of SK against PCOS. Meanwhile PI3K-Akt signaling pathway, Prolactin signaling pathway, AGE-RAG diabetic complications, HIF-1 signaling pathway and Estrogen signaling pathway were found to be involving the hub genes of interest and in this way, they might be intervened during treatment of PCOS by SK. Present study succeeded in identifying the drug like principle phytoconstituents, probable PCOS therapeutic targets and the underlying molecular mechanism of SK apart from providing reliable evidence for therapeutic potential of SK against PCOS. However further validation by in vitro and in vivo investigations is necessary.

The effect of metabolic syndrome on controlled ovarian stimulation outcome in infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome undergoing assisted reproductive technology cycles

ABSTRACT Objective: To evaluate the effect of metabolic syndrome (MetS) diagnosis on oocyte quality and pregnancy outcomes in infertile women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) who undergoing antagonist-controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) and in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (IVF/ICSI) cycles. Subject and methods: This prospective cohort study was conducted from November 2019 to November 2020 across two university-affiliated infertility centers in Iran. The PCOS diagnosis was defined according to the Rotterdam criteria. The patients prior to IVF/ICSI cycles were evaluated for MetS diagnosis. MetS was detected according to the National Cholesterol Education Program/Adult Treatment Panel III with the presence of at least three or more of the specific clinical criteria. The cycle outcomes were compared between MetS and non-MetS groups. Results: Overall, 68 eligible infertile PCOS patients with MetS diagnosis and 126 without MetS participated. The MetS diagnosis was associated with the increased requirement of gonadotropins and the COS duration significantly (P = 0.001). Although the total numbers of retrieved and MII oocytes, obtained and top-quality embryos as well as clinical pregnancy and live birth rates in the MetS group were lower than those of in the non-MetS group, the differences were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). In follow-up of the obstetrics complications, the rate of preeclampsia was significantly higher in patients with MetS (P = 0.02). Conclusion: MetS diagnosis in PCOS patients was associated with non-significant poor COS and pregnancy outcome. Further studies with larger sample sizes are recommended to clarify the risk of MetS in patients undergoing ART cycles.

Comparative evaluation of metformin & sitaformin in classic PCOS patients undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection: A randomized controlled pilot study

Background & objectives: Studies have shown that insulin resistance and hyperinsulinaemia play a major role in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Therefore, the use of insulin sensitizing drugs in the treatment of PCOS has attracted the attention of medicine and researchers. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of sitaformin (sitagliptin/metformin) and metformin on the quality of oocyte and embryo in classic PCOS patients undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Methods: Sixty patients of PCOS (25-35 yr) were randomly allocated into three groups (n=20, each group): a metformin-treated group (administered metformin 500 mg twice daily), a sitaformin-treated group (administered sitaformin 50/500 mg twice daily) and a placebo group. Participants in all the groups received the drug two months prior to the start of the ovulation cycle and treatment continued until the day of the oocyte aspiration. Results: Serum insulin and total testosterone levels decreaseed significantly after treatment in both the treatment groups as compared to the placebo (P<0.05). A significant decrease in the number of immature oocytes [MI + germinal vesicle (GV) stage] was observed in metformin and sitaformin groups as compared to the placebo. In addition, sitaformin group when compared to the metformin group showed a significant decrease in the number of immature oocytes (P<0.05). The number of mature and normal MII oocytes increased significantly in both the treatment groups compared to the placebo group (P<0.05). The number of mature and normal oocytes increased in sitaformin group in comparison to the metformin group, but the difference was not significant. There was a significant increase in the number of grade I embryos, fertilization and cleavage rates in the sitaformin group compared to the other groups (P<0.05). Interpretation & conclusions: This is the first study to compare the impact of sitaformin with metformin on oocyte and embryo quality in women with PCOS undergoing a gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist cycle. In conclusion, sitaformin can be more effective in decreasing immature oocytes and increasing the quality of embryos than the use of metformin.

Research progress on the relationship between bilirubin and polycystic ovary syndrome / 中国综合临床

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common reproductive endocrine and metabolic disease, and its pathogenesis is closely related to inflammation, insulin resistance, and metabolic disorders. Bilirubin is the final product of the destruction and degradation of senescent red blood cells in the body. In addition, bilirubin can be not only used to evaluate liver function damage and cytotoxicity, but also can anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, alleviate metabolic disorders, etc. Recently, studies have found a certain correlation between low levels of bilirubin and PCOS: the level of bilirubin in patients with PCOS is low, and the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of bilirubin may play a protective role in the pathogenesis of PCOS.

Therapeutic effects of Tiaojing Xiaozhi Decoction combined with auricular acupoint embedding acupuncture on polycystic ovary syndrome in 40 obese cases / 中国基层医药

Objective:To investigate the therapeutic effects of Tiaojing Xiaozhi Decoction combined with auricular acupoint embedding acupuncture on polycystic ovary syndrome in obese patients. Methods:A total of 120 obese cases of polycystic ovary syndrome (spleen and kidney deficiency syndrome) treated in Ningbo Municipal Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine from July 2020 to June 2021 were included in this study. They were randomly assigned to undergo treatment with either Tiaojing Xiaozhi Decoction (Chinese medicine group, n = 40), auricular acupoint embedding acupuncture (ear acupuncture group, n = 40), or Tiaojing Xiaozhi Decoction and auricular acupoint embedding acupuncture (combined therapy group, n = 40). Traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) syndrome integral, body mass index, waist circumference, hip circumference, waist- to-hip ratio, testosterone, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone/follicle-stimulating hormone, estradiol, prolactin, recombinant human leptin, adiponectin, tumor necrosis factor α, interleukin-6, and clinical efficacy were compared among groups before and after treatment. Results:Total response rate in the combined therapy group was 87.5%, which was slightly but not significantly, higher than 77.5% in the Chinese medicine group and 80.0% in the ear acupuncture group, and there was no significant difference in total response rate among the three groups (all P > 0.05). After treatment, TCM syndrome integral in the combined therapy was (10.40 ± 2.38) points, which was significantly lower than (12.35 ± 3.32) points in the Chinese medicine group and (14.18 ± 3.51) points in the ear acupuncture group ( F = 14.78, P < 0.05). The body mass index, waist circumference, hip circumference, and waist-to-hip ratio in the combined therapy group were superior to those in the Chinese medicine and ear acupuncture groups ( F = 4.11, 18.59, 3.62, 13.33, all P < 0.05). Luteinizing hormone and luteinizing hormone/follicle-stimulating hormone in the combined therapy group were superior to those in the Chinese medicine and ear acupuncture groups (all P < 0.05). After treatment, recombinant human leptin and adiponectin in the combined therapy and Chinese medicine groups were superior to those measured before treatment (both P < 0.05). After treatment, only adiponectin was significantly increased in the early acupuncture group compared with before treatment ( P < 0.05). After treatment, tumor necrosis factor α and interleukin-6 in the combined therapy group were (4.12 ± 1.54) μg/L and (3.09 ± 1.41) ng/L respectively, which were significantly decreased compared with before treatment ( t = 21.66, 10.42, both P < 0.05). Conclusion:Tiaojing Xiaozhi Decoction combined with auricular acupoint embedding acupuncture can decrease body mass index, fat factor, and inflammatory factor levels, which can help decrease sex hormone levels and TCM syndrome integral, and has an obvious therapeutic effect on polycystic ovary syndrome.

Efficacy and safety of acupuncture for polycystic ovary syndrome: An overview of systematic reviews / 中西医结合学报

BACKGROUND@#Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the primary cause of anovulatory infertility, bringing serious harm to women's physical and mental health. Acupuncture may be an effective treatment for PCOS. However, systematic reviews (SRs) on the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for PCOS have reported inconsistent results, and the quality of these studies has not been adequately assessed.@*OBJECTIVE@#To summarize and evaluate the current evidence on the efficacy and safety of acupuncture for PCOS, as well as to assess the quality and risks of bias of the available SRs.@*SEARCH STRATEGY@#Nine electronic databases (Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Data, Chongqing VIP Chinese Science and Technology Periodical Database, and China Biology Medicine disc) were searched from their establishment to July 27, 2022. Based on the principle of combining subject words with text words, the search strategy was constructed around search terms for "acupuncture," "polycystic ovary syndrome," and "systematic review."@*INCLUSION CRITERIA@#SRs of randomized controlled trials that explored the efficacy and (or) safety of acupuncture for treating patients with PCOS were included.@*DATA EXTRACTION AND ANALYSIS@#Two authors independently extracted study data according to a predesigned form. Tools for evaluating the methodological quality, risk of bias, reporting quality, and confidence in study outcomes, including A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews 2 (AMSTAR 2), Risk of Bias in Systematic Reviews (ROBIS), Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses for Acupuncture (PRISMA-A), and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE), were used to score the included SRs.@*RESULTS@#A total of 885 studies were retrieved, and 11 eligible SRs were finally included in this review. The methodological quality of 2 SRs (18.18%) was low, while the other 9 SRs (81.82%) were scored as extremely low. Four SRs (36.36%) were considered to be of low risk of bias. As for reporting quality, the reporting completeness of 9 SRs (81.82%) was more than 70%. Concerning the confidence in study results, 2 study results were considered to have a high quality of evidence (3.13%), 14 (21.88%) a "moderate" quality, 28 (43.75%) a "low" quality, and 20 (31.24%) considered a "very low" quality. Descriptive analyses suggested that combining acupuncture with other medicines can effectively improve the clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) and ovulation rate, and reduce luteinizing hormone/follicle-stimulating hormone ratio, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance, and body mass index (BMI). When compared with medicine alone, acupuncture alone also can improve CPR. Further, when compared with no intervention, acupuncture had a better effect in promoting the recovery of menstrual cycle and reducing BMI. Acupuncture was reported to cause no adverse events or some adverse events without serious harm.@*CONCLUSION@#The efficacy and safety of acupuncture for PCOS remains uncertain due to the limitations and inconsistencies of current evidence. More high-quality studies are needed to support the use of acupuncture in PCOS.

Correlation analysis of serum anti-Mullerian hormone level and ovarian interstitial blood flow in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome / 中国医师进修杂志

Objective:To investigate the correlation between the level of anti Mullerian hormone (AMH) in serum and ovarian interstitial blood flow in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).Methods:The clinical data of 88 patients with PCOS (PCOS group) admitted to Jiangshan Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine from June 2019 to June 2022 and 50 women of the same age who underwent physical examination during the same period (normal control group) were collected retrospectively. The patients in the PCOS group were divided into two subgroups according to the homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) evaluated by the steady-state model. Among them, patients with HOMA-IR ≥ 2.69 were divided into the insulin resistance subgroup (PCOS-IR subgroup, 50 cases), and patients with HOMA-IR<2.69 were divided into the non-insulin resistance subgroup (PCOS-NIR subgroup, 38 cases). The level of AMH were measured by electrochemiluminescence, and ovarian interstitial blood flow indicators, including peak blood flow velocity (PSV), pulsation index (PI), and resistance index (RI) were monitored. Pearson correlation test was used to analyze the correlation between serum AMH and insulin resistance and ovarian interstitial blood flow. Meanwhile, Logistic linear regression model was used to analyze the influencing factors of ovarian interstitial blood flow in patients with PCOS.Results:The levels of AMH, HOMA-IR and PSV in the PCOS group were higher than those in the normal control group: (2.13 ± 0.84) μg/L vs. (0.84 ± 0.29) μg/L, 4.6(2.0, 8.4) vs. 1.8(0.5, 3.9), (10.05 ± 1.52) cm/s vs.(6.78 ± 0.89) cm/s; the PI and RI in the PCOS group were lower than those in the control group: (1.14 ± 0.26)% vs. (2.01 ± 0.53)%, (0.37 ± 0.18)% vs. (0.85 ± 0.33)%, there were statistical differences ( P<0.05). The levels of AMH, HOMA-IR and PSV in the PCOS-IR subgroup were higher than those in the PCOS-NIR subgroup: (2.68 ± 0.81) μg/L vs. (1.59 ± 0.43) μg/L, (10.74 ± 2.32) cm/s vs. (7.93 ± 1.90) cm/s, 7.2(3.1, 15.8) vs. 2.1(0.6, 5.3); the PI and RI in the PCOS-IR subgroup were lower than those in the PCOS-NIR subgroup: (0.88 ± 0.35)% vs. (1.52 ± 0.50)%, (0.29 ± 0.04)% vs. (0.51 ± 0.05)%, there were statistical differences ( P<0.05). Pearson correlation analysis showed that the level of AMH were positively correlated with PSV and HOMA-IR ( r = 0.694 and 0.540, P<0.05), but negatively correlated with PI and RI( r = - 0.687 and - 0.692, P<0.05). Logistic linear regression model analysis showed that AMH and HOMA-IR were risk factors for ovarian interstitial blood flow in patients with PCOS( P<0.05). Conclusions:The serum AMH level in patients with PCOS is abnormally high and increases with insulin resistance. At the same time, the imbalance of AMH expression plays an important role in the increase of abnormal ovarian interstitial blood flow.

Correlation of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 with chronic inflammation and insulin resistance in polycystic ovarian syndrome patients / 中国医师进修杂志

Objective:To discuss the correlation of serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D3[25(OH)D3] with chronic inflammation and insulin resistance (IR) in polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) patients.Methods:One hundred and twenty-four PCOS patients registered from January 2018 to January 2020 in the Second Affiliated Hospital of Hebei North University were selected retrospectively. According to the difference of body mass index (BMI), the patients were divided into PCOS 1 group (BMI<25 kg/m 2, 64 cases) and PCOS 2 group (BMI≥25 kg/m 2, 60 cases). At the same time, 60 patients with simple obesity were selected as the obesity group and 58 healthy subjects were selected as the control group. The somatology indicators, gonadal hormone, serum 25(OH)D3, insulin resistance (IR) related index and chronic inflammation factors were measured, the correlations of serum 25(OH)D3 with relevant indicators were analyzed by Pearson correlation analysis. Results:The BMI, waist hip ratio, testosterone(T), luteinizing hormone (LH) / follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), free androgen index(FAI), fasting insulin (FINS), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR), insulin sensitivity index (ISI) in the four groups had significant differences ( P<0.05); the level of 25(OH)D3 in the PCOS 1 group was lower than that in the PCOS 2 group: (1.14 ± 0.36) nmol/L vs. (1.83 ± 0.25) nmol/L, P<0.05; the levels of FINS, HOMA-IR in the PCOS 2 group were higher than those in the PCOS 1 group, obesity group and control group: (13.26 ± 2.61) mg/L vs. (5.58 ± 1.03), (6.63 ± 1.42), (4.66 ± 0.85) mg/L, 1.49 ± 0.37 vs. 1.15 ± 0.20, 1.12 ± 0.22, 0.96 ± 0.11, P<0.05; the level of ISI in the PCOS 2 group was lower than that in the PCOS1 group, obesity group and control group: - 4.19 ± 0.78 vs. - 3.52 ± 0.74, - 3.23 ± 0.53, - 3.06 ± 0.54, P<0.05. The levels of interleukin-6(IL-6), transforming growth factor-β(TGF-β), tumor necrosis factor-α(TNF-α) in the four groups had significant differences ( P<0.05); the level of IL-6 in the PCOS 2 group was higher than that in the PCOS 1 group: (18.15 ± 4.93) ng/L vs. (14.77 ± 4.58) ng/L, P<0.05. The results of Pearson correlation analysis showed that the serum of 25(OH)D3 had negative correlation with IL-6, BMI, waist hip ratio, T, FINS, ISI, TGF-β and TNF-α( r = - 0.582, - 0.242, - 0.371, - 0.203, - 0.208, - 0.267, - 0.723, - 0.617, P<0.05). Conclusions:Serum 25(OH)D3 is correlated with chronic inflammation and IR, and involved into the genesis and progression of PCOS.

Clinical study of Tongbu Qijing Acupuncture combined with metformin hydrochloride tablet in the treatment of polycystic ovary syndrome combined with insulin resistance of kidney-deficiency phlegm dampness type / 国际中医中药杂志

Objective:To evaluate the effect of Tongbu Qijing Acupuncture combined with metformin hydrochloride tablet on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) combined with insulin resistance (IR) of kidney-deficiency phlegm dampness type.Methods:Randomized controlled trial. 84 patients with PCOS and IR in the hospital were enrolled as the observation objects between November 2019 and November 2021. According to random number table method, they were divided into observation group (Tongbu Qijing Acupuncture combined with metformin hydrochloride tablets) and control group (oral metformin hydrochloride tablets), 42 in each group. All were treated for 3 courses of treatment (1 month/course). TCM syndromes were scored before and after treatment. The height, weight, waist circumference and hip circumference of patients were measured to calculate body mass index (BMI) and waist-hip ratio (WHR). The levels of serum TG, TC, LDL-C and HDL-C were detected by biochemical analyzer, fasting blood glucose (FPG) was detected by glucose oxidase method, fasting insulin (FINS) was detected by electrochemiluminescence method, and insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) was calculated. The recovery rates of menstruation and ovulation were observed and compared after treatment, and the clinical curative effect was evaluated.Results:There were significant differences in total response rate between observation group and control group [95.24% (40/42) vs. 80.95% (34/42); χ2=4.09, P=0.043]. After treatment, scores of TCM syndromes, BMI and WHR in observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group ( t=20.36, 23.77, 3.44, P<0.01). After treatment, serum FPG [(4.86±0.51) nmol/L vs. (5.41±0.55) nmol/L, t=4.75], FINS [(8.31±0.85) mU/L vs. (10.11±1.02) mU/L, t=8.79] levels and HOMA-IR [(1.88±0.19) vs. (2.44±0.25), t=11.97] in observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group ( P<0.01). After treatment, levels of serum TG, TC and LDL-C in observation group were significantly lower than those in the control group ( t=16.54, 4.81, 5.35, P<0.01), while HDL-C was significantly higher than that of the control group ( t=6.78, P<0.01). After treatment, there were significant differences in recovery rates of menstruation and ovulation between observation group and control group [57.14% (24/42), 47.62% (20/42) vs. 80.95% (34/42), 69.05% (29/42); χ2=5.57, 3.97, P<0.05]. Conclusion:Tongbu Qijing Acupuncture combined with metformin hydrochloride tablet can effectively improve syndromes and signs, regulate glucose-lipid metabolism, reduce IR and promote the recovery of menstruation and ovulation in patients with PCOS and IR.

Role of 11-oxygenated androgens in the diseases of pediatric hyperandrogenism / 国际儿科学杂志

Previously the diseases of pediatric hyperandrogenism were mainly diagnosed and evaluated by testing traditional androgens such as testosterone and androstenedione.However, clinical application has revealed a poor correlation between traditional androgens and the clinical manifestations of hyperandrogenism in some patients.It has been proposed that adrenal-derived 11-oxygenated androgen may also be involved in the course of this type of disease.The concentrations of 11-oxygenated androgen are elevated in androgen excess diseases, and they fulfill a variety of roles in human physiology and disease.This article discusses three aspects of the synthesis process, activity and content of 11-oxygenated androgen and their application in three androgen excess diseases: congenital adrenocortical hyperplasia, premature adrenarche and polycystic ovary syndrome, in order to help clinicians expand their clinical understanding and investigative thoughts on 11-oxygenated androgen.

Exploration of Mechanism of Xiaonang Tiaojing Decoction in Treating PCOS-IR Model Rats Based on AMH/AMHR ⅡSignaling Pathway / 中国实验方剂学杂志

ObjectiveTo investigate the mechanism of Xiaonang Tiaojing decoction（XNTJD）in improving polycystic ovary syndrome with insulin resistance（PCOS-IR）model rats based on anti-Müllerian hormone（AMH）/AMH type Ⅱ receptor（AMHRⅡ）signaling pathway. MethodForty-eight adult female SD rats were randomly divided into the blank group， model group， XNTJD group（11.4 g·kg-1·d-1） and Diane-35 group（0.21 g·kg-1·d-1）， PCOS-IR model was established by high-fat and high-sugar diet combined with letrozole in rats of all groups except the blank group， rats in the administration groups were given the corresponding dose of drugs by gavage for 15 days with an interval of 1 d every 4 d， normal saline of the same volume was given to the blank group and the model group. Estrous cycle was recorded daily during treatment. At the end of treatment， body weight and Lee's index were recorded， AMH， luteinizing hormone（LH）， LH/follicle stimulating hormone（FSH）， testosterone（T）and estradiol（E2）levels were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay（ELISA）， fasting plasma glucose（FPG）was measured by glucometer， fasting insulin（FINS） level was measured by radioimmunoassay（RIA）， and the insulin resistance index（HOMA-IR） and insulin sensitivity index（QUICKI）were calculated， triglyceride（TG）and total cholesterol（TC）levels were measured by automatic biochemical analyzer， hematoxylin-eosin（HE）staining was used to observe the morphological changes of the ovary， the levels of AMHRⅡ， bone morphogenetic protein-15（BMP-15）and Smad5 in ovarian tissues were detected by immunohistochemistry（IHC），Western blot was used to analyze the protein expression levels of AMHRⅡ， BMP-15 and Smad5. ResultCompared with the blank group， a large number of leukocytes were observed in the vaginal exfoliated cells of rats in the model group， mainly in diestrus， the levels of body weight， Lee's index， glucose-lipid metabolism indexes（FPG， FINS， HOMA-IR， TG， TC）， AMH and sex hormones（LH， LH/FSH， T）were significantly increased（P<0.01）， and QUICKI and E2 levels were significantly decreased（P<0.01）， there were more cystic bulges on the ovarian surface， more wet weight， more atretic and cystic dilated follicles in the ovarian tissues， and the thickness of granulosa cell layer was reduced without oocytes， the expression level of AMHRⅡ protein in ovarian tissues was significantly increased（P<0.01）， and the expression levels of BMP-15 and Smad5 proteins were significantly decreased（P<0.01）. Compared with the model group， the exfoliated cells in the vagina of rats treated with XNTJD group showed keratinocytes from the 5th to 6th day of treatment， and a stable estrous cycle gradually appeared， body weight， Lee's index， glucose-lipid metabolism indexes（FPG， FINS， HOMA-IR， TG， TC）， AMH and sex hormones（LH， LH/FSH， T）levels were significantly decreased（P<0.05， P<0.01）， QUICKI and E2 levels were significantly increased（P<0.01）， ovarian surface was smoother and lighter in wet weight， oocytes and mature follicles were observed in ovarian tissues， the thickness of granulosa cell layer increased and the morphology was intact， the expression levels of BMP-15 and Smad5 proteins were significantly increased（P<0.01）and the expression level of AMHRⅡ protein was significantly decreased（P<0.01）in ovarian tissues. ConclusionXNTJD may mediate the up-regulation of BMP-15 and Smad5 in ovarian tissues of PCOS-IR rats by down-regulating AMH/AMHRⅡ， thereby improving ovarian function， sex hormones and glucose-lipid metabolism levels in PCOS-IR rats.

Expression of PGRMC1 in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome and its molecular mechanism for regulating ovarian granulosa cell apoptosis and glucolipid metabolism / 中南大学学报(医学版)

OBJECTIVES@#Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine diseases in women with reproductive age, which is associated with hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance, and ovulatory dysfunction. Progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1) can mediate progesterone to inhibit the apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells and the growth of follicles, and to induce glucolipid metabolism disorder in ovarian granulosa cells, which is closely related to the occurrence and development of PCOS. This study aims to determine the expression of PGRMC1 in serum, ovarian tissue, ovarian granulosa cells, and follicular fluid in PCOS patients and non-PCOS patients, analyze the value of PGRMC1 in diagnosis and prognosis evaluation of PCOS, and investigate its molecular mechanism on ovarian granulosa cell apoptosis and glucolipid metabolism.@*METHODS@#A total of 123 patients were collected from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Guangdong Women and Children Hospital (hereinafter referred to as "our hospital") from August 2021 to March 2022 and divided into 3 groups: a PCOS pre-treatment group (n=42), a PCOS treatment group (n=36), and a control group (n=45). The level of PGRMC1 in serum was detected by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The diagnostic and prognostic value of PGRMC1 was evaluated in patients with PCOS by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve. Sixty patients who underwent a laparoscopic surgery from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in our hospital from January 2014 to December 2016 were collected and divided into a PCOS group and a control group (n=30). The expression and distribution of PGRMC1 protein in ovarian tissues were detected by immunohistochemical staining. Twenty-two patients were collected from Reproductive Medicine Center in our hospital from December 2020 to March 2021, and they divided into a PCOS group and a control group (n=11). ELISA was used to detect the level of PGRMC1 in follicular fluid; real-time RT-PCR was used to detect the expression level of PGRMC1 mRNA in ovarian granulosa cells. Human ovarian granular cell line KGN cells were divided into a scrambled group which was transfected with small interfering RNA (siRNA) without interference and a siPGRMC1 group which was transfected with specific siRNA targeting PGRMC1. The apoptotic rate of KGN cells was detected by flow cytometry. The mRNA expression levels of PGRMC1, insulin receptor (INSR), glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4), very low density lipoprotein receptor (VLDLR), and low density lipoprotein receptor (LDLR) were determined by real-time RT-PCR.@*RESULTS@#The serum level of PGRMC1 in the PCOS pre-treatment group was significantly higher than that in the control group (P<0.001), and the serum level of PGRMC1 in the PCOS treatment group was significantly lower than that in the PCOS pre-treatment group (P<0.001). The areas under curve (AUC) of PGRMC1 for the diagnosing and prognosis evaluation of PCOS were 0.923 and 0.893, respectively, and the cut-off values were 620.32 and 814.70 pg/mL, respectively. The positive staining was observed on both ovarian granulosa cells and ovarian stroma, which the staining was deepest in the ovarian granulosa cells. The average optical density of PGRMC1 in the PCOS group was significantly increased in ovarian tissue and ovarian granulosa cells than that in the control group (both P<0.05). Compared with the control group, the PGRMC1 expression levels in ovarian granulosa cells and follicular fluid in the PCOS group were significantly up-regulated (P<0.001 and P<0.01, respectively). Compared with the scrambled group, the apoptotic rate of ovarian granulosa cells was significantly increased in the siPGRMC1 group (P<0.01), the mRNA expression levels of PGRMC1 and INSR in the siPGRMC1 group were significantly down-regulated (P<0.001 and P<0.05, respectively), and the mRNA expression levels of GLUT4, VLDLR and LDLR were significantly up-regulated (all P<0.05).@*CONCLUSIONS@#Serum level of PGRMC1 is increased in PCOS patients, and decreased after standard treatment. PGRMC1 could be used as molecular marker for diagnosis and prognosis evaluation of PCOS. PGRMC1 mainly localizes in ovarian granulosa cells and might play a key role in regulating ovarian granulosa cell apoptosis and glycolipid metabolism.

Association of polycystic ovary syndrome with mammographic density in Turkish women: a population-based case-control study

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to investigate the breast densities and Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System scores of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome and normoovulatory women and to determine whether these patients constitute a high-risk population for breast cancer. METHODS: This retrospective case-control study was conducted at our institution between January 2022 and December 2022, involving patients diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome. Menstrual periods, hyperandrogenemic findings, and ultrasound reports of the patients were retrieved from our hospital's database. Patients who met at least two of the Rotterdam criteria were included in the polycystic ovary syndrome group. A total of 70 premenopausal patients over the age of 40 years, diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome, and 70 normoovulatory women, matched for age and body mass index, were included in the study. The two groups were compared regarding age at menarche, menstrual pattern, gravida, parity, levels of follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and estradiol, endometrial thickness, breast density category, and Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System classifications. RESULTS: Patients in the polycystic ovary syndrome group had a higher age at menarche (12.7 vs. 12.3, p=0.006). There was no difference between the gonadotropin levels in both groups. However, the estradiol level was higher in the polycystic ovary syndrome group (p<0.001). There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups in terms of breast density and Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System scores (p=0.319 and p=0.650, respectively). CONCLUSION: Although we can conclude that the risk of breast malignancy is not increased in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome, the impact of the complex hormonal status of polycystic ovary syndrome on breast cancer remains unclear in the literature.

Polycystic ovary syndrome and abdominal fat: is there a relationship?

SUMMARY OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to compare the distribution of fat tissue in non-obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome and those without the syndrome using dual-energy radiological densitometry. METHODS: This was a case-control study in which we enrolled women aged 14-39 years with polycystic ovary syndrome according to the Rotterdam criteria with a body mass index between 18.5 and 30 kg/m2. The control group comprised women with the same profile, but without polycystic ovary syndrome. Patients were treated at the Endocrinological Gynecology Outpatient Clinic of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of the Irmandade da Santa Casa de Misericórdia de São Paulo between 2019 and 2022. Anthropometric measurements were taken and the assessment of body composition was performed using dual-energy radiological densitometry. RESULTS: The sample comprised 57 women: 37 in the polycystic ovary syndrome group and 20 in the control group. The mean age of the polycystic ovary syndrome group was 24.9 years (±6.9) with a mean body mass index of 60.8 kg/m2 (±8.5), and for the control group, it was 24.2 years (±6.9) with a mean body mass index of 58 kg/m2 (±8.4). Body composition was evaluated using dual-energy radiological densitometry and showed a higher value of trunk fat in the polycystic ovary syndrome group (44.1%, ±9.0) compared to the control group (35.2%, ±11.4), which was statistically significant (p=0.002). CONCLUSION: Our study showed that non-obese polycystic ovary syndrome patients have a higher concentration of abdominal fat, which is a risk factor for increased cardiovascular risk and insulin resistance. ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT02467751.

Does bisphenol A (BPA) participates in the pathogenesis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)?

Abstract PCOS is an endocrine disorder characterized by chronic anovulation, hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovaries. Its etiology is uncertain. It is debated whether BPA would be a component of the environmental factor in the etiology of PCOS. Contamination by BPA can occur from food packaging (exposure during the diet) and through skin absorption and/or inhalation. It can be transferred to the fetus via the placenta or to the infant via breast milk, and it can be found in follicular fluid, fetal serum, and amniotic fluid. The phenolic structure of BPA allows it to interact with Estrogen Receptors (ERs) through genomic signaling, in which BPA binds to nuclear ERα or Erβ, or through nongenomic signaling by binding to membrane ERs, prompting a rapid and intense response. With daily and constant exposure, BPA's tendency to bioaccumulate and its ability to activate nongenomic signaling pathways can alter women's metabolic and reproductive function, leading to hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance, obesity, atherogenic dyslipidemia, chronic inflammatory state, and anovulation and favoring PCOS. The harmful changes caused by BPA can be passed on to future generations without the need for additional exposure because of epigenetic modifications. Not only high BPA levels can produce harmful effects, but at low levels, BPA may be harmful when exposure occurs during the most vulnerable periods, such as the fetal and neonatal periods, as well as during the prepubertal age causing an early accumulation of BPA in the body. Learning how BPA participates in the pathogenesis of PCOS poses a challenge and further studies should be conducted.