Potential for NPY receptor-related therapies for polycystic ovary syndrome: an updated review

The role of NPY signaling pathway in diagnosis, prognosis and treatment of stroke

Neuropeptide Y (NPY), an extensively distributed neurotransmitter within the central nervous system (CNS), was initially detected and isolated from the brain of a pig in 1982. By binding to its G protein-coupled receptors, NPY regulates immune responses and contributes to the pathogenesis of numerous inflammatory diseases. The hippocampus contained the maximum concentration in the CNS, with the cerebral cortex, hypothalamus, thalamus, brainstem, and cerebellum following suit. This arrangement suggests that the substance has a specific function within the CNS. More and more studies have shown that NPY is involved in the physiological and pathological mechanism of stroke, and its serum concentration can be one of the specific biomarkers of stroke and related complications because of its high activity, broad and complex effects. By summarizing relevant literature, this article aims to gain a thorough understanding of the potential clinical applications of NPY in the treatment of stroke, identification of stroke and its related complications, and assessment of prognosis.

Neuropeptide Network of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome - A Review

BACKGROUND

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), the ubiquitous reproductive disorder, has been documented as highly prevalent (6-9%) in India. 10% of women globally are predicted to have the disease. The highly mutable endocrinopathy, with differential clinical criteria for each diagnosis of PCOS, can mask the severity of the syndrome by influencing the incidence and occurrence of PCOS.

AREA COVERED

When there is a solid theoretical hypothesis between the neuroendocrine origin and ovarian origin of PCOS, recent evidence supports the neuroendocrine derivation of the pathology. It is considered of neuroendocrine basis - as it controls the ovarian axis and acts as a delicate target because it possesses receptors for various gonadal hormones, neurotransmitters & neuropeptides. Can these neuroendocrine alterations, variations in central brain circuits, and neuropeptide dysregulation be the tie that would link the pathophysiology of the disorder, the occurrence of all the 1˚ and 2˚ symptoms like polycystic ovaries, hyperandrogenism, obesity, insulin resistance, etc., in PCOS?

CONCLUSION

This review anticipates providing a comprehensive overview of how neuropeptides such as Kisspeptin, Neurokinin B, Dynorphin A, β-Endorphin, Nesfatin, Neuropeptide Y, Phoenixin, Leptin, Ghrelin, Orexin, and Neudesin influence PCOS, the understanding of which may help to establish potential drug candidates against precise targets in these central circuits.

Androgen excess: a hallmark of polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a metabolic, reproductive, and psychological disorder affecting 6-20% of reproductive women worldwide. However, there is still no cure for PCOS, and current treatments primarily alleviate its symptoms due to a poor understanding of its etiology. Compelling evidence suggests that hyperandrogenism is not just a primary feature of PCOS. Instead, it may be a causative factor for this condition. Thus, figuring out the mechanisms of androgen synthesis, conversion, and metabolism is relatively important. Traditionally, studies of androgen excess have largely focused on classical androgen, but in recent years, adrenal-derived 11-oxygenated androgen has also garnered interest. Herein, this Review aims to investigate the origins of androgen excess, androgen synthesis, how androgen receptor (AR) signaling mediates adverse PCOS traits, and the role of 11-oxygenated androgen in the pathophysiology of PCOS. In addition, it provides therapeutic strategies targeting hyperandrogenism in PCOS.