γ-Linolenic acid ameliorates DHEA induced pro-inflammatory response in polycystic ovary syndrome via PPAR-γ signaling in rats

Reproductive toxicology of environmental endocrine-disrupting chemicals in women: a cohort study protocol

Introduction: Epidemiological evidence over the last few decades has consistently shown that exposure to endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is associated with adverse reproductive health outcomes, including male and female infertility, poor-pregnancy outcomes, and increased risk of diseases in childhood and beyond. To investigate the effects of EDCs and lifestyle on all aspects of reproduction (including early oocyte development, fertilization, embryo development, embryo implantation, abortion, and preterm birth). Methods: We performed this cohort study on patients receiving in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment. Biological samples including urine, serum, follicular fluid, semen, fetal tissue, decidua, and placenta, were obtained. Results: By studying the correlations between reproductive outcomes and environmental pollutant exposure and lifestyle, we determined the toxicological mechanisms and health effects of EDCs on female reproductive health. We found that higher concentrations of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances were correlated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Using specific biomarkers, we also detected the concentrations of organophosphorus flame retardants (OPFRs) in urine and found that OPFRs may disrupt hormone homeostasis. Discussion: All of these results reveal EDCs may disrupt female reproduction.

Sinapic acid modulates oxidative stress and metabolic disturbances to attenuate ovarian fibrosis in letrozole-induced polycystic ovary syndrome SD rats

Sinapic acid (SA) is renowned for its many pharmacological activities as a polyphenolic compound. The cause of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a commonly encountered array of metabolic and hormonal abnormalities in females, has yet to be determined. The present experiment was performed to evaluate the antifibrotic properties of SA in rats with letrozole-induced PCOS-related ovarian fibrosis. SA treatment successfully mitigated the changes induced by letrozole in body weight (BW) (p < .01) and relative ovary weight (p < .05). Histological observation revealed that SA reduced the number of atretic and cystic follicles (AFs) and (CFs) (p < .01), as well as ovarian fibrosis, in PCOS rats. Additionally, SA treatment impacted the serum levels of sex hormones in PCOS rats. Luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone (T) levels were decreased (p < .01, p < .05), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels were increased (p < .05). SA administration also decreased triglyceride (TG) (p < .01) and total cholesterol (TC) levels (p < .05) and increased high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels (p < .01), thereby alleviating letrozole-induced metabolic dysfunction in PCOS rats. Furthermore, SA treatment targeted insulin resistance (IR) and increased the messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of antioxidant enzymes in the ovaries of PCOS rats. Finally, SA treatment enhanced the activity of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-γ (PPAR-γ), reduced the activation of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1)/Smads, and decreased collagen I, α-smooth muscle actin (α-SMA), and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF) levels in the ovaries of PCOS rats. These observations suggest that SA significantly ameliorates metabolic dysfunction and oxidative stress and ultimately reduces ovarian fibrosis in rats with letrozole-induced PCOS.

A novel model based on necroptosis to assess progression for polycystic ovary syndrome and identification of potential therapeutic drugs

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a common endocrine and reproductive disorder, lacks precise diagnostic strategies. Necroptosis was found to be crucial in reproductive and endocrine disorders, but its function in PCOS remains unclear. We aimed to identify differentially diagnostic genes for necroptosis (NDDGs), construct a diagnostic model to assess the progression of PCOS and explore the potential therapeutic drugs.

Methods

Gene expression datasets were combined with weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and necroptosis gene sets to screen the differentially expressed genes for PCOS. Least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression analysis was used to construct a necroptosis-related gene signatures. Independent risk analyses were performed using nomograms. Pathway enrichment of NDDGs was conducted with the GeneMANIA database and gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA). Immune microenvironment analysis was estimated based on ssGSEA algorithm analysis. The Comparative Toxicogenomics Database (CTD) was used to explore potential therapeutic drugs for NDDGs. The expression of NDDGs was validated in GSE84958, mouse model and clinical samples.

Results

Four necroptosis-related signature genes, IL33, TNFSF10, BCL2 and PYGM, were identified to define necroptosis for PCOS. The areas under curve (AUC) of receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) for training set and validation in diagnostic risk model were 0.940 and 0.788, respectively. Enrichment analysis showed that NDDGs were enriched in immune-related signaling pathways such as B cells, T cells, and natural killer cells. Immune microenvironment analysis revealed that NDDGs were significantly correlated with 13 markedly different immune cells. A nomogram was constructed based on features that would benefit patients clinically. Several compounds, such as resveratrol, tretinoin, quercetin, curcumin, etc., were mined as therapeutic drugs for PCOS. The expression of the NDDGs in the validated set, animal model and clinical samples was consistent with the results of the training sets.

Conclusion

In this study, 4 NDDGs were identified to be highly effective in assessing the progression and prognosis of PCOS and exploring potential targets for PCOS treatment.

The Role of Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptors in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) constitutes the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. Patients usually suffer from severe menstrual irregularities, skin conditions, and insulin resistance-associated health conditions. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs) are nuclear receptor proteins that regulate gene expression. In order to investigate the role of PPARs in the pathophysiology of PCOS, we conducted a literature review using the MEDLINE and LIVIVO databases and were able to identify 74 relevant studies published between 2003 and 2023. Different study groups reached contradictory conclusions in terms of PPAR expression in PCOS. Interestingly, numerous natural agents were found to represent a novel, potent anti-PCOS treatment alternatives. In conclusion, PPARs seem to play a significant role in PCOS.

Effect of green cardamom on the expression of genes implicated in obesity and diabetes among obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a double blind randomized controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine disease in which related to obesity, metabolic disorders and is considered as one of the main causes of infertility in women. This trial was investigated the effects of green cardamom on the expression of genes implicated in obesity and diabetes among obese women with PCOS.

METHODS

One hundred ninety-four PCOS women were randomly divided two groups: intervention (n = 99; 3 g/day green cardamom) and control groups (n = 95). All of them were given low calorie diet. Anthropometric, glycemic and androgen hormones were assessed before and after 16-week intervention. The reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) method was used to measure fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO), peroxisome proliferative activating receptor- (PPAR-), carnitine palmitoyltransferase 1A (CPT1A), acetyl-CoA carboxylase beta (ACAB), leptin receptor (LEPR), ghrelin, and lamin A/C (LAMIN) genes expression in each group.

RESULTS

Anthropometric indices were significantly decreased after intervention in both two studied groups. Glycemic indices and androgen hormones were significantly improved in the intervention group compared to the control group. The expression levels of FTO, CPT1A, LEPR, and LAMIN were significantly downregulated compared to control group (P < 0.001), as well as, PPAR-y was significantly upregulated in the intervention group after intervention with green cardamom compared to control group (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

This current study showed that the administration of green cardamom is a beneficial approach for improving anthropometric, glycemic, and androgen hormones, as well as obesity and diabetes genes expression in PCOS women under the low-calorie diet.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

This trial was registered with the Iranian Clinical Trials Registry (registration number: IRCT20200608047697N1). 1 August, 2020; https://www.irct.ir/trial/48748.

Global Transcriptional Profiling of Granulosa Cells from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Patients: Comparative Analyses of Patients with or without History of Ovarian Hyperstimulation Syndrome Reveals Distinct Biomarkers and Pathways

Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is often a complication of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), the most frequent disorder of the endocrine system, which affects women in their reproductive years. The etiology of OHSS is multifactorial, though the factors involved are not apparent. In an attempt to unveil the molecular basis of OHSS, we conducted transcriptome analysis of total RNA extracted from granulosa cells from PCOS patients with a history of OHSS (n = 6) and compared them to those with no history of OHSS (n = 18). We identified 59 significantly dysregulated genes (48 down-regulated, 11 up-regulated) in the PCOS with OHSS group compared to the PCOS without OHSS group (p-value < 0.01, fold change >1.5). Functional, pathway and network analyses revealed genes involved in cellular development, inflammatory and immune response, cellular growth and proliferation (including DCN, VIM, LIFR, GRN, IL33, INSR, KLF2, FOXO1, VEGF, RDX, PLCL1, PAPPA, and ZFP36), and significant alterations in the PPAR, IL6, IL10, JAK/STAT and NF-κB signaling pathways. Array findings were validated using quantitative RT-PCR. To the best of our knowledge, this is the largest cohort of Saudi PCOS cases (with or without OHSS) to date that was analyzed using a transcriptomic approach. Our data demonstrate alterations in various gene networks and pathways that may be involved in the pathophysiology of OHSS. Further studies are warranted to confirm the findings.

Combined Transcriptomic and Metabolomic Analysis of Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Background. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex class of endocrine disorders with insulin resistance, compensatory hyperinsulinemia, and obesity. However, the pathogenesis and therapies of PCOS have not been fully elucidated. Exosomal miRNAs have the potential to serve as biomarkers and therapies for a wide range of medical conditions. Method. We collected follicular fluid from 5 PCOS patients and 5 healthy people. High-throughput sequencing technology to identify differentially expressed miRNAs and untargeted metabolome identify differential metabolites in follicular fluid exosomal. RT-qPCR and AUC analysis were performed. Result. miRNA high-throughput sequencing identified 124 differential miRNAs. RT-qPCR analysis confirmed the sequencing results. These differential miRNA target genes are mainly involved in metabolic pathways. Metabolomics studies identified 31 differential metabolites. miRNA and lncRNA coexpression networks in metabolic pathways rigorously screened 28 differentially expressed miRNAs. This network would identify miRNA signatures associated with metabolic processes in PCOS. Meanwhile, the area under curve of receiver operating characteristic revealed that hsa-miR-196a-3p, hsa-miR-143-5p, hsa-miR-106a-3p, hsa-miR-34a-5p, and hsa-miR-20a-5p were potential biomarkers for the diagnosis of PCOS. Conclusion. Collectively, these results demonstrate the potential pathogenesis of PCOS, and follicular fluid exosomal miRNAs may be efficient targets for the diagnosis and treatment of PCOS in long-term clinical studies.

The methyltransferase METTL3-mediated fatty acid metabolism revealed the mechanism of cinnamaldehyde on alleviating steatosis

BACKGROUND

As a primarily N6-methyladenosine methyltransferase, methyltransferase 3 (METTL3) plays a crucial role in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. However, its regulatory mechanism in steatosis remains unknown.

METHODS

Alpha mouse liver 12 (AML12) cells were induced by free fatty acids (FFA). Triglycerides, lipid droplet assay, and Oil Red O staining were performed to evaluate steatosis. The expression of METTL3 and cytochrome P450 family 4 subfamily f polypeptide 40 (CYP4F40) was measured using Western blotting, real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and dual-luciferase reporter assay. Triglycerides, total cholesterol, almandine aminotransferase, and aspartate aminotransferase were assayed after cinnamaldehyde treatment. Transcriptomics and metabolomics were performed to determine how METTL3 and cinnamaldehyde regulate steatosis.

RESULTS

METTL3 protein level was reduced in FFA-induced steatosis in AML12 cells, and METTL3 knockdown aggravated the steatosis. Cinnamaldehyde alleviated steatosis by increasing METTL3 expression. A combined transcriptomics and metabolomics analysis revealed that METTL3 knockdown reduced CYP4F40 expression and reduced the level of capric acid, gamma-linolenic acid, arachidonic acid, and docosapentaenoic acid. Cinnamaldehyde promoted CYP4F40 expression by increasing METTL3 and increased the levels of capric acid, gamma-linolenic acid, arachidonic acid, and docosapentaenoic acid. Finally, the beneficial effects of cinnamaldehyde on steatosis were reversed after METTL3 knockdown.

CONCLUSIONS

METTL3 knockdown aggravated steatosis in AML12 cells through CYP4F40-mediated fatty acid metabolism, and cinnamaldehyde alleviated steatosis via the METTL3-CYP4F40 pathway.

Rhamnocitrin Attenuates Ovarian Fibrosis in Rats with Letrozole-Induced Experimental Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine-related cause of infertility in women and has an unknown etiology. Studies have shown that rhamnocitrin (Rha) exhibits positive effects on the reproductive system. This study investigated Rha's antifibrotic effects on PCOS rats and revealed its underlying mechanisms. Female SD rats were randomized into 4 groups (n = 8, each); the control group received tea oil by intraperitoneal injection and 1% w/v CMC by oral gavage; the PCOS group received letrozole (1 mg/kg); the PCOS+Rha group received letrozole and Rha (5 mg/kg); the PCOS+Met group received letrozole and Met (265 mg/kg) for 21 days. At the study end, Rha treatment restored letrozole-induced alterations in the relative ovarian weights, body weight, and relative weights of uterine and visceral adipose tissues. Histological observation showed that Rha ameliorates ovarian structure and fibrosis in PCOS. Administration of Rha reduced letrozole-induced metabolic dysfunction by ameliorating the levels of TC, TG, and HDL-C in the PCOS rats. Rha treatment also modulated the serum levels of sex hormones, which decreased T, E2, and LH and increased FSH in PCOS rats. In addition, Rha treatment modulated insulin resistance and increased gene expression of antioxidant enzymes (Cat, Sod2, Gpx3, Mgst1, Prdx3, Gsta4, Gsr, and Sod1) in the ovaries of the PCOS rats. Finally, Rha treatment appeared to increase the activity of PPAR-γ and inhibit the TGF-β1/Smad pathway in the ovaries of the PCOS rats. Our findings suggest that Rha significantly ameliorated metabolic disturbances and ovarian fibrosis in the PCOS rats. Rha perhaps is an effective compound for preventing ovarian fibrosis in the future.

Can polyunsaturated fatty acids regulate Polycystic Ovary Syndrome via TGF-β signalling?

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a metabolic condition that affects women in their reproductive age by altering the ovarian hormone levels, leading to infertility. Increased inflammation, insulin resistance, hyperandrogenism, irregular menses, and infertility are the causes of morbidity when PCOS is the disease in question. PCOS is considered a multifactorial disease resulting from the disruption of multiple signalling pathways. Hence, the mono-targeted drugs are hardly adequate and conventional therapeutic strategies provide only palliative care. Studies show that the consumption of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) regulates menstrual cycle, decrease testosterone and insulin levels, and improve metabolic health. This could favourably affect diabetes and infertility. In recent years, the fibrillin-3 gene has been linked to PCOS. Fibrillins along with the molecules in the extracellular matrix modulate the Transforming Growth Factor-β (TGF-β) signalling. So, mutations in the fibrillin-3 gene could cause TGF-β dysregulation, which might further contribute to PCOS pathogenesis. Therefore, the current study aimed to understand whether PUFAs could manage PCOS via the TGF-β pathway and function as a therapeutic agent for PCOS and its complications. To understand this, we have focused on the involvement of TGF-β in PCOS pathogenesis, discussed the effect of PUFA on hormones, insulin resistance, inflammation, obesity, adiponectin, and cardiovascular conditions. Using PUFAs to target TGF-β or its receptor molecules to modulate the TGF-β production might function as a treatment option for PCOS. PUFA therapy could be a good alternative, supportive medication for PCOS.

Association of metabolic and inflammatory markers with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS): an update

BACKGROUND

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most prevalent metabolic disorder in reproductive-age women. It is indeed a multifactorial condition evidenced by ovarian dysfunction, hyperandrogenaemia, infertility, hormonal imbalance and chronic anovulation. Experimental evidence infers that PCOS women are prone to cardiovascular problems and insulin resistance.

PURPOSE

To furnish the details about the association of inflammatory markers in PCOS.

DESIGN

An extensive literature search on PubMed, science direct and google scholar has been performed for articles about PCOS and inflammation in PCOS. A comprehensive analysis using original articles, reviews, systemic and meta-analysis was conducted for better understanding the relationship between inflammatory cytokines and PCOS.

RESULTS

The inflammatory markers perform a substantial part in managing the functions of the ovary. Any disturbances in their levels can lead to ovarian dysfunction. Inflammatory markers are associated with PCOS pathogenesis. The interplay between inflammatory cytokines in the PCOS ovary strongly implies that inflammation is one of the most potent risk factors of PCOS.

CONCLUSION

Inflammatory markers have a significant role in regulating the ovary. This manuscript highlights the significance of metabolic and inflammatory markers with PCOS. Since PCOS is always considered as a metabolic disorder, researchers can also consider focusing on the relationship between the inflammatory markers in PCOS to establish a new treatment or management of the disease and to improve women's health.