The independent effects of polycystic ovary syndrome and obesity on serum concentrations of gonadotrophins and sex steroids in premenopausal women

Hyperandrogenism and Its Possible Effects on Endometrial Receptivity: A Review

Endometrial receptivity is a state of the endometrium defined by its readiness for embryo implantation. When the receptivity of the endometrium is impaired due to hyperandrogenism or androgen excess, this condition can lead to pregnancy loss or infertility. Hyperandrogenism encompasses a wide range of clinical manifestations, including polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), idiopathic hirsutism, hirsutism and hyperandrogaenemia, non-classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia, hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance, acanthosis nigricans (HAIR-AN), ovarian or adrenal androgen-secreting neoplasms, Cushing's syndrome, and hyperprolactinaemia. Recurrent miscarriages have been shown to be closely related to elevated testosterone levels, which alter the endometrial milieu so that it is less favourable for embryo implantation. There are mechanisms for endometrial receptivity that are affected by excess androgen. The HOXA gene, aVβ3 integrin, CDK signalling pathway, MECA-79, and MAGEA-11 were the genes and proteins affect endometrial receptivity in the presence of a hyperandrogenic state. In this review, we would like to explore the other manifestations of androgen excess focusing on causes other than PCOS and learn possible mechanisms of endometrial receptivity behind androgen excess leading to pregnancy loss or infertility.

Multiomics Analysis-Based Biomarkers in Diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovarian syndrome is an utmost communal endocrine, psychological, reproductive, and metabolic disorder that occurs in women of reproductive age with extensive range of clinical manifestations. This may even lead to long-term multiple morbidities including obesity, diabetes mellitus, insulin resistance, cardiovascular disease, infertility, cerebrovascular diseases, and ovarian and endometrial cancer. Women affliction from PCOS in midst assemblage of manifestations allied with menstrual dysfunction and androgen exorbitance, which considerably affects eminence of life. PCOS is recognized as a multifactorial disorder and systemic syndrome in first-degree family members; therefore, the etiology of PCOS syndrome has not been copiously interpreted. The disorder of PCOS comprehends numerous allied health conditions and has influenced various metabolic processes. Due to multifaceted pathophysiology engaging several pathways and proteins, single genetic diagnostic tests cannot be supportive to determine in straight way. Clarification of cellular and biochemical pathways and various genetic players underlying PCOS could upsurge our consideration of pathophysiology of this syndrome. It is requisite to know pathophysiological relationship between biomarker and their reflection towards PCOS disease. Biomarkers deliver vibrantly and potent ways to apprehend the spectrum of PCOS with applications in screening, diagnosis, characterization, and monitoring. This paper relies on the endeavor to point out many candidates as potential biomarkers based on omics technologies, thus highlighting correlation between PCOS disease with innovative technologies. Therefore, the objective of existing review is to encapsulate more findings towards cutting-edge advances in prospective use of biomarkers for PCOS disease. Discussed biomarkers may be fruitful in guiding therapies, addressing disease risk, and predicting clinical outcomes in future.

Deconstructing a Syndrome: Genomic Insights Into PCOS Causal Mechanisms and Classification

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is among the most common disorders in women of reproductive age, affecting up to 15% worldwide, depending on the diagnostic criteria. PCOS is characterized by a constellation of interrelated reproductive abnormalities, including disordered gonadotropin secretion, increased androgen production, chronic anovulation, and polycystic ovarian morphology. It is frequently associated with insulin resistance and obesity. These reproductive and metabolic derangements cause major morbidities across the lifespan, including anovulatory infertility and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Despite decades of investigative effort, the etiology of PCOS remains unknown. Familial clustering of PCOS cases has indicated a genetic contribution to PCOS. There are rare Mendelian forms of PCOS associated with extreme phenotypes, but PCOS typically follows a non-Mendelian pattern of inheritance consistent with a complex genetic architecture, analogous to T2D and obesity, that reflects the interaction of susceptibility genes and environmental factors. Genomic studies of PCOS have provided important insights into disease pathways and have indicated that current diagnostic criteria do not capture underlying differences in biology associated with different forms of PCOS. We provide a state-of-the-science review of genetic analyses of PCOS, including an overview of genomic methodologies aimed at a general audience of non-geneticists and clinicians. Applications in PCOS will be discussed, including strengths and limitations of each study. The contributions of environmental factors, including developmental origins, will be reviewed. Insights into the pathogenesis and genetic architecture of PCOS will be summarized. Future directions for PCOS genetic studies will be outlined.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and the Neuroendocrine Consequences of Androgen Excess

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a major endocrine disorder strongly associated with androgen excess and frequently leading to female infertility. Although classically considered an ovarian disease, altered neuroendocrine control of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons in the brain and abnormal gonadotropin secretion may underpin PCOS presentation. Defective regulation of GnRH pulse generation in PCOS promotes high luteinizing hormone (LH) pulsatile secretion, which in turn overstimulates ovarian androgen production. Early and emerging evidence from preclinical models suggests that maternal androgen excess programs abnormalities in developing neuroendocrine circuits that are associated with PCOS pathology, and that these abnormalities are sustained by postpubertal elevation of endogenous androgen levels. This article will discuss experimental evidence, from the clinic and in preclinical animal models, that has significantly contributed to our understanding of how androgen excess influences the assembly and maintenance of neuroendocrine impairments in the female brain. Abnormal central gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) signaling has been identified in both patients and preclinical models as a possible link between androgen excess and elevated GnRH/LH secretion. Enhanced GABAergic innervation and drive to GnRH neurons is suspected to contribute to the pathogenesis and early manifestation of neuroendocrine derangement in PCOS. Accordingly, this article also provides an overview of GABA regulation of GnRH neuron function from prenatal development to adulthood to discuss possible avenues for future discovery research and therapeutic interventions. © 2022 American Physiological Society. Compr Physiol 12:3347-3369, 2022.

Does body mass index have an effect on the prevalence of various symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome and their associated risk factors?

The present cross-sectional study is an attempt to understand the effect of body mass index (BMI) on the prevalence of various symptoms of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and to evaluate its associated risk factors.

A total of 250 PCOS women diagnosed by Rotterdam Criteria (2003), age ranging from 18–45 years, attending OPD of Gynaecology and Obstetrics of PGIMER, Chandigarh, India were enrolled in the study. All the participants were divided in three groups according to their body mass index (BMI).

The polycystic ovaries (83.2%) were the most frequently occurring symptoms of PCOS followed by hirsutism (74.4%), oligomenorrhea (60%), seborrhea (45.2%) and acne (40%). Category wise frequency distribution showed higher prevalence of symptoms among women in overweight/obese category, which were further supported by correspondence analysis. Results of multivariate analysis revealed that marital status, type of diet, socio-economic status and physical activity level were potential risk factors contributing to severe manifestations of PCOS symptoms.

Obesity denoted as an important risk factor can exaggerate many symptoms of PCOS and also be a causative factor for menstrual disturbance.

Natural Molecules in the Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): An Analytical Review

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogenous disorder characterized by chronic ovulation dysfunction and hyperandrogenism. It is considered the most common endocrinological disorder, affecting up to 25% of women of reproductive age, and associated with long-term metabolic abnormalities predisposing to cardiovascular risk, such as insulin resistance (IR), dyslipidemia, endothelial dysfunction, and systemic inflammation. PCOS is also characterized by elevated serum levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), causing a condition of hyperandrogenism and a consequent altered ratio between LH and the follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). Over the years, several different approaches have been proposed to alleviate PCOS symptoms. Supplementation with natural molecules such as inositols, resveratrol, flavonoids and flavones, vitamin C, vitamin E and vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids may contribute to overcoming PCOS pathological features, including the presence of immature oocyte, IR, hyperandrogenism, oxidative stress and inflammation. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge about the efficacy of natural molecule supplementation in the management of PCOS.

Characterization of polycystic ovary syndrome among Flo app users around the world

BACKGROUND

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex and multi-faceted endocrine disorder that affects 5-20% of women. Literature is limited regarding potentially differing PCOS phenotypes among women around the world.

OBJECTIVE

To use Flo app technology to understand the multifaceted characteristics of PCOS across several countries and identify contributing risk factors to the development of this condition.

STUDY DESIGN

Flo is a widely used female health and wellbeing app with period tracking functionality that provides a globally representative and medically unbiased perspective on PCOS symptomatology. A chatbot dialog on PCOS was subsequently administered on the Flo application (app) to users from 142 countries (with at least 100 respondents) who have the app running in English during September-October 2019.

RESULTS

For analyses, we selected the five countries with the greatest number of respondents: US (n = 243,238), UK (n = 68,325), India (n = 40,092), Philippines (n = 35,131), and Australia (n = 29,926). Bloating was the most frequently reported symptom among PCOS-positive women and appeared to be the main predictor of PCOS in our model (odds ratio 3·76 [95% CI 3·60-3·94]; p < 0·0001). Additional top predictors of PCOS are high blood cholesterol and glucose levels. As BMI increased, the percentage of women who reported a physician-confirmed PCOS diagnosis also increased. However, women in India did not follow this trend.

CONCLUSION

Our findings are based on the largest known PCOS dataset and indicate that symptoms are more complex than previously understood. The most frequently reported symptoms (bloating, facial hirsutism, irregular cycles, hyperpigmentation, and baldness) are broader than those included in the Rotterdam criteria. Future work should reevaluate and refine the criteria utilized in PCOS diagnosis.

Serum betatrophin levels are significantly increased in obese patients compared to lean patients regardless to the presence of PCOS

Betatrophin, which regulates glucose metabolism, is primarily expressed in liver and fat tissue. We aimed to investigate betatrophin levels in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) that is the most common endocrine pathology in women of reproductive age. A total of 69 women were included in this prospective study: 35 patients with PCOS (18 obese and 17 lean) and 34 healthy controls (17 obese and 17 lean). Patients who met the criteria were compared regarding betatrophin levels and other hormonal values. Serum betatrophin level did not differ between obese PCOS patients and obese controls, and lean PCOS patients and lean controls; while significantly increased in obese PCOS patients and controls compared to lean PCOS patients and controls. Total testosterone and androstenedione were significantly higher in patients with PCOS than in controls both in the obese and lean groups, while sex hormone-binding globulin was significantly lower in patients with PCOS than in controls both in the obese and lean groups. However, remaining hormone values were similar between groups. Betatrophin level was significantly increased in obese patients compared to lean patients independent to the presence of PCOS.

A Systematic Review of the Effects of Exercise on Hormones in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

BACKGROUND

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder that is characterized by menstrual irregularity and elevated serum androgens, and is often accompanied by insulin resistance. The etiology of PCOS is unknown. Lifestyle interventions and weight loss, where appropriate, remain first-line treatments for women with PCOS. Regular physical activity is recommended for women with PCOS to maintain a healthy weight and cardiovascular fitness.

PURPOSE

To review the evidence for the impact of various exercise interventions on hormone levels in women with PCOS.

METHODS

A systematic review of original studies indexed in PubMed that utilized an exercise intervention in women with PCOS and reported hormone values pre- and post-intervention. Studies in which the effects of the exercise intervention could be determined were included.

RESULTS

Vigorous aerobic exercise improves insulin measures in women with PCOS. Resistance or strength training may improve androgen levels, though additional studies are warranted. Studies with yoga are limited but suggest improvements in androgens. Limited information is available on the impact of exercise on adipokines and anti-Müllerian hormone, warranting further investigation.

CONCLUSIONS

Recommended guidelines for women with PCOS include vigorous aerobic exercise and resistance training to improve measures of insulin sensitivity and androgen levels.

Regular Mindful Yoga Practice as a Method to Improve Androgen Levels in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Randomized, Controlled Trial

BACKGROUND

Holistic approaches are needed to complement existing therapies for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a common disorder affecting the health of reproductive-aged females.

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether thrice-weekly mindful yoga practice improves endocrine, cardiometabolic, or psychological parameters in women with PCOS.

METHODS

Thirty-one women with PCOS between the ages of 23 and 42 years and living in Erie County, Pennsylvania, were recruited for this randomized, controlled study arm, which was part of a larger 3-part investigation. Women were randomly assigned to either a mindful yoga intervention group or no intervention (control) group. Group classes were 1 hour, thrice weekly. Initial endocrine, cardiometabolic, and psychological measurements were compared with measurements taken after the 3-month intervention period. Measurements included free testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone, androstenedione, body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, fasting blood glucose and insulin levels, and anxiety and depression scores.

RESULTS

Twenty-two women completed the 3-month intervention period, 13 in the mindful yoga group and 9 in the control group. Paired comparisons of pre- and postintervention parameters indicated that women who completed the mindful yoga intervention had significantly lower free testosterone levels (5.96 vs 4.24 pg/mL; P<.05) and dehydroepiandrosterone levels that trended lower. Improved testosterone may persist for several months after completion of a 3-month, thrice-weekly mindful yoga intervention. Additionally, improvements were seen in measures of anxiety and depression.

CONCLUSION

The improvements observed suggest that regular mindful yoga practice can be a useful complementary therapeutic option for women with PCOS, particularly for improving serum androgen levels, a hallmark feature of PCOS. This improvement occurred in the absence of weight loss and may persist even if there is a lapse in practice. (ClinicalTrials.gov No. NCT03383484).

Gingival crevicular fluid levels of visfatin in patients with chronic periodontitis and polycystic ovary syndrome

Objective

Recently, the association between periodontal diseases and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has been established, and it has been revealed that visfatin levels increase in chronic periodontitis (CP) and PCOS. However, there was no study comparing the mean visfatin levels between advanced CP and PCOS. Therefore, the probable role of visfatin linking these diseases remains unknown, and this study was conducted to address this gap.

Methods

In this age- and weight-matched case-control study (cases with PCOS disease and controls without it), 110 female participants were divided into 4 groups based on clinical findings. The 1st group participants had both PCOS and advanced CP (n=30), 2nd group participants had only PCOS (n=25), 3rd group participants had only advanced CP (n=23), and 4th group comprised of healthy participants (n=32). Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay was used to investigate visfatin levels in the gingival crevicular fluid (GCF). Data were collected and analyzed using Stata software (version 11).

Results

The results revealed the significant effect of both PCOS and advanced CP on visfatin levels in the GCF (P<0.05).

Conclusion

According to the results of this study, the visfatin level in the GCF could be the probable link of association between PCOS and advanced CP.

UPLC/Q‑TOF‑MS based plasma metabolomics and clinical characteristics of polycystic ovarian syndrome

The present study aimed to develop novel diagnostic methods for polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) by screening and identifying specific PCOS‑associated metabolic markers using plasma metabolomics. Ultra‑performance liquid chromatography/quadrapole‑time of flight‑mass spectrometry was adopted to establish the plasma metabolic fingerprint of 49 patients and 50 normal controls, in order to screen the potential metabolic markers. In addition, these markers were integrated with the clinical indexes, followed by focused analysis to obtain diagnostic markers. The present results demonstrated that not only was the concentration of palmitoyl sphingomyelin in plasma of patients with PCOS significantly increased; however, a statistically significant difference between the two PCOS subgroups was additionally demonstrated. At the same time, the concentrations of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate in the plasma of patients of the subgroup 1 were significantly elevated. These markers were additionally integrated with the clinical index number of follicles in the left ovary and high‑density lipoprotein (HDL‑C), followed by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis, which demonstrated a diagnostic accuracy of ~90% in the control and the two subgroups. The integrated marker system consisting of palmitoyl sphingomyelin, cGMP and androsterone sulfate, as well as the number of left follicles and HDL‑C may be used for the accurate diagnosis and classification of PCOS. These results confirmed that the abnormalities in hormone metabolism and lipid metabolism disorder were primarily involved in the onset of PCOS.

Comparing the Effects of Combined Oral Contraceptives Containing Progestins With Low Androgenic and Antiandrogenic Activities on the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis in Patients With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

Different products of combined oral contraceptives (COCs) can improve clinical and biochemical findings in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) through suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis.

Objective

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the effects of COCs containing progestins with low androgenic and antiandrogenic activities on the HPG axis in patients with PCOS.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science databases (1980-2017) to identify randomized controlled trials or nonrandomized studies investigating the effect of COCs containing progestins with low androgenic and antiandrogenic activities, including the products containing desogestrel, cyproterone acetate, and drospirenone, on the HPG axis in patients with PCOS. In this meta-analysis, fixed and random effect models were used. Outcomes of interest were weighted mean differences (WMD) of hormonal parameters, including the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), LH-to-FSH ratio, estradiol, total testosterone, and sex hormone–binding globulin. Potential sources of heterogeneity were investigated using meta-regression and subgroup analyses. Subgroup analyses were performed based on the used progestin compound and treatment duration. We assessed quality of included studies and their risk of bias using Cochrane guidelines. Publication bias was assessed using Egger test and funnel plot.

Results

COC use was significantly associated with a decrease in gonadotropin levels, including FSH and LH. Use of products containing cyproterone acetate was associated with a decrease in FSH levels after 3 months (WMD=−0.48; 95% CI −0.81 to −0.15), 6 months (WMD=−2.33; 95% CI −3.48 to −1.18), and 12 months (WMD=−4.70; 95% CI −4.98 to −4.42) and a decrease in LH levels after 3 months (WMD=−3.57; 95% CI −5.14 to −1.99), 6 months (WMD=−5.68; 95% CI −9.57 to −1.80), and 12 months (WMD=−11.60; 95% CI −17.60 to −5.60). Use of COCs containing drospirenone for 6 months decreased FSH (WMD=−0.93; 95% CI −1.79 to −0.08) and LH (WMD=−4.59; 95% CI −7.53 to −1.66) levels. Data for products containing desogestrel were few, but this compound generally had no statistically significant influence on gonadotropin levels similar to that observed with COCs containing cyproterone acetate and drospirenone. Use of COCs was not associated with any significant change in LH-to-FSH ratio. COCs containing cyproterone acetate showed maximum effect on gonadotropin suppression. COCs containing cyproterone acetate significantly decreased estradiol concentrations, whereas those containing drospirenone exhibited no such effect. All COCs demonstrated improvement in androgenic profile and had the same effects on total testosterone and sex hormone–binding globulin concentrations. Progestin compound and treatment duration had no statistically significant effects on changing total testosterone and sex hormone–binding globulin levels.

Conclusions

COCs containing cyproterone acetate can effectively suppress gonadotropins, leading to a decrease in androgenic parameters. Although different products of COCs could significantly suppress the androgenic profile, it seems that products containing cyproterone acetate are more effective in suppressing gonadotropin and estradiol levels in patients with PCOS.

β cell function and insulin resistance in lean cases with polycystic ovary syndrome

Obesity is a major factor in development of insulin resistance (IR) and metabolic features in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients. Nearly two-thirds patients with PCOS (30 of 37 confirmed cases of PCOS) in our previous community based study were lean, in contrast to Caucasians. Metabolic parameters including IR and β cell function have not been characterized well in this group of lean PCOS. To study the metabolic features including IR and β cell function in lean PCOS patients, 53 patients with BMI, <23 kg/m² were compared with 71 obese PCOS and 45 age and body mass index matched controls. Lean patients had similar β cell function and IR as compared to controls and obese patients, though the latter group had more metabolic abnormality. Fasting c-peptide and its ratio to glucose were significantly higher in lean patients compared to controls. In subset of subjects with five point OGTT, disposition index and Matsuda index (MI) showed significant negative correlation with BMI and blood pressure. MI also negatively correlated with waist, WHR, and HOMAB. High fasting C-peptide is probably a class effect as is seen in both lean and obese PCOS.

Daytime decrease of prolactin levels is associated with PCOS regardless to nutritional status and other hormones levels

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study is to analyze daytime changes of prolactin level depending on nutritional status and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

STUDY DESIGN

One hundred and fifteen (69 normal weight, 21 overweight and 25 obese) diagnosed with PCOS and 77 (37 normal weight, 18 overweight and 22 obese) women - Non-PCOS without concomitant diseases were enrolled. Body mass and height were measured and BMI was calculated. Serum concentrations of FSH, LH, E2, testosterone, TSH and PRL were determined morning 6.00 a.m. after wake. Second measurement of PRL was performed at 4 p.m.

RESULTS

The daytime decrease of prolactin level was higher in PCOS than in Non-PCOS group regardless of nutritional status (normal weight 35.8 ± 26.0 vs. 24.3 ± 15.3 ng/mL; overweight 28.5 ± 25.4 vs. 17.5 ± 8.8 ng/mL and obese 23.2 ± 21.1 vs. 18.4 ± 11.6 ng/ml, respectively). However, in both PCOS and Non-PCOS daytime changes of prolactin level were higher in normal weight than overweight and obese women (35.8 ± 26.0 vs. 28.5 ± 25.4 vs. 23.2 ± 21.1 ng/mL and 24.3 ± 15.3 vs. 17.5 ± 8.8 vs. 18.4 ± 11.6 ng/mL, respectively). The multivariate regression analysis revealed that the daytime changes of prolactin level are proportional to TSH concentration and coexistence of PCOS as well as inversely relative to BMI.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusions, our results suggest that overweight and obesity decreased morning PRL level and impaired its daytime decrease, but coexistence of PCOS enlarged its.

The Pathogenesis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): The Hypothesis of PCOS as Functional Ovarian Hyperandrogenism Revisited

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) was hypothesized to result from functional ovarian hyperandrogenism (FOH) due to dysregulation of androgen secretion in 1989-1995. Subsequent studies have supported and amplified this hypothesis. When defined as otherwise unexplained hyperandrogenic oligoanovulation, two-thirds of PCOS cases have functionally typical FOH, characterized by 17-hydroxyprogesterone hyperresponsiveness to gonadotropin stimulation. Two-thirds of the remaining PCOS have FOH detectable by testosterone elevation after suppression of adrenal androgen production. About 3% of PCOS have a related isolated functional adrenal hyperandrogenism. The remaining PCOS cases are mild and lack evidence of steroid secretory abnormalities; most of these are obese, which we postulate to account for their atypical PCOS. Approximately half of normal women with polycystic ovarian morphology (PCOM) have subclinical FOH-related steroidogenic defects. Theca cells from polycystic ovaries of classic PCOS patients in long-term culture have an intrinsic steroidogenic dysregulation that can account for the steroidogenic abnormalities typical of FOH. These cells overexpress most steroidogenic enzymes, particularly cytochrome P450c17. Overexpression of a protein identified by genome-wide association screening, differentially expressed in normal and neoplastic development 1A.V2, in normal theca cells has reproduced this PCOS phenotype in vitro. A metabolic syndrome of obesity-related and/or intrinsic insulin resistance occurs in about half of PCOS patients, and the compensatory hyperinsulinism has tissue-selective effects, which include aggravation of hyperandrogenism. PCOS seems to arise as a complex trait that results from the interaction of diverse genetic and environmental factors. Heritable factors include PCOM, hyperandrogenemia, insulin resistance, and insulin secretory defects. Environmental factors include prenatal androgen exposure and poor fetal growth, whereas acquired obesity is a major postnatal factor. The variety of pathways involved and lack of a common thread attests to the multifactorial nature and heterogeneity of the syndrome. Further research into the fundamental basis of the disorder will be necessary to optimally correct androgen levels, ovulation, and metabolic homeostasis.

Association between BMI and gene expression of anti-Müllerian hormone and androgen receptor in human granulosa cells in women with and without polycystic ovary syndrome

BACKGROUND

Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is one of the most reliable markers of ovarian reserve. There is evidence which suggests that BMI may be associated with gene expression of AMH, AMH type II receptor (AMHR-II) and androgen receptor (AR) in human granulosa cells (GC) in women with and without polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the association between BMI and gene expression of AMH, AMHR-II and AR in human GC in women with and without PCOS.

DESIGN, PATIENTS AND MEASUREMENTS

In a cross-sectional study, hormonal profiles were measured among 38 patients with PCOS and 38 subjects without PCOS aged 18-40. AMH, AMHR-II and AR mRNA levels were quantified in cumulus GC. Pearson correlation and multiple linear regressions were used to assess the relationships.

RESULTS

Quantitative RT-PCR demonstrated that AMH and AMHR-II expression were negatively correlated with BMI (r = -0·39, P < 0·001 for AMH and r = -0·49, P < 0·001 for AMHR-II), whereas AR expression was positively correlated with BMI (r = 0·46, P < 0·001).

CONCLUSIONS

There is a negative association between AMH, AMHR-II expression and BMI, and a positive association between AR expression and BMI in the GC of PCOS and non-PCOS women.

Association of obesity and overweight with the prevalence of insulin resistance, pre-diabetes and clinical-biochemical characteristics among infertile Mexican women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVE

To study the association of obesity and overweight with the prevalence of insulin resistance (IR), pre-diabetes and clinical-biochemical characteristics among infertile Mexican women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

DESIGN

Retrospective cross-sectional study.

SETTING

Level-three medical institution, an infertility clinic in Mexico City.

PARTICIPANTS

We included infertile Mexican women with diagnosis of PCOS according to the Rotterdam criteria: group 1 (n=83), normal weight (body mass index (BMI) 18.5-24.9 kg/m(2)); group 2 (n=217), overweight (BMI 25-29.9 kg/m(2)); and group 3 (n=238), obese (BMI≥30 kg/m(2)).

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

IR was determined by homeostatic model assessment (HOMA) >2.5 and pre-diabetes by fasting glucose between 5.6 and 6.9 mmol/L and/or glucose value between 7.8 and 11 mmol/L at 2 hours during an oral glucose tolerance test. We compared clinical-biochemical characteristics among groups.

RESULTS

Prevalence of IR for groups 1, 2 and 3 was 19.3%, 56.2% and 78.2%; overweight and obesity increase the IR OR (CI 95%) to 5.3 (2.9 to 9.8) and 14.9 (8.0 to 28), respectively. Prevalence of pre-diabetes for groups 1, 2 and 3 was 7.2%, 17.5% and 31.5%; overweight and obesity increase the pre-diabetes OR (CI 95%) to 2.7 (1.1 to 6.7) and 5.9 (2.4 to 14), respectively. Acanthosis nigricans was more frequent in group 3 than group 1. Free Androgen Index (FAI) and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels were lower in group 1 than in groups 2 and 3. Progesterone and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) levels were higher in group 1 than in groups 2 and 3. Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) was higher in group 1 than group 3.

CONCLUSIONS

Obese and overweight infertile Mexican women with PCOS, attending to an infertility clinic, have a higher prevalence of IR and pre-diabetes compared with normal-weight women with PCOS. Therapeutic interventions should include those that improved metabolic functioning prior to attempting pregnancy in these groups of women.

Diet-induced obesity exacerbates metabolic and behavioral effects of polycystic ovary syndrome in a rodent model

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrinopathy affecting women of reproductive age. Although a comorbidity of PCOS is obesity, many are lean. We hypothesized that increased saturated fat consumption and obesity would exacerbate metabolic and stress indices in a rodent model of PCOS. Female rats were implanted with the nonaromatizable androgen dihydrotestosterone (DHT) or placebo pellets prior to puberty. Half of each group was maintained ad libitum on either a high-fat diet (HFD; 40% butter fat calories) or nutrient-matched low-fat diet (LFD). Irrespective of diet, DHT-treated animals gained more body weight, had irregular cycles, and were glucose intolerant compared with controls on both diets. HFD/DHT animals had the highest levels of fat mass and insulin resistance. DHT animals demonstrated increased anxiety-related behavior in the elevated plus maze by decreased distance traveled and time in the open arms. HFD consumption increased immobility during the forced-swim test. DHT treatment suppressed diurnal corticosterone measurements in both diet groups. In parallel, DHT treatment significantly dampened stress responsivity to a mild stressor. Brains of DHT animals showed attenuated c-Fos activation in the ventromedial hypothalamus and arcuate nucleus; irrespective of DHT-treatment, however, all HFD animals had elevated hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus c-Fos activation. Whereas hyperandrogenism drives overall body weight gain, glucose intolerance, anxiety behaviors, and stress responsivity, HFD consumption exacerbates the effect of androgens on adiposity, insulin resistance, and depressive behaviors.

Adiponectin as serum biomarker of insulin resistance in patients with polycystic ovarian syndrome

OBJECTIVE

To examine the role of adiponectin as a biomarker of insulin resistance in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

BACKGROUND

PCOS is associated with metabolic syndrome, which correlates to increased cardiovascular risk in these patients. Adiponectin is decreased in obese individuals.

METHODS

Ninety women with PCOS (45 with and 45 without metabolic syndrome) were enrolled in this study. Anthropometric variables, serum concentrations of fasting glucose, insulin, triglycerides, lipoproteins, cholesterol, testosterone and adiponectin were measured in all patients. Insulin sensitivity was examined in all patients. Numerical values were analyzed by t-tests and categorical data were analyzed by Chi-square test. Multiple regression analyses were performed to detect the factors that contributed to insulin resistance.

RESULTS

Metabolic syndrome predicted insulin resistance in PCOS patients. Serum adiponectin levels were suppressed in insulin resistant compared to insulin sensitive patients (10.7 ± 4.3 µg/mL, p < 0.001). Multiple linear regression analysis revealed for every 1 µg increase in adiponectin, insulin sensitivity index increases by 0.1 (p = 0.016). Serum testosterone failed to correlate with insulin sensitivity.

CONCLUSION

Serum adiponectin levels were suppressed in patients with both metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance. This protein could be used as a biomarker to distinguish the patients at a higher risk of diabetes and cardiovascular morbidity.

The altered mononuclear cell-derived cytokine response to glucose ingestion is not regulated by excess adiposity in polycystic ovary syndrome

CONTEXT

Excess adipose tissue is a source of inflammation. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a proinflammatory state and is often associated with excess abdominal adiposity (AA) alone and/or frank obesity.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the effect of glucose ingestion on cytokine release from mononuclear cells (MNC) in women with PCOS with and without excess AA and/or obesity.

DESIGN

A cross-sectional study.

SETTING

Academic medical center.

PATIENTS

Twenty-three women with PCOS (seven normal weight with normal AA, eight normal weight with excess AA, eight obese) and 24 ovulatory controls (eight normal weight with normal AA, eight normal weight with excess AA, eight obese).

INTERVENTION

Three-hour 75-g oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Body composition was measured by dual energy x-ray absorptiometry. Insulin sensitivity was derived from the OGTT (ISOGTT). TNFα, IL-6, and IL-1β release was measured in supernatants of cultured MNC isolated from blood samples drawn while fasting and 2 hours after glucose ingestion.

RESULTS

Insulin sensitivity was lower in obese subjects regardless of PCOS status and in normal-weight women with PCOS compared with normal-weight controls regardless of body composition status. In response to glucose ingestion, MNC-derived TNFα, IL-6, and IL-1β release decreased in both normal-weight control groups but failed to suppress in either normal-weight PCOS group and in obese women regardless of PCOS status. For the combined groups, the cytokine responses were negatively correlated with insulin sensitivity and positively correlated with abdominal fat and androgens.

CONCLUSIONS

Women with PCOS fail to suppress MNC-derived cytokine release in response to glucose ingestion, and this response is independent of excess adiposity. Nevertheless, a similar response is also a feature of obesity per se. Circulating MNC and excess adipose tissue are separate and distinct sources of inflammation in this population.

Childhood obesity and its impact on the development of adolescent PCOS

Obesity exacerbates the reproductive and metabolic manifestations of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The symptoms of PCOS often begin in adolescence, and the rising prevalence of peripubertal obesity has prompted concern that the prevalence and severity of adolescent PCOS is increasing in parallel. Recent data have disclosed a high prevalence of hyperandrogenemia among peripubertal adolescents with obesity, suggesting that such girls are indeed at risk for developing PCOS. Obesity may impact the risk of PCOS via insulin resistance and compensatory hyperinsulinemia, which augments ovarian/adrenal androgen production and suppresses sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), thereby increasing androgen bioavailability. Altered luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion plays an important role in the pathophysiology of PCOS, and although obesity is generally associated with relative reductions of LH, higher LH appears to be the best predictor of increased free testosterone among peripubertal girls with obesity. Other potential mechanisms of obesity-associated hyperandrogenemia include enhanced androgen production in an expanded fat mass and potential effects of abnormal adipokine/cytokine levels. Adolescents with PCOS are at risk for comorbidities such as metabolic syndrome and impaired glucose tolerance, and concomitant obesity compounds these risks. For all of these reasons, weight loss represents an important therapeutic target in obese adolescents with PCOS.

Anthropometric characteristics and dietary pattern of women with polycystic ovary syndrome

OBJECTIVE

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age. PCOS is considered to be not only a reproductive endocrinopathy, but also a metabolic disorder. The objective of the present study was to characterize the anthropometric and dietary profile of women with PCOS and to compare it with that of healthy age-matched women.

DESIGN

In this case-control study, 65 women with PCOS served as cases. The control group consisted of 65 age-matched healthy women. For each participant, demographic, anthropometric and dietary intake data were gathered and compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference between the mean of the body mass index of the two groups, but the mean of waist circumference was significantly higher in the PCOS group, than the control group (P = 0.016). Compared to the normal weight PCOS patients, a significantly higher percentage of overweight patients had hirsutism (P = 0.009). In dietary analysis, women with PCOS consumed more calories and more fat than healthy women (P = 0.001 and P = 0.019, respectively).

CONCLUSION

It is concluded that in PCOS patients, android obesity is a common feature and this abdominal adiposity may be related to the syndrome's complications. PCOS symptoms were more severe in overweight patients than the normal weight. Regarding the dietary pattern, it was indicated that patients with PCOS consume more calories and more fat in their diets and this might have been correlated to their disease.

The effect of obesity on polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis

While many women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are overweight, obese or centrally obese, the effect of excess weight on the outcomes of PCOS is inconsistent. The review aimed to assess the effects of overweight, obesity and central obesity on the reproductive, metabolic and psychological features of PCOS. MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) and PSYCINFO were searched for studies reporting outcomes according to body mass index categories or body fat distribution. Data were presented as mean difference or risk ratio (95% confidence interval). This review included 30 eligible studies. Overweight or obese women with PCOS had decreased sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), increased total testosterone, free androgen index, hirsutism, fasting glucose, fasting insulin, homeostatic model assessment-insulin resistance index and worsened lipid profile. Obesity significantly worsened all metabolic and reproductive outcomes measured except for hirsutism when compared to normal weight women with PCOS. Overweight women had no differences in total testosterone, hirsutism, total-cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol compared to normal weight women and no differences in SHBG and total testosterone compared to obese women. Central obesity was associated with higher fasting insulin levels. These results suggest that prevention and treatment of obesity is important for the management of PCOS.

Inflammation in response to glucose ingestion is independent of excess abdominal adiposity in normal-weight women with polycystic ovary syndrome

CONTEXT

Inflammation and excess abdominal adiposity (AA) are often present in normal-weight women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

OBJECTIVE

We determined the effects of hyperglycemia on nuclear factor-κB (NFκB) activation in mononuclear cells (MNC) of normal-weight women with PCOS with and without excess AA.

DESIGN

This was a prospective controlled study.

SETTING

The study was conducted at an academic medical center.

PATIENTS

Fifteen normal-weight, reproductive-age women with PCOS (seven normal AA, eight excess AA) and 16 body composition-matched controls (eight normal AA, eight excess AA) participated in the study.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Body composition was measured by dual-energy absorptiometry. Insulin sensitivity was derived from an oral glucose tolerance test (IS(OGTT)). Activated NFκB and the protein content of p65 and inhibitory-κB were quantified from MNC, and TNFα and C-reactive protein (CRP) were measured in plasma obtained from blood drawn while fasting and 2 h after glucose ingestion.

RESULTS

Compared with controls, both PCOS groups exhibited lower IS(OGTT), increases in activated NFκB and p65 protein, and decreases in inhibitory-κB protein. Compared with women with PCOS with excess AA, those with normal AA exhibited higher testosterone levels and lower TNFα and CRP levels. For the combined groups, the percent change in NFκB activation was negatively correlated with IS(OGTT) and positively correlated with androgens. TNFα and CRP were positively correlated with abdominal fat.

CONCLUSION

In normal-weight women with PCOS, the inflammatory response to glucose ingestion is independent of excess AA. Circulating MNC and excess AA are separate and unique sources of inflammation in this population.

Clinical characteristics, metabolic features, and phenotype of Chinese women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a large-scale case-control study

AIM

The Rotterdam criteria extend the phenotypic spectrum of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The study was to investigate the clinical and biochemical features of a large-scale clinic based on the samples of Chinese women and to evaluate the value of Rotterdam criteria on Chinese PCOS women.

METHODS

One thousand four hundred and four Chinese women were involved in our study, among whom, 719 cases were diagnosed as PCOS based on 2003 Rotterdam criteria, and 685 women without history of hyperandrogenism and with regular menstrual cycles were recruited as control. Clinical features, ultrasonographic (ovarian follicle number and volume), hormonal and metabolic parameters were commenced as outcome measures.

RESULTS

Among 719 PCOS women, 6.1 % had hirsutism, 13.3 % had acne, 21.1 % had hyperandrogenism, 94.2 % had polycystic ovaries on ultrasonographic examination, and 88.6 % had menstrual abnormality. About one-third of the total PCOS patients were insulin resistant. The most frequent PCOS phenotype is the non-hyperandrogenic phenotype (O + P). Total testosterone, LH/FSH ratio, body mass index (BMI), and Ferriman and Gallwey scores (F-G) were all significantly higher in PCOS groups compared with non-PCOS group. Women with PCOS and obesity had higher serum testosterone, fasting insulin, longer menstrual cycle and larger ovarian follicle number, and LH/FSH ratio, estradiol or ovarian volume were similar between obese and normal BMI women. The LH level was statistically lower in the obese PCOS group.

CONCLUSIONS

Rotterdam criteria are generally applicable to Chinese population. Chinese women with PCOS showed lower rates of hyperandrogenemia, hirsutism, obesity, and insulin resistance. Obesity aggravates menstrual irregularity and increases the follicle number and serum total testosterone level.

Hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress is independent of excess abdominal adiposity in normal-weight women with polycystic ovary syndrome

STUDY QUESTION

What is the effect of glucose ingestion on leukocytic reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation in normal-weight women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) with and without excess abdominal adiposity (AA)?

SUMMARY ANSWER

Normal-weight women with PCOS exhibit an increase in leukocytic ROS generation in response to glucose ingestion, and this increase is independent of excess AA.

WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY

Excess adipose tissue is a source of oxidative stress. Normal-weight women with PCOS exhibit oxidative stress and can have excess AA.

STUDY DESIGN AND SIZE

This is a cross-sectional study involving 30 reproductive-age women.

PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING AND METHODS

Fourteen normal-weight women with PCOS (6 normal AA, 8 excess AA) and 16 body composition-matched controls (8 normal AA, 8 excess AA) underwent body composition assessment by dual-energy absorptiometry and an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) at a university medical center. Insulin sensitivity was derived from the OGTT (IS(OGTT)). Blood was drawn while fasting and 2 h after glucose ingestion to measure leukocytic ROS generation and p47(phox) protein content and plasma thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) and C-reactive protein (CRP).

MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE

Compared with controls, both PCOS groups exhibited lower IS(OGTT) (43-54%) and greater percentage change (% change) in ROS generation (96-140%), p47(phox) protein (18-28%) and TBARS (17-48%). Compared with women with PCOS with excess AA, those with normal AA exhibited higher testosterone levels (29%) and lower CRP levels (70%). For the combined groups, IS(OGTT) was negatively correlated with the % change in ROS generation and p47(phox) protein. CRP was positively correlated with abdominal fat. The % change in p47(phox) protein was positively correlated with CRP and androgens.

LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION

Although this study is adequately powered to assess differences in ROS generation between the women with PCOS and control participants, the modest sample size merits caution when interpreting the corroborative results of the additional measures of oxidative stress and inflammation.

WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS

This study highlights the unique pro-oxidant contribution of circulating leukocytes in the development of insulin resistance and hyperandrogenism in PCOS.

STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S)

Supported by NIH grant HD-048535 to F.G. The authors have nothing to disclose.

Overweight, obesity and central obesity in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is closely associated with obesity but the prevalence of obesity varies between published studies. The objective of this research was to describe the prevalence of overweight, obesity and central obesity in women with and without PCOS and to assess the confounding effect of ethnicity, geographic regions and the diagnostic criteria of PCOS on the prevalence. METHODS MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) and PSYCINFO were searched for studies reporting the prevalence of overweight, obesity or central obesity in women with and without PCOS. Data were presented as prevalence (%) and risk ratio (RR) [95% confidence interval (CI)]. Random-effect models were used to calculate pooled RR. RESULTS This systematic review included 106 studies while the meta-analysis included 35 studies (15129 women). Women with PCOS had increased prevalence of overweight [RR (95% CI): 1.95 (1.52, 2.50)], obesity [2.77 (1.88, 4.10)] and central obesity [1.73 (1.31, 2.30)] compared with women without PCOS. The Caucasian women with PCOS had a greater increase in obesity prevalence than the Asian women with PCOS compared with women without PCOS [10.79 (5.36, 21.70) versus 2.31 (1.33, 4.00), P < 0.001 between subgroups). CONCLUSIONS Women with PCOS had a greater risk of overweight, obesity and central obesity. Although our findings support a positive association between obesity and PCOS, our conclusions are limited by the significant heterogeneity between studies and further studies are now required to determine the source of this heterogeneity. Clinical management of PCOS should include the prevention and management of overweight and obesity.

Impact of obesity on reproductive outcomes after ovarian ablative therapy in PCOS: a collaborative meta-analysis

Obesity is known to interfere with reproductive outcomes in polycystic ovary syndrome. There is no consensus regarding the impact of obesity on reproductive outcomes after ovarian ablative therapy (OAT) and there is no level I evidence to answer this question. This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the strength of the association between obesity and ovulation or pregnancy rates after OAT. MEDLINE and several other databases were searched from 2000 to September 2011 for studies reporting on OAT and reproductive outcomes. Data were synthesized to determine the relative risk of reproductive outcomes (ovulation and pregnancy) in lean (body mass index <25 kg/m(2)) compared with overweight or obese women. The study obtained 15 data sets (14 articles) for analysis, which included 905 subjects in the obese group and 879 subjects in the lean group. Lean women had increased ovulation rates (RR 1.43, 95% CI 1.22-1.66) compared with obese women. Pregnancy rates also showed a similar trend (RR 1.73, 95% CI 1.39-2.17). Reproductive outcomes were generally better in younger women, more recent studies and randomized controlled trials. It is concluded that lean women respond better to OAT than their obese counterparts. These epidemiological observations indicate that obesity alters reproductive outcomes after OAT negatively. Obesity is known to interfere with reproductive outcomes in polycystic ovary syndrome. There is no consensus regarding the impact of obesity on ovarian ablative therapy (OAT) and there is no level I evidence to answer this question. We therefore undertook a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the strength of the association between obesity and ovulation or pregnancy rates after OAT. We searched MEDLINE and several other databases from 2000 to September 2011 for studies reporting on OAT and reproductive outcomes. Data were synthesized to determine the risk ratio of reproductive outcomes (ovulation and pregnancy) in lean (BMI <25 kg/m(2)) as opposed to overweight or obese women. We obtained 15 datasets (14 articles) for analysis, which included 905 subjects in the obese group and 879 subjects in the lean group. Lean women had increased ovulation rates (RR 1.43, 95% CI 1.22-1.66) as compared to obese women. Pregnancy rates also showed a similar trend (RR 1.73, 95% CI 1.39-2.17). Reproductive outcomes were generally better in younger women, more recent studies and randomized controlled trials. We conclude that lean women respond better to OAT than their obese counterparts. These epidemiological observations indicate that obesity alters reproductive outcomes after OAT negatively.

Determination of the source of androgen excess in functionally atypical polycystic ovary syndrome by a short dexamethasone androgen-suppression test and a low-dose ACTH test

BACKGROUND

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients typically have 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP) hyperresponsiveness to GnRH agonist (GnRHa) (PCOS-T). The objective of this study was to determine the source of androgen excess in the one-third of PCOS patients who atypically lack this type of ovarian dysfunction (PCOS-A).

METHODS

Aged-matched PCOS-T (n= 40), PCOS-A (n= 20) and controls (n= 39) were studied prospectively in a General Clinical Research Center. Short (4 h) and long (4-7 day) dexamethasone androgen-suppression tests (SDAST and LDAST, respectively) were compared in subsets of subjects. Responses to SDAST and low-dose adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) were then evaluated in all.

RESULTS

Testosterone post-SDAST correlated significantly with testosterone post-LDAST and 17OHP post-GnRHa (r = 0.671-0.672), indicating that all detect related aspects of ovarian dysfunction. An elevated dehydroepiandrosterone peak in response to ACTH, which defined functional adrenal hyperandrogenism, was similarly prevalent in PCOS-T (27.5%) and PCOS-A (30%) and correlated significantly with baseline dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) (r = 0.708). Functional ovarian hyperandrogenism was detected by subnormal testosterone suppression by SDAST in most (92.5%) PCOS-T, but significantly fewer PCOS-A (60%, P< 0.01). Glucose intolerance was absent in PCOS-A, but present in 30% of PCOS-T (P < 0.001). Most of the PCOS-A cases with normal testosterone suppression in response to SDAST (5/8) lacked evidence of adrenal hyperandrogenism and were obese.

CONCLUSIONS

Functional ovarian hyperandrogenism was not demonstrable by SDAST in 40% of PCOS-A. Most of these cases had no evidence of adrenal hyperandrogenism. Obesity may account for most hyperandrogenemic anovulation that lacks a glandular source of excess androgen, and the SDAST seems useful in making this distinction.

Reproductive hormone levels and anthropometry in postmenopausal women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): a 21-year follow-up study of women diagnosed with PCOS around 50 years ago and their age-matched controls

CONTEXT

The hormonal and anthropometric profile of premenopausal women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is well described, but there is a lack of data concerning changes in these variables into the postmenopausal period.

OBJECTIVE

Our objective was to examine whether PCOS women differ from normal women regarding levels of reproductive hormones, anthropometry, and presence of hirsutism/climacteric symptoms also after menopause.

DESIGN AND SETTING

In this prospective study, women with PCOS (61-79 yr) and age-matched controls, examined in 1987, were reinvestigated at a university hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Twenty-five PCOS patients (Rotterdam criteria) and 68 controls (randomly allocated from the Gothenburg WHO MONICA study) participated.

INTERVENTIONS

Reexamination and hormonal measurements were done 21 yr after previous visit.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

FSH, LH, TSH, thyroid peroxidase antibodies, prolactin, estrone, estradiol, SHBG, androstenedione, total testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, free androgen index, and anthropometry were determined. Presence of climacteric symptoms, hirsutism, and menopausal age were recorded.

RESULTS

PCOS women had higher free androgen index (P = 0.001) but lower FSH (P < 0.001) and SHBG (P < 0.01) than controls. Menopausal age, body weight, body mass index, waist to hip ratio, LH, prolactin, androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, total testosterone, estradiol, and estrone were similar in PCOS and controls. Women with PCOS reported hirsutism more frequently (P < 0.001) but had fewer climacteric symptoms (P < 0.05) and hypothyroidism than controls (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

PCOS women differ from controls with regard to levels of certain reproductive hormones also after menopause, but the established premenopausal increase in waist to hip ratio in PCOS patients disappeared after menopause, mainly due to weight gain among controls. A novel finding was the lower prevalence of hypothyroidism in PCOS women.

Evidence that obesity and androgens have independent and opposing effects on gonadotropin production from puberty to maturity

Optimal fat mass is necessary for normal gonadotropin levels in adults, and both undernutrition and overnutrition suppress gonadotropins: thus, the gonadotropin response to relative adipose mass is biphasic. Adult obesity is associated with blunted luteinizing hormone (LH) pulse amplitude that is partially attributable to increased LH clearance rate. Testosterone appears to have a biphasic effect on gonadotropin production in females. Moderate elevations of testosterone appear to stimulate LH production at both the hypothalamic and pituitary level, while very high levels of testosterone suppress LH. Thus, obesity per se appears to suppress gonadotropin production, and moderate hyperandrogenemia in women appears to stimulate LH. The ordinary hypergonadotropic hyperandrogenism of obese women appears to be an exception to this model because it is usually due to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition in which intrinsic functional ovarian hyperandrogenism and excess adiposity share a common origin that involves insulin-resistant hyperinsulinemia. LH elevation seems to be secondary to hyperandrogenemia and is absent in the most obese cases. Overweight early pubertal girls have significant blunting of sleep-related LH production, which is the first hormonal change of puberty. The data are compatible with the possibility that excess adiposity may paradoxically subtly suppress hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal function in early puberty although it is known to contribute to the early onset of puberty.

The adverse effects of obesity on conception and implantation

Whilst many multiparous women are obese (body mass index >30 kg/m(2)), obesity has been associated with impaired fecundity; however, the mechanism which links obesity to reduced fertility remains to be fully elucidated. Obese women, particularly those with central obesity, are less likely to conceive per cycle. Obese women suffer perturbations to the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, menstrual cycle disturbance and are up to three times more likely to suffer oligo-/anovulation. A fine hormonal balance regulates follicular development and oocyte maturation, and it has been observed that obesity can alter the hormonal milieu. Leptin, a hormone produced by adipocytes, is elevated in obese women, and raised leptin has been associated with impaired fecundity. Obesity impairs ovulation but has also been observed to detrimentally affect endometrial development and implantation. The expression of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is regulated, in part, by weight, and so obese women with PCOS often have a more severe phenotype and experience more subfertility. Obesity also impairs the response of women to assisted conception treatments. Weight loss through lifestyle modification or bariatric surgery has been demonstrated to restore menstrual cyclicity and ovulation and improve the likelihood of conception. In this article, we will discuss the effect of obesity upon key reproductive mechanisms and its relation to fertility treatments.

Endothelial function in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: a long-term follow-up study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate pulse wave reflection and endothelial-dependent vasodilation in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and age-matched healthy controls.

DESIGN

Long-term follow-up study.

SETTING

Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.

PATIENT(S)

Sixty-seven patients with PCOS and with a mean age of 43.3 years at the follow-up investigation and 66 age-matched controls.

INTERVENTION(S)

Aplanation tonometry before and after β-2 receptor agonist (terbutaline) challenge.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Baseline augmentation index (AI) aorta, baseline AI-radial, and change in AI-radial after terbutaline administration as a measure of endothelial-dependent vasodilation.

RESULT(S)

There was no difference in baseline AI-aorta between patients with PCOS and control subjects. Change in AI-radial after terbutaline administration was less pronounced in patients with PCOS compared with control subjects. This difference remained when adjusted for use of combined oral contraceptives (OC)/hormone replacement therapy (HT) and postmenopausal status but not after adjustment for body mass index (BMI).

CONCLUSION(S)

Middle-aged patients with PCOS display signs of endothelial dysfunction in comparison to age-matched controls, but this is largely due to the increased prevalence of independent risk factors for cardiovascular disease found in this group.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, Obesity and Reproductive Implications

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common causes of female infertility, affecting 5–10% of women of reproductive age. The syndrome is characterized by anovulation, hyperandrogenism and polycystic ovaries. Furthermore, PCOS is associated with insulin resistance and obesity, which is present in approximately 50% of women with PCOS. Reproductive function in women with PCOS is strongly dependent on bodyweight and metabolic status. Obesity is associated with an increased risk of infertility and may also have a negative influence on pregnancy outcome. Considering the worldwide epidemic of obesity, clinical problems relating to PCOS may worsen and increase in frequency. Lifestyle interventions resulting in weight loss comprise the most successful strategy to improve symptoms of PCOS. However, many patients fail to lose weight or may quickly regain weight. It is an important challenge to develop effective lifestyle programs and adjuvant pharmacologic treatments in order to improve reproductive and metabolic health among women with PCOS.

Long-term follow-up of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome: reproductive outcome and ovarian reserve

BACKGROUND

The purpose of the present study was to examine long-term reproductive outcome and ovarian reserve in an unselected population of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). METHODS A total of 91 patients with confirmed PCOS and 87 healthy controls were included in the study. Patients had been diagnosed between 1987 and 1995 and at the time of the follow-up, subjects were 35 years of age or older.

RESULTS

Among women who had attempted a pregnancy, 86.7% of PCOS patients and 91.6% of controls had given birth to at least one child. Among PCOS patients who had given birth, 73.6% had done so following a spontaneous conception. Mean ovarian volume and the number of antral follicles in PCOS patients were significantly greater than in control women (P < 0.001, respectively). PCOS patients also had higher serum concentrations of anti-Müllerian hormone and lower follicle-stimulating hormone levels.

CONCLUSIONS

Most women with PCOS had given birth, and the rate of spontaneous pregnancies was relatively high. Together with the ultrasound findings and the hormonal analyses, this finding could imply that PCOS patients have a good fecundity, and an ovarian reserve possibly superior to women with normal ovaries.

The importance of the (TAAAA)n alleles at the SHBG gene promoter for the severity of coronary artery disease in postmenopausal women

OBJECTIVE

Androgen may be detrimental in the development of coronary artery disease (CAD) in women. We investigated possible associations between the (TAAAA)n polymorphism of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) gene promoter, which influences transcriptional efficiency of the SHBG gene and the severity of CAD in women.

DESIGN

In this prospective clinical study, 146 postmenopausal women (46-88 y) undergoing coronary angiography were studied. CAD severity, history of angina and myocardial infarction, and reproductive history were recorded and hormonal parameters measured. According to the number of SHBG gene promoter repeat polymorphisms, participants were classified into short (seven or fewer), medium length (eight), and long repeat (nine or more) allele groups.

RESULTS

Significant CAD was more prevalent in the long repeat allele carrier group: 65% of the participants with three vessels with severe stenosis belonged to the long repeat allele group, whereas only 37% of participants with mild CAD belonged to this group (P=0.01). A history of angina and prevalence of hyperlipidemia was more frequent in the long repeat allele group (P<0.05). Calculated free testosterone levels were higher in the long repeat allele groups (P<0.05), whereas SHBG levels tended to be lower (P=0.06). SHBG levels correlated inversely with body mass index and waist circumference (P<0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Longer (TAAAA)n repeats in the SHBG gene promoter are associated with more severe CAD in women undergoing coronary angiography, a finding not previously reported. This association may reflect the lifelong tissue exposure to higher free androgens and supports the adverse cardiovascular effect of androgenic exposure in this highly selected group of women.

Increased androgen response to follicle-stimulating hormone administration in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

CONTEXT

In women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), excess ovarian androgen production is driven by increased LH secretion. Studies conducted in animals suggest that the granulosa cell may influence LH-stimulated theca cell androgen production.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of this study was to determine whether FSH enhances androgen production in women with PCOS compared with that of normal women.

DESIGN

A prospective study was conducted to compare androgen production in response to FSH in two groups of women.

SETTING

The study was conducted in a General Clinical Research Center in a tertiary academic medical center.

PATIENTS

Women with PCOS, 18-35 yr (n = 20), and normal ovulatory controls, 18-35 yr (n = 10), were recruited for study.

INTERVENTIONS

Serial blood samples were obtained over a 24-h period after an iv injection of recombinant human FSH (150 IU).

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The main outcome measures were serum 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP), androstenedione (A), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), testosterone (T), and inhibin B (Inh B) responses after FSH administration.

RESULTS

Basal serum 17-OHP, A, and T levels were markedly increased in women with PCOS compared with that observed in normal women. Basal DHEA and Inh B levels were similar to those of normal controls. After FSH injection, PCOS women demonstrated enhanced production of 17-OHP, A, DHEA, and Inh B, whereas in normal women no increases were observed. T levels declined slightly in both groups.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings provide evidence that, in PCOS women, theca cell androgen production is enhanced by FSH administration and suggest a granulosa-theca cell paracrine mechanism.

Obesity, weight loss, and the polycystic ovary syndrome: effect of treatment with diet and orlistat for 24 weeks on insulin resistance and androgen levels

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the combined effect of diet and orlistat, for 24 weeks, on anthropometric features, hormonal parameters, and indices of insulin resistance in obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and in obese women without the syndrome.

DESIGN

Prospective clinical study.

SETTING

Department of obstetrics and gynecology in a major university in Greece.

PATIENT(S)

Eighteen selected women with PCOS were matched for age and body mass index with 14 obese control women.

INTERVENTION(S)

Subjects were prescribed an energy-restricted diet, and orlistat (120 mg, 3 times per d) was administered to all subjects for 24 weeks.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

At baseline, week 12, and week 24, after an overnight fast, blood samples were collected, and serum levels of FSH, LH, PRL, T, Delta(4)A, DHEAS, 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone, sex hormone-binding globulin, glucose, and insulin were measured.

RESULT(S)

Testosterone levels were significantly decreased with treatment in women with PCOS; this decrease was attributed to the first trimester, whereas T levels did not change during the second 12-week period. In women with PCOS, insulin levels and HOMA-IR values were decreased during the first 12 weeks, whereas no significant change was observed during the second trimester.

CONCLUSION(S)

Orlistat administration, combined with diet, for 24 weeks, resulted in significant weight loss and improvement of insulin resistance in obese women, with or without PCOS. Moreover, T levels were significantly decreased in women with PCOS. There appears to be a trend during the first 12-week period for greater improvement of metabolic and hormonal parameters in women with PCOS.

Effects of testosterone and estrogen treatment on lipolysis signaling pathways in subcutaneous adipose tissue of postmenopausal women

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate the treatment effects of testosterone and estrogen on the expression of proteins and genes involved in adipocyte signal transduction to lipolysis in abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue of postmenopausal women.

DESIGN

An open, randomized clinical study with parallel group comparison.

SETTING

Women's health clinical research unit and a research laboratory at a university hospital.

PATIENT(S)

Thirty-six healthy naturally postmenopausal women.

INTERVENTION(S)

The participants were randomly given testosterone undecanoate (40 mg every second day) or estradiol valerate (2 mg daily) for 3 months.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Expression of proteins and genes involved in adipocyte signal transduction to lipolysis in abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue, determined by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blot, respectively, and related to plasma glycerol before or during a euglycemic hyperinsulinemic clamp.

RESULT(S)

Testosterone treatment decreased the expression of hormone-sensitive lipase and increased the expression of phosphodiesterase-3B, whereas no effect of estrogen was observed. Testosterone-induced changes in hormone-sensitive lipase expression correlated positively with corresponding changes in basal or clamp-induced plasma glycerol concentrations.

CONCLUSION(S)

Treatment with testosterone in postmenopausal women down-regulates hormone-sensitive lipase and up-regulates phosphodiesterase-3B expressions in abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue in relation to changes in vivo of lipolytic activity, which may promote the accumulation of fat.

Diagnosis and management of the dermatologic manifestations of the polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex phenotypic spectrum of primarily hyperandrogenic signs and symptoms. PCOS is the most common endocrine disturbance to affect women of reproductive years. Although patients affected are often very disturbed by the cutaneous manifestations, including acne, hirsutism, alopecia, obesity, and acanthosis nigricans, the clinical manifestations of PCOS ramify far beyond the skin. PCOS frequently causes menstrual abnormalities and infertility. Insulin resistance is both pathogenic and a cause of numerous serious health consequences. The accurate diagnosis and recognition of cutaneous hyperandrogenism in PCOS are discussed. The differential diagnosis is reviewed. The work-up and approach to evaluation of patients with PCOS is presented. Although no uniform treatment approach for the management of the cutaneous manifestations of PCOS has been agreed upon, the data on various treatment options and the author's treatment approach to these patients are presented.