P–710 The possible relation between kisspeptin and apoptosis on granulosa cells of PCOS patients

Study question

Does kisspeptin administration affect the apoptotic factors of granulosa cells of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) patients?

Summary answer

Kisspeptin administration significantly increased apoptosis related factors.

What is known already

Kisspeptin plays a critical role in central gonadotropin secretion by acting on GnRH neurons in the hypothalamus. Kisspeptin receptors are also expressed on the ovaries. Kisspeptin–54 has recently been known as a prominent agent in oocyte maturation. Although there are many studies on the possible roles of kisspeptin administration in vivo on hypothalamic gonadotropin secretion and ovarian function and the possible roles of these effects in the pathogenesis of PCOS, there is not enough information about the effect of in vitro application of kisspeptin on ovarian function and conditions that lead to the development of PCOS.

Study design, size, duration

This basic research study was an in vitro experimental approach involving the use of granulosa cell from a PCOS and normal cases between July to December in 2020. 32 women were included in both control and PCOS groups.

Participants/materials, setting, methods

Women with (n = 16) and without (n = 16) PCOS were included in the study. Granulosa cells, follicular fluids and blood samples were collected on oocyte pick-up day. Cells were isolated from follicular fluids. Kisspeptin–54 levels were determined by ELISA in serum and follicle fluids. Also, FSH and LH levels were determined in serum. Kisspeptin–54 administrated in vitro to the half of the samples. Fluorescence spectrophotometer and laser scanning confocal microscope were used to evaluate calcium concentrations

Main results and the role of chance

The serum kisspeptin level was found significantly higher in PCOS patients compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Also, the level of kisspeptin in follicular fluid was statistically significantly higher in PCOS patients compared to the control group (p < 0.05). The mean serum FSH level of PCOS patients was found to be significantly lower than the control group (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the mean serum LH level of PCOS patients was significantly higher than control groups (p < 0.05). The intracellular calcium concentration in granulosa cells obtained from PCOS patients was significantly lower than the control group (p < 0.05).

Limitations, reasons for caution

The KISS1, KISS1R, BCL–2, CASPASE–3, FSHR, LHCGR, STAR, ESR1, ESR2, INHBA gene expression levels of apoptotic process is still under analyses. The protein expression analyses of these genes may strength the results.

Wider implications of the findings: Using kisspeptin antagonists may be supposed as an additional treatment for patients with PCOS.

Trial registration number

OMU KAEK 2019 /724