Insulin Resistance in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Dear Colleagues,

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrinopathy characterized by chronic anovulation, hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovaries on ultrasonography. In addition, PCOS is frequently associated with insulin resistance, accompanied by compensatory hyperinsulinemia, which has been reported to increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus as compared with weight-matched women serving as controls. Many studies demonstrated that insulin resistance is a key contributor to metabolic disturbance and is a key role in the pathogenesis of PCOS. There are many ways to treat or improve the impairment of insulin sensitivity in PCOS. Loss of body weight (BW) and life-style modifications are highly recommended as the first line of treatment in PCOS. Insulin-sensitizing agents such as metformin and rosiglitazone have recently been suggested as a tool for the treatment of insulin resistance in PCOS. Controlled studies have shown that metformin administration, by promoting bodyweight loss, can decrease fasting and stimulated plasma insulin levels.

This Special Issue seeks studies focused on the insulin resistance of PCOS, including the mechanism of insulin resistance, treatment, and conceptual approaches to the topic.

Dr. Kok Min Seow
Guest Editor