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Search Results (738)

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Keywords = polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

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15 pages, 666 KB  
Article
Serum Chemerin Levels in Polish Women with PCOS-Phenotype D
by Justyna Kuliczkowska-Płaksej, Jowita Halupczok-Żyła, Łukasz Gojny, Agnieszka Zembska, Aneta Zimoch, Monika Skrzypiec-Spring, Marek Bolanowski and Aleksandra Jawiarczyk-Przybyłowska
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(2), 772; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15020772 (registering DOI) - 17 Jan 2026
Abstract
Objectives: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous disorder with diverse pathogenetic mechanisms and clinical manifestations. Phenotype D PCOS is characterized by oligomenorrhoea and polycystic ovaries without hyperandrogenism. Altered adipokine profiles may contribute to reproductive and metabolic disturbances. Chemerin is an adipokine involved [...] Read more.
Objectives: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous disorder with diverse pathogenetic mechanisms and clinical manifestations. Phenotype D PCOS is characterized by oligomenorrhoea and polycystic ovaries without hyperandrogenism. Altered adipokine profiles may contribute to reproductive and metabolic disturbances. Chemerin is an adipokine involved in inflammatory and metabolic processes. It remains unclear whether altered chemerin levels in PCOS reflect metabolic dysfunction alone or are directly associated with hyperandrogenism. The aim of this study was to compare serum chemerin levels in women with normoandrogenic PCOS and a control group. Methods: This cross-sectional preliminary study included 49 women with phenotype D PCOS and 40 healthy, age- and body mass index (BMI)-matched controls. Anthropometric, biochemical, hormonal parameters, and serum chemerin concentrations were assessed. Results: Serum chemerin concentrations did not differ significantly between the groups. In the PCOS group, the 95% confidence interval ranged from 198.61 to 234.37, while in the controls, it ranged from 187.13 to 216.21. In women with PCOS, chemerin showed significant positive correlations with weight, BMI, waist and hip circumference, total adipose tissue, and both gynoid and android fat content. Positive correlations were also observed with highly sensitive C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), insulin, glucose, triglycerides, and Homeostasis Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR), and a negative correlation was found with high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Chemerin was weakly negatively correlated with sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) and positively correlated with the free androgen index (FAI). In the control group, chemerin correlated positively with CRP, insulin, triglycerides, total and gynoid adipose tissue, and negatively correlated with HDL cholesterol and SHBG. Conclusions Although chemerin levels did not differ from controls, chemerin was associated with metabolic and inflammatory markers in both groups. These findings should be considered preliminary due to the limited sample size. Chemerin may reflect metabolic and inflammatory status rather than hyperandrogenism in normoandrogenic PCOS. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Gynecological Endocrinology Updates)
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30 pages, 711 KB  
Review
A Systematic Review on GLP-1 Receptor Agonists in Reproductive Health: Integrating IVF Data, Ovarian Physiology and Molecular Mechanisms
by Charalampos Voros, Fotios Chatzinikolaou, Ioannis Papapanagiotou, Spyridon Polykalas, Despoina Mavrogianni, Aristotelis-Marios Koulakmanidis, Diamantis Athanasiou, Vasiliki Kanaka, Kyriakos Bananis, Antonia Athanasiou, Aikaterini Athanasiou, Georgios Papadimas, Charalampos Tsimpoukelis, Dimitrios Vaitsis, Athanasios Karpouzos, Maria Anastasia Daskalaki, Nikolaos Kanakas, Marianna Theodora, Nikolaos Thomakos, Panagiotis Antsaklis, Dimitrios Loutradis and Georgios Daskalakisadd Show full author list remove Hide full author list
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(2), 759; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27020759 - 12 Jan 2026
Viewed by 283
Abstract
Women of reproductive age, especially those with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), often use glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) to improve their metabolic functions. A growing body of evidence suggests that GLP-1R signaling may directly affect ovarian physiology, influencing granulosa cell proliferation, survival pathways, [...] Read more.
Women of reproductive age, especially those with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), often use glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1RAs) to improve their metabolic functions. A growing body of evidence suggests that GLP-1R signaling may directly affect ovarian physiology, influencing granulosa cell proliferation, survival pathways, and steroidogenic production, in addition to its systemic metabolic effects. Nonetheless, there is a limited comprehension of the molecular mechanisms that regulate these activities and their correlation with menstrual function, reproductive potential, and assisted reproduction. This comprehensive review focuses on ovarian biology, granulosa cell signaling networks, steroidogenesis, and translational fertility outcomes, integrating clinical, in vivo, and in vitro information to elucidate the effects of GLP-1 receptor agonists on reproductive health. We conducted a thorough search of PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for randomized trials, prospective studies, animal models, and cellular experiments evaluating the effects of GLP-1RA on reproductive or ovarian outcomes, in accordance with PRISMA criteria. The retrieved data included metabolic changes, androgen levels, monthly regularity, ovarian structure, granulosa cell growth and death, FOXO1 signaling, FSH-cAMP-BMP pathway activity, and fertility or IVF results. Clinical trials shown that GLP-1 receptor agonists improve menstrual regularity, decrease body weight and central adiposity, increase sex hormone-binding globulin levels, and lower free testosterone in overweight and obese women with PCOS. Liraglutide, when combined with metformin, significantly improved IVF pregnancy rates, whereas exenatide increased natural conception rates. Mechanistic studies demonstrate that GLP-1R activation affects FOXO1 phosphorylation, hence promoting granulosa cell proliferation and anti-apoptotic processes. Incretin signaling altered steroidogenesis by reducing the levels of StAR, P450scc, and 3β-HSD, so inhibiting FSH-induced progesterone synthesis, while simultaneously enhancing BMP-Smad signaling. Animal studies demonstrated both beneficial (enhanced follicular growth, anti-apoptotic effects) and detrimental results (oxidative stress, granulosa cell death, uterine inflammation), indicating a context- and dose-dependent response. GLP-1 receptor agonists influence female reproductive biology by altering overall physiological processes and specifically impacting the ovaries via FOXO1 regulation, steroidogenic enzyme expression, and BMP-mediated FSH signaling. Preliminary clinical data indicate improved reproductive function in PCOS, as seen by increased pregnancy rates in both natural and IVF cycles; nevertheless, animal studies reveal a potential risk of ovarian and endometrial damage. These results highlight the need for controlled human research to clarify reproductive safety, molecular pathways, and optimum therapy timing, particularly in non-PCOS patients and IVF settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Research on Reproductive Physiology and Endocrinology)
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16 pages, 434 KB  
Article
The Validation and Cross-Cultural Adaptation of the Arabic Version of the Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Quality of Life Scale (PCOSQOL)
by Layan Alwatban, Ayah Sayed, Raneem Alwatban, Mais Alwatban and Nada Alyousefi
J. Clin. Med. 2026, 15(2), 607; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm15020607 - 12 Jan 2026
Viewed by 114
Abstract
Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder, with a prevalence of approximately 16% in Saudi Arabia. PCOS is associated with various health complications. Assessing the quality of life (QoL) of women with PCOS is crucial for effective management. Objectives: This [...] Read more.
Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder, with a prevalence of approximately 16% in Saudi Arabia. PCOS is associated with various health complications. Assessing the quality of life (QoL) of women with PCOS is crucial for effective management. Objectives: This study aims to translate and validate the Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Quality of Life scale (PCOSQOL) into Arabic for use among Arabic-speaking women. The study was designed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Arabic PCOSQOL, including its reliability, validity, and responsiveness. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 207 Saudi women diagnosed with PCOS. Participants were recruited from family medicine and obstetrics and gynecology clinics at King Saud University Medical City, Riyadh, through an online survey. The PCOSQOL was translated into Arabic following the World Health Organization’s (WHO) forward–backward translation protocol. Psychometric evaluation included internal consistency, test–retest reliability (ICC), and construct validity. Results: The Arabic PCOSQOL demonstrated excellent psychometric performance, with high internal consistency (Cronbach’s α = 0.951) and good-to-excellent test–retest reliability (ICC = 0.760–0.885). Construct validity was supported by a four-factor structure explaining 62.5% of the total variance (KMO = 0.92; Bartlett’s p < 0.001). The subscales showed strong factor loadings (0.49–0.97). Older women (>25 years), married participants, and residents of the western and central regions reported significantly better quality of life (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The Arabic version of the PCOSQOL demonstrated excellent reliability, validity, and stability, confirming its suitability for assessing quality of life among Arabic-speaking women with PCOS. This validated tool can support both clinical practice and future research across Arabic populations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Obstetrics & Gynecology)
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24 pages, 1299 KB  
Review
The Role of Astaxanthin as an Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Agent in Human Health: A Systematic Review
by Giuseppina Malcangi, Angelo Michele Inchingolo, Lucia Casamassima, Irma Trilli, Laura Ferrante, Marialuisa Longo, Francesco Inchingolo, Grazia Marinelli, Andrea Palermo, Gianna Dipalma and Alessio Danilo Inchingolo
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(2), 700; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27020700 - 9 Jan 2026
Viewed by 242
Abstract
This systematic review aimed to summarize the effects of astaxanthin (ASX) supplementation on oxidative stress, inflammation, and metabolic regulation in human studies. A systematic search was conducted in Scopus, Web of Science (WOS), and PubMed for articles published between 2020 and 2025. Fifteen [...] Read more.
This systematic review aimed to summarize the effects of astaxanthin (ASX) supplementation on oxidative stress, inflammation, and metabolic regulation in human studies. A systematic search was conducted in Scopus, Web of Science (WOS), and PubMed for articles published between 2020 and 2025. Fifteen studies involving human participants were included, while in vitro and animal studies were excluded. ASX consistently reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, TNF-α, TGF-β1) and oxidative stress indices while increasing antioxidant capacity (SOD, TAC). Combined ASX and exercise interventions improved body composition, lipid profiles, insulin sensitivity, and immune recovery. In women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis, ASX downregulated endoplasmic reticulum stress–related apoptotic pathways and improved oocyte and embryo quality. Cardiometabolic and respiratory outcomes showed improved endothelial function and reduced disease severity. Astaxanthin demonstrates broad antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, supporting its role as a promising adjunctive therapy for metabolic, reproductive, and cardiovascular health. Further well-designed clinical trials are needed to confirm optimal dosing and mechanisms of action. Full article
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16 pages, 1470 KB  
Article
NLRP3 Inflammasome and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): A Novel Profile in Adipose Tissue
by Salih Atalah Alenezi, Khalid Alshammari, Raheela Khan and Saad Amer
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(2), 699; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27020699 - 9 Jan 2026
Viewed by 169
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder characterized by chronic low-grade inflammation. The NLRP3 inflammasome has been implicated in various inflammatory conditions, but its role in PCOS remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether the NLRP3 inflammasome and its associated [...] Read more.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder characterized by chronic low-grade inflammation. The NLRP3 inflammasome has been implicated in various inflammatory conditions, but its role in PCOS remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether the NLRP3 inflammasome and its associated components, IL-1β, CASP-1, and PYCARD, are involved in the pathogenesis of PCOS. Gene and protein expression levels of NLRP3, IL-1β, CASP-1, and PYCARD were assessed in adipose tissue samples (visceral and subcutaneous) from women with and without PCOS using qPCR and Western blotting. Contrary to our initial hypothesis, CASP-1 gene expression was significantly higher in non-PCOS participants across all adipose depots examined. Similarly, NLRP3 protein levels were significantly upregulated in visceral adipose tissue (VAT) and in combined adipose samples from the non-PCOS group. No significant group differences were observed in the gene expression of NLRP3, IL-1β, or PYCARD. These findings suggest a more complex role for the NLRP3 inflammasome in PCOS than previously assumed. The elevated CASP-1 and NLRP3 levels in non-PCOS participants may reflect compensatory regulation, subclinical inflammation in controls, or technical variability. Further research is needed to explore alternative inflammasome pathways and the influence of metabolic factors, such as insulin, on inflammasome regulation in PCOS. Full article
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19 pages, 2288 KB  
Review
Lipedema in Women and Its Interrelationship with Endometriosis and Other Gynecologic Diseases: A Scoping Review
by Diogo Pinto da Costa Viana, Adriana Luckow Invitti and Eduardo Schor
Biomedicines 2026, 14(1), 122; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines14010122 - 7 Jan 2026
Viewed by 397
Abstract
Background: Emerging evidence suggests that lipedema may share hormonal, inflammatory, and genetic mechanisms with gynecologic diseases, particularly endometriosis. However, the extent and nature of these interrelationships remain poorly characterized, supporting the need for this scoping review. Objectives: To map and synthesize [...] Read more.
Background: Emerging evidence suggests that lipedema may share hormonal, inflammatory, and genetic mechanisms with gynecologic diseases, particularly endometriosis. However, the extent and nature of these interrelationships remain poorly characterized, supporting the need for this scoping review. Objectives: To map and synthesize the available evidence on the clinical, pathophysiological, and epidemiological interrelationships between lipedema in women, endometriosis, and other gynecologic diseases. Methods: Searches were conducted in international and regional health databases, including MEDLINE (PubMed), CINAHL, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, the Cochrane Library, LILACS/VHL, APA PsycInfo, SciELO, Epistemonikos, and La Referencia, as well as grey literature sources and relevant institutional websites. There were no language restrictions. The search period began in 1940, the year in which lipedema was first described by Allen and Hines. Study selection followed a two-stage process conducted independently by two reviewers, consisting of title and abstract screening followed by full-text review. Data extraction was performed using a pre-developed and peer-reviewed instrument covering participants, concept, context, study methods, and main findings. The review protocol was registered in the Open Science Framework. Results: Twenty-five studies from ten countries were included. Synthesized evidence supports the characterization of lipedema as a systemic condition with metabolic and hormonal dimensions. Key findings include symptom onset linked to reproductive milestones, a high frequency of gynecologic and endocrine comorbidities, and molecular features overlapping with steroid-dependent pathologies. These patterns reflect a recent shift from a predominantly lymphovascular paradigm toward a more integrated endocrinometabolic framework. Conclusions: The findings indicate that lipedema clusters with hormone-sensitive gynecologic and endocrine features across reproductive life stages. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue New Insights in Reproductive Health and Disease)
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14 pages, 405 KB  
Article
Diagnostic Value and Metabolic Association of Serum Clusterin in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
by Dilara Sarıkaya Kurt, Recep Taha Ağaoğlu, Mehmet Ferdi Kıncı, Tuğçe Sırma, Ahmet Kurt, Ramazan Erda Pay, İsmail Burak Gültekin, Hüseyin Levent Keskin and Sezin Ertürk Aksakal
Diagnostics 2026, 16(1), 167; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16010167 - 5 Jan 2026
Viewed by 236
Abstract
Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine and metabolic disorder characterized by hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction, and an increased prevalence of metabolic syndrome. Clusterin (CLU), a chaperone protein induced by cellular stress and known to play roles in inflammation, oxidative stress, and [...] Read more.
Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine and metabolic disorder characterized by hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction, and an increased prevalence of metabolic syndrome. Clusterin (CLU), a chaperone protein induced by cellular stress and known to play roles in inflammation, oxidative stress, and lipid metabolism, may be associated with the metabolic abnormalities observed in patients with PCOS. The purpose of this current study is to investigate serum CLU levels and their link with endocrine, biochemical, and metabolic parameters, such as metabolic syndrome, among women with PCOS. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 40 women aged 18–30 with PCOS diagnosed according to the Rotterdam criteria and 40 age- and BMI-matched healthy controls. Demographic data, Ferriman–Gallwey scores, hormonal and metabolic parameters (including TSH, prolactin, 17-OH progesterone, total testosterone, insulin, AMH, HOMA-IR, and serum CLU levels), and ultrasonographic ovarian morphology were assessed. Statistical analyses, including ROC and logistic regression, were performed. Results: Women with PCOS had higher follicle counts, Ferriman–Gallwey scores, LH/FSH ratios, fasting insulin levels, HOMA-IR, triglycerides, and systolic blood pressure than controls, whereas menstrual cycle frequency and HDL levels were lower (all p < 0.05). Serum CLU concentrations were markedly higher in the PCOS cohort. In the PCOS population, CLU showed positive relationships with the Ferriman–Gallwey score, fasting glucose, fasting insulin, HOMA-IR, and triglycerides, and a negative correlation with HDL. CLU levels were significantly higher in women with metabolic syndrome in the PCOS cohort compared to those without. In logistic regression analysis, CLU, AMH, and the LH/FSH ratio emerged as independent predictors of PCOS. Furthermore, CLU remained an independent predictor of metabolic syndrome in the PCOS cohort. In ROC analysis, CLU demonstrated strong diagnostic efficacy in detecting both PCOS (AUC = 0.834) and metabolic syndrome in patients with PCOS (AUC = 0.804). Conclusions: Our results show that serum CLU is higher in women with PCOS and is associated with the clinical and metabolic features peculiar to patients with PCOS. CLU was found to distinguish between patients with PCOS and healthy women and demonstrated a strong association with the presence of metabolic syndrome within the PCOS group. Overall, these findings suggest that CLU may be a valuable auxiliary biomarker for detecting women with PCOS at risk for metabolic disturbances. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Clinical Diagnosis and Prognosis)
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11 pages, 1211 KB  
Case Report
AMH in PCOS and Beyond—Rare Case Series
by Ralitsa Robeva, Tzvetozar Mehandjiev, Roumen Dimitrov, Yuri Hranov, Silvia Andonova, Mihaela Mladenova, Atanaska Elenkova, George Hadjidekov and Sabina Zacharieva
Diagnostics 2026, 16(1), 123; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics16010123 - 1 Jan 2026
Viewed by 505
Abstract
Background and Clinical Significance: Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a dimeric glycoprotein secreted from the granulosa cells of the preantral and small antral follicles, which has entered routine clinical practice as a valuable tool for the diagnosis of different ovarian disorders. Increased AMH [...] Read more.
Background and Clinical Significance: Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a dimeric glycoprotein secreted from the granulosa cells of the preantral and small antral follicles, which has entered routine clinical practice as a valuable tool for the diagnosis of different ovarian disorders. Increased AMH levels have been recommended as a criterion for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). However, its widespread use remains limited due to analytical diversity and contradictory age-specific thresholds, among other factors that modulate AMH levels. Case Presentation: Herein, we present a rare case series of women with increased AMH levels. The difficulties in the differential diagnosis of patients with elevated AMH levels, because of PCOS combined with pituitary dysfunction, increased ovarian volume, or granulosa cell tumors (GCTs), are discussed. Conclusions: The presented rare cases of increased AMH emphasize the important role of AMH as a diagnostic marker in women with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and granulosa cell tumors. On the other hand, it is still unknown if increased AMH produced by unusually enlarged or supernumerary ovaries should be considered as actual PCOS cases or as a specific subgroup. Additionally, the unusual case of GCTs with pronounced AMH and LH increase but normal steroids supports the pathophysiological role of AMH for the development of neuroendocrine dysfunction. Moreover, it suggests that GCTs should be considered in the differential diagnosis of chronic anovulation even in women with normal ovarian steroid production in case of unusually high AMH levels for the age. Further studies are needed to explain PCOS heterogeneity and to ensure proper differential diagnosis for every affected woman. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis and Prognosis of Gynecological and Obstetric Diseases)
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27 pages, 2862 KB  
Article
Integrative Machine Learning and Network Analysis of Skeletal Muscle Transcriptomes Identifies Candidate Pioglitazone-Responsive Biomarkers in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
by Ahmad Al Athamneh, Mahmoud E. Farfoura, Anas Khaleel and Tee Connie
Genes 2026, 17(1), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes17010028 - 29 Dec 2025
Viewed by 261
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine–metabolic disorder in which skeletal muscle insulin resistance contributes substantially to cardiometabolic risk. Pioglitazone improves insulin sensitivity in women with PCOS, yet the underlying transcriptional changes and their potential as treatment-response biomarkers remain incompletely defined. [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine–metabolic disorder in which skeletal muscle insulin resistance contributes substantially to cardiometabolic risk. Pioglitazone improves insulin sensitivity in women with PCOS, yet the underlying transcriptional changes and their potential as treatment-response biomarkers remain incompletely defined. We aimed to reanalyse skeletal muscle gene expression from pioglitazone-treated PCOS patients using modern machine learning and network approaches to identify candidate biomarkers and regulatory hubs that may support precision therapy. Methods: Public microarray data (GSE8157) from skeletal muscle of obese women with PCOS and healthy controls were reprocessed. Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified and submitted to Ingenuity Pathway Analysis to infer canonical pathways, upstream regulators, and disease functions. Four supervised machine learning algorithms (logistic regression, random forest, support vector machines, and gradient boosting) were trained using multi-step feature selection and 3-fold stratified cross-validation to provide superior Exploratory Gene Analysis. Gene co-expression networks were constructed from the most informative genes to characterize network topology and hub genes. A simulated multi-omics framework combined selected transcripts with representative clinical variables to explore the potential of integrated signatures. Results: We identified 1459 DEGs in PCOS skeletal muscle following pioglitazone, highlighting immune and fibrotic signalling, interferon and epigenetic regulators (including IFNB1 and DNMT3A), and pathways linked to mitochondrial function and extracellular matrix remodelling. Within this dataset, all four machine learning models showed excellent cross-validated discrimination between PCOS and controls, based on a compact gene panel. Random forest feature importance scoring and network centrality consistently prioritized ITK, WT1, BRD1-linked loci and several long non-coding RNAs as key nodes in the co-expression network. Simulated integration of these transcripts with clinical features further stabilized discovery performance, supporting the feasibility of multi-omics biomarker signatures. Conclusions: Reanalysis of skeletal muscle transcriptomes from pioglitazone-treated women with PCOS using integrative machine learning and network methods revealed a focused set of candidate genes and regulatory hubs that robustly separate PCOS from controls in this dataset. These findings generate testable hypotheses about the immunometabolism and epigenetic mechanisms of pioglitazone action and nominate ITK, WT1, BRD1-associated loci and related network genes as promising biomarkers for future validation in larger, independent PCOS cohorts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Application of Bioinformatics in Complex Traits)
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19 pages, 280 KB  
Article
Metabolic Determinants of PCSK9 Regulation in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: The Role of Insulin Resistance, Obesity, and Tobacco Smoke Exposure
by Justyna Niepsuj, Agnieszka Piwowar, Grzegorz Franik and Anna Bizoń
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(1), 331; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27010331 - 28 Dec 2025
Viewed by 235
Abstract
The aim of this study was to examine associations involving serum proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) in metabolic disturbances observed in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), with particular emphasis on the potential impact of tobacco smoke exposure. The study included 88 [...] Read more.
The aim of this study was to examine associations involving serum proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) in metabolic disturbances observed in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), with particular emphasis on the potential impact of tobacco smoke exposure. The study included 88 women: 60 with PCOS (23 smokers and 37 non-smokers) and 28 without PCOS. Selected biochemical and molecular biomarkers related to lipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammation were assessed. No significant differences in PCSK9 levels were observed among non-smoking women with PCOS, smoking women with PCOS, and non-smoking women without PCOS. However, in women with PCOS, excess body weight and insulin resistance were associated with increased PCSK9 concentrations. Significant correlations between PCSK9, lipid profile parameters, and the Castelli and triglycerides-glucose indices suggest a potential role of PCSK9 as a biomarker of dyslipidemia and cardiometabolic risk. Elevated PCSK9 levels may contribute not only to increased low-density lipoprotein cholesterol but also to enhanced formation of oxidized low-density lipoprotein, which is particularly detrimental to cardiovascular and metabolic health. Vitamin D levels were more strongly associated with smoking status and insulin resistance than with excess body weight. Overall, these findings indicate that PCSK9 regulation in PCOS may be driven predominantly by metabolic factors rather than PCOS status or smoking per se, and that metabolic status and vitamin D deficiency should be considered when assessing cardiometabolic risk in this population. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Novel Insights into Reproductive Toxicology)
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45 pages, 4449 KB  
Systematic Review
Clinical Potential of Curcuma longa Linn. as Nutraceutical/Dietary Supplement for Metabolic Syndrome: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
by Samuel Abiodun Kehinde, Zahid Naeem Qaisrani, Rinrada Pattanayaiying, Bo Bo Lay, Khin Yadanar Phyo, Wai Phyo Lin, Myat Mon San, Nurulhusna Awaeloh, Sasithon Aunsorn, Ran Kitkangplu and Sasitorn Chusri
Foods 2026, 15(1), 60; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods15010060 - 24 Dec 2025
Viewed by 657
Abstract
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its associated conditions, namely, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), obesity, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are characterized by insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and low-grade inflammation. Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound derived from Curcuma longa Linn., exhibits [...] Read more.
Metabolic syndrome (MetS) and its associated conditions, namely, type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), obesity, and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are characterized by insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and low-grade inflammation. Curcumin, a polyphenolic compound derived from Curcuma longa Linn., exhibits pleiotropic metabolic and anti-inflammatory properties and has thus been evaluated as a nutraceutical intervention for these conditions, but findings remain inconsistent. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the clinical efficacy of Curcuma longa supplementation on anthropometric, glycemic, lipid, inflammatory, and oxidative stress parameters in adults with MetS or related disorders. A comprehensive search of databases (PubMed, Scopus, AMED, LILACS, and Google Scholar) identified 104 eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs). The included trials primarily assessed standardized oral turmeric/curcumin supplements and bioavailability-enhanced formulations rather than whole culinary turmeric. Pooled standardized mean differences (SMDs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were computed using random-effects models. Subgroup analyses were conducted by disease category, dose, and formulation. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane RoB 2 tool. Curcumin supplementation significantly reduced fasting blood sugar (SMD = −0.54, 95% CI −0.72 to −0.36) and HbA1c (SMD = −0.41, 95% CI −0.60 to −0.23) in T2DM; decreased triglycerides (SMD = −0.48; 95% CI: −0.70 to −0.25), and LDL cholesterol (SMD = −0.39; 95% CI: −0.59 to −0.18) while elevating HDL cholesterol (SMD = 0.45; 95% CI: 0.25 to 0.65) and total antioxidant capacity (SMD = 0.73; 95% CI: 0.51 to 0.94). Curcuma longa also attenuated systemic inflammation, lowering C-reactive protein (SMD = −0.62; 95% CI: −0.81 to −0.43), TNF-α (SMD = −0.57; 95% CI: −0.80 to −0.34), and IL-6 (SMD = −0.50; 95% CI: −0.70 to −0.29). Heterogeneity was moderate-to-high, reflecting some differences in the formulation, dosage, and duration. Collectively, these findings affirm that Curcuma longa exerts measurable, clinically relevant improvements on glycemic regulation, lipid metabolism, and inflammatory−oxidative balance, supporting its role as a nutraceutical adjunct in metabolic health management, while its bioavailability-enhanced formulations show superior efficacy. Larger, long-term, multicenter RCTs are warranted to confirm durability, optimal dosing, and safety. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Food Nutrition)
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23 pages, 2425 KB  
Article
ADIPOQ Variants rs1501299 and rs3774261 and Hypoadiponectinemia in Obese Women with PCOS: Genetic and Metabolic Interactions
by Intissar Ezzidi, Sameh Sarray, Mahmoud A. Alfaqih and Nabil Mtiraoui
Life 2026, 16(1), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/life16010024 - 23 Dec 2025
Viewed by 312
Abstract
Background: Hypoadiponectinemia, a metabolic hallmark of obesity, is common in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) yet the association of variants in the ADIPOQ gene with obesity in PCOS remains uncertain. To investigate whether ADIPOQ variants are associated with obesity in PCOS in relation to [...] Read more.
Background: Hypoadiponectinemia, a metabolic hallmark of obesity, is common in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) yet the association of variants in the ADIPOQ gene with obesity in PCOS remains uncertain. To investigate whether ADIPOQ variants are associated with obesity in PCOS in relation to circulating adiponectin levels, and whether integrating genotypes, adiponectin, and a polygenic risk score (PRS) improves risk stratification. Methodology: In 324 Tunisian women with PCOS, classified as obese or non-obese by WHO criteria, serum adiponectin was measured, and nine ADIPOQ variants were genotyped using TaqMan assays. Associations with obesity were assessed using logistic regression, gene phenotype interaction analysis, and models incorporating a PRS; epistasis, QTL, and diplotypes were also evaluated. Results: Adiponectin levels were significantly lower in obese women and modestly predicted obesity (AUC = 0.605). Variants rs1501299 and rs3774261 were significantly associated with obesity under recessive models (OR up to 5.18, 95% CI [2.32–11.56], p = 7.14 × 10−5). Risk genotypes and haplotypes correlated with reduced adiponectin and increased obesity risk, with adiponectin levels significantly associated with the genotype–obesity relationships. A combined model including adiponectin, the two variants, and PRS outperformed single predictors. Conclusions:ADIPOQ rs1501299 and rs3774261 are associated with obesity in women with PCOS, with this association demonstrating a specific relationship with reduced adiponectin. Integrating genetic and biochemical markers improves metabolic risk profiling and supports personalized management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Genetics and Genomics)
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22 pages, 1117 KB  
Review
Advances, Mechanisms, and Clinical Perspectives for the In Vitro Maturation of Human Oocytes
by Marta Gargallo-Alonso, Helen M. Picton and Clara Malo
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2026, 27(1), 5; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms27010005 - 19 Dec 2025
Viewed by 590
Abstract
The in vitro maturation (IVM) of human oocytes represents a valuable assisted reproductive technology that bypasses the need for full ovarian stimulation, offering safer alternatives for patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), resistant ovary syndrome, or those requiring fertility preservation before oncological treatment. [...] Read more.
The in vitro maturation (IVM) of human oocytes represents a valuable assisted reproductive technology that bypasses the need for full ovarian stimulation, offering safer alternatives for patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), resistant ovary syndrome, or those requiring fertility preservation before oncological treatment. Despite its potential, IVM efficiency remains lower than that of conventional in vitro fertilization (IVF) due to incomplete understanding of the molecular and metabolic mechanisms underpinning oocyte maturation. This review summarizes recent advances in IVM, including biphasic or simulated physiological oocyte maturation (SPOM) systems, optimization of culture media through hormones, growth factors, and antioxidants, and the influence of cumulus–oocyte communication on developmental competence. We also discuss the biochemical regulation of meiosis, metabolic interactions, and gene expression patterns associated with oocyte quality. Furthermore, we examine the translational and clinical applications of IVM in human fertility treatment, highlighting its efficacy in PCOS and oncofertility cases, and the limitations that persist in replicating in vivo conditions. Emerging technologies such as microfluidic and three-dimensional culture systems show promise in enhancing oocyte competence and embryo yield. Continued research into the molecular mechanisms governing oocyte maturation will be key to improving IVM outcomes and integrating this approach as a mainstream option in reproductive medicine. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Latest Advances in Reproduction Biology)
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13 pages, 511 KB  
Article
Comparison of Serum and Cervical Mucus Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) Levels in Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Healthy Controls
by Cigdem Can Bayrak, Bulent Yilmaz, Mehmet Kagitci, Onur Ince, Sibel Mataraci Karakas and Adnan Yilmaz
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(24), 8899; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14248899 - 16 Dec 2025
Viewed by 334
Abstract
Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent proinflammatory condition. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid obtained through the diet, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to compare DHA concentrations in serum and cervical mucus between women with [...] Read more.
Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent proinflammatory condition. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid obtained through the diet, is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. This study aimed to compare DHA concentrations in serum and cervical mucus between women with PCOS and healthy controls. Methods: This prospective cross-sectional study included 42 women with PCOS and 42 healthy controls aged 18–40 years. Anthropometric measurements, fasting metabolic and hormonal profiles were obtained, and paired serum and cervical mucus samples collected on midluteal phase of the menstrual cycle were analyzed for DHA concentrations using ELISA. Results: Serum DHA levels were significantly higher in the PCOS group compared with controls (304.50 [167.75–593.00] vs. 168.50 [105.25–312.75] ng/L; median difference of 136.0 ng/L [95% CI: 18.46–284.50]; p = 0.015). Cervical mucus DHA levels tended to be lower in the PCOS group (189.50 [168.75–240.25] vs. 220.00 [189.50–241.75] ng/L; median difference of −30.50 ng/L [95% CI: −63.01 to −12.00]; p = 0.098). The serum-to-cervical mucus DHA ratio was significantly higher in the PCOS group (1.65 [0.85–2.83] vs. 0.80 [0.52–1.93]; median difference of 0.85 [95% CI: 0.10–1.60]; p = 0.002). Conclusions: Women with PCOS exhibited significantly elevated serum DHA levels and serum to cervical mucus DHA ratios compared to healthy controls, while cervical mucus DHA levels were similar between groups. The higher serum DHA and comparatively lower cervical mucus DHA in PCOS patients may indicate impaired DHA metabolism, slower metabolic processing, or reduced utilization of its active mediators. To our knowledge, this is the first study to examine DHA levels in both serum and cervical mucus in PCOS, highlighting the need for further large-scale studies. Full article
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7 pages, 415 KB  
Brief Report
Intraovarian Platelet-Rich Plasma Therapy for PCOS: Unanswered Questions and Future Research Directions
by Zaher Merhi
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(24), 8845; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14248845 - 14 Dec 2025
Viewed by 438
Abstract
Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)-related infertility remains a major challenge and the efficacy of conventional treatments is limited in certain patient groups and often fails to address the underlying causes of ovarian dysfunction. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is rich in growth factors and cytokines [...] Read more.
Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)-related infertility remains a major challenge and the efficacy of conventional treatments is limited in certain patient groups and often fails to address the underlying causes of ovarian dysfunction. Platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is rich in growth factors and cytokines and has emerged as a potential regenerative therapy for women with a diminished ovarian reserve. Methods: A literature search for studies pertaining to intraovarian PRP administration and PCOS was performed on PubMed. Results: Preclinical studies in PCOS animal models have demonstrated that intraovarian PRP can improve folliculogenesis, enhance antioxidant defenses, normalize steroid hormone levels, and downregulate pro-apoptotic pathways. Early clinical reports suggest that intraovarian PRP may restore ovulation and improve ovarian reserve in women with long-standing amenorrhea and poor responses to standard fertility treatments. The proposed mechanisms of how PRP could improve folliculogenesis include the modulation of local ovarian gene expression, the activation of dormant follicles, angiogenesis, and a reduction in oxidative stress and inflammation. Conclusions: Although preliminary data are promising, larger studies are needed to establish the efficacy, if any, of intraovarian PRP administration as a potential novel therapeutic adjunct in women with PCOS. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Endocrinology & Metabolism)
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