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Updated: Jul 23, 2026
08:20
A Hyperandrogenic Mouse Model to Study Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Published on: October 2, 2018
Divalent cations in women with PCOS: implications for cardiovascular disease
O Muneyyirci-Delale1, V L Nacharaju, M Dalloul
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, SUNY Health Science Center, 450 Clarkson Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11203, USA.
Summary
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients exhibit lower serum magnesium and higher calcium-to-magnesium ratios. These imbalances may link PCOS to increased risks of insulin resistance, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Metabolic Disorders
- Cardiovascular Health
Background:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is linked to insulin resistance, glucose intolerance, and increased risk of hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and cardiovascular disease.
- Low serum ionized magnesium (Mg2+) and high calcium-to-magnesium (Ca2+/Mg2+) ratios are associated with insulin resistance and cardiovascular issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the serum divalent cation profiles of women with PCOS to those of healthy controls.
- To investigate potential correlations between serum cation levels and hormonal profiles in PCOS patients.
Main Methods:
- Serum samples were collected from women with PCOS and age-matched healthy controls.
- Ionized magnesium (Mg2+), total magnesium, and ionized calcium (Ca2+) levels were measured.
- Ca2+/Mg2+ ratios were calculated and compared between groups.
Main Results:
- PCOS patients had significantly lower serum Mg2+ and total magnesium levels compared to controls.
- A significantly higher serum Ca2+/Mg2+ ratio was observed in PCOS patients.
- No correlation was found between serum cation concentrations and steroid hormone levels in either group.
Conclusions:
- PCOS is associated with altered serum magnesium and calcium levels, characterized by lower magnesium and a higher Ca2+/Mg2+ ratio.
- These ionic imbalances may contribute to the metabolic and cardiovascular complications observed in PCOS.
- Further research is warranted to explore the therapeutic potential of magnesium supplementation in PCOS management.
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