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A Hyperandrogenic Mouse Model to Study Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
Published on: October 2, 2018
Therapy for polycystic ovarian syndrome
Alex Y Wei1, Elizabeth A Pritts
1Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, University of Wisconsin Hospital, 600 Highland Avenue, H4/628, Madison, WI 53792-6188, USA. a.wei@hosp.wisc.edu
Current Opinion in Pharmacology
|December 4, 2003
Summary
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder. New treatments targeting insulin resistance can address multiple PCOS symptoms, improving long-term health for affected women.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Reproductive Health
Background:
- Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is the most prevalent endocrine disorder among reproductive-aged women.
- PCOS is characterized by diverse symptoms including oligo-ovulation, hyperandrogenism, obesity, hyperlipidemia, infertility, and insulin resistance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the significant long-term morbidity associated with insulin resistance in PCOS.
- To introduce a new therapeutic approach targeting insulin resistance for comprehensive PCOS management.
Main Methods:
- Review of current understanding of PCOS pathophysiology.
- Analysis of the impact of insulin resistance on PCOS sequelae.
- Evaluation of systemically targeted drug classes for PCOS treatment.
Main Results:
- Insulin resistance is a key factor contributing to the most severe long-term health issues in women with PCOS.
- Historically, PCOS treatments focused on individual symptoms like irregular periods or excess hair growth.
- Emerging therapies offer a systemic approach by addressing underlying insulin resistance.
Conclusions:
- Insulin resistance is a central issue in polycystic ovarian syndrome.
- Systemic treatments targeting insulin resistance represent a significant advancement in PCOS management.
- This approach offers a more holistic strategy for improving the health of women with PCOS.
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