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Updated: May 14, 2026
04:49
A Modified Technique for Inducing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Mice
Published on: July 5, 2024
The Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and recent human evolution
Stephen Corbett1, Laure Morin-Papunen
1Population Health, Clinical Support Division Western, Gungurra Building 68 Cumberland Hospital, Locked Bag 7118, Parramatta, BC NSW 2124, Australia. Stephen_Corbett@wsahs.nsw.gov.au
Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology
|January 29, 2013
Summary
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) impairs fertility, yet persists due to potential evolutionary balancing selection. This review explores PCOS impacts and evolutionary origins, linking it to metabolic and reproductive health.
Area of Science:
- Evolutionary Medicine
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Genetics
Background:
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder causing reproductive and metabolic disturbances.
- PCOS is the leading cause of female infertility worldwide and has a familial, polygenic inheritance pattern.
- Genetic links exist between PCOS, Type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the effects of PCOS on female infertility, fecundability, and overall reproductive success.
- To critically evaluate existing hypotheses regarding the evolutionary origins of PCOS and associated conditions.
- To explore the evolutionary paradox of PCOS persistence despite its impact on fertility.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on PCOS impacts on reproductive outcomes.
- Critical appraisal of published evolutionary hypotheses for PCOS.
- Synthesis of findings from reproductive medicine, genetics, and evolutionary biology.
Main Results:
- PCOS significantly impacts infertility, fecundability, and lifetime reproductive success.
- The persistence of PCOS suggests a potential role for balancing selection in its evolutionary history.
- PCOS shares genetic links with metabolic syndrome and Type 2 diabetes, indicating complex evolutionary pressures.
Conclusions:
- Evolutionary medicine offers valuable insights into the etiology and prevalence patterns of PCOS.
- Understanding the evolutionary origins of PCOS is crucial for developing effective management strategies.
- Further research into balancing selection mechanisms may elucidate PCOS persistence and its associated metabolic risks.
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