The Relationship Between Menopause and Metabolic Syndrome: Experimental and Bioinformatics Analysis

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology and Metabolism
• Genetics and Bioinformatics
• Cardiovascular Research

Background:

• Menopausal hormonal shifts are linked to metabolic syndrome (MetS), type 2 diabetes (T2D), and cardiovascular diseases (CVD).
• A common genetic basis and signaling pathways connecting MetS, T2D, CVD, and menopause status remain understudied.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between menopausal status and MetS, T2D, and CVD.
• To identify common gene signatures and signaling pathways related to MetS, T2D, CVD, and menopause.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of 314 women (35-75 years) divided into premenopausal and postmenopausal groups.
• Evaluation of MetS components, T2D, and CVD occurrence.
• Translational bioinformatics approach for gene mining and pathway analysis.

Main Results:

• MetS prevalence was significantly higher in postmenopausal women (67.1%) compared to premenopausal women (27.2%).
• 47 common genes were identified across MetS, T2D, CVD, and menopausal changes.
• Enriched pathways included P53 signaling and regulation of leukocyte cell-cell adhesion; key hub genes like TGFB1, MMP9, and IL6 were identified.

Conclusions:

• Menopause significantly increases the risk of metabolic syndrome.
• Identified gene signatures and pathways offer insights into the molecular mechanisms linking menopause to MetS, T2D, and CVD.
• Hub genes like TGFB1, MMP9, and IL6 may be critical targets for understanding and managing menopausal-related metabolic and cardiovascular risks.