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Updated: Sep 20, 2026
Comparative Lesions Analysis Through a Targeted Sequencing Approach
Published on: November 5, 2019
Screening target genes for the treatment of PCOS via analysis of single-cell sequencing data
Zhenzhen Lu1, Chunyan Chen1, Ying Gao1
1Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
Background:
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition of the female reproductive system and it remains imperative to identify target genes responsible for its pathogenesis and develop therapeutic drugs capable of effectively treating it.
Methods:
We performed primary screening, staging, functional analysis as well as screening of target genes and therapeutic drugs based on single cell sequencing data of 34 oocytes from the GEO database.
Results:
Oxidative phosphorylation played a pivotal role in the development of oocytes, insulin resistance and ovulation disorders. At the cellular level, GV and MI phases were particularly critical for the biology of pregnancy. We screened PGR, SIRT1 and ADAMTS1 as hub differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and found relevant drugs using the Drug-Gene Interaction Database. In clinical study, oral contraceptives and insulin sensitisers were found to be effective in the treatment of PCOS.
Conclusion:
PGR, SIRT1 and ADAMTS1 were found to be down-regulated in oocytes, ovulation and female pregnancy. These 3 genes are likely biomarkers important in the treatment of PCOS. Insulin sensitiser in combination with oral contraceptive administration were found to significantly improve PCOS.Key messagesOur study used a new bioinformatics approach to find target genes for the treatment of PCOS.Our study sought to identify target genes that affect human oocyte quality by analysing single-cell sequencing data from oocytes.We testified to our data by analysing a subset of clinical data.
Insights
This study identifies key genes, PGR, SIRT1, and ADAMTS1, crucial for treating Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Combining oral contraceptives with insulin sensitizers shows significant improvement in PCOS patients.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Genomics
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disorder affecting female reproduction.
- Identifying specific target genes and effective therapeutic drugs for PCOS pathogenesis is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify target genes and potential therapeutic drugs for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) using bioinformatics.
- To analyze single-cell sequencing data to understand oocyte quality and PCOS development.
Main Methods:
- Utilized single-cell sequencing data from 34 oocytes obtained from the GEO database.
- Performed primary screening, staging, functional analysis, and identified hub differentially expressed genes (DEGs).
- Screened for relevant drugs using the Drug-Gene Interaction Database and analyzed clinical data.
Main Results:
- Oxidative phosphorylation, insulin resistance, and ovulation disorders are pivotal in oocyte development.
- Identified PGR, SIRT1, and ADAMTS1 as hub DEGs, found to be downregulated in oocytes and pregnancy.
- Clinical data confirmed oral contraceptives and insulin sensitizers as effective PCOS treatments.
Conclusions:
- PGR, SIRT1, and ADAMTS1 are potential biomarkers for PCOS treatment.
- A combination of insulin sensitizers and oral contraceptives significantly improves PCOS.
- This study presents a novel bioinformatics approach for identifying PCOS therapeutic targets.
