Fundamental mechanisms of cell death for polycystic ovary syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder in women of childbearing age with complex symptoms and multiple hormone imbalances. Patients usually present with irregular menstruation, ovarian cysts, and metabolic abnormalities. Current research has been found that multiple cell death programs may be involved in the occurrence of the disease. This article focuses on the mechanism between PCOS and six cell death processes including apoptosis, autophagy, ferroptosis, pyroptosis, NETosis and necroptosis. Ovarian granulosa cell apoptosis, autophagy, and ferroptosis play key roles in PCOS. In addition, pyroptosis and NETosis may also be involved, but the specific mechanism needs further study. In general, a deeper understanding of these cell death mechanisms will help develop innovative treatments for PCOS.