Polycystic ovary syndrome: A metabolic disorder with therapeutic opportunities

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a highly prevalent endocrine disorder characterized by intertwined reproductive and metabolic abnormalities. While its causal origins remain incompletely understood, accumulating evidence suggests metabolic dysfunctions-manifested by insulin resistance, obesity, hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia-as key contributors to the pathogenesis and progression of PCOS. Emerging interventions targeting these metabolic disturbances, including caloric restriction, GLP-1-based therapies, and bariatric surgery, have shown efficacy in alleviating PCOS symptoms and potentially blocking their inheritance. By addressing the metabolic roots and therapeutic opportunities in PCOS, this perspective highlights a critical shift in fundamentally recognizing PCOS as a metabolic disorder. The future promises more metabolic-focused research to unravel the underlying pathogenesis and develop precise, long-term strategies for managing this complex disease.