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Updated: Jun 7, 2026
11:22
Microbiota Analysis Using Two-step PCR and Next-generation 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing
Published on: October 15, 2019
Gut microbiota in PCOS: key microbial changes, potential mechanisms and clinical applications
Shaomin Shi1, Jinshu Ma2, Xinhui Jing3
1Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, China-Japan Union Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, People's Republic of China.
Journal of Translational Medicine
|June 5, 2026
Summary
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) involves gut microbial changes impacting metabolism and hormones. Interventions targeting the gut microbiota show promise for managing PCOS symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Microbiology
- Metabolic Disorders
Background:
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine-metabolic disorder with reproductive and metabolic dysfunction.
- Its pathogenesis is not fully understood, necessitating exploration beyond conventional models.
- The gut microbiota is increasingly recognized for its role in regulating host metabolism and immunity, influencing PCOS development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of gut microbiota in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) pathophysiology.
- To explore the gut microbiota as a potential therapeutic target for PCOS.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of gut microbial dysbiosis in PCOS patients, including diversity and taxonomic shifts.
- Assessment of functional impairments like short-chain fatty acid production.
- Review of therapeutic strategies targeting the microbiota, such as dietary interventions and probiotics.
Main Results:
- PCOS patients exhibit gut microbial dysbiosis with reduced diversity and specific taxonomic alterations (e.g., Lachnospira).
- Microbial dysbiosis contributes to PCOS pathology via the metabolism-immune-endocrine network, worsening insulin resistance, inflammation, and hyperandrogenism.
- Dietary strategies, probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics demonstrate therapeutic potential for PCOS.
Conclusions:
- The gut microbiota is integral to PCOS pathophysiology and offers a novel therapeutic avenue.
- Current research faces limitations due to study heterogeneity and incomplete mechanistic understanding.
- Future research should prioritize large-scale longitudinal studies and precise microbiota-based interventions for personalized PCOS management.
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