The central role of obesity (hyperinsulinemia) in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome

Article Abstract:

Polycystic ovary syndrome is characterized by abnormal menstruation, excessive hair growth, infertility, and enlarged ovaries caused by an increase in androgen (male) hormones. Obesity is present in 50 to 80 percent of the women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Insulin, the hormone essential for the metabolism of glucose (a simple sugar) transports glucose across cell membranes. Obesity causes insulin resistance, or the lack of receptors for insulin on the cell membrane. This results in hyperinsulinemia, increased levels of insulin in the blood. There is a relationship between insulin resistance and an increase in the male hormone testosterone. When women with insulin resistance have polycystic ovaries removed, hyperinsulinemia persists. This supports the theory that hyperinsulinemia of polycystic ovary syndrome affects the metabolism of the male hormones. However, not all obese women develop polycystic ovary syndrome. There may be a familial predisposition to polycystic ovary syndrome. This defect may not become evident until hyperinsulinemia surfaces. Conversely, women with non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus are protected from polycystic ovary syndrome because the defective gene in diabetes prevents insulin from being produced. Treatment for polycystic ovary syndrome includes weight reduction to reduce hyperinsulinemia. Tests which stimulate insulin production and monitor male hormone levels can be used to identify women at risk.

Complications and side effects, Development and progression, Genetic aspects, Obesity, Insulin resistance

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Expression of cyclooxygenase-2 in cervical, endometrial, and ovarian malignancies

Article Abstract:

The enzyme cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) is present in greater than normal amounts in the ovaries and uterus of women who have ovarian or uterine cancer, according to a study of 76 women. COX-2 is an enzyme involved in prostaglandin production. This could explain why blood levels of prostaglandins are higher than normal in many cancer patients.

Cervical cancer, Ovarian cancer, Cyclooxygenases

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Role of androgens in the growth of endometrial carcinoma: an in vivo animal model

Article Abstract:

Androgens have little effect on the growth of endometrial cancer, according to a study in mice. Androgens are male sex hormones, which are present in very small amounts in most women. An exception is women with polycystic ovary syndrome, whose elevated risk of endometrial cancer was thought to be caused by excess androgens.

Research

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