The role of cytokines in polycystic ovarian syndrome.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age. Inflammation has been implicated in the metabolic disturbances and menstrual irregularities, which characterize this condition. Various inflammatory proteins have been investigated in women with PCOS including C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, interleukin-18 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha. The data is suggestive of the presence of a chronic low-grade inflammatory state, especially in case of obesity, insulin resistance and hyperandrogenism. Targeting this inflammatory process by means of anti-inflammatory agents might be a therapeutic alternative to the current treatment.
Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine & Surgery, University of Malta, Msida, Malta.
Krystle
K
Ebejer
Jean
J
Calleja-Agius
D000328:Adult; D002908:Chronic Disease; D016207:Cytokines / Q000097:blood / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D017588:Hyperandrogenism / Q000097:blood / Q000150:complications / Q000378:metabolism / Q000628:therapy; D007249:Inflammation / Q000097:blood / Q000209:etiology / Q000378:metabolism / Q000628:therapy; D007333:Insulin Resistance / Q000502:physiology; D008954:Models, Biological; D009765:Obesity / Q000097:blood / Q000150:complications / Q000378:metabolism; D011085:Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / Q000097:blood* / Q000150:complications / Q000378:metabolism / Q000628:therapy
D016207:Cytokines