TLDR Androgens are important for female fertility and could help in IVF treatment, but also play a role in causing PCOS.
The 2019 document discussed the role of androgens in female fertility, follicle health, and development. It found that androgens, mediated by the androgen receptor (AR), were crucial in these processes. This led to the use of androgens or androgen-modulating agents in in vitro fertilization (IVF) for women termed poor responders. However, excess androgens were key in the development of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The document also discussed the use of Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and testosterone as pre-treatments to enhance follicular response to IVF hyperstimulation, with mixed results. The use of Letrozole, an aromatase inhibitor, recombinant luteinizing hormone (rLH), and recombinant human chorionic gonadotrophin (rhCG) also showed mixed results. The document concluded that further studies were needed to confirm the efficacy of these treatments. The document also provided evidence supporting the role of androgens in the development and progression of PCOS. The research indicated that PCOS could not be induced in Androgen Receptor Knockout (ARKO) mice, suggesting a functional AR is necessary for the development of PCOS. The document concluded that understanding these mechanisms could lead to the development of new targeted, evidence-based interventions for PCOS.
767 citations,
September 2016 in “Human Reproduction” Polycystic ovary syndrome affects about 6-10% of women, with varying symptoms and the need for standardized global definitions.
10 citations,
September 2015 in “Gynecological Endocrinology” Both treatments reduced excessive hair growth in PCOS, but there was no difference in weight, hair score, hormone levels, or insulin resistance.
1265 citations,
October 2013 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” The guideline suggests using specific criteria to diagnose PCOS, recommends various treatments for its symptoms, and advises screening for related health issues.
1744 citations,
August 2006 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” Polycystic Ovary Syndrome should be seen mainly as a condition of excess male hormones, with a focus on this in its definition.
40 citations,
January 2003 in “Gynecological Endocrinology” Finasteride effectively reduces hair growth in women with polycystic ovary syndrome or idiopathic hirsutism.
94 citations,
January 2000 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” Spironolactone most effective for hirsutism, but has side effects.
113 citations,
April 1999 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” Cyproterone acetate-estrogen most effective for hirsutism, but consider side effects and patient needs.
1 citations,
January 2022 in “Journal of Biosciences and Medicines” Understanding how androgens and their receptors work can lead to improved treatments for skin diseases.
5 citations,
January 2017 in “Endocrinology” Genetic defects in testosterone production can cause hormonal and developmental disorders, and more research is needed to understand androgen regulation and develop safer treatments.
31 citations,
January 2003 in “Dermatology” Steroidogenic isoenzymes may help improve treatments for common hair loss.
100 citations,
September 2017 in “Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology” Male hormones and their receptors play a key role in hair loss and skin health, with potential new treatments being explored.
October 2023 in “Frontiers in endocrinology” Androgens and androgen receptors are important for metabolic health, affecting how the body uses glucose and fats through mitochondrial function.
