The Search for the Causes of Common Hyperandrogenism, 1965 to Circa 2015

March 2024 in “ Endocrine Reviews ”

Robert L. Rosenfield

hyperandrogenism androgen excess premature adrenarche polycystic ovary syndrome PCOS plasma androgen patterns 11-oxytestosterones adrenal androgens neuroendocrinology insulin resistance genetics steroidogenic regulator DENND1A DENND1A.V2 theca cells obesity testosterone production testosterone

Studysummary In this retrospective review, the author discusses key discoveries in understanding androgen excess disorders like PCOS, focusing on genetic and molecular insights gained from 1965 to 2015.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

The document reviews the progress in understanding common hyperandrogenism from 1965 to 2015, focusing on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) as a primary cause in women. It highlights significant discoveries, such as the role of the DENND1A gene variant and the impact of insulin resistance and obesity on symptom severity. The review emphasizes the complexity of PCOS, involving genetic, environmental, and endocrinological factors, and underscores the importance of early diagnosis and management. Despite advancements, further research is needed to fully understand these disorders and develop effective treatments.

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research Inflammatory and Anti-Inflammatory Parameters in PCOS Patients Depending on Body Mass Index: A Case-Control Study

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This study found that chronic low-grade inflammation exists independently of excess weight or obesity in women with PCOS, with notable increases in specific cytokines such as IL-9, MCP-3, and MIP-1α.

Recommendations From The 2023 International Evidence-Based Guideline For The Assessment And Management Of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

research Recommendations From The 2023 International Evidence-Based Guideline For The Assessment And Management Of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

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research High-Throughput Sequencing to Identify Monogenic Etiologies in a Preselected Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Cohort

2 citations , July 2022 in “Journal of the Endocrine Society”

This study identified several rare genetic variants related to insulin resistance in women with PCOS, highlighting the potential for monogenic conditions in patients with extreme or atypical phenotypes.

research Evidence From Men for Ovary-Independent Effects of Genetic Risk Factors for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

11 citations , November 2021 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism”

This study found that genetic risk factors for PCOS can lead to nonreproductive phenotypes in men, suggesting these effects are independent of ovarian function.

Large-Scale Genome-Wide Meta-Analysis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Suggests Shared Genetic Architecture for Different Diagnosis Criteria

research Large-Scale Genome-Wide Meta-Analysis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Suggests Shared Genetic Architecture for Different Diagnosis Criteria

308 citations , December 2018 in “PLOS Genetics”

This study identified three novel genetic loci associated with PCOS and found similar genetic architecture across different diagnostic criteria, with evidence suggesting genetic links between PCOS and various metabolic and psychological traits.

research The Prevalence and Phenotypic Features of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

767 citations , September 2016 in “Human Reproduction”

This review analyzes the reported prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) based on different diagnostic criteria but does not provide new clinical results.

research Visually Scoring Hirsutism

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This review examines various methods for assessing hair growth in women, highlighting the usefulness of the mFG visual scoring method for diagnosing hirsutism despite its limitations.

The Androgen Excess and PCOS Society Criteria for the Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: The Complete Task Force Report

The Search for the Causes of Common Hyperandrogenism, 1965 to Circa 2015

Research cited in this study

research Inflammatory and Anti-Inflammatory Parameters in PCOS Patients Depending on Body Mass Index: A Case-Control Study

research Recommendations From The 2023 International Evidence-Based Guideline For The Assessment And Management Of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

research High-Throughput Sequencing to Identify Monogenic Etiologies in a Preselected Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Cohort

research Evidence From Men for Ovary-Independent Effects of Genetic Risk Factors for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

research Large-Scale Genome-Wide Meta-Analysis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Suggests Shared Genetic Architecture for Different Diagnosis Criteria

research The Prevalence and Phenotypic Features of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

research Visually Scoring Hirsutism

research The Androgen Excess and PCOS Society Criteria for the Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: The Complete Task Force Report

research Hirsutism and the Variable Response of the Pilosebaceous Unit to Androgens

research Revised 2003 Consensus on Diagnostic Criteria and Long-Term Health Risks Related to Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

research Serum Androgens in Normal Prepubertal and Pubertal Children and in Children with Precocious Adrenarche