Characterization of DNA Methylation and Screening of Epigenetic Markers in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

The study "Characterization of DNA Methylation and Screening of Epigenetic Markers in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome" involved 100 women and found that DNA methylation, a mechanism controlling gene expression, is significantly altered in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). This alteration could potentially serve as a biomarker for the disease. The study identified several genes, including BMP4, ETS1, and IRS1, that were differentially methylated in PCOS patients, suggesting a role in the syndrome's development. The overall DNA methylation level in granulosa cells from PCOS patients was reduced, with the first introns being the major genomic regions that were hypomethylated. Certain microRNAs were also differentially expressed in PCOS, suggesting a DNA hypomethylation and miRNA coregulated network in PCOS. These findings provide potential targets for future research and treatment strategies.