Glucocorticoid Receptor Antagonism Improves Glucose Metabolism in a Mouse Model of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

December 2023 in “ Journal of the Endocrine Society ”

Sheng Li, Zhixiong Ying, Max Gentenaar, Patrick C.N. Rensen, Sander Kooijman, Jenny A. Visser, Onno C. Meijer, Jan Kroon

glucocorticoid receptor GR dihydrotestosterone DHT polycystic ovary syndrome PCOS hyperglycemia glucose tolerance high blood sugar

TLDR Blocking glucocorticoid receptors improves glucose metabolism in a PCOS mouse model.

In a study using a mouse model of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) induced by chronic dihydrotestosterone (DHT) exposure, researchers found that glucocorticoid receptor (GR) signaling is upregulated in the liver and white adipose tissues. Preventive administration of a selective GR antagonist improved glucose metabolism by alleviating DHT-induced hyperglycemia and restoring glucose tolerance, although it did not significantly affect total fat mass or lipid accumulation. This suggests that GR activation may contribute to glucose metabolism issues in PCOS.

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Glucocorticoid Receptor Antagonism Improves Glucose Metabolism in a Mouse Model of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

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