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

Studysummary In this study, the researchers found that glucocorticoid receptor activation may influence glucose metabolism, with preventive GR antagonist treatment reducing hyperglycemia and restoring glucose tolerance in a PCOS mouse model.

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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

Research cited in this study

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