TLDR Certain MC4R gene variants are linked to higher BMI in obese women with PCOS but do not cause PCOS.
In the 2019 study by Batarfi et al., researchers analyzed the association between MC4R gene variants rs12970134 and rs17782313 and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in 189 women from the Western region of Saudi Arabia, including 95 PCOS cases and 94 controls. They discovered that while these variants were significantly linked to higher body mass index (BMI) in PCOS patients, they were not directly associated with PCOS. The risk alleles A for rs12970134 and C for rs17782313 were associated with a higher BMI in obese PCOS patients. Other genotypes of these variants were related to symptoms like hirsutism, hair loss, hyperandrogenism, and anti-Müllerian hormone levels in non-obese PCOS patients. The study concluded that these MC4R single nucleotide polymorphisms are correlated with elevated BMI in PCOS patients but do not cause PCOS, and that different genotypes are associated with clinical symptoms in non-obese PCOS patients.
951 citations,
December 2013 in “Clinical epidemiology” PCOS is a common hormonal disorder in women that can be managed with lifestyle changes and various medications.
9 citations,
November 2012 in “Archives of Dermatological Research” MC4R gene variants not linked to female hair loss.
1514 citations,
December 2011 in “Fertility and sterility” Experts agree that PCOS affects women's health in complex ways, but more research is needed to understand and treat it effectively.
105 citations,
January 2009 in “Medicine” Hirsutism is more linked to high androgen levels than acne or hair loss, and a mix of hormonal tests is best for diagnosis; certain treatments can reduce symptoms.
85 citations,
June 2006 in “Best Practice & Research Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism” The document concludes that hirsutism is the main sign for diagnosing hyperandrogenism, which requires a detailed patient history and physical exam.
4809 citations,
January 2004 in “Fertility and Sterility” The 2003 consensus updated PCOS diagnosis criteria and highlighted increased risks of diabetes and heart disease for those affected.
633 citations,
September 1998 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” PCOS affects a similar percentage of Black and White women in the Southeastern United States.
9 citations,
November 2012 in “Archives of Dermatological Research” MC4R gene variants not linked to female hair loss.
883 citations,
August 2016 in “Nature Reviews Disease Primers” Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition in women that can cause metabolic, reproductive, and psychological issues, and requires lifestyle changes and medication for management.
405 citations,
May 2007 in “Journal of The American Academy of Dermatology” Obesity affects skin health, causing conditions like acanthosis nigricans and may require different treatment approaches.
356 citations,
September 2014 in “Journal of Clinical Research in Pediatric Endocrinology” Childhood obesity is rising globally due to various factors, and early prevention and healthy lifestyle changes are crucial.
266 citations,
November 2013 in “European Journal of Epidemiology” The Rotterdam Study aims to understand disease causes in the elderly and has found new risk factors and genetic influences on various conditions.
