The Implication of Mechanistic Approaches and the Role of the Microbiome in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Review

January 2023 in “ Metabolites ”

Anirban Goutam Mukherjee, Uddesh Ramesh Wanjari, Sandra Kannampuzha, Reshma Murali, Arunraj Namachivayam, Raja Ganesan, Abhijit Dey, Achsha Babu, Kaviyarasi Renu, Balachandar Vellingiri, Gnanasambandan Ramanathan, George Priya Doss C, Nehal M. Elsherbiny, Amira M. Elsherbini, Alsamman M. Alsamman, Hatem Zayed, Abilash Valsala Gopalakrishnan

hirsutism hyperandrogenism ovulatory dysfunction gut microbiome inflammation insulin resistance sex hormone changes bile acids short-chain fatty acids SCFAs ceramides trimethylamine N-oxide TMAO exogenous IL-22 gut bacteria IL-22

Studysummary This review discusses the relationship between gut microbiota and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), including its potential mechanisms and the role of alterations in microbiome composition on PCOS pathophysiology. Our plain-language summary of this paper — not a Tressless recommendation.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex condition affecting women's reproductive health, with symptoms such as hirsutism, hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction, irregular menstruation, and infertility. The review suggests that alterations in the gut microbiome play a significant role in the development of PCOS, affecting metabolic and immunological function, and causing inflammation. PCOS patients show changes in gut microbiota, with a higher prevalence of certain bacterial species and lower levels of beneficial bacteria. These changes can lead to systemic low-grade inflammation, insulin resistance, and affect sex hormone changes. The review also highlights the role of metabolites such as bile acids, short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), ceramides, and trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) in the development of PCOS. Potential treatments for PCOS may include modulating these factors, such as administering exogenous IL-22 and altering the gut microbiome. However, more research is needed to fully understand these mechanisms and their implications for treatment.

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