TLDR The conclusion suggests that PCOS may persist due to genetic traits that, while harmful for female fertility, could have provided survival and reproductive benefits to males.
The document reviews the genetic and evolutionary aspects of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), suggesting that it may be a result of sexual conflict. It discusses various genes associated with PCOS and their roles in the disease's pathogenesis, including their effects on glucose tolerance, hormone levels, and reproductive parameters. The review explores evolutionary theories behind the persistence of PCOS, despite its association with subfertility, suggesting that traits linked to PCOS may have offered reproductive or survival advantages in ancestral environments. These advantages include increased muscle and bone strength, a role as "allomothers," and protection against infectious diseases due to hyperandrogenism. The document posits that intralocus sexual conflict, where genetic traits beneficial in one sex are detrimental in the other, may explain the prevalence of PCOS. It concludes that PCOS-related genotypes may have been favored due to balancing selection, despite their negative impact on female fecundity, because of the advantages they provided in terms of survival and reproductive success in males.
9 citations,
September 2015 in “Reproductive Biomedicine Online” Longer GGN repeats in the androgen receptor gene are linked to polycystic ovary syndrome.
467 citations,
October 2014 in “European Journal of Endocrinology” The European Society of Endocrinology advises individualized long-term management for PCOS, focusing on lifestyle changes, accurate diagnosis, and treatments for associated health risks and symptoms.
47 citations,
August 2014 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” The research suggests that the global distribution of PCOS is likely due to historical human migration and that genes affecting PCOS may have different impacts on males and females.
430 citations,
July 2002 in “Journal of Endocrinology” The hypothesis suggests that PCOS may start early in life due to genetic and environmental factors, influencing future reproductive and metabolic problems.
September 2002 in “Comprehensive Therapy” Primary care is key in managing PCOS, focusing on lifestyle changes and medications like birth control and metformin.
58 citations,
November 2020 in “International Journal of Molecular Sciences” SHBG may be a useful early indicator and treatment target for PCOS.
52 citations,
November 2009 in “International journal of gynaecology and obstetrics” High androgen levels in Chinese women with PCOS are linked to a higher risk of diabetes and obesity.
August 2023 in “Journal of Clinical Medicine” Metformin lowers prolactin in women without PCOS but not in those with PCOS, where it reduces other hormones instead.
62 citations,
April 2013 in “Steroids” PCOS symptoms change with age; younger women have higher androgen levels and less metabolic issues, while older women face more metabolic challenges despite milder PCOS symptoms.
