TLDR High levels of TNF-α may contribute to obesity and insulin resistance in PCOS, but not due to the C850T genetic variation.
The study from 2014 examined the involvement of Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha (TNF-α) in the development of insulin resistance and obesity in 204 patients with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) compared to 204 healthy controls. Results showed that PCOS patients had significantly higher body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, waist-to-hip ratio, fasting insulin, homeostatic model assessment (HOMA) score, and serum TNF-α levels. However, the C850T (rs1799724) polymorphism in the TNF-α gene was not found in the PCOS group, while it had a 9% frequency in the control group. The study concluded that the TNF-α system might play a role in the pathogenesis of hyperandrogenism, obesity, and insulin resistance in PCOS, but this is independent of the C850T polymorphism in the population studied.
1540 citations,
October 2008 in “Fertility and Sterility” The report concludes that PCOS is mainly a condition of excess male hormones and its definition may change as new information is discovered.
[object Object] 
1744 citations,
August 2006 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” Polycystic Ovary Syndrome should be seen mainly as a condition of excess male hormones, with a focus on this in its definition.
278 citations,
August 2004 in “Best Practice & Research in Clinical Obstetrics & Gynaecology” Polycystic ovaries are defined by having 12 or more small follicles in each ovary and are found in up to 33% of women, while Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is the most common hormone disorder in women of reproductive age, potentially increasing risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart diseases.
947 citations,
February 2004 in “The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism” Most women with excess male hormones have Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, and hormonal therapy can improve symptoms but may cause side effects.
1 citations,
October 2023 in “Egyptian Journal of Immunology” PCOS is linked to low-grade chronic inflammation.
Women with PCOS are at higher risk for gum disease, and managing shared risk factors can help both conditions.
[object Object] 
December 2021 in “Acta Marisiensis” Insulin resistance increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes and other health issues.
July 2023 in “Journal of Clinical Medicine” Tirzepatide might help manage PCOS in obese patients but needs more research to confirm safety and effectiveness.
3 citations,
January 2023 in “International Journal of Molecular Sciences” Heat Shock Proteins are important in the development of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and could be targets for new treatments.
