Unravelling the link between insulin resistance and androgen excess

The study explored the relationship between insulin resistance and androgen excess in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), focusing on the role of aldoketoreductase type 1C3 (AKR1C3) in androgen generation within adipose tissue. Through in vitro and in vivo studies, it was found that insulin increased AKR1C3 activity in female adipocytes, and obesity elevated AKR1C3 mRNA expression. Androgens were shown to enhance lipid accumulation and suppress lipolysis in PCOS women, suggesting a cycle of hyperinsulinaemia, androgen production, and lipid buildup. The findings highlighted AKR1C3 as a potential therapeutic target for addressing metabolic dysfunction in PCOS.