Polycystic οvary syndrome revisited: An interactions network approach

Background The polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has genetic, epigenetic, metabolic and reproductive aspects, while its complex pathophysiology has not been conclusively deciphered. Aim The goal of this research was to screen the gene/gene products associated with PCOS and to predict any possible interactions with the highest possible fidelity. Materials and Methods STRING v10.5 database and a confidence level of 0.7 were used. Results A highly interconnected network of 48 nodes was created, where insulin (INS) appears to be the major hub. INS upstream and downstream defects were analysed and revealed that only the kisspeptin- and glucagon-coding genes were upstream of INS. Conclusion A metabolic dominance was inferred and discussed herein with its implications in puberty, obesity, infertility and cardiovascular function. This study, thus, may contribute to the resolution of a scientific conflict between the USA and EU definitions of the syndrome and/or provide a new P4 medicine approach.

Automated summary

This study aimed to screen genes associated with PCOS and predict possible interactions, resulting in a highly connected network with insulin as a major hub. Analysis revealed the importance of metabolic dominance in infertility, obesity, and cardiovascular function. The research may contribute to resolving scientific conflicts in PCOS definition and provide a new approach in P4 medicine.