The potential role of uric acid in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

Gynecol Endocrinol. 2024 Dec;40(1):2323725. doi: 10.1080/09513590.2024.2323725. Epub 2024 Mar 4.

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age and is associated with a variety of multi-system complications. The prevailing treatment strategy for PCOS is to individualize the interventions based on individual symptoms and patient complaints. However, optimal efficacy in treatment necessitates a focus on addressing the underlying pathogenic mechanisms. Uric acid (UA), the end product of purine metabolism, has been suggested to be involved in the development of several diseases, including PCOS. However, the precise mechanisms by which UA may affect PCOS remain incompletely understood. This literature review aims to investigate the correlation between UA and the various clinical presentations of PCOS, such as hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance (IR), ovulation disorders, obesity, and other related manifestations, through the analysis of epidemiological and clinical studies. The purpose of this study is to improve our comprehension of how UA contributes to each aspect of PCOS and their interrelationship, thus identifying the potential role of UA as a facilitator of PCOS. Furthermore, we explore potential pathways linking UA and PCOS, and propose therapeutic interventions based on these findings to optimize the management of this condition.

Keywords: Polycystic ovary syndrome; hyperandrogenism; insulin resistance; metabolic syndrome; oxidative stress; uric acid.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hyperandrogenism / blood
  • Insulin Resistance* / physiology
  • Obesity / blood
  • Obesity / complications
  • Obesity / metabolism
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome* / blood
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome* / complications
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome* / metabolism
  • Uric Acid* / blood

Substances

  • Uric Acid