Polycystic ovary syndrome and insulin resistance

In the last decade many epidemiological studies have shown that polycystic ovary syndrome (SOPK) is associated with an increase relative risk for deve loping glucose intolerance, type 2 diabetes and dyslipidaemia, that, taken together, may increase the risk of death from cardio-vascular disease. Near ly half of the SOPK women display hyperinsulinemia that results in increasi ng ovarian androgen secretion and decreasing liver synthesis of sex hormone binding-globulin (SHBG). The molecular mechanisms of insulin resistance ar e poorly understood and involve low tyrosine kinase activity of the insulin receptor as well as downstream defect of the insulin signalling such as in tracellular substrates (IRSs). IRS-2 that is regulated by progesterone and has been shown to be involved in both female reproductive function and meta bolism homeostasis, is one interesting candidate, that is currently investi gated. The comprehension of the PCOS physiopathology should be helpful in t reating ovarian dysfunction and androgen excess, as well as in opening new strategy for prevention of risks for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular dis eases.