Pulse Brain · Growing Health Evidence Index
Tier 4 — Narrative / commentaryPeer-reviewed

Resistance to the Insulin and Elevated Level of Androgen: A Major Cause of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Haigang Ding, Juan Zhang, Feng Zhang, Songou Zhang, Xiaozhen Chen, Wenqing Liang, Qiong Xie

Frontiers in Endocrinology · 2021

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Summary

This narrative review synthesises current understanding of polycystic ovary syndrome as a multifactorial endocrine disorder, with particular emphasis on insulin resistance and elevated androgen levels as primary aetiological drivers. The authors argue that clarifying the mechanistic interplay between these two pathways is essential for developing targeted nutritional and therapeutic interventions, and note that further research is required to fully elucidate their mutual contributions to disease development and progression.

UK applicability

The pathophysiological mechanisms described are relevant to PCOS management across UK clinical practice and may inform dietary and lifestyle advice delivered through NHS services and primary care. However, the abstract does not specify whether evidence synthesis reflects UK-specific epidemiology or treatment guidelines.

Key measures

Patterns of insulin resistance, androgen levels, and their combined effects on PCOS pathophysiology and symptom heterogeneity

Outcomes reported

The study examined the pathophysiological mechanisms linking insulin resistance (IR) and hyperandrogenemia (HA) to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) development and symptom severity. The authors reviewed how understanding these dual pathways could inform nutritional, lifestyle and pharmacological interventions for PCOS management.

Theme
Nutrition & health
Subject
Dietary patterns & chronic disease
Study type
Narrative Review
Study design
Narrative review
Source type
Peer-reviewed study
Status
Published
System type
Human clinical
DOI
10.3389/fendo.2021.741764
Catalogue ID
SNmoj1xwj9-xlst6v

Topic tags

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