LeeDawson

Saturday 28 June 2003




Potential role of the immune system in PCOS highlighted
Source: Obstetrics and Gynecology 2003; 101: 1177-82

Intrafollicular and serum levels of immunologic proteins are compared in women with and without polycystic ovary syndrome.


Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have elevated serum and intrafollicular levels of certain cytokines, supporting the involvement of the immune system in the condition, say investigators.

"Cytokines, soluble polypeptides of immunological origin, are local regulators of ovarian function," explain Dr. Giovanni Amato (Second University of Naples, Italy) and co-workers.

Noting that the cytokines tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha and interleukin (IL)-6 have been implicated in ovarian hyperstimulation and hyperandrogenism, Amato et al examined a potential role of these proteins in PCOS. They measured serum levels of the two cytokines and estradiol prior to ovarian stimulation in 31 patients undergoing IVF treatment, and 31 women who were undergoing IVF due to male infertility. Follicular fluid samples obtained at the time of oocyte retrieval were also analyzed.

Patients with PCOS had significantly higher serum and follicular fluid levels of TNF-alpha and IL-6, and lower levels of estradiol than the controls. In the follicular fluid, TNF-alpha showed an inverse correlation with estradiol in the PCOS patients, but not in the controls.

"The results of our study suggest a role for the immune system in PCOS," the researchers conclude. "The future characterization of these physiopathologic aspects might favor new diagnostic and therapeutic perspectives in the management of patients with PCOS."

Posted: 27 June 2003

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