Homocysteine metabolism in polycystic ovary syndrome

Abstract

Homocysteine, a sulfur-containing amino acid formed during the metabolism of methionine, exert cytotoxic effects on vascular endothelium. Molecular mechanisms of homocysteine-induced cellular dysfunction include increased inflammatory cytokine expression, altered nitric oxide bioavailability, induction of oxidative stress, activation of apoptosis and defective methylation. Hyperhomocysteinemia is associated with an increased risk of atherosclerotic and thromboembolic disorders, as well as hyperinsulinemia and may partially account for increased risk of cardiovascular disease associated with insulin resistance. Women with PCOS are more likely to develop components of the metabolic syndrome such as disturbances of carbohydrate metabolism, obesity, hypertension and dyslipidemia, which in turn are risk factors for cardiovascular disease. A number of studies confirmed the presence of increased serum homocysteine concentration in PCOS patients and the possible determinants of this observation are still debated. PCOS treatment options can influence homocysteine levels.

Correlation of visfatin levels and lipoprotein lipid profiles in women with polycystic ovary syndrome undergoing ovarian stimulation

“…Furthermore, similar with a previous report, we observed an unfavorable lipid profile, comprising elevated apolipoprotein B and lipoprotein(a) levels and decreased apolipoprotein A1 levels, which are also risk factors for CVD [23]. Since homocysteine displays a cytotoxic effect on vascular endothelium, its increased levels have been associated with an increased risk of CVD [23][24][25]. As shown in previous studies, we found increased serum homocysteine levels in PCOS women compared to weight-matched controls [23,24], results which have not been confirmed by others, where similar homocysteine levels between PCOS and control groups have been reported [26].…”

Implications of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome for Pregnancy and for the Health of Offspring

“…28 In addition, women with PCOS are likely to have abnormalities of homocysteine metabolism related to the degree of hyperinsulinemia and hyperandrogenemia, 29 although this is correctable with adequate folate intake. Further abnormalities identifiable in women with PCOS are an elevated serum plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 30 and an abnormal expression of some molecular markers with the endometrium, 31 particularly relating to abnormalities in insulin-like growth factor binding protein-1, glycodelin, homeobox protein-HOXA 10, and endometrial progesterone resistance.…”

Genotype, B‐vitamin status, and androgens affect spaceflight‐induced ophthalmic changes

“…Astronauts with spaceflight-induced ophthalmic changes had higher homocysteine concentrations than those who had no changes (3). Patients with PCOS and their first-degree male and female relatives have higher serum homocysteine (21)(22)(23)(24). Second, both conditions are associated with optic disc edema and decreased visual acuity (1,6,25,26).…”