Unraveling the multifactorial pathophysiology of polycystic ovary syndrome: exploring lifestyle, prenatal influences, neuroendocrine dysfunction, and post-translational modifications.

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex, multifactorial metabolic and endocrine disorder in reproductive-age women. This review discusses the interlinked roles of lifestyle, metabolic dysregulation, insulin resistance, neuroendocrine impairment, genetic predisposition, and post-translational modifications (PTMs) in PCOS pathogenesis. Lifestyle components, especially those leading to obesity and insulin resistance, worsen the hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction, and inflammation. Dietary treatments such as, DASH diet and caloric restriction, particularly along with metformin, have been proven to improve metabolic and reproductive parameters. Environmental toxins, such as endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) and advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), further compromise ovarian function and hormone regulation. Oxidative stress and insulin resistance, driven by mitochondrial malfunction and chronic inflammation, create a self-perpetuating vicious cycle that compromises oocyte quality and worsens metabolic imbalance. Neuroendocrine disruption, characterized by increased GnRH and LH pulsatility, is initiated by dysregulated kisspeptin, dynorphin, and neurokinin B signaling in KNDy neurons, modified GABAergic input, and increased AMH and androgens. PTMs such as phosphorylation, methylation, acetylation, and ubiquitination also play essential roles in granulosa cell function, AR signaling, insulin sensitivity, and oocyte maturation. Current and novel treatment options vary from lifestyle modifications and pharmacological interventions (e.g., metformin, GLP-1 receptor agonists, myoinositol, vitamin D, and statins) to regenerative measures like mesenchymal stem cells and fecal microbiota transplantation. Newer therapies focusing on PTMs and neuroendocrine regulators remain the future hope. Multidisciplinary individualized management is critical for successful PCOS therapy and averting long-term complications.