"Mechanistic Insights into Androgen Excess and Insulin Resistance in PCOS: Preclinical Evidence and Alternative Models for Translational Research"
Introduction: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine, metabolic, and reproductive disorder affecting 6–20% of reproductive-age women worldwide. A hallmark of PCOS is androgen excess , which plays a crucial role in its pathophysiology, along with insulin resistance (IR). These factors contribute to reproductive dysfunction, metabolic abnormalities, and long-term health risks such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Despite extensive research, the exact mechanisms underlying PCOS remain unclear, necessitating further exploration of androgen metabolism, insulin signaling, and alternative therapeutic strategies. Methods: This synthesizes findings from preclinical studies (in vivo and in vitro models) and computational approaches to elucidate the role of androgens and insulin resistance in PCOS. · Animal Models: Insights from rodent models of hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance (e.g., postnatal...