A case-control study unravelling the prognostic significance of oxidative markers in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrinological disorders in female. Reproductive organ is a metabolically active organ; hence reactive oxygen species (ROS) are inevitably generated during the physiological process. Studies have suggested that OS may affect female fertility by reproductive impairment, leading to alter ovulation patterns, oocyte maturation and steroidogenesis in women with PCOS. Thus, the present study aimed to assess the oxidative status of diagnosed PCOS women. Based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria, 100 Subjects (Group – 1 PCOS N=50 , Group-2 Controls N=50) were enrolled with their written informed consent. Blood samples were collected in aseptic conditions for the estimation of hormonal parameters (Testosterone) and oxidative stress markers (MDA, SOD, Catalase, GSH, GSSG). The statistical analysis of data indicated significant elevated level of MDA, SOD, GSSG (5.21 vs 1.52  ;  248.15 vs166.15; 11.38 vs 4.37), while decreased level of catalase and GSH (37.57 vs 78.2; 84.09 vs 121.7) was observed in PCOS cases when compared to controls.  The linear regression model showed significant R² values for MDA, SOD and GSSG . Further ROC curve was plotted for MDA, SOD and GSSG to estimate the sensitivity of these predictive markers. OS damages oocyte and follicle growth in females, damaging the endometrium and affecting endocrine function. Significantly higher levels of MDA, SOD & GSSG were reported in cases, and catalase, GSH levels were decreased. Linear regression and ROC curve analysis indicated that these MDA, SOD, GSSG may act as significant predictive markers of OS playing a pivotal role in the pathophysiology underlying PCOS and as prognostic tools to reduce the severity of the disease.