Hyponeurotrophinemia in Serum of Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome as a Low Grade Chronic Inflammation

Introduction: This study aimed to discuss about neuroimmune-pathophysiology of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Nerve growth factor (NGF) as modulator of neuro-endocrine-immune (NEI) system plays a critical role in tissue survival and homeostasis maintenance. It is a strong marker for sympathetic nerve activity. Women with PCO have enhanced ovarian NGF production. Over the past few decades, PCOS has been discussed as a low grade chronic inflammatory disease. In this study, we investigated the neuromodulator role of serum NGF and inflammatory cytokines (IL-1α, β, 17A and TNF-α) in women with PCOS. Material and Methods: 171 patients were investigated in two groups: study (n = 85 PCO) and control (n = 86). Serum levels of NGF-α and interleukins IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-17A and TNFα were determined in both groups by ELISA kit. Results: Data of this study showed that the level of NGF-α and IL-17A in serum of PCO women were lower than control group (p < 0.001). The serum levels of IL-1α, IL-1β were higher than control group in PCO women (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Probably inflammatory background in PCOS is the main cause of increased serum levels of IL-1α, IL-1β. Reduction of IL-17A and NGF in serum of PCO patients might be under the direct influence of the hyperactivity of sympathetic nervous system (SNS).