Cross-talking between polycystic ovarian syndrome and gut microbiome: a comprehensive review

Abstract Background Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a multifaceted endocrine condition, affects 5–10% of women globally of reproductive age.Recent studies underscore the possible involvement of gut microbiota in the pathophysiology of PCOS, specifically with hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance, despite the etiology being ambiguous. Objective This study aims to examine the bidirectional association between PCOS and gut microbiota, emphasizing new findings regarding underlying processes, microbial metabolites, and novel treatment strategies. Methods Relevant material was identified using searches in PubMed, Google Scholar, and ResearchGate using keywords such as “PCOS,” “gut microbiome,” “insulin resistance,” and “therapeutic strategies.” Major insights Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is often linked to gut dysbiosis, which is marked by modified bile acid and short-chain fatty acid metabolism, elevated pro-inflammatory markers, and reduced microbial diversity. Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) from women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has been demonstrated in animal experiments to provoke ovarian dysfunction, hyperandrogenism, and insulin resistance. Probiotics, prebiotics, synbiotics, and IL-22 supplementation exemplify treatment techniques that have demonstrated encouraging outcomes in altering gut flora and alleviating symptoms. Conclusion A distinct approach to treat PCOS focuses on the gut microbiome. Nonetheless, more human clinical studies are needed to confirm its therapeutic efficacy.