Potential for NPY receptor–related therapies for polycystic ovary syndrome: an updated review

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disease that can cause female infertility and bring economic burden to families and to society. The clinical and/or biochemical manifestations include hyperandrogenism, persistent anovulation, and polycystic ovarian changes, often accompanied by insulin resistance and obesity. Although its pathogenesis is unclear, PCOS involves the abnormal regulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis and the abnormal activation of GnRH neurons. Neuropeptide Y (NPY) is widely distributed in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus and functions as the physiological integrator of two neuroendocrine systems, one governing feeding and the other controlling reproduction. In recent years, an increasing number of studies have focused on the improvement of the reproductive and metabolic status of PCOS through the therapeutic application of NPY and its receptors. In this review, we summarize the central and peripheral regulation of NPY and its receptors in the development of PCOS and discuss the potential for NPY receptor–related therapies for PCOS.

Androgen excess: a hallmark of polycystic ovary syndrome

“…Hypothalamic NPY enhances GnRH-stimulated LH secretion and inhibits kisspeptin. It has been shown that NPY Y5 receptor antagonists significantly suppress weight gain and food intake ( 142 ). Further research and clinical trials are required before this neuropeptide can be used to treat the metabolic and reproductive dysfunctions observed in PCOS.…”