Impact of Metformin therapy on miR-9, miR-223, and miR-132 and inflammasome-related gen expression in obese and non-obes PCOS patients: A comparative study with healthy controls
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine and metabolic disorder characterized by chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, and hormonal imbalances, often leading to infertility and metabolic dysfunction. Metformin, an insulin-sensitizing agent, has shown potential to improve these conditions. This study investigated the impact of metformin on inflammasome-regulating microRNAs (miR-9, miR-223, miR-132) and related genes (IL-1β, IL-18, caspase-1, NLRP3) in obese and non-obese PCOS patients compared to healthy controls.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: In this case-control study, 100 women aged 18-35 were divided into 50 PCOS patients and 50 controls, stratified by BMI (>25 kg/m² and <25 kg/m²). Blood samples were analyzed pre- and post-12 weeks of metformin treatment (500 mg twice daily) for serum hormone levels (FSH, LH, TSH) by ELISA kit, miRNA and mRNA expression by qPCR, and follicle count by transvaginal ultrasound were evaluated.
RESULTS: The results demonstrated a significantly lower expression of miR-9 in PCOS patients (BMI >25 kg/m²) compared to healthy controls (mean ± SD: 0.54 ± 0.07 vs. 1.00 ± 0.11; P < 0.001). Following metformin treatment, miR-223 expression was significantly upregulated (from 0.88 ± 0.06 to 1.21 ± 0.08; P = 0.002). Similarly, the expression levels of IL-1β (2.01 ± 0.31 vs. 1.31 ± 0.23) and NLRP3 (2.12 ± 0.27 vs. 1.38 ± 0.22) decreased significantly post-treatment (P < 0.01). No significant change was observed in miR-132…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a case-control, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 100 participants or records.
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