Diagnostic Value of Bile Acids and Fibroblast Growth Factor 21 in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

• Main Authors: Jennie L. Yoost (Author), Morgan Ruley (Author), Kia Smith (Author), Nalini Santanam (Author), Holly A. Cyphert (Author)
• Format: Book
• Published: Mary Ann Liebert, 2022-09-01T00:00:00Z.
• Subjects: article
• Online Access: Connect to this object online.
• Notes: 10.1089/WHR.2022.0060; 2688-4844
• Keywords: polycystic ovary syndrome; bile acids; hyocholic acid; obesity; FGF-21; FGF-19; Gynecology and obstetrics; RG1-991; Public aspects of medicine; RA1-1270
• Source: Women's Health Reports, Vol 3, Iss 1, Pp 803-812 (2022)

Objective: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous disorder characterized by a reduction in fertility and metabolic dysfunction. Unfortunately, due to a lack of clear presentation, it is often a long process of diagnosis. In this study, we investigated bile acids as potential biomarkers. Materials and Methods: Subjects were recruited and stratified into groups based on body mass index and PCOS status. Biometric data and plasma were acquired to understand bile acid profiles and related markers. Results: Taurocholic acid (TCA) and taurodeoxycholic acid were elevated in PCOS subjects with obesity in comparison to controls without PCOS. Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF-21), a metabolic regulator implemented in bile acid metabolism, was elevated in PCOS patients and was positively correlated with TCA changes. Conclusions: We present evidence suggesting that bile acids may be novel diagnostic targets in obese patients with PCOS while further studies need to delineate the interplay between FGF-21, bile acids, and testosterone in the early detection of PCOS.