Artemisinins ameliorate polycystic ovarian syndrome (June 2024)
June 2024
Take Home
Artemisinins, by targeting LONP1-CYP11A1 interaction, present a promising therapeutic approach for PCOS, effectively reducing androgen synthesis and alleviating PCOS symptoms in both rodent models and human patients. This discovery opens new avenues for PCOS treatment by focusing on the LONP1-CYP11A1 interaction. Oral artemisinin and Iv artesunate are currently available in Canada and may represent feasible therapeutic options for patients with CPSO not responding to other therapies.
Background
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder affecting 10-13% of women of reproductive age, characterized by hyperandrogenemia, ovulatory dysfunction, polycystic ovarian morphology, and metabolic disorders. Current treatments for PCOS are limited and mainly symptom-focused, necessitating new therapeutic strategies Artemisinin, derived from Artemisia plants and known for its antimalarial properties, has shown potential in enhancing energy expenditure and insulin sensitivity. This study explored artemisinin's therapeutic effects on PCOS in rodent models and human patients, focusing on its impact on testosterone levels, ovarian morphology, and estrous cycles.
Research Method
This paper reviewed preclinical animal (rodent model) investigations along with a small 19 person pilot study. The pilot study looked at 19 women with PCOS determined by Rotterdam criteria. They were given dihydroartemisinin at a dosage of 40 mg 3x/da for 12 weeks. Participants had serum testosterone, anti-mullerian hormone and ovarian follicles evaluated along with monitoring participants menstrual cycle.
Results
Rodent Models: ATM improved hyperandrogenemia, estrous cycle regularity, and ovarian morphology in PCOS-like mice. It inhibited ovarian testosterone synthesis by promoting CYP11A1 protein degradation, mediated through direct targeting of LONP1.
Human Patients: Dihydroartemisinin treatment effectively reduced hyperandrogenemia, anti-Müllerian hormone levels, improved ovarian morphology, and normalized menstruation.