Emerging Role of GLP-1 in Insulin Resistance and Metabolic Dysfunction in PCOS

Abstract

Background: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disorder characterized by insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and metabolic dysfunction. Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1), an incretin hormone, plays a pivotal role in glucose homeostasis and insulin sensitivity. Recent research suggests an association between impaired GLP-1 secretion and the metabolic disturbances observed in PCOS.

Objective: To evaluate fasting and postprandial GLP-1 levels and their correlation with insulin resistance in women with PCOS compared to healthy controls.

Methods: This comparative cross-sectional study included 30 women diagnosed with PCOS based on Rotterdam criteria and 20 age- and BMI-matched healthy controls. Fasting and postprandial GLP-1 levels, insulin, glucose, and HOMA-IR were measured and statistically analyzed.

Results: Women with PCOS exhibited significantly lower fasting and postprandial GLP-1 levels (p < 0.01) and higher HOMA-IR values (p < 0.001) compared to the control group. A strong inverse correlation was found between GLP-1 levels and insulin resistance markers, suggesting that reduced GLP-1 secretion contributes to metabolic dysfunction in PCOS.

Conclusion: The study highlights the emerging role of GLP-1 in the pathophysiology of insulin resistance in PCOS. Diminished GLP-1 levels may exacerbate metabolic disturbances and offer a novel therapeutic target. GLP-1–based treatments could potentially address both metabolic and reproductive aspects of PCOS.