Insights on the NF-κB system in polycystic ovary syndrome, attractive therapeutic targets

• Published in: Molecular and cellular biochemistry 2024-03, Vol.479 (3), p.467-486
• Main Authors: Tan, Wei, Zhang, Jie, Dai, Fangfang, Yang, Dongyong, Gu, Ran, Tang, Lujia, Liu, Hua, Cheng, Yan-xiang
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Biochemistry; Biological activity; Biomedical and Life Sciences; Cancer Research; Cardiology; Cardiovascular diseases; Endometrium; Female; Humans; Hypothalamus; Inflammation; Inflammation - drug therapy; Inhibitors; Insulin; Insulin Resistance; Life Sciences; Medical Biochemistry; NF-kappa B - metabolism; NF-κB protein; Ovaries; Pathogenesis; Polycystic ovary syndrome; Polycystic Ovary Syndrome - drug therapy; Polycystic Ovary Syndrome - metabolism; Signal Transduction; Signs and symptoms; Therapeutic applications; Therapeutic targets
• ISSN: 0300-8177; 1573-4919
• DOI: 10.1007/s11010-023-04736-w

The nuclear factor κappa B (NF-κB) signaling plays a well-known function in inflammation and regulates a wide variety of biological processes. Low-grade chronic inflammation is gradually considered to be closely related to the pathogenesis of Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In this review, we provide an overview on the involvement of NF-κB in the progression of PCOS particularly, such as hyperandrogenemia, insulin resistance, cardiovascular diseases, and endometrial dysfunction. From a clinical perspective, progressive recognition of NF-κB pathway provides opportunities for therapeutic interventions aimed at inhibiting pathway-specific mechanisms. With the accumulation of basic experimental and clinical data, NF-κB signaling pathway was recognized as a therapeutic target. Although there have been no specific small molecule NF-κB inhibitors in PCOS, a plethora of natural and synthetic compound have emerged for the pharmacologic intervention of the pathway. The traditional herbs developed for NF-κB pathway have become increasingly popular in recent years. Abundant evidence elucidated that NF-κB inhibitors can significantly improve the symptoms of PCOS. Herein, we summarized evidence relating to how NF-κB pathway is involved in the development and progression of PCOS. Furthermore, we present an in-depth overview of NF-κB inhibitors for therapy interventions of PCOS. Taken together, the NF-κB signaling may be a futuristic treatment strategy for PCOS. Graphical abstract NF-κB affects various aspects of polycystic ovary syndrome, such as hyperandrogenemia, insulin resistance, cardiovascular diseases, endometrial dysfunction, and hypothalamic endocrine gonadal axis disorder.