IGF-II, IGFBP-4, -6, and -7, and HMGB1 show changes in follicular fluid in PCOS

By
Veronica Buia
Cecilia Catellani
Stefania Croci
Beatrice Righi
Daria Morini
Angela Immacolata Falbo
Alessia Nicoli
Alessandro De Fanti
Lucia Belloni
Lorenzo Aguzzoli
Maria Teresa Villani
Chiara Sartori
Maria Elisabeth Street
June 5, 2026
0 min

Frontiers In Endocrinology

Overview

This study investigates the concentrations of IGF system proteins in follicular fluid from women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) compared to controls. Key findings include lower levels of IGF-II and IGFBP-4, and increased levels of IGFBP-6 and IGFBP-7 in PCOS patients.

Background

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age, associated with various metabolic and reproductive complications. The IGF system plays a role in ovarian function and glucose metabolism, and its alteration in PCOS may contribute to the disease's pathophysiology.

Data Highlights

Protein	PCOS	Controls
IGF-II	Lower	Higher
IGFBP-4	Lower	Higher
IGFBP-6	Higher	Lower
IGFBP-7	Higher	Lower
HMGB1	Increased	Normal

Key Findings

Lower levels of IGF-II and IGFBP-4 in follicular fluid from PCOS patients compared to controls.
Increased levels of IGFBP-6 and IGFBP-7 in PCOS patients.
Similar levels of IGF-I and IGFBP-1, -2, and -3 between PCOS and controls.
HMGB1 levels were increased in the follicular fluid of PCOS patients.
Correlation between HMGB1 and IGFBP-2 in PCOS, indicating a link to inflammation.
Bioavailability of IGF-II was significantly lower in PCOS patients.

Clinical Implications

The alterations in IGF system proteins in follicular fluid may reflect impaired follicular development in PCOS. These findings could inform future research directions and enhance understanding of the metabolic dysfunctions associated with PCOS.

Conclusion

The study reveals significant alterations in IGF system proteins in PCOS, which may contribute to the understanding of the disease's pathophysiology. Further research is warranted to explore the implications of these findings.