Correlation between insulin resistance and serum irisin levels in polycystic ovary syndrome

Abstract

Objectives: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder affecting women of reproductive age, often characterized by insulin resistance, hyperandrogenism, and metabolic disturbances. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between serum irisin levels, a myokine involved in energy regulation, and insulin resistance in women with PCOS. Methods: A prospective study was conducted with 90 women diagnosed with PCOS, divided into two groups: 45 with insulin resistance and 45 without. Insulin resistance was evaluated using the Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR). Serum irisin levels were measured using an Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). Statistical analyses, including correlation and regression tests, were used to assess the relationships between serum irisin levels and various metabolic and hormonal parameters. Results: No significant difference in serum irisin levels was found between PCOS patients with insulin resistance (3.66±2.69 ng/mL) and those without insulin resistance (2.77±1.72 ng/mL) (p=0.065). Weak correlations were identified between serum irisin levels and insulin, HOMA-IR, free testosterone, and total testosterone levels. Significant positive correlations were observed with insulin (p<0.001) and HOMA-IR (p=0.008), while negative correlations were found with free testosterone (p=0.029) and total testosterone (p=0.013). Additionally, no significant differences in serum irisin levels were detected between patients with and without metabolic syndrome. Conclusion: Although weak correlations between serum irisin levels and insulin resistance markers were observed, no significant difference was found between PCOS patients with and without insulin resistance. These findings suggest that serum irisin may not be a key factor in the pathophysiology of PCOS related to insulin resistance. Larger studies are needed to further explore the role of irisin in PCOS and its potential as a therapeutic target. Keywords: Hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance, irisin, metabolic syndrome, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)