Decoding the association of polycystic ovary syndrome with metabolic-associated fatty liver: insights into CK18 and LC3II/ATG7/P62 autophagy axis and adjunct therapeutics of metformin and levothyroxine

Key Points

• This research aims to explore the relationship between polycystic ovary syndrome and metabolic-associated fatty liver disease, focusing on the effects of combined therapies.
• Administration of metformin and levothyroxine as adjunctive therapy.
• Monitoring of body and liver weight, liver enzymes (ALT/AST), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and lipid profiles.
• Measurement of reproductive hormones including testosterone and LH as well as metabolic indicators like HOMA-IR.
• Assessment of autophagy markers (LC3II, ATG7, p62, CK18) and liver histology.
• Significant reductions in body and liver weight and improvements in liver enzymes (ALT and AST).
• Lowered levels of testosterone, LH, and HOMA-IR indicating improved metabolic function.
• Increased levels of estradiol suggesting positive hormonal changes.
• Suppression of autophagy markers with improved liver histology.

Abstract