Immunological aspects of polycystic ovary syndrome: A review

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a fairly common pathology that is a pressing problem because it is characterized by persistent menstrual irregularities and, as a result, leads to infertility. The aim of the study is to provide an in-depth review and analysis of existing knowledge, research and scientific literature on the role of the immune system in the development of PCOS. Impaired immune regulation in women with PCOS contributes to the development of chronic inflammation. In patients with PCOS, oocyte development is blocked as a result of the formation of chronic mild inflammation in the ovaries. The progression of this inflammatory process causes mitochondrial dysfunction, resulting in changes in the quality of oocytes, which affects ovulation. PCOS is accompanied by an increase in the levels of interleukins (IL)-1β, 6, 10 and 18 in the blood serum. In in vitro fertilization programs, a negative prognosis is noted with low levels of IL-8 and 6. In PCOS, there is mild chronic inflammation in the ovarian tissues, which leads to impaired follicle maturation. Cytokine imbalance in PCOS can be the cause of a negative outcome of in vitro fertilization. Further study of the role of the immune system in PCOS and development of immunological markers may contribute to improvement of diagnostic and treatment methods.