Metformin inhibits testosterone-induced endoplasmic reticulum stress in ovarian granulosa cells via inactivation of p38 MAPK.

ABSTRACT:

Study question

Does metformin inhibit excessive androgen-induced endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress in mouse granulosa cells (GCs) in vivo and in vitro?

Summary answer

Metformin inhibits testosterone-induced ER stress and unfolded protein response (UPR) activation by suppressing p38 MAPK phosphorylation in ovarian GCs.

What is known already

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with hyperandrogenism. Excessive testosterone induces ER stress and UPR activation in human cumulus cells, leading to cell apoptosis. Metformin has potential inhibitory effects on ER stress and UPR activation, as demonstrated in human pancreatic beta cells and obese mice.

Study design, size, duration

Cumulus cells and follicular fluid were collected from 25 women with PCOS and 25

SUBMITTER: Jin J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7259369 | biostudies-literature | 2020 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature