Circulating levels of advanced glycation end products in females with polycystic ovary syndrome: a meta-analysis

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder characterized by a hormonal imbalance that affects females of reproductive age. The association between advanced glycation end products (AGEs) and PCOS has attracted considerable attention in recent years, highlighting the potential of AGEs as biomarkers for this disorder. In the present systematic review and meta-analysis, we aimed to examine the association between AGEs and PCOS, evaluate their potential as biomarkers, and improve our understanding of the pathophysiology of PCOS and its associated metabolic complications. A literature search was performed using various databases from January 2000 to March 2023 to identify relevant studies investigating the association between AGEs and PCOS. Pooled effect estimates were calculated using standardized mean differences (SMD) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Sub-group and meta-regression analyses were performed to examine potential sources of heterogeneity. The meta-analysis included six studies with a total of 623 participants. Our results revealed a significant increase in circulating AGE levels in females with PCOS compared to healthy females (SMD = 2.35; 95% CI: 1.10–3.60; P <0.001). Significant heterogeneity was observed between the studies (I 2 = 96.37%; P <0.001), indicating the presence of several factors influencing the association. Sub-group analyses based on body mass index, age, and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance indicated differential effects of AGEs on specific sub-groups. This systematic review and meta-analysis support the association between elevated AGE levels and PCOS, thereby suggesting the potential role of AGEs as biomarkers in PCOS.