Relationship Between Human Cytomegalovirus and IL-17A in Iraqi Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Abstract

Background: Evidence indicates a potential link between PCOS and low-grade infections. IL-17, also known as IL-17A, is an essential immunological regulator, especially in disorders such as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). The human cytomegalovirus is a β-herpesvirus that causes inflammation and remains dormant in the host for life. The cytomegalovirus has been central to several PCOS-related concepts. The role of IL-17A in CMV infection remains unknown. Objective: To establish the correlation between PCOS and CMV, as well as the connection between PCOS and serum levels of IL17A. Methods: A case-control study included 60 women with PCOS compared to 40 healthy controls. Samples were analyzed regarding CMV via the real-time PCR technique. Furthermore, the ELISA technique measured serum levels of the IL-17A cytokine. Every sample was taken between September 2023 and January 2024. Results: Positive results for CMV were seen in 50 (83.3%) of patients with PCOS compared with 10 (16.7%) who had negative results, while 6 (15.0%) of healthy control subjects had positive results and 34 (85.0%) had negative results; the difference was highly significant. Furthermore, women with polycystic ovary syndrome had a significantly higher IL-17A serum level when compared to healthy controls. Conclusions: In Iraqi women, HCMV infection in patients with PCOS can be considered a risk factor. Moreover, the results show that IL-17A is an excellent prognostic marker of polycystic ovary syndrome.