Testosterone-associated blood pressure dysregulation in women with androgen excess polycystic ovary syndrome
Tori M. Stone, Licy L. Yanes Cardozo, Toni N. Oluwatade, Cheryl Leone, Melanie Burgos, Faith Okifo, Lubna Pal, Jane F. Reckelhoff, Nina S. Stachenfeld
Abstract
Here we present evidence for an important role of testosterone in baroreflex control of blood pressure and renal responses to baroreceptor unloading in women with a common, high-risk androgen excess polycystic ovary syndrome (AE-PCOS) phenotype. These data indicate a direct effect of testosterone on the vascular system of women with AE-PCOS independent of body mass index (BMI) and insulin-resistant (IR). Our study indicates that hyperandrogenemia is a central underlining mechanism of heightened cardiovascular risk in women with PCOS.
Topics & Concepts
Polycystic ovaryEndocrinologyInternal medicineBlood pressureBaroreflexMedicineTestosterone (patch)Insulin resistanceHeart rateInsulinOvarian function and disordersHormonal and reproductive studiesHormonal Regulation and Hypertension