Role of IL-6 signalling in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome associated inflammation.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome is a major factor contributing to the increasing incidence of infertility around the world. The metabolic effects of prolonged exposure to PCOS have been well determined from previous studies and seem to be detrimental in the long run. Studies have shown a multitude of conditions like insulin resistance, obesity and cardiovascular disorders to be associated with PCOS. This makes PCOS a syndrome requiring utmost attention in terms of women's health and reproduction. Interleukin-6 is one of the many cytokines released by adipocytes from fat deposits in the body. This review focuses on the Interleukin 6 signaling pathway and the data available on inflammatory modulators due to its significance PCOS mediated inflammation. There is noteworthy evidence of elevated IL-6 concentration in PCOS subjects that has been discussed in detail. The regulation of IL-6 levels in the body is in turn, maintained by a close relation with other cytokines, especially by a key regulator, NF-κB. Being involved in a multitude of other pathological conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular disorders, asthma, colon cancer and many more, the role of IL-6 is also investigated in PCOS in search of a probable reason for underlying inflammatory condition. On summarizing the IL-6 signaling pathway and therapeutic exploitation of the same, we see that IL-6 targeted drugs may be an efficient way of treating PCOS associated inflammation.