This study investigates circulating levels of SCUBE-1 and SCUBE-3 proteins in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) compared with healthy controls. Differences between normoinsulinemic and hyperinsulinemic PCOS subgroups will be evaluated, as well as correlations with clinical and metabolic parameters related to inflammation and cardiovascular risk.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age and is frequently associated with insulin resistance, chronic low-grade inflammation, and increased cardiovascular risk. SCUBE proteins (Signal peptide-CUB-EGF domain-containing proteins) are recently identified molecules involved in inflammation, angiogenesis, and platelet activation. Their role in PCOS has not been fully elucidated. This interventional, non-randomized study will measure circulating SCUBE-1 and SCUBE-3 levels in women with PCOS and healthy controls. PCOS patients will be stratified into normoinsulinemic and hyperinsulinemic subgroups based on previously performed metabolic assessments. Blood samples will be collected during routine clinical practice and analyzed using ELISA assays. The study aims to assess SCUBE proteins as potential biomarkers of inflammation and cardiovascular risk in PCOS.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
NON_RANDOMIZED
Purpose
OTHER
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
56
Blood sample collection performed specifically for research purposes to measure circulating SCUBE-1 and SCUBE-3 levels using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).
Fondazione Policlinico Universitario Agostino Gemelli IRCCS
Roma, Italy
Circulating SCUBE-1 levels
Comparison of SCUBE-1 plasma concentrations among normoinsulinemic PCOS, hyperinsulinemic PCOS, and healthy controls
Time frame: At enrollment
Circulating SCUBE-3 levels
Comparison of SCUBE-3 plasma concentrations among study groups
Time frame: At enrollment
Correlation with clinical and laboratory parameters
Association between SCUBE-1 and SCUBE-3 levels and clinical (age, BMI, hirsutism, acne, menstrual irregularities) and laboratory variables (lipid profile, androgen levels)
Time frame: At enrollment
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