Does Serum R-Spondin-1 Play a Role in PCOS Pathophysiology?

Objective: Many new inflammatory and metabolic markers are considered to be involved in etiology of Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). R-spondin-1 (Rspo1) is a member of the roof plate-specific spondin protein family. Rspo1 levels have been associated with obesity and insulin resistance. We aimed to investigate whether Rspo1 has a role in the pathophysiology of PCOS. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was planned with newly diagnosed and untreated PCOS cases and a control group without PCOS. Patients with PCOS and healty participants were compared for Rspo1 levels. In addition, the PCOS group was also grouped according to body mass index (BMI) and Ferriman Gallwey scores (FGS) and compared in terms of Rsop1 levels. Results: A total of 47 patients in the PCOS group and 36 participants in the control group, as total 83 participants were included in the study. PCOS and control groups had similar age and BMI. As compared to the control group, PCOS patients had significantly higher FGS, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance scores, Rspo1, and total testosterone levels (p