Exploring the Role of Kisspeptin in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and Its Associated Pregnancy Complications

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder with a complex pathogenesis that includes disordered follicle development, hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian (HPO) axis dysfunction, hyperandrogenemia, and insulin resistance. The risk of complications during pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and preeclampsia (PE), among PCOS patients is higher than that in the general population. Kisspeptin (KP) is a peptide hormone widely expressed in the hypothalamus, limbic system, gonads, pancreas, and liver; it is highly expressed in the placenta and is considered to play an important role in pregnancy. Therefore, the aim of this review is to summarize the complex relationships among KP levels and pregnancy complications in PCOS and to provide a comprehensive understanding of the role of KP throughout pregnancy in PCOS patients. In our summary of the existing research, we provide information regarding the direct impact of high prepregnancy KP levels in PCOS patients on early embryo implantation and placental development, leading to abnormal KP levels during pregnancy and ultimately increasing the risk of complications such as gestational GDM and PE.