Tissue Necrosis Factor (TNF)
TNF Receptor 2 Gene and Polycystic Ovary, Hyperandrogenism – (08-22-02)
TNF Receptor 2 Gene and Polycystic Ovary, Hyperandrogenism
We’re getting into some heavy biochemistry here, but the concept is similar to those in past Updates. We are starting to identify genetic polymorphisms (SNPs) that can affect our body’s response to our environment. Here we see a genetic variant in a receptor for TNF-alpha. Recall that TNF-alpha upregulates our immune system and blockade of its action is a new therapeutic target in diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn’s disease. With the genotype in this study, patients were shown to have increased risk for PCOS and hyperandrogenism. Aggressive natural approaches to TNF-alpha lowering in these patients (managing insulin resistance, exercise…) may yield better outcomes or even prevention.
JCEM — Abstracts: Peral et al. 87 (8): 3977
