Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and the Potential for Nanomaterial-Based Drug Delivery in Therapy of This Disease

Abstract

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the predominant endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age and represents the leading cause of anovulatory infertility, which imposes a considerable health and economic burden. Currently, medications used to treat PCOS can lead to certain adverse reactions, such as affecting fertility and increasing the risk of venous thrombosis. Drug delivery systems utilizing nanomaterials, characterized by prolonged half-life, precision-targeted delivery, enhanced bioavailability, and reduced toxicity, are currently being employed in the management of PCOS. This innovative approach is gaining traction as a favored strategy for augmenting the therapeutic efficacy of medications. Consequently, this paper discusses the roles of nanoparticles, nanocarriers, and targeted ligands within nanomaterial-based drug delivery systems, aiming to identify optimal methodologies for treating PCOS using nanomaterials. Additionally, prospective research avenues concerning nanomaterial-based delivery systems in the context of PCOS, as well as the implications of existing insights on the advancement of novel therapies for PCOS, are highlighted.

Keywords: nanoparticles; novel drug delivery systems; polycystic ovary syndrome; therapeutic efficacy.

Figure 1

Nanomaterials and targeted ligands in PCOS therapy. (A) The pathophysiological mechanisms underlying polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) predominantly encompass hyperandrogenism, insulin resistance, inflammatory responses, and oxidative stress. Current therapeutic approaches for PCOS primarily consist of pharmacological interventions, lifestyle modifications, and psychotherapy. (B) A diverse array of novel nanomaterials has been employed for the management of PCOS. This includes nanoparticles—natural medicine nanoparticles sourced from ginger, cinnamon, camellia, and aloe vera, as well as metal-based nanoparticles derived from silver, iron, and selenium—along with liposomes, nanotubes, quantum dots, and micelles. (C) Oocytes and granulosa cells may serve as targeted ligands, playing a significant role in innovative drug delivery systems. Chitosan and mannose can provide a protective function for the ovaries by binding to oocytes. Moreover, copper and silver nanoparticles possess the capability to transit through granulated cells, thereby influencing ovarian functions.