Researchers believe they may have found the cause of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS.) This finding has allowed scientists to develop a cure in mice. Human trials are next, with the hopes of developing a drug to treat the condition.
This finding is exciting news for many, as one in five women worldwide is affected by PCOS. Of those with the condition, 3 out of 4 struggle to become pregnant.
Researchers at the French National Institute of Health and Medical Research now believe this condition may be due to exposure to hormones in utero. Overexposure to the anti-Mueller hormone in the womb seemingly triggers the brain to overproduce testosterone.
Understanding the condition as one that develops in the womb can explain why the syndrome seems to run in families. This understanding might also explain why pinpointing the cause of this disorder has been so difficult.
The above video from New Scientist briefly explains these findings from the French National Institute of Health.
Sources: Nature Medicine New Scientist