Sympathetic nervous system activity, chronic low grade inflammation and insulin resistance in pathophysiology of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

This thesis identifies and addresses important knowledge gaps in our understanding of PCOS pathophysiology, also generates new insights into the mechanisms underlying increased cardiometabolic risks in PCOS. I examined the role of sympathetic dysfunction and chronic low grade inflammation in the pathophysiology of PCOS. My findings suggest a close association of sympathetic activity with chronic low-grade inflammation and with development of insulin resistance, hyperandrogenism and potentially the subsequent metabolic abnormalities in PCOS. I report moxonidine is not effective in modulating sympathetic activity in PCOS however may exert anti-inflammatory effects. This will inform future clinical trials in amelioration of PCOS features.