Abstract
Hyperandrogenism is the most common endocrine disorder in women, characterized by an imbalance in normal estrogen and androgen levels in the blood. Androgens influence bone mineral density, body mass composition, muscle mass, mental state, and the regulation of sexual function.. The aim of the study was to assess the effect of estrogen receptor α gene (ESR1) polymorphisms on selected markers of bone metabolism and hormonal parameters in women with hyperandrogenism. The study group included 80 young women with hyperandrogenism who underwent measurements of bone mineral density (BMD), and determination of hormonal and metabolic parameters. Enzyme immunoassays were used to measure leptin, sRANKL (soluble receptor activator of nuclear factor-kB ligand), osteoprotegerin and 25-OH vitamin D total levels. An analysis of ESR1 gene polymorphisms was performed using the real-time PCR method. A relationship was demonstrated between the concentration of free estradiol (FEI) and the concentration of 17-OH-progesterone, and the ESR1 gene polymorphisms: rs3020314 (p = 0.031, p = 0.026 respectively) and rs1884051 (p = 0.033, p = 0.026 respectively). In conclusion, the ESR gene polymorphisms may be associated with hormonal disturbances in the concentration of estrogens and androgens, in hyperandrogenism in young women which may indirectly affect bone mineral density. However, no statistically significant relationships between the studied polymorphisms and the selected parameters of mineral metabolism have been demonstrated..