There is no literature available about the growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15)
biomarker in combination with mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) deletions in insulin resistance
(IR), and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS); however, it would be useful to achieve
optimal metabolic status and improve pregnancy success. In this study, the role of
GDF-15 and mtDNA deletions as biomarkers in the pathogenesis of IR and PCOS was investigated.
In our study, 81 female patients who were treated for IR and/or PCOS and 41 healthy
controls were included. GDF-15 levels in patients showed a marked increase compared
to controls. Elevated GDF-15 levels were found in 12 patients; all of them had a BMI
> 25 kg/m2, which is associated with reactive hyperinsulinemia. The presence of mitochondrial
dysfunction was mainly observed in the IR-only subgroup. The increase in plasma levels
of GDF-15 and the prevalence of mtDNA deletions is directly proportional to body mass
index. The more marked metabolic abnormalities required more intensive drug therapy
with a parallel increase in plasma GDF-15 levels. Elevated levels of GDF-15 and the
presence of mitochondrial DNA deletions may be a consequence of carbohydrate metabolism
disorders in patients and thus a predictor of the process of accelerated aging.
