Whenever we talk about diseases, we tend to view them as "wrong" or "unnatural." But what if some of these so-called "diseases" are actually a kind of natural adaptation? Today, we'll look at polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)—a common hormonal disorder in women—and explore the fascinating possibility that it might be an evolutionary adaptation.
A dive into the genetics and epigenetics of PCOS
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is not only one of the most common hormonal disorders in women, but also a mystery that doctors and scientists have been trying to solve for years. The discovery that PCOS could be an evolutionary adaptation is a revolutionary idea that could change our understanding of this disease. But what exactly does this mean, and how are genetics and epigenetics involved?
Random mutations or targeted adaptation?
The discovery of numerous genetic alterations and changes in gene expression (epigenetic changes) in women with PCOS raises the question: Are these changes random or part of an evolutionary process? Similar to an autocorrect function, which is sometimes useful and sometimes not, these genetic adaptations could be a response to environmental changes in women. Unlike simple genetic mutations that alter the DNA sequence, epigenetic changes are more flexible and reversible, similar to changing the text color in a document.
PCOS: An Evolutionary Strategy?
The idea that PCOS could be an evolutionary development in response to social and environmental pressures is intriguing. The genetic and epigenetic changes associated with PCOS could represent an adaptation to living conditions in which certain traits—such as elevated androgen levels—are advantageous. These androgens, which include the well-known testosterone, are not just sex hormones. They influence the body's energy regulation, muscle mass, and stress response in both men and women.
The compromise of PCOS
Interestingly, the trade-off in PCOS may lie in the balance between immediate survival benefits and long-term reproductive success. In a stressful environment, the female body may decide to delay reproduction until environmental conditions improve. Epigenetic changes triggered by factors such as diet, stress, and environmental toxins may be an attempt to regain the female body's lost strength through higher androgen levels.
The role of the environment
It is known that environmental factors during pregnancy can have long-term health effects. For example, maternal stress, characterized by an excess of stress hormones such as cortisol, can lead to metabolic and hormonal disorders in the child. These conditions can increase the risk of PCOS later in life.
Elevated blood androgen levels and other prenatal factors such as cigarette smoke, endocrine disruptors such as bisphenol A, and heavy metals can also contribute to an increased risk of PCOS. These findings demonstrate that the environment in the womb plays a crucial role in the development of PCOS.
Final considerations
The hypothesis that PCOS could be an evolutionary adaptation not only opens new avenues for research but could also change the way we develop treatment approaches. A better understanding of the interplay of genetic and epigenetic factors under the influence of environmental conditions will enable us to develop therapies that not only treat symptoms but also address the underlying causes. Crucially, these therapeutic approaches address the daily environment of affected women. Every aspect of a woman with PCOS should be considered to ensure comprehensive and effective treatment. These individualized strategies could help significantly improve the lives of those affected by the condition by providing support that integrates both medical and lifestyle factors.
What do you think about this perspective? Should we view PCOS not just as a disease, but also as part of our evolutionary heritage? Discuss with us in the comments!