Work

Exploring the role of rare earth elements (praseodymium, samarium, lanthanum, and terbium) and oxidative stress in polycystic ovary syndrome: A case-control study

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Background Praseodymium (Pr), Samarium (Sm), Lanthanum (La), and Terbium (Tb) are rare earth elements (REEs) that can accumulate in the body and induce oxidative stress (OS), which may contribute to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a condition affecting 116 million women worldwide. With the increasing use of REEs, understanding their role in PCOS is crucial. Design This case-control study included 56 PCOS cases and 50 healthy controls, with confounding factors such as age, BMI, and hormones controlled. Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS) was used to measure serum levels of Pr, Sm, La, and Tb, and Pearson correlation was performed to explore their relationship with oxidative stress markers such as malondialdehyde (MDA), glutathione (GSH), and superoxide dismutase (SOD). Result A significant increase in serum levels of Pr, Sm, La, and Tb was observed in PCOS cases compared to controls ( p < 0.05). The 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the differences in serum Pr, Sm, La, and Tb levels were [0.0008, 0.0032], [0.0002, 0.0091], [0.0019, 0.0073], and [0.0002, 0.0129], respectively. Additionally, serum levels of MDA were significantly elevated, accompanied by reduction in the antioxidant markers-GSH and SOD ( p < 0.001). Elevated REE levels were positively correlated with increased MDA and negatively correlated with GSH and SOD, indicating increased oxidative stress. Conclusion These findings suggest that oxidative stress-induced metal intoxication may play a critical role in the development of PCOS. Future studies should explore the clinical significance of REE exposure and its potential as a target for preventive strategies in PCOS management.

Source: Human & Experimental Toxicology

DOI: 10.1177/09603271251342280

Author: Manal Abudawood

Institution: King Saud University

Language: English

Topic: Ovarian function and disorders

Subfield: Reproductive Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,800