Impaired Epidermal Renewal and Dermal Collagen Disorganization in a Dehydroepiandrosterone-Induced Mouse Model of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Polycystic ovary syndrome is a complex endocrine-metabolic disorder associated with various dermatological manifestations. However, the histomorphological alterations underlying these skin findings remain poorly characterized. This study aimed to investigate skin alterations associated with polycystic ovary syndrome in an experimental mouse model using histochemical staining, morphometric evaluation, and immunofluorescence analysis. Abstract: METHODS: An experimental study was performed using 16 Swiss albino female mice. The polycystic ovary syndrome model was induced by dehydroepiandrosterone (6 mg/100 g body weight; subcutaneous). Model validation was performed using ovarian histology, estrous cycle monitoring, body weight, fasting blood glucose, and the intraperitoneal glucose tolerance test. Skin tissues were evaluated using haematoxylin and eosin staining for epidermal and dermal thicknesses, Masson's trichrome staining for collagen content (quantified with ImageJ), and immunofluorescence staining for Ki-67 and vascular endothelial growth factor immunoreactivity. Abstract: RESULTS: The polycystic ovary syndrome model was successfully validated using histological, reproductive, and metabolic parameters. The epidermal thickness was significantly reduced in the polycystic ovary syndrome group compared with the control group, and the dermal collagen content was also decreased. Ki-67 immunoreactivity appeared reduced in the polycystic ovary syndrome group, suggesting decreased cellular proliferative activity. Vascular endothelial growth factor immunoreactivity showed a similar staining pattern in both groups. Abstract: CONCLUSIONS: Dehydroepiandrosterone-induced polycystic ovary syndrome resulted in significant histological alterations in the skin, including epidermal thinning, reduced proliferative activity, and decreased dermal collagen content. These findings suggest that PCOS-associated skin alterations may be linked to impaired epidermal renewal and disrupted extracellular matrix organization, supporting the concept that polycystic ovary syndrome exerts systemic effects beyond the reproductive organs.