Association between arginase-containing platelet-derived microparticles and altered plasma arginine metabolism in polycystic ovary syndrome

Abstract Background Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine and metabolic disease associated with insulin resistance and increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. However, a biomarker for potential cardiovascular disease in PCOS patients is not available. Materials and Methods Twenty-two patients with PCOS and 22 healthy controls were included in the present study and amino acid profiling was performed on fasting plasma samples. Circulating microparticles were characterized by FACS analysis and complemented with enzyme activity assays. Results The ratio of ornithine to arginine was significantly increased in plasma form PCOS patients and was associated with a significant increase in plasma arginase levels and activity. Platelet-derived microparticles were identified to be the main sources of the increased plasma arginase activity. Conclusions Increased levels of arginase-bearing platelet-derived microparticles contribute to the alteration of the arginine metabolism in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. Moreover, ornithine and arginine levels represent early biomarkers of potential cardiovascular disease in PCOS patients.