[Molecular background of hyperandrogenism of ovarian origin].

Ovarian androgens constitute substrates for estrogen formation, the key enzyme in androgen production being 17 alpha-hydroxylase/17,20 lyase, while in estrogen synthesis, aromatase. Both enzymes are constituents of a complex, comprising two proteins: cytochrome P450 reductase and respective cytochromes P450c17 or P450arom, whose expression play an important role in a proper function of the ovaries and its genetically determined abnormalities may lead to appearance of clinical symptoms. Although it is difficult to clearly define the genetic background of disturbances, leading to hyperandrogenism, metabolic abnormalities, resulting in excessive androgen production, were observed in polycystic ovarian syndrome, hyperthecosis and hyperinsulinemia. In this review data from literature were presented and discussed regarding endocrine and molecular background of hyperandrogenism of ovarian origin.