Investigating the microbiome in PCOS

PCOS is an increasingly prevalent condition affecting one in five young Australian women. This multisystem condition has reproductive, metabolic and psychological implications including obesity, infertility (primary cause of female infertility), pregnancy complications (miscarriage, fetal anomalies), diabetes (fourfold increase and younger onset), increased cardiovascular risk factors, psychological disturbance and poor quality of life. Lifestyle management (diet, physical activity and behavioural advice) for weight gain prevention or weight loss is the first-line treatment for PCOS according to NHMRC-approved guidelines. However, similar to the general population with high BMI, engaging affected women in lifestyle modification and sustaining the results are challenging. International guidelines now acknowledge that pharmacotherapy in addition to lifestyle modification is required for treating obesity. Altering the intestinal microbiome is a novel proposed mechanism underlying the impact of pharmacotherapies (such as metformin) on weight and insulin resistance which may be applicable in PCOS. This PhD project will investigate the association of the microbiome with clinical characteristics and modifications with lifestyle and pharmacological therapies in women with PCOS. It will involve a range of methodologies including systematic reviews, cross-sectional and prospective studies and laboratory analysis. Within this research program, there is ample opportunity for the candidate to conduct independent research with the support of a research team with extensive experience in clinical, epidemiological and translational research.