Possible mechanisms by which insulin resistance leads to the clinical manifestations of polycystic ovary syndrome

Insulin resistance in muscle and adipose tissue leads to hyperglycemia and thus increased insulin secretion from the pancreatic beta cells. This insulin can cause changes in the skin, ovary, and cartilage via activation of IGF-1 receptors or hybrid receptors formed by covalent linkage of subunits of the homologous receptors for insulin (IR) and IGF-1 (IGF-R).