The correlation between insulin-like growth factor binding protein 1 (IGFBP-1) and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) in polycystic ovarian syndrome with insulin resistance.

Background: The underlying etiology of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is unknown and assumed to have a strong correlation with insulin resistance. Homeostasis Model Assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) is a good tool to assess insulin resistance. Low levels of serum Insulin-like Growth Factor-Binding Protein-1 (IGFBP-1) in PCOS women led to the hypothesis that hyperinsulinemia in PCOS inhibits the production of IGFBP-1, which in turn stimulates excessive androgen production.