Altered Hormone Levels Research Articles

THU637 The Effects Of Polyphenol On Insulin Resistance And Hormonal Parameters On Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review And Meta-analysis Of Randomized Controlled Trials

Abstract Disclosure: C.A. Balieiro: None. L.C. Hespanhol: None. M. Araújo Freitas: None. L. Lima de Oliveira: None. Introduction: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrinopathy with a high prevalence in women of reproductive age. This syndrome is characterized by ovarian cysts, anovulation, infertility, skin disorders, increased Body Mass Index (BMI), insulin resistance, and altered hormone levels. The most commonly affected hormones include testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and insulin. Different treatments have been tested to increase insulin sensitivity and hormone regulation, and recently polyphenols have emerged as a promising option for these women. We aimed to perform a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials (RCTs) comparing polyphenols to placebo in women with PCOS. Methods: The PubMed, Cochrane, and Embase databases were searched for RCTs comparing polyphenols to placebo. Data were extracted from published reports, and quality assessment was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. Endpoints included were: changes in levels of serum insulin, changes in BMI, LH, and testosterone levels. We used a random-effects model to calculate the Mean Difference (MD), Standardized Mean Difference (SMD), and 95% confidence interval (CI). Heterogeneity was examined with the Cochrane Q test and I² statistics: p values inferior to 0.05 and I² > 25% were considered significant for heterogeneity. Results: A total of 15 studies involving 916 patients were included. Of all participants, 445 (49%) received polyphenols. Polyphenols resulted in a significant decrease in serum insulin level (MD -2.49 [-3.72, -1.25] 95% CI; p < 0.0001, I² = 64%), in comparison to placebo. In addition, BMI levels were significantly reduced in patients treated with polyphenols when compared to placebo (MD -0.12 [-0.18, -0.06] 95% CI; p = 0.0002, I² = 0%). There was a reduction in LH levels in the intervention group, when compared with the baseline levels to the final levels (MD -0.87 [-1.54, 0.20] 95% CI; p = 0.01, I² = 46%). The decrease in testosterone levels was not significantly different when comparing polyphenols and placebo (SMD -0.14 [-0.53, 0.25] 95% CI; p = 0.48, I² = 73%). Conclusion: This meta-analysis provided evidence of the effectiveness of polyphenols in reducing serum insulin, LH and BMI in women with polycystic ovary syndrome compared to placebo. There was no statistically significant difference in the reduction of testosterone levels between polyphenols and placebo. This study represents the most current evidence on this promising treatment. Presentation: Thursday, June 15, 2023

OR06-02 Placental Distribution Of Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers (Pbdes) And Thyroid Hormones Across Gestation In PBDE-exposed Wistar Rats

Abstract Disclosure: S. Gaballah: None. B. Horman: None. G. St Armour: None. K. Hoffman: None. H.B. Patisaul: None. H. Stapleton: None. In utero exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) has been linked to adverse pregnancy and fetal health outcomes, including altered thyroid hormone (TH) levels. Despite their phase out, PBDEs are still measured in newborn cord blood. While evidence suggests that PBDEs can cross the placental barrier, few studies have assessed differences in PBDE or TH accumulation in the maternally and fetally-derived placental tissue layers or studied fetal sex-differences. To address these gaps, we conducted a controlled exposure study in Wistar rats (n=8 per treatment and gestational day (GD)). From GD2, pregnant dams were exposed daily to sesame oil vehicle, a low dose, or high dose mixture of 10 PBDEs. The low dose represents the 95th percentile of PBDEs measured in U.S. house dust, and the high dose is ∼20X higher. At GD15 and GD20, dams were sacrificed and placental tissues were micro-dissected into maternally and fetally-derived layers. Tissues were analyzed for PBDEs and for T3, rT3, and T4 using mass spectrometry. BDEs 47, 99, 100, and 209 were frequently detected in the fetal and maternal tissues. Higher concentrations of BDEs 99, 100, and 209 were measured in the fetal placenta on GD 15; however, this trend flipped at GD20, with higher maternal concentrations of BDEs 47, 99, and 209. This shift appears to be related to changes in the mass of the maternal and fetal layers during gestation and not to different partioning processes. Only BDE 99 was significantly different between the two layers, in both sexes. At both timepoints, T3 levels were several-fold higher in maternal tissues than fetal, but T3 decreased in maternal tissues by GD20. No sex differences were observed. In general, we observed a significant difference in maternal and fetal T3 levels at GD15 and GD20 in control, low, and high dose-exposed animals. At GD15, there was a significant difference between maternal and fetal female placental T4 levels (p=0.0237) and a suggestive difference in males (p=0.081) in the high dose group, as well as a significant effect of sex between the fetal tissues in the low dose group (p=0.0044). T4 was only detected in the fetal side at GD20, with no significant effects of treatment or sex. These results highlight the rapid developmental changes throughout gestation between the maternal and fetal placenta. Overall, these data highlight that PBDE accumulation in Wistar rats changes across gestation, causing disruption of TH levels in maternal and fetal tissues, and that sex-specific differences may be contributing to differential accumulation patterns in male and female-associated placentas. Coupled with rapid morphological changes in the fetal and maternal layers during placental growth, in utero PBDE exposure may result in adverse impacts on placental TH regulation and fetal health. Presentation: Thursday, June 15, 2023

Sella Turcica Bridging and its Association with Dental Anomalies - An Update

: The Sella turcica is an anatomical structure shaped explicitly like a saddle, located within the middle cranial fossa on the intracranial surface of the sphenoid bone. This structure is commonly observed on lateral cephalograms, frequently employed for orthodontic diagnosis. The Cephalometric radiographs utilize various landmarks as reference points to examine craniofacial structures and Sella Turcica (ST) is the most significant and reliable cranial landmark. The Sella point, located at the midpoint of the ST structure, is a cranial base point that accommodates the pituitary gland. The cephalometric analysis relies on this factor to identify pituitary gland-related pathologies, making it a valuable source of information for craniofacial syndromes. Facial structure development exhibits comparable characteristics to the Sella turcica. Glandular abnormalities possess the potential to be linked to functional disorders, which can result in altered hormonal levels affecting dental growth. Comprehensive understanding of the radiological anatomy and variations help assess growth and identify changes in various anomalies or pathological conditions. Additionally, it can assist in predicting the potential outcome of orthodontic treatment. The objective of this review is to determine and update whether a correlation exists between the bridging of Sella turcica and various dental anomalies related to the shape, size, structure, number, and eruption of teeth. In conclusion, it was noted that Sella turcica bridging is frequently observed in orthodontic patients measuring a clear correlation between dental anomalies and Sella bridging. Key words: Sella Turcica Bridging; Dental Anomalies; Genetics; Lateral Cephalogram; Orthodontist.

A Review of Arrhythmias in Endocrinology

Endocrine disorders can lead to cardiac arrhythmias, which can have serious implications for an individual’s health, including sudden cardiac death. The pathophysiology of arrhythmias in endocrine disorders is a multifaceted process that includes alterations in hormone levels, disruptions in electrolyte levels, and changes to the heart’s structure. Tachycardia and bradycardia are common rhythm abnormalities caused by defects in the cardiac conduction system or autonomic nervous system, metabolic disorders, and medication use. Therefore, it is crucial to identify and manage underlying endocrinopathies in patients with rhythm or conduction abnormalities. The aim of this analysis is to offer a thorough summary of the current understanding on the pathophysiology and mechanisms of cardiac arrhythmias in relation to endocrine disorders. The review will concentrate on prevalent arrhythmias that frequently occur in endocrine disorders and will also offer clinical suggestions for their treatment. The objective is to enhance awareness and enhance clinical practices when treating patients with endocrine disorders who may be at risk of developing cardiac arrhythmias.

Hormonal Regulatory Impacts of Tinospora cordifolia Leaf Extract and Its Loaded Phytoniosome on Mifepristone-Induced Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) Rats – In Vivo Studies

ABSTRACT The effects of ethanolic leaf extract of Tinospora cordifolia (ELETC) and its loaded phytoniosomes (nELETC) on altered hormonal levels in female polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) rats induced by mifepristone were investigated. Mifepristone (4 mg kg−1 b.w.) was given daily to female rats for 8 days to develop PCOS, which was then detected by a protracted estrous cycle. The treatment regimen for the rats with PCOS consisted of 200 mg kg−1 b.w. of ELETC and nELETC administered orally every day for 28 days. Hormone tests showed that metformin acted as a favorable control. Results demonstrated that ELETC and nELETC may be used as therapeutic alternatives for treating PCOS to decrease complications of hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance, and hyperandrogenism.

Efficacy and Tolerability Evaluation of a Nutraceutical Composition Containing Vitex agnus-castus Extract (EVX40™), Pyridoxine, and Magnesium in Premenstrual Syndrome: A Real-World, Interventional, Comparative Study.

Background Pre-menstrual syndrome (PMS) is a condition associated with altered hormone levels during the menstrual phase of females and is characterised by physical, emotional, and behavioural symptoms that have a negative impact on the quality of life of females. The symptoms of PMS may vary between individuals, but the major complication is pain, especially during menstrual days. The current treatment strategy involves the use of hormonal therapies and analgesics for symptomatic relief, but these therapies have a risk of potential side effects. The use of herbal and nutraceutical supplements in PMS conditions is increasing due to their long-term safety and proven efficacy. The current real-world study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of Ezedayz® tablets containing Vitex agnus-castus extract (EVX40™), vitamin B6, and magnesium in PMS subjects. Methodology A real-world, open-label study was conducted involving 64 participants with varied severity of PMS symptoms. Participants were categorised into Group A (N=23) receiving standard therapies, Group B (N=20) receiving Ezedayz®tablets, or Group C (N=21) receiving standard and Ezedayz®therapy. Standard therapies were provided as per physician supervision, and Ezedayz® tablets were given for 90 days. All subjects were evaluated on core symptoms of PMS like menstrual backache, menstrual cramps, joint or muscle pain, and headache using the numerical rating scale (NRS), and quality-of-life (QoL) was evaluated using a QoL questionnaire. A spontaneous reporting methodology was used to evaluate the tolerability of the therapies provided. Statistical analysis was performed as per the statistical plan. A p-value of <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results Out of 64 participants, five were lost to follow-up, and the data of 59 participants were included in the final analysis. All groups showed improvement in all evaluated parameters, but Group B and Group C showed greater improvement at the end of the study in all evaluated parameters. The quality-of-life assessment revealed greater improvement in Group B and Group C participants compared to Group C in all evaluated QoL parameters. No serious side effects were observed in any subjects. Conclusion The results of the current study conclude that the nutraceutical composition of Vitex agnus-castus extract, vitamin B6, and magnesium is effective in reducing the severity of PMS symptoms and improving the quality of life of PMS subjects. The nutraceutical therapy provided greater relief from PMS symptoms compared to standard therapy alone, and this effect was augmented when the nutraceutical therapy was provided in combination with standard therapies. Similarly, the improvement in quality-of-life parameters was greater in subjects treated with nutraceuticals alone or in combination therapy. Despite the limitations of the study, the results of the current study are promising, and the nutraceutical composition (Ezedayz®) can be effectively used in clinical settings to control symptoms and improve the quality of life of PMS patients.

Exposure to mixed chemicals elevated triiodothyronine (T3) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels: epidemiology and in silico toxicogenomic involvement.

There is a dearth of evidence on the effects of a mixture of numerous different types of chemicals on hormone functions. We hypothesized that exposure to mixed chemicals may alter hormone levels. Thus, this study was to identify an association between the mixed chemicals (25 chemicals) and hormone levels (thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)) among 5687 Korean adults using four different statistical approaches. Furthermore, we elucidate the effects of the key chemicals on thyroid disease and infertility based on the findings from epidemiology data. The positive associations between mixed chemicals and T3 and between mixed chemicals and FSH were observed across different methods after adjusting for all possible confounders. In the weighted quantile sum regression models, there were positive associations between mixed chemicals and T3 (β = 4.43, 95%CI: 2.81-5.88) and ln-transformed FSH (lnFSH) (β = 0.15, 95%CI: 0.10-0.20). In the quantile g-computation models, positive associations were found between mixed chemicals and T3 (β=2.15, 95%CI: 0.17-4.14) and lnFSH (β=0.15, 95%CI: 0.07-0.22). In the Bayesian kernel machine regression models, culminative effects of mixed chemicals showed positive associations with T3 and lnFSH; mercury (group posterior inclusion probabilities (PIPs) = 0.557 and conditional PPI = 0.556) and lead (group PIP group = 0.815 and conditional PPI = 0.951) were the most important chemicals for T3 and FSH, respectively. The results obtained were partially robust when subjected to in silico toxicogenomic data. We identified several molecular mechanisms that were implicated in Hg-induced thyroid disease, including the selenium micronutrient network, oxidative stress response, IL-17 signaling pathway, poorly differentiated thyroid carcinoma, and primary hyperthyroidism. The molecular processes implicated in Pb-induced infertility were "response to nutrient levels," "gonad development," "male infertility," "female infertility," and "intrinsic pathway for apoptosis," with a particular focus on FSH. The present study investigated the threshold levels of the studied chemicals and their potential impact on the disruption of T3 and FSH hormones. Future research is warranted to determine the effects of mixed chemicals on various hormones because there have been few studies on the disruption of hormones caused by such mixed chemicals.

Estrogen administration and withdrawal in a model of hormone-simulated pregnancy lead to alterations in behavior and gene expression but do not induce depression-like phenotypes in mice

Pregnancy and the post-partum period are associated with substantial fluctuations in hormone levels and are frequently associated with significant stress. Many individuals also experience affective disturbances during the peri‑partum period, including anxiety, the ‘baby blues,’ and post-partum depression. However, the extent to which these affective changes result from rapidly altering hormone levels, increased stress, or the combination of both remains largely unknown. The current study sought to evaluate the consequences of pregnancy-like hormonal changes on behavior and gene expression in c57BL/6 mice in the absence of stress using a hormone-simulated pregnancy model. Our results reveal that animals receiving hormone injections to simulate the high levels of estrogen observed in late pregnancy and animals withdrawn from estrogen to mimic the rapid decline in this hormone following parturition both exhibit increased anxiety-like behavior compared to ovariectomized controls in the novel open field test. However, no other significant anxiety- or depression-like alterations were observed in either hormone-treated group compared to ovariectomized controls. Both hormone administration and estrogen withdrawal were shown to induce several significant alterations in gene expression in the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis and the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus. In contrast to the estrogen withdrawal hypothesis of post-partum depression, our results suggest that this method estrogen withdrawal following hormone-simulated pregnancy in the absence of stress does not induce phenotypes consistent with post-partum depression in c57BL/6 mice. However, given that estrogen withdrawal does lead to significant gene expression changes in two stress-sensitive brain regions, it remains possible that estrogen withdrawal could still contribute to affective dysregulation in the peri-partum period by influencing susceptibility to stress. Future research is required to evaluate this possibility.

The Effects of Environmental Contaminants on Animal Health and Reproduction

Purpose: The aim of the study is to investigate effects of environmental contaminants on animal health and reproduction&#x0D; Methodology: This study adopted a desktop methodology. This study used secondary data from which include review of existing literature from already published studies and reports that was easily accessed through online journals and libraries.&#x0D; Findings: The study found that Environmental contaminants can cause a range of health problems in animals. They can disrupt hormonal systems, compromise immune function, damage organs, and lead to various diseases. Environmental contaminants have profound effects on animal reproduction. They can interfere with fertility, reduce reproductive success, and disrupt normal reproductive behaviors. These contaminants can alter hormone levels, impair sperm quality, decrease egg viability, and increase the incidence of reproductive disorders and birth defects.&#x0D; Unique Contribution to Theory, Practice and Policy: The study was anchored on Immune Dysfunction Theory and Disruption of Microbiota Theory. The recommended that practical diagnostic tools and biomarkers to assess the impact of environmental contaminants on animal health and reproduction. These tools can aid in early detection of contamination-related issues, monitoring population trends, and guiding conservation efforts. They can also help identify specific contaminants and their sources, facilitating targeted mitigation strategies. Advocate for stricter regulations and enforcement of laws governing the release and disposal of environmental contaminants.

Jasmonic acid is required for tomato acclimation to multifactorial stress combination

As a result of global warming and climate change, the number and intensity of weather events such as droughts, heat waves, and floods are increasing, resulting in major losses in crop yield worldwide. Combined with the accumulation of different pollutants, this situation is leading to a gradual increase in the complexity of environmental factors affecting plants. We recently used the term ‘multifactorial stress combination’ (MFSC) to describe the impact of three or more stressors occurring simultaneously or sequentially on plants. Here, we show that a MFSC of six different abiotic stressors (high light, heat, nitrogen deficiency, paraquat, cadmium, and salinity) has a negative impact on the growth, photosystem II function, and photosynthetic activity of mature tomato plants. We further reveal a negative correlation between proline accumulation and the increasing number of stress factors combined, suggesting that proline could have an adverse effect on plants during MFSC. Our findings further indicate that alterations in hormonal levels and stomatal responses are stress/stress combination-dependent, and that a tomato mutant deficient in jasmonic acid accumulation is more sensitive to high light and its combinations with salinity and/or paraquat. Taken together, our study reveals that the effects of MFSC on tomato plants are broad, that photosynthesis and proline accumulation are especially vulnerable to MFSC, and that jasmonic acid is required for tomato acclimation to MFSCs involving high light, salinity and paraquat.

Aflatoxin B1-induced dysfunction in male rats’ reproductive indices were abated by Sorghum bicolor (L.Moench) hydrophobic fraction

The burden of infertility distresses millions of families worldwide. The harmful effects of aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) on the reproductive system involve oxidative stress, culminating in inflammation and cellular apoptosis. The phytochemical in Sorghum bicolor is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory activities. The effect of Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench (SBE-HP) extract -hydrophobic fraction- enriched in Apigenin (API) was investigated in rats chronically dosed with AFB1 and the likely mechanism (s) of SBE-HP to protect against AFB1-induced reproductive toxicity. Adult Wistar male rats (twenty-four) were selected randomly and allocated into four groups. Cohort 1 was administered 0.05 % carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC); cohort 2 received AFB1 (50 µg/kg) alone; while cohorts 3 and 4 received 5 & 10 mg/kg of (SBE-HP) respectively, along with 50 µg/kg of AFB1. After 28 days, AFB1 induced remarkable reproductive toxicity as evidenced by increased sperm abnormalities, lowered sperm quality and motility, altered serum hormonal levels and testicular enzyme activities, decreased anti-oxidants, increased pro-oxidants, apoptotic and inflammatory biomarkers, as well as altered histoarchitectural structure of the testis, epididymis, and hypothalamus of rats. API-enriched extract of S. bicolor reduced AFB1-induced oxidative, inflammatory, apoptotic, and histological derangement by improving sperm function parameters, testicular enzymes, and reproductive hormones. Anti-oxidant levels and anti-inflammatory mediators were increased while decreases in the activities and levels of pro-oxidants, pro-inflammatory molecules and caspase-9 occurred in the rats' testes, epididymis, and hypothalamus. API-enriched S. bicolor protected the testes, epididymis, and hypothalamus of male rats exposed to AFB1 by modulating oxidative stress, inflammation, and apoptosis.

Zuogui and Yougui pills improve perimenopausal syndrome regulation of apoptosis in mice.

To examine, dissect, and understand the molecular mechanisms and combinatorial effects of Zuogui (, ZGP) and Yougui pills (, YGP) in 4-vinyl cyclohexene diepoxide (4-VCD)-induced Perimenopausal syndrome (PMS). Using the 4-VCD-induced PMS mouse model, uterine and ovary index were measured, and serum sex steroidal hormone levels were evaluated after treatment with ZGP, YGP, ZGP + YGP, estradiol valerate (EV), and Gengnian An (gengnianan, GNA). Histopathological examinations, ingredient-target network predictions, western blotting, and real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) analyses were performed to ascertain the possible pharmacological effects and molecular mechanisms of ZYP and YGP. Treatment with ZGP and YGP remarkably improves estrous cyclicity and prevents pathological damage to the uterus. Also, altered sex hormones, including AMH, E2, FSH, LH, P, and T, were restored to normal levels after ZGP and YGP administration. Ingredient-target network analysis showed that the 5 ingredients common to the ZGP and YGP formula modulate 53 targets shared with PMS. Pathway-enrichment analysis further predicted that ZGY and YGP likely regulate of apoptosis and other essential pathways during PMS. In-vivo studies showed that ZGP and YGP suppress PMS modulating apoptosis through decreasing Caspase-3 and Bcl-2-associated X (Bax) levels and increasing B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2)/Bax and Bcl-2 levels. Importantly, ZGP + YGP treatment modulation effects were somewhat or significantly better compared to ZGP or YGP alone treatment. ZGP and YGP represent novel anti-PMS agents whose effects involve restoring altered hormonal levels, protecting the uterus, and regulating apoptosis.

Associations of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances and alternatives with reproductive hormones in women of childbearing age.

Experimental studies suggested that per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) may have endocrine-disrupting effects. However, the epidemiological evidence on the associations of PFAS with female reproductive hormones is sparse and limited to perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS) and perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA). To evaluate effects of legacy and emerging PFAS alternatives on female reproductive hormones. A total of 433 reproductive-aged females were recruited from 2014 to 2016. Information on age, age at menarche, gravity, menstrual cycle, BMI, education, and income was obtained from medical records and questionnaires. Serum samples were collected for reproductive hormones, and plasma samples for PFAS measurement by ultraperformance liquid chromatography - tandem mass spectrometer (UPLC-MS/MS). Multiple linear regression and quantile g-computation (q-gcomp) were used to examine the associations of individual PFAS and their mixture with reproductive hormones. Multiple linear regression analysis showed significant effects of certain PFAS on total testosterone (TT): adjusted estimate (β) for perfluoroheptanoic acid (PFHpA) was 0.57 (95% CI: 0.18, 0.97). Moreover, a positive association was detected between PFAS mixture and TT in the q-gcomp model. Higher concentrations of 6:2 chlorinated polyfluorinated ether sulfonic acid (6:2 Cl-PFESA) were associated with significantly lower prolactin level (β=-0.07, 95% CI: -0.14, -0.001). Our study found that exposure to PFAS alternatives was associated with altered levels of reproductive hormones in women of childbearing age.

Hypogonadism in men with obstructive sleep apnea and its related risk factors

Background Sleep-related breathing disorders, including obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), have been linked to altered hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis. Hypoxia, sleep fragmentation. and decreased deep sleep time in patients with OSA affect the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis, including serum luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone levels. Purpose To study serum levels of LH and testosterone in men with OSA and to investigate the possible risk factors that could affect their levels. Patients and methods This was a prospective cohort case–control study. The case group included 16 adult patients diagnosed with OSA confirmed by polysomnography. The control group included 16 matched healthy participants. Both groups were subjected to history taking, clinical examination, and investigations, including the Epworth sleepiness scale, BMI, neck circumference measurement, and serum levels of LH and testosterone. Results Patients with OSA had significantly higher mean levels of serum LH compared with healthy controls (P=0.031). The mean serum level of testosterone was lower in the OSA group compared with the matched controls; however, this difference was statistically insignificant (P=0.192). Among the studied risk factors for altered hormonal levels in patients with OSA, there was a significant positive correlation between desaturation index and serum LH levels (P=0.046) and a significant negative correlation between Epworth sleepiness scale and serum testosterone levels (P=0.025). Conclusion Our findings suggest that OSA in men is associated with a dysfunction in the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis, represented as high levels of serum LH. Although serum levels of testosterone were lower in patients with OSA, the study was underpowered to show a statistically significant difference.

Antipsychotics Induced Reproductive Toxicity by Stimulating Oxidative Stress: A Comparative in Vivo and in Silico Study.

The pathophysiological mechanism behind the link between antipsychotic drugs and sexual dysfunction is still unknown. The goal of this research is to compare the potential effects of antipsychotics on the male reproductive system. Fifty rats were randomly assigned into the five groups indicated: Control, Haloperidol, Risperidone, Quetiapine and Aripiprazole. Sperm parameters were significantly impaired in all antipsychotics-treated groups. Haloperidol and Risperidone significantly decreased the level of testosterone. All antipsychotics had significantly reduced inhibin B level. A significant reduction was observed in SOD activity in all antipsychotics-treated groups. While GSH levels diminished, MDA levels were rising in the Haloperidol and Risperidone groups. Also, the GSH level was significantly elevated in the Quetiapine and Aripiprazole groups. By causing oxidative stress and altering hormone levels, Haloperidol and Risperidone are damaging to male reproductivity. This study represents useful starting point for exploring further aspects of the underlying mechanisms reproductive toxicity of antipsychotics.

Salivary Alterations in Autoimmune Thyroid Diseases: A Systematic Review

Autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) is a dysregulation of the immune system that causes an attack on the thyroid gland. Two major clinical manifestations are Hashimoto's thyroiditis and Graves' disease. Saliva performs many functions and, importantly, has the potential for easy, non-invasive diagnostics of several systemic disorders. This systematic review was designed to answer the question whether salivary alterations are reliable for the diagnosis of autoimmune thyroid diseases. Following the inclusion and exclusion criteria, fifteen studies were included. Due to their heterogeneity, saliva analysis was divided into two subgroups: quantitative assessment analysing salivation and qualitative assessment concerning potential salivary biomarkers for AITD. In addition to detecting altered levels of thyroid hormones and antibodies, salivary changes were also observed in the concentrations of total protein, cytokines and chemokines, as well as markers of oxidative status. According to the saliva flow rate values, significantly reduced saliva secretion was observed in patients with HT. In conclusion, it is not possible to unequivocally state if salivary biomarkers can potentially be used in autoimmune thyroid disease diagnosis. Therefore, further investigations, including salivation disorders, are necessary to validate these findings.

Obesity and pancreatic cancer: the underlying mechanisms

Obesity has emerged as a severe public health concern worldwide, with an increasing number of studies linking it to an increased risk of various forms of cancer, including pancreatic cancer. Although the underlying pathways behind this relationship are unknown, different putative biological and metabolic pathways have been discovered. These are examples of chronic low-grade inflammation, insulin resistance, altered hormone levels, and exposure to external environmental risk factors. These underlying processes are believed to combine with genetic and environmental variables in obese individuals to contribute to the development and progression of pancreatic cancer. More study is needed to thoroughly understand the complicated relationship between obesity and pancreatic cancer to create effective preventive and early detection measures for this fatal illness.

‘Yunnan’ quince rootstock promoted flower bud formation of ‘Abbé Fetel’ pear by altering hormone levels and PbAGL9 expression

Flower busd formation is an important plant growth process. It has been reported that dwarfing rootstocks can significantly affect the flower bud formation of scions. In this study, we found the dwarfing rootstock ‘Yunnan’ quince could significantly increase the flowering rate of ‘Abbé Fetel’ pear scions. The RNA-sequencing data revealed significant changes in the expression of genes related to hormone pathways. Furthermore, hormone analyses indicated that ‘Yunnan’ quince significantly decreased the GA3 content and increased the cytokinin/auxin ratio in ‘Abbé Fetel’ pear apical buds. The hormone contents were consistent with the RNA-sequencing data. Moreover, we found the flower development-related genes PbAGL9 and PbCAL-A1 were significantly upregulated and PbTFL1 was significantly downregulated in ‘Abbé Fetel’/‘Yunnan’ quince apical buds. To further clarify the relationship between hormones and flowering-related genes, a hormone response assay was carried out. We found the expression levels of PbCAl-A1, PbTFL1 and PbAGL9 were regulated by hormones including GA3, CPPU and NAA. Y1H and dual-luciferase assays indicated that PbAGL9 significantly decreased the promoter activity of PbTFL1. In summary, ‘Yunnan’ quince upregulated PbCAL-A1 and PbAGL9, and downregulated PbTFL1 expression by decreasing the GA3 content and increasing the cytokinin/auxin ratio in ‘Abbé Fetel’ pear apical buds. Additionally, ‘Yunnan’ quince down-regulate PbTFL1 by upregulating the expression of PbAGL9, and eventually promoted floral induction in ‘Abbé Fetel’ pear.

Assessment of Thyroid Hormone Level Alterations in Hepatitis B-Positive Serum Using a Quantitative Immunofluorescence Assay: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Assessment of Thyroid Hormone Level Alterations in Hepatitis B-Positive Serum Using a Quantitative Immunofluorescence Assay: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Maternal phthalate exposure during pregnancy and testis function of young adult sons

BackgroundPhthalate exposure during fetal life may disrupt testicular development. Congruent with this, studies have found shorter anogenital distance, reduced penile size and altered hormone levels in infant boys whose mothers were exposed to higher levels of some phthalates during pregnancy. Few studies have explored if such adverse effects persist in adulthood. Thus, we aimed to explore if there is an association between fetal phthalate exposure and markers of testicular function in young adult men. MethodsIn a longitudinal mother-child cohort from Copenhagen, Denmark, we examined 100 young men whose mothers during pregnancy had serum drawn and analyzed for 34 phthalate metabolites. Examinations of the young men took place at 18–20 years of age and included measurements of adult markers of testicular function (reproductive hormones, penile size, anogenital distance (AGD), testis volume, semen quality) and growth factors. Associations between maternal serum concentrations of phthalate metabolites and reproductive measures in the young men were tested using multiple linear regression. ResultsMost consistently, higher maternal phthalate exposure was associated with higher luteinizing hormone (LH) but unchanged testosterone in adult sons. Congruently, higher maternal exposure was associated with lower total and free testosterone/LH ratios in adult sons. For example, twice as high maternal MiNP was associated with a 7.9 % (95 % CI 1.6–13.8) lower free testosterone/LH ratio. There was no consistent pattern of associations between the different phthalate metabolites and other reproductive hormones, clinical outcomes, or semen quality. None of the tested associations was significant after multiplicity adjustment. ConclusionsIn this exploratory study, higher maternal exposure to some phthalates was associated with impaired testicular Leydig cell function evidenced by a lower total and free testosterone/LH ratio in adult sons. This unique 18–20-year follow-up study raises concern and suggests that exposure of pregnant women to phthalates may have long-term effects on adult reproductive health in male offspring.