Blood Testosterone Research Articles

Prenatal dexamethasone exposure impairs rat blood-testis barrier function and sperm quality in adult offspring via GR/KDM1B/FSTL3/TGFβ signaling.

Both epidemiological and animal studies suggest that adverse environment during pregnancy can change the offspring development programming, but it is difficult to achieve prenatal early warning. In this study we investigated the impact of prenatal dexamethasone exposure (PDE) on sperm quality and function of blood-testis barrier (BTB) in adult offspring and the underlying mechanisms. Pregnant rats were injected with dexamethasone (0.1, 0.2 and 0.4 mg·kg-1·d-1, s.c.) from GD9 to GD20. After weaning (PW4), the pups were fed with lab chow. At PW12 and PW28, the male offspring were euthanized to collect blood and testes samples. We showed that PDE significantly decreased sperm quality (including quantity and motility) in male offspring, which was associated with impaired BTB and decreased CX43/E-cadherin expression in the testis. We demonstrated that PDE induced morphological abnormalities of fetal testicle and Sertoli cell development originated from intrauterine. By tracing to fetal testicular Sertoli cells, we found that PDE dose-dependently increased expression of histone lysine demethylases (KDM1B), decreasing histone 3 lysine 9 dimethylation (H3K9me2) levels of follistatin-like-3 (FSTL3) promoter region and increased FSTL3 expression, and inhibited TGFβ signaling and CX43/E-cadherin expression in offspring before and after birth. These results were validated in TM4 Sertoli cells following dexamethasone treatment. Meanwhile, the H3K9me2 levels of FSTL3 promoter in maternal peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) and placenta were decreased and its expression increased, which was positively correlated with the changes in offspring testis. Based on analysis of human samples, we found that the H3K9me2 levels of FSTL3 promoter in maternal blood PBMC and placenta were positively correlated with fetal blood testosterone levels after prenatal dexamethasone exposure. We conclude that PDE can reduce sperm quality in adult offspring rats, which is related to the damage of testis BTB via epigenetic modification and change of FSTL3 expression in Sertoli cells. The H3K9me2 levels of the FSTL3 promoter and its expression in the maternal blood PBMC can be used as a prenatal warning marker for fetal testicular dysplasia.

A multi-modal approach to investigate Desmodium gangeticum's influence on stress-induced male infertility: In vivo, in vitro, and in silico assessments

Physical and psychological stress has an inverse relation with male libido and sperm quality. The present study investigates the potential fertility-enhancing properties of Desmodium gangeticum (DG) root extracts in male Wister rats subjected to immobilization-induced stress (SIMB). DG roots were extracted using n-hexane (HEDG), chloroform (CEDG), and water (AEDG). In the pilot study, aphrodisiac protentional was investigated at two doses (125 and 250 mg kg−1) of each extract. In the main study, the HEDG and AEDG at 125 and 250 mg kg−1 were challenged for the stress by immobilization (SIMB), for 6 h daily over 28 days. Parameters assessed included aphrodisiac effects, gonadosomatic index (GSI), semen quality, sperm quantity, fructose content, serum hormonal levels, testicular oxidative stress, and testicular histopathology. Additional in silico studies, including the lipid solubility index, molecular docking, molecular dynamics, and SymMap studies were conducted for validation. HEDG demonstrated significant aphrodisiac activity, improved – GSI, sperm quality and quantity, and fructose content, serum testosterone levels, histological changes induced by SIMB in the testes. Swiss ADME studies indicated Gangetin (a pterocarpan) had a high brain permeation index (4.81), a superior docking score (-8.22), and higher glide energy (-42.60), compared with tadalafil (-7.17). The 'Lig fit Prot' plot in molecular dynamics simulations revealed a strong alignment between Gangetin and phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5). HEDG exerts aphrodisiac effects by increasing blood testosterone levels and affecting PDE5 activity. The protective effects on spermatozoa-related parameters and testicular histological changes are attributed to the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, of pterocarpan (gangetin).

Rekindling desire: Unveiling the Aphrodisiac potential of Apiaceae Elixirs

Background: In the realms of herbal pharmacology, the Apiaceae family has long held the torch, with parsley, coriander, and celery at the forefront. They have been extensively utilized in traditional therapies, including their use as aphrodisiacs. The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the aphrodisiac potential of three Apiaceae plants: Petroselinum crispum, Coriandrum sativum, and Apium graveolens, both individually and in combination, to substantiate their traditional medicinal usage. Methods: The administration of extracts orally (at a dose of 250 mg/kg of body weight) was carried out daily for 15 days in various groups of male rats. To induce receptivity in female rats used for mating, hormonal treatment was employed. The study encompassed the assessment of general mating behavior, which was compared to that induced by the standard reference drug, sildenafil citrate. Additionally, hematological and biochemical assays were conducted. Results: The results of this study demonstrated that oral administration of the extracts at a dose of 250 mg/kg significantly heightened sexual activity in male rats. This was characterized by a substantial increase in parameters such as mounting frequency, erection frequency, ejaculation frequency, and copulatory rate, coupled with a noteworthy reduction in mounting latency, intromission latency, and latency time. However, when compared to the positive control group (sildenafil), the polyherbal formulation did not induce significant alterations in hematological parameters such as red blood cell count, white blood cell count, blood platelet count, and hemoglobin levels. Furthermore, the hepatic and renal markers in treated rats displayed no significant disturbances when administered with the individual extracts of the three Apiaceae plants or in combination, in comparison to the control group. The results also unveiled a substantial augmentation effect in blood testosterone levels following the individual administration of Apiaceae plant extracts when compared to the positive control group. The combined administration of these extracts at a dose of 250 mg/kg exhibited an even more pronounced effect in enhancing testosterone levels than administering the individual extracts. Conclusions: In conclusion, the polyherbal formulation comprising these Apiaceae plants demonstrated a substantial and sustained enhancement in the sexual activity of healthy male rats, without any discernible adverse effects. This suggests that the formulation maintains aphrodisiac properties, possibly attributed to its nerve-stimulating effects, thereby enhancing libido and potency. These findings not only support the traditional use of these herbs for their aphrodisiac properties but also propose potential applications for human use as a natural alternative for addressing male sexual disorders and as aphrodisiac agents.

Common Determinants of Blood Pressure and Testosterone LevelReply.

Common Determinants of Blood Pressure and Testosterone LevelReply.

Effect of Ginseng on Blood Lipid Profile, Testosterone Level and Epididymal Sperm Quality of Aged BALB/C Mice

Effect of Ginseng on Blood Lipid Profile, Testosterone Level and Epididymal Sperm Quality of Aged BALB/C Mice

Amphibian newts as experimental models for studying weight gain after castration.

Vertebrate animals often exhibit sexual dimorphism in body shape. In mammals, decreases in sex hormones caused by testicular castration can affect body shape and occasionally lead to pathologies such as obesity. Post-castration obesity can also be problematic for the health of companion animals, including non-mammals. In order to understand the mechanism of post-castration obesity in vertebrates other than mammals, experimental models are required. We examined whether the Iberian ribbed newt, which has recently become a popular experimental model for amphibian research, could serve as a model for analyzing changes in body shape after castration. In newts, new testes can be regenerated after removal of differentiated testes. We analyzed changes in body shape by removing the testes under conditions in which they could regenerate or conditions in which they could not regenerate. Removal of the testes reduced blood testosterone levels. The body weight and abdominal girth of the newts were increased compared with normal male newts. Transcriptome analysis of the liver showed that a set of genes related to lipid metabolism was continuously up-regulated in castrated newts. Our study suggests that changes in body shape after castration are common in vertebrates. Iberian ribbed newts are thus a suitable model for comparative studies of the long-term physiologic- and endocrine-level effects of castration.

Является ли аутоплазма, обогащенная тромбоцитарными факторами роста, и экстракорпоральная ударно-волновая терапия новым рубежом в лечении пациентов с эректильной дисфункцией?

Background. Existing methods for treating erectile dysfunction (ED) do not always provide the necessary therapeutic effect and/or may not be recommended for certain patients. Aim. Evaluate the effectiveness of correcting erectile dysfunction using platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT). Material and methods. 100 men were randomly assigned to 3 groups. Group 1 (n=20) received ESWT treatment on the penis twice a week for 6 weeks. Group 2 (n=40) and Group 3 (n=40) had two visits per week for 6 weeks, involving both ESWT and PRP injections into the penis. In Group 2, PRP activation was performed using ESWT, while in Group 3, it was done using a 10% solution of CaCl2. Patients were evaluated at 0 and 60 days of the study, assessing IIEF-5, SEP, EHS, GAQ, blood testosterone levels, and penile Doppler ultrasound with PGE1. Results. In group 1 IIEF-5 improved from 14.5 (10.5-17) to 19.5 (15.5-21) (СЂ<0.05). SEP changed from 2 (1-2) to 3 (2-4) (СЂ<0.05). EHS improved from 1.5 (1-2) to 3 (2.5-3) (СЂ<0.05). Baseline PSV was 16.3 cm/s (12.2-22.7), at 60 days post ESWT was 24 cm/s (19.4-26.8) (СЂ<0.05) and RI changed from 0.7 (0.7-0.9) to 0.9 (0.8-1) according D-PDU (СЂ<0.05). 14 patients (70 %) noted positive dynamics by GAQ at the last exam. In group 2 IIEF-5 was 13 (11-15) at 0 days, 18 (16-20) at 60 day (СЂ<0.05). SEP improved from 2 (1.5-2) to 3 (3-4) (СЂ<0.05). EHS changed from 2 (1-2) to 3 (2-3) (СЂ<0.05). D-PDU results demonstrated increase median PSV 15.6 cm/s (12.1-22.8) to 27 cm/s (20.6-33.5) (СЂ<0.05) and median RI from 0.8 (0.7-1) to 1 (0.8-1) (СЂ=0.02). 34 men declared positive effects according to GAQ (85 %) In group 3 IIEF-5 results improved from 13 (9-15) to 18.5 (15-20.5) (СЂ<0.05). SEP improved from 2 (1-2) to 3 (3-4) (СЂ<0.05). EHS changed from 1 (1-2) to 3 (3-3) (СЂ<0.05). PSV increased from 17 cm/s (10.3-25) to 27.8 cm/s (20-36.6) (СЂ<0.05). RI improved from 0.8 (0.7-0.9) to 0.9 (0.8-1) (СЂ=0.005). 33 patients respond to an improvement of erectile functions (82.5 %) by GAQ. Conclusion. All treatment methods were well-tolerated by all patients. The study results indicate a positive trend in improving erectile function and increasing total testosterone levels in the blood. When comparing groups, combination therapy significantly improves erectile function according to SEP, EHS, and penile Doppler ultrasound assessments. ESWT can be suggested as an activator for PRP

Neuroplastin Expression in Male Mice Is Essential for Fertility, Mating, and Adult Testosterone Levels.

Male reproduction depends on hormonally driven behaviors and numerous genes for testis development and spermatogenesis. Neuroplastin-deficient (Nptn-/-) male mice cannot sire offspring. By immunohistochemistry, we characterized neuroplastin expression in the testis. Breeding, mating behavior, hormonal regulation, testicular development, and spermatogenesis were analyzed in cell-type specific neuroplastin mutant mice. Leydig, Sertoli, peritubular myoid, and germ cells express Np, but spermatogenesis and sperm number are not affected in Nptn-/- males. Neuroplastin lack from CNS neurons or restricted to spermatogonia or Sertoli cells permitted reproduction. Normal luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) blood levels in Nptn-/- males support undisturbed hormonal regulation in the brain. However, Nptn-/- males lack mounting behavior accompanied by low testosterone blood levels. Testosterone rise from juvenile to adult blood levels is absent in Nptn-/- males. LH-receptor stimulation raising intracellular Ca2+ in Leydig cells triggers testosterone production. Reduced Plasma Membrane Ca2+ ATPase 1 (PMCA1) in Nptn-/- Leydig cells suggests that Nptn-/- Leydig cells produce sufficient testosterone for testis and sperm development, but a lack of PMCA-Np complexes prevents the increase from reaching adult blood levels. Behavioral immaturity with low testosterone blood levels underlies infertility of Nptn-/- males, revealing that Np is essential for reproduction.

Pathological effects of feeding aflatoxin-contaminated feed on immune status and reproductive performance of juvenile white leghorn males and its mitigation with ∝-tocopherol and Moringa oleifera.

This study was planned to detect the adverse pathological consequences of aflatoxin B1 in White Leghorn (WLH) layer breeder males. Eight-week-old male layer cockerels were separated into six experimental categories: A group was kept as negative control, offered with normal feed only; group B was fed with 400ppb amount of aflatoxin, while groups F and D fed with normal feed and supplemented with vitamin E 100ppm and 1% Moringa oleifera, respectively, whereas groups E and C were fed with 400ppb aflatoxin containing feed and ameliorated with vitamin E 100ppm and 1% Moringa oleifera, respectively. This study was continued for 2months and immunologic disorders and reproductive parameters were observed during the trial. To find out immunological status lymphoproliferative response to phytohemagglutinin-P (PHA-P), antibody titers against sheep red blood cells (SRBCs) and carbon clear assay were performed by collecting samples from five birds from each group. The whole data was measured by ANOVA test, and group means were compared by DMR test by using M-Stat C software. Regarding the reproductive status, spermatogenesis, blood testosterone level, testes weight, testes histology, sperm motility, and morphology were negatively affected by aflatoxins, but these deviations positively ameliorated by vitamin E and Moringa. Vitamin E and Moringa found advantageous in boosting the immune status of affected bird.All the immunological parameters including antibody titers against sheed red blood cells, lymphoproliferativeresponse to avian tuberculin and phagocytic potential of macrophages were suppressed by AFB1 however incontrol, Moringa and vitamin E groups these immunological responses were significantly higher.

Safety and potential effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma and extracorporeal shock wave therapy in the treatment of erectile dysfunction after nerve-sparing radical prostatectomy in patients: pilot study

Background. Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer in men. Radical prostatectomy (RPE), including nerve-sparing, often leads to erectile dysfunction and a significant decrease in the quality of life. The available treatments are limited in effectiveness and/or are not suitable for patients.Aim. The aim of the study was to evaluate the safety and effectiveness of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) in the treatment of erectile dysfunction in patients after nerve-sparing RPE.Materials and methods. 14 men were included in the study after unilateral or bilateral nerve-sparing RPE more than 3 months ago. The total prostate-specific antigen in all patients was less than 0.2 ng/ml 3 months or more after surgery. Age – 57.8 ± 6.2 (49–72) years, duration of erectile dysfunction – 7.6 ± 3.9 (3–16) months. Two visits per week were out for 6 weeks: in visit 1, the ESWT (Dornier Aries) was performed on penis and injections of PRP into the penis, the muscles involved in the erection were activated at the end of the session by ESWT, in visit 2, ESWT on penis. The examinations were performed on the 0 and 60 days of the study: International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF-5), Sexual Encounter Profile (SEP), Erection Hardness Score (EHS), Global Assessment Questionnaire (GAQ), International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), Quality of Life (QoL), total blood testosterone, to penile duplex Doppler ultrasonography (PDDU) with prostaglandin E1 analog. Inclusion criteria were absence of metastases to distant organs and lymph nodes; stage no more than T3b; IIEF-5 less than 21 points after RPE; PSV less than 30 cm/s and/or RI less than 0.8 according to the PDDU after RPE; the presence of erections before RPE.Results. Treatment was tolerated satisfactorily for all patients. Significant improvement of erectile function was noted according to IIEF-5 (p <0.05), SEP (p = 0.002), EHS (p = 0.002). According to GAQ, 11 patients (78.5 %) noted a positive effect of treatment. PSV and RI in both cavernous arteries increased significantly (p <0.05) according PDDU. All patients noted a dysuria decrease based on IPSS (p = 0.007) and QoL (p = 0.58). The concentration of total testosterone in the blood without significant dynamics (p = 0.192).Conclusion. There are positive effects in relation to a significant improvement in erectile function in all patients according to validated questionnaires and PDDU. The proposed treatment is a promising method of restoring patient data. The study continues on a larger sample of patients.

Determination of biochemical and histopathological changes on testicular and epididymis tissues induced by exposure to insecticide Imidacloprid during postnatal development in rats

BackgroundImidacloprid is a neonicotinoid insecticide belonging to the chloronicotinyl nitroguanidine chemical family. Toxicity of IMD for mammals in scientific studies has shown high mutagenic, immunotoxic, teratogenic and neurotoxic effects. The present study was designed to assess the toxic effects of imidacloprid (IMD) on the testicular and epididymis tissues as well as testosterone levels of neonatal male rats.MethodsNeonatal male rats from postnatal day (PND) 1 to PND 26 were consecutively administered with different concentrations of IMD (1, 5 and 10 mg/kg) subcutaneously. The effect of IMD on body and organ weight, lipid profile, histopathological alterations, oxidative stress and altered testosterone levels were assessed in the testis and plasma.ResultsThe results of body weight gain showed a significant difference in group 4 (10 mg/kg) animals as compared to the control. A significant increase in total cholesterol and triglycerides, while a decrease in high-density lipoprotein concentrations was evident. Similarly, a significant decrease in concentrations of antioxidant enzymes (CAT and SOD) among all the IMD-treated groups was evident, when compared to the control. Increased production of ROS was also noticed in the highest-dose treatment group. Further, we observed that IMD-treated rats indicated histopathological changes in the testis and epididymis along with a significant decrease in the plasma testosterone concentrations among IMI-treated groups in contrast to the control. Histological examination of the testis of IMD-treated neonatal male rats also showed decreased spermatogenesis in the treated groups when compared to the control. Furthermore, an increase in lumen diameter and a decrease in epithelial height of seminiferous tubules were also observed in IMD-treated rats in comparison with the control.ConclusionIt is concluded that sub-chronic exposure to IMD in neonatal male rats may induce histopathological changes in reproductive tissues and damage normal testicular functions via inducing oxidative stress, decrease in body weight, disturbing normal blood lipid profile and testosterone concentration. IMD exposure can induce pathophysiological effects calls for further evaluation of this widely used insecticide.

Agaricus Subrufescens ameliorates ovarian dysfunction and regulates altered biochemical parameters in rats with Letrozole induced polycystic ovarian syndrome

ObjectiveThe objective of this study is to investigate the effects of an ethanolic extract derived from Agaricus subrufescens on rat models exhibiting Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) induced by Letrozole.MethodsA total of thirty female Wistar rats were divided into five groups, each consisting of six rats. The negative control group was administered a volume of 1 mL of a 0.5% solution of carboxy methylcellulose (CMC). Letrozole (1 mg/kg) was administered to additional groups for a duration of 21 days in order to induce polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Animals designated as positive controls were euthanized on the 22nd day. Both the test group and the standard group were subjected to treatment from the 22nd day to the 36th day. The experimental group was administered ethanolic extract of Agaricus subrufescens at doses of 200 mg/kg and 400 mg/kg p.o, while the control group received clomiphene citrate at a dose of 1 mg/kg. The study observed various physiological markers in individuals with polycystic ovarian disease, including estimated blood glucose levels, total cholesterol levels, triglyceride levels, and hormonal fluctuations such as increased testosterone and estrogen levels, as well as decreased progesterone levels. The presence of menstrual irregularities was confirmed through the examination of vaginal smears and histopathological changes in the ovaries.ResultsThe consumption of Agaricus subrufescens was found to have a significant impact on various physiological parameters, including blood glucose levels, testosterone levels, anovulation, and menstrual irregularity. All therapeutic interventions significantly normalized the levels of serum glutamic-oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT) and serum glutamic-pyruvic transaminase (SGPT). The rats with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) that were induced by Letrozole exhibited increased levels of urea and creatinine. The findings of this study indicate that the administration of Agaricus subrufescens therapy has a protective effect on renal function, as evidenced by a reduction in serum levels of urea and creatinine. In rats with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) induced by Letrozole, the inhibition of hepatic synthesis, promotion of ovarian follicle immaturity, and elevation of androgen secretions result in an increase in the weight of the liver and ovaries. The weight of endocrine organs exhibited a decrease across all treatment groups. The histopathological examination of PCOS specimens revealed an increased presence of cysts and theca lutein cells. The group of rats with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) that did not receive treatment exhibited a higher number of cysts compared to the groups that received treatment.ConclusionThis study demonstrated that the administration of Letrozole orally resulted in the development of polycystic ovarian disease. The results indicated heightened levels of blood glucose, total cholesterol, and triglycerides, as well as alterations in hormone levels such as increased testosterone and estrogen, and decreased progesterone. These hormonal changes were accompanied by menstrual irregularities, which were confirmed through the examination of vaginal smears and histopathological analysis of the ovaries in the control group with polycystic ovarian disease. The treatment groups that received Agaricus subrufescens exhibited a decrease in blood glucose, total cholesterol, and testosterone levels.

Plasma Androstenedione Concentration Can Discriminate Frail versus Non-Frail Men with Prostate Cancer under Androgen Deprivation Therapy.

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is a mainstay of prostate cancer in both adjuvant and palliative settings. Since androgens are crucial for functional status and psychological functions, we evaluated whether blood testosterone, androstenedione, or DHEA concentrations were associated with functional status and psychological alterations in patients with localised (PCa) or metastatic prostate cancer (mPCa) receiving ADT with analogues of luteinising hormone-releasing hormone (LHRH). The five Fried criteria were considered to identify frailty syndrome. In addition, complementary evaluations were carried out to measure other variables of interest. Sleep quality was assessed using the Athens Insomnia Scale, cognitive functions were assessed using the Mini-Mental State Examination, and symptoms of depression were measured using the Yesavage Geriatric Depression Scale. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine if the androgens level could be related to frailty syndrome, sleep impairment, depressive symptoms, and cognitive functions. The results of the multivariate analyses show that high concentrations of androstenedione were significantly associated with frailty syndrome in both groups (p = 0.018; odds ratio = 4.66, 95% confidence interval [1.30-16.6]). There were significant relationships between frailty syndrome and the systemic concentration of androstenedione (p = 0.01), but not the concentration of testosterone (p = 0.60) or DHEA (p = 0.42). In addition, the results of the non-parametric tests show significant results between a decreased gait speed in the two groups (metastatic and localised) and the concentration of androstenedione (p = 0.015). High androstenedione levels were associated with a slow walking speed in the mCaP group (p = 0.016), while high testosterone levels were associated with a better walking speed in the localised CaP group (p = 0.03). For the concentration of androstenedione in plasma, the area under the curve was 0.72, with a 95% CI of 0.55-0.88 with acceptable values, and with a cut-off point of 4.51 pg/mL, a sensitivity of 82.9%, and specificity of 53.8%. No relationships between the concentration of androgens in plasma and sleep quality, cognitive functions, or symptoms of depression suggest that the changes were specific to frailty syndrome. Further research into the role of androstenedione should be evaluated in follow-up studies in order to recommend its use as a suitable biomarker of frailty syndrome in prostate cancer patients.

Sex hormone-binding globulin and heart failure hospitalizations in patients with dysglycemia: Experiences from the outcome reduction with an Initial Glargine Intervention trial

IntroductionSex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), which binds most of circulating testosterone in blood, has been linked to dysglycemia and cardiovascular disease but the relationship with heart failure remains unclear. AimTo study the relation between SHBG and heart failure hospitalizations. MethodsSHBG levels were analysed in dysglycemic participants at high cardiovascular risk (n = 8401) followed for a median of 6.2 years in the Outcome Reduction with an Initial Glargine Intervention trial. Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) per one standard deviation increase for heart failure hospitalizations adjusted for age, comorbidities, biochemical data (including testosterone) and pharmacological treatment. Results5553 men and 2848 women were included. Heart failure hospitalizations occurred in 349 (6.3 %) men and 123 (4.3 %) women. One standard deviation increase in SHBG was independently associated with an increased risk of heart failure hospitalizations in men (HR 1.15, 95 % CI 1.03–1.28; p = 0.011) but not in women (HR 1.15; 95 % CI 0.96–1.39; p = 0.14). ConclusionsIn patients with dysglycemia and high cardiovascular risk, increasing SHBG was associated with greater risk of HF hospitalizations independent of testosterone concentrations in men but not in women, suggesting the effects could be mediated through androgen-independent pathways.

Sex hormone-binding globulin and heart failure hospitalizations in patients with dysglycemia - Experiences from the Outcome Reduction with an Initial Glargine Intervention (ORIGIN) trial

Abstract Background Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), which binds most of the circulating testosterone in blood, is linked to both dysglycemia and a variety of cardiovascular (CV) events. However, few studies have investigated the link between SHBG and heart failure. Purpose To investigate the relationship between SHBG levels and heart failure hospitalizations in men and women with dysglycemia. Methods The Outcome Reduction with an Initial Glargine Intervention (ORIGIN) trial followed individuals with dysglycemia (impaired fasting glucose, impaired glucose tolerance or diabetes) and high cardiovascular risk for a median of 6.2 years. Incident CV events, including heart failure hospitalizations (defined as heart failure requiring overnight stay at hospital or attendance in an acute care setting) were collected and adjudicated. A subset of patients (n = 8,494) in whom blood samples were stored had SHBG levels analysed. Cox regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) of heart failure hospitalizations per standard deviation increase of SHBG. Adjustments were made for age, comorbidities, biochemical data (including testosterone) and pharmacological treatment. Analyses were performed separately in men and women. Results A total of 5,553 men and 2,848 women were included in whom heart failure hospitalizations were reported in 349 men and 123 women. Median SHBG levels were 35 nmol/L (25-47) in men and 39 nmol/L (27-55) in women. The primary outcome was more frequent in men with SHBG levels above median (n = 208/349 [59.6 %]; p<0.01) whilst no difference was seen for women (n = 69/123 [56.1%]; p = 0.24). A higher SHBG was associated with increased risk of heart failure hospitalizations in men (adjusted HR 1.15, 95% CI 1.03-1.28; p = 0.011) but not in women (adjusted HR 1.13; 95% CI 0.96-1.39; p = 0.14). Conclusions In this biomarker substudy within the ORIGIN trial comprising patients with dysglycemia and at high CV risk, increasing levels of SHBG were associated with heart failure hospitalizations independent of testosterone levels in men but not in women.

Testosterone replacement therapy is not associated with increased prostate cancer incidence, prostate cancer-specific, or cardiovascular disease-specific mortality in Finnish men

Background Concerns have been expressed over the safety of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in men with late-onset hypogonadism (LOH). Previous studies have shown controversial results regarding the association of TRT with the risk of cardiovascular events or prostate cancer (PCa) incidence, aggressiveness, and mortality. This study explores the overall risk of PCa and risk by tumor grade and stage, as well as mortality from PCa and cardiovascular disease (CVD), among men treated with TRT compared to men without LOH and TRT use. Materials and methods The study included 78,615 men of age 55–67 years at baseline from the Finnish Randomized Study of Screening for Prostate Cancer (FinRSPC). Follow-up started at randomization and ended at death, emigration, or a common closing date January 1st, 2017. Cox proportional hazards regression model with time-dependent variables and adjustment for age, trial arm, use of other medications, and Charlson comorbidity index was used. Comprehensive information on TRT purchases during 1995–2015 was obtained from the Finnish National Prescription Database. PCa cases were identified from the Finnish Cancer Registry and causes of death obtained from Statistics Finland. Results Over the course of 18 years of follow-up, 2919 men were on TRT, and 285 PCa cases were diagnosed among them. TRT users did not exhibit a higher incidence or mortality rate of PCa compared to non-users. On the contrary, men using TRT had lower PCa mortality than non-users (HR = 0.52; 95% CI 0.3–0.91). Additionally, TRT users had slightly lower CVD and all-cause mortality compared to non-users (HR = 0.87; 95% CI 0.75–1.01 and HR = 0.93; 95% CI 0.87–1.0, respectively). No time- or dose-dependency of TRT use was evident in any of the analyses. Conclusion Men using TRT were not associated to increased risk for PCa and did not experience increased PCa- or CVD-specific mortality compared to non-users. Further studies considering blood testosterone levels are warranted.

The Effect of Photoperiod Duration on Humoral Innate and Humoral Adaptive Immune Responsiveness in Campbell’s Dwarf Hamster

We studied the humoral innate immune responsiveness (HII), i.e. a hemolysis of rabbit erythrocytes by complement proteins, and adaptive humoral (antibody production) immune responsiveness (AHI) to SRBC, morphological and hormonal reproductive characteristics and stress level in male Campbell hamsters kept under long-day (LD; 16D: 8N) and short-day (SD; 8D: 16N) photoperiods. The results indicate lower HII, but not AHI in SD. In SD males we observed body mass, anogenital distance, midventral gland size and level of testosterone in the peripheral blood (but not the level of cortisol) decreased. Comparison of SD non-responders, SD responders and LD individuals demonstrated a statistically significant increase of HII in SD photosensitive hamsters, but not in non-responders compared to LD. There was no link between HII and AHI, which indicates an independent photoperiodic responsiveness of different branches of the immune system in Campbell’s hamster.

Effects of TAPP Combined with Biological Mesh on Reproductive Function in Male Inguinal Hernia Patients of Reproductive Age: A Single-Center Retrospective Study

Objective. To explore the effect of laparoscopic trans-abdominal preperitoneal hernia repair (TAPP) combined with biological mesh on the reproductive function of male inguinal hernia patients during the reproductive period. Methods. Sixty male inguinal hernia patients during the reproductive period admitted to our department from October 2015 to October 2021 were selected for retrospective analysis. All patients were treated with TAPP combined with biological mesh by the same team. Bilateral testicular volume, testicular temperature, testicular blood perfusion, peripheral serum testosterone concentration, and semen analysis were examined before surgery, 3 months after surgery, 6 months after surgery, and 12 months after surgery. Results. The preoperative testicular volume, temperature, and blood perfusion were compared between the healthy side and the affected side; the testicular volume, temperature, blood perfusion of the affected side, peripheral blood testosterone concentration, and semen analysis were compared among the four time points, which were before operation, 3 months after operation, 6 months after operation, and 12 months after operation. All p values were >0.05. Conclusions. The presence of inguinal hernia had no significant effect on the volume and blood perfusion of male testis. In addition, TAPP combined with biological mesh has no negative effect on postoperative reproductive function of male inguinal hernia patients of childbearing age, which manifested as a safe and feasible surgical method.

Reproductive system status in men after coronavirus infection and vaccination

Introduction The COVID-19 pandemic is a serious problem for the health care system in Russia and worldwide, as the pathogenic influence of the pathogen can cause a systematic range of complications in the body, especially in the reproductive system.The aim of the work was to determine the state of the reproductive system in men after coronavirus infection and vaccination based on the analysis of literature data.Materials and methods The search for papers on the state of the reproductive system in men after coronavirus infection and vaccination was conducted in PubMed, Medline, EMBASE and eLibrary.ru databases.Results The reproductive capacity of male patients who have undergone COVID-19 is affected by numerous factors: general health status, activity of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, development of systemic inflammatory response, activation of lipoperoxidation processes, etc. This changes cause inflammatory response in the tissues of the reproductive system, secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines, imbalance of the antioxidant system, formation of oxidative stress, damage to Leydig and Sertoli cells, formation of reproductive insufficiency and infertility.Discussion The pathogenetic role of SARS-CoV-2 in the development of reproductive depression in men with coronavirus infection, which has a prolonged, negative and persistent effect on the state of testicular hemodynamics, the level of total testosterone in blood and ejaculate parameters, was confirmed.Conclusion The results of the study suggest a deterioration of the reproductive system in men following coronavirus infection.

Label-free assaying of testosterone and growth hormones in blood using surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy

This work reports the potential use of surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) in rapid, label-free assaying of testosterone (TE) and growth hormone (GH) in whole blood. Biomarker SERS spectral bands from the two hormones (TE and GH) in intentionally spiked water for injection and in male Sprague-Dawley (SD) rat’s blood are reported. These concentration-sensitive Raman bands as deduced through Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA), were centered around 1490 and 1510 cm−1 for GH, 1614 and 1636 cm−1 for TE; and 684 cm−1 for the hormone mixture (GH+TE) in blood. These bands exhibited significant intensity changes with the concentration of GH and TE hormones in blood. They were tentatively assigned to C-C stretching (684, 786, 856, 1614 and 1636 cm−1), CH2 bending (1490 cm−1) and CH2 stretching (1510 cm−1). These bands may be used in SERS assaying of the respective hormones in blood using a customized and calibrated Raman system thus utilizing the strengths of the SERS method that include, being label-free, rapid (<1 min), chemically specific, minimal sample preparation among others. Besides, the method may potentially be used in detecting abuse of TE and GH in sports where they are often abused concurrently.