Serum E2 Research Articles

Detection of early placental hormone production in embryo transfer cycles lacking a corpus luteum.

This study sought to identify the initiation of placental hormonal production as defined by the production of endogenous estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P4) in a cohort of patients undergoing programmed endometrial preparation cycles with single embryo transfers resulting in live-born singletons. In this retrospective cohort study, patients undergoing either programmed frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) with autologous oocytes or donor egg recipient (DER) cycles with fresh embryos were screened for inclusion. Only patients who underwent a single embryo transfer, had a single gestational sac, and a resultant live-born singleton were included. All patients were treated with E2 patches and intramuscular progesterone injections. Main outcome measures were serial E2 and P4, with median values calculated for cycle days 28 (baseline), or 4w0d gestational age (GA), through 60, or 8w4d GA. The baseline cycle day (CD) 28 median value was compared to each daily median cycle day value using the Wilcoxon signed rank test. A total of 696 patients, 569 using autologous oocytes in programmed FET cycles and 127 using fresh donor oocytes, from 4/2013 to 4/2019 met inclusion criteria. Serum E2 and P4 levels stayed consistent initially and then began to increase daily. Compared to baseline CD 28 E2 (415pg/mL), the serum E2 was significantly elevated at 542pg/mL (P< 0.001) beginning on CD 36 (5w1d GA). With respect to baseline CD 28 P4 (28.1ng/mL), beginning on CD 48 (6w6d GA), the serum P4 was significantly elevated at 31.6ng/mL (P< 0.001). These results demonstrate that endogenous placental estradiol and progesterone production may occur by CD 36 and CD 48, respectively, earlier than traditionally thought.

The Effect of Serum Estradiol Level at the Time of HCG Injection on the ICSE Outcome

Background: In addition to multi-follicular development, controlled stimulation of ovaries is associatedwith a high serum level of estradiol (E2). The increased serum E2 level during COS may therefore beassociated either with an increased chance of pregnancy or an impaired reproductive outcome secondary tochanged endometrial receptivity.Objective: To assess the effect of serum estradiol level at the day of hCG administration on the success ofintracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cyclesPatients and Method: A retrospective study, in which a total of 235 women who were undergo a singleICSI cycle were introduced in this retrospective study, All patients were received gonadotrophin agonisteither short or long protocol. The patients were classified at the day of hCG administration into three groupsaccording to serum E2 level group A &lt;1000pg/ml, group B 1000-3000pg/ml and group C &gt;3000pg/ml.Results: The mean number of retrieved oocytes and embryos obtained in group C were more than in groupA and B but clinical pregnancy rate was higher in group B than in group A and group C which is statisticallysignificant.Conclusion: Although there is no high quality evidence to support a positive correlation between serum E2levels and IVF-ICSI products, the E2 level in the serum may has a level –dependent effect on the successof pregnancy. The optimal range of serum E2 is 1000-3000pg/ml is associated with higher rate of clinicalpregnancy

Standard feeding strategies with natural insemination improved fertility in repeat breeding dairy cows.

Objective:The experiment was designed to establish suitable management strategies through the different feeding and breeding approaches on fertility improvement in the experimental repeat breeding (RB) cows.Materials and Methods:80 RB cows were selected for this experiment. Before grouping, all cows were deworming and then divided into four equal groups, namely Group–TF1 [traditional feeding practice and natural insemination (NI)], Group–TF2 [traditional feeding practice and Artificial insemination (AI)], Group–SF1 [standard (STD) feeding practice and NI], and Group–SF2 (STD feeding practice and AI). These allocated RB cows were fed by traditional and STD feeding methods for 90 days and then inseminated by AI and NI breeding systems. The dominant follicle (DF) diameter, hemato-biochemical elements, and estrogen (E2) hormone were estimated during the insemination of cows. Estimation of the pregnancy rate was carried out at days 45–90 post-insemination in the cows.Results:The pregnancy rate was significantly (p < 0.05) higher in STD feeding practice with NI when compared to traditional feeding practice irrespective of breeding systems, and it was also significantly (p < 0.05) higher in NI than in AI breeding system, irrespective of feeding strategies. The results also showed that the diameter of DF, serum E2, total erythrocyte count, hemoglobin, packed cell volume, total cholesterol, total protein, glucose, calcium, phosphorus, ferric iron, copper, zinc, and magnesium at the time of insemination were significantly (p < 0.01) elevated in the experimental RB cows with STD feeding practice. The diameter of DF and serum E2 were significant (p < 0.01) and positively correlated with all hemato-biochemical elements in the cows at the time of insemination.Conclusion:The results suggest that NI with STD feeding practice may increase fertility in RB cows by improving general health status. Finally, it could support the veterinarians and researchers to define the management strategies using feeding and breeding strategies to prevent repeat breeding syndrome in dairy cows.

Combination of Ferulic Acid, Ligustrazine and Tetrahydropalmatine attenuates Epithelial-mesenchymal Transformation via Wnt/β-catenin Pathway in Endometriosis.

Previously the potential therapeutic action of ferulic acid, ligustrazine and tetrahydropalmatine (FLT) are discovered with unclear mechanism in rat autograft endometriosis. However, the effect of FLT on endometrial cells and allograft endometriosis is still unclear. This study is designed to elucidate the influence of FLT on epithelial-mesenchymal transformation in allograft endometriosis and endometrium cells. In vivo, fluorescent xenogeneic endometriosis model was established. In vitro, invasion and metastasis were analyzed after treating FLT. Epithelial-mesenchymal transformation and Wnt/β-catenin pathway were inspected in vitro and in vivo. Activator or inhibitor of Wnt/β-catenin signaling was performed to inspect mechanism of epithelial-mesenchymal transformation. In vivo, FLT not only decreased fluorescent intensity and volume of ectopic lesion, but also ameliorated pathological morphology. E2 and PROG levels in serum were reduced by FLT. In endometrial cells, FLT significantly inhibited the invasion and metastasis. Meantime, epithelial-mesenchymal transformation was reversed, accompanied by suppression of Wnt/β-catenin pathway. In-depth study, activation of Wnt/β-catenin pathway lead to promotion of epithelial-mesenchymal transformation, which was reversed by FLT. FLT prevented fluorescent allograft endometriosis and endometrium cells, which was related to suppress epithelial-mesenchymal transformation through inactivating Wnt/β-catenin pathway. The findings disclose molecular mechanism of epithelial-mesenchymal transformation in endometriosis by FLT, and contribute to further application.

Efficacy and Safety of Acupuncture Vs. Hormone Therapy for Menopausal Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Menopausal syndrome (MPS) is a common gynecological disorder around the time of menopause, and hormone therapy (HT) is the first-line treatment for it. However, HT is prone to cause adverse reactions in MPS patients treated with HT. Acupuncture is a popular non-pharmaceutical therapy for MPS, but the differences in the efficacy and safety between acupuncture and HT remain unclear. The purpose of this evidence-based study is to address this issue. Five databases were searched for potentially eligible RCTs. All RCTs comparing acupuncture with HT in the treatment of MPS were included in this study. The clinical effective rate was the primary outcome. Kupperman index, serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol (E[Formula: see text], and side effects were the secondary outcomes. A total of 15 RCTs recruiting 1376 MPS patients were included. Results of meta-analysis showed that compared with HT, acupuncture significantly improved clinical effective rate (RR = 1.09, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.16, [Formula: see text] = 0.005), decreased the Kupperman index (WMD = -2.55, 95% CI = -2.93 to -2.17, [Formula: see text] < 0.00001) and the incidence of side effects (RR = 0.14, 95% CI = 0.06-0.32, [Formula: see text] < 0.00001). There were no statistically significant differences in serum FSH (WMD = -1.36, 95% CI = -3.25-0.53, [Formula: see text] = 0.16), E2(WMD = -1.11, 95% CI = -2.59-0.37, [Formula: see text] = 0.14), or LH (WMD = -1.87, 95% CI = -4.58-0.83, [Formula: see text] = 0.17) between the acupuncture and HT groups. Based on the current evidence, manual acupuncture is safer and more effective than HT and is recommended for the treatment of MPS, but the evidence for the efficacy of other types of acupuncture is inconclusive.

Potential Therapeutic Effect of Bee Pollen and Metformin Combination on Testosterone and Estradiol Levels, Apoptotic Markers and Total Antioxidant Capacity in A Rat Model of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.

BackgroundPolycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with metabolic disorder as well as infertility. Many traditional remedies have been reported to show estrogenic and antioxidant potential. Bee pollen is a natural com- pound, reported as one such remedy. The present study aimed to investigate the effects of BP extract and metformin (MET) on estradiol (E2) and testosterone (T) levels, apoptotic markers, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) inarat model of PCOS.Materials and MethodsIn this experimental study, 54 female Wistar (n=6/group) rats received 2 mg of estradiol valerate (EV) intramuscularly and 6 additional rats were considered the control without EV injection. The rats were treated with BP (50, 100, and 200 mg/kg), MET (300 mg/kg) and BP+MET (50 BP+300 MET, 100 BP+300 MET, and 200 BP+300 MET mg/kg). Serum levels of E2 and T were assessed by ELISA method. TAC of serum was also determined. The expressions of Bcl-2, Bax and Caspase-3 (Cas-3), and Sirt-1 genes were evaluated by real-time poly- merase chain reaction (PCR). Data were statistically analyzed using one-way ANOVA.ResultsIn the untreated PCOS group E2 and T levels (P<0.01), and Bcl-2 (P=0.007) expression were increased, but TAC (P=0.002) and expression of Bax (P=0.001), Cas-3 and Sirt1 (P<0.01) were decreased significantly. The levels of E2 and T, as well as the expressions of Bcl-2 were decreased in all treated groups compared to the untreated PCOS group (P<0.01). On the other hand, TAC and expression of Bax, Cas-3 and Sirt1 were increased in the BP- and MET-treated groups (P<0.05).ConclusionBP and MET synergistically improved serum E2, T and TAC levels, and expression of apoptotic genes.

Clinical Efficacy of Hormonal and Nonhormonal Agents in the Treatment of Vulvovaginal Atrophy.

ObjectivesSymptomatic local treatment of vaginal atrophy (VA) in menopausal women includes hormonal and nonhormonal preparations. Some women may be reluctant to use vaginal estradiol preparations because of the concern for developing breast cancer and endometrial hyperplasia. Therefore, it is necessary to compare the therapeutic effectiveness of alternative vaginal drugs, such as promestriene, an estrogen agonist, and sodium hyaluronate (NaH), a nonhormonal, water-based agent.MethodsNinety-one postmenopausal women diagnosed with symptomatic VA were divided into three groups and treated for 12 weeks; 30 women with vaginal estradiol (VE), 30 women with promestriene, and 31 women with NaH. Composite scoring, vaginal maturation index (VMI), pH, frequency of sexual activity, serum hormone levels, and endometrial thickness were evaluated VA before and after treatment.ResultsIn the comparison of VA examination findings composite scoring, VMI, and vaginal pH values, three different drugs were found to be effective in the treatment (P < 0.05). The VMI following VE treatment was significantly higher than that after NaH treatment (P = 0.031), whereas the promestriene group had a more positive change than the others in terms of increase in after treatment composite scoring and sexual activity frequency (P = 0.031, P = 0.020). There were no differences between the groups in terms of pre and after treatment serum E2 levels and endometrial thickness.ConclusionsBased on these findings, we can conclude that the use of promestriene or NaH can prove to be as effective and well tolerated as vaginal estradiol in the symptomatic treatment of vaginal atrophy.

High ovarian GDF-8 levels contribute to elevated estradiol production in ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome by stimulating aromatase expression.

Rationale: Growth differentiation factor-8 (GDF-8), also known as myostatin, belongs to the transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) superfamily. GDF-8 is expressed in the ovary and regulates various ovarian functions. Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is one of the most serious disorders during in vitro fertilization treatment. Aromatase, encoded by the CYP19A1 gene, is the enzyme that catalyzes the final step in estradiol (E2) biosynthesis. It has been demonstrated that high serum E2 levels are associated with the development of OHSS. However, the effects of GDF-8 on aromatase expression and its roles in the pathogenesis of OHSS remain unclear.Methods: The effect of GDF-8 on aromatase expression and the underlying mechanisms were explored by a series of in vitro experiments in primary human granulosa-lutein (hGL) and KGN cells. Rat OHSS model and human follicular fluid samples were used to examine the roles of the GDF-8 system in the pathogenesis of OHSS.Results: We demonstrate that GDF-8 stimulates aromatase expression and E2 production in hGL and KGN cells. In addition, TGF-β type I receptor ALK5-mediated SMAD2/3 signaling is required for GDF-8-induced aromatase expression and E2 production. Using a rat OHSS model, we show that the aromatase and GDF-8 levels are upregulated in the ovaries of OHSS rats. Blocking the function of ALK5 by the administration of its inhibitor, SB431542, alleviates OHSS symptoms and the upregulation of aromatase. Clinical results reveal that the protein levels of GDF-8 are upregulated in the follicular fluid of OHSS patients. Moreover, the expression of GDF-8 is increased in hGL cells of OHSS patients.Conclusions: This study helps to elucidate the mechanisms mediating the expression of aromatase in human granulosa cells, which may lead to the development of alternative therapeutic approaches for OHSS.

A Prospective Randomised Comparative Clinical Trial Study of Luteal PhaseLetrozole versus Ganirelix Acetate Administration to Prevent Severity of Early Onset OHSS in ARTs.

BackgroundOvarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) is the most notable complication in ovulation induction for assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs) like in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Hence, we decided to evaluate the effect of the aromatase inhibitor, letrozole, versus gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH)-antagonist (ganirelix acetate) on prevention of severity of OHSS and reduction in serum estradiol (E2) levels when administered during the luteal phase after oocyte retrieval in IVF/ICSI cycles.Materials and MethodsIn this prospective single-centred, randomized, parallel-arm study, 122 patients were rand- omized to receive oral letrozole (n=61, 2.5 mg twice daily) or ganirelix acetate (n=61, 0.25 mg subcutaneously daily) from the day of egg retrieval for the next 7 days. Incidence and severity of early OHSS were the primary endpoints assessed by the signs, symptoms, and laboratory findings of OHSS (e.g., serum E2 levels). The secondary endpoints were patient satisfaction and the additional cost of therapy to prevent the severity of OHSS.ResultsLetrozole group had lower incidence of OHSS (13.1%) compared to 19.6% in ganirelix acetate group (P=0.32). Serum E2 levels on post-pick up days 5 and 7 were significantly lower in the letrozole group when com- pared to the ganirelix acetate group (P=0.001). The majority of the patients in both groups had no major complica- tions. No significant difference was found between the study groups with respect to the incidence of OHSS (P=0.33). The additional cost per IVF cycle for prevention of severity of early-onset OHSS in the letrozole group was 5.32 USD compared to 267.26 USD in the ganirelix acetate group, which was almost fifty times costlier.ConclusionLetrozole and ganirelix acetate have the same efficiency for the overall prevention of OHSS, whereas letrozole was more effective in preventing moderate OHSS. Letrozole had better patient satisfaction and is cheaper compared to GnRH antagonists (Registration number: CTRI/2020/10/028674).

A Gender Comparison of Bone Metabolic Changes After Gastric Cancer Surgery: A Prospective Observational Study.

This study was designed to investigate gender-related differences in changes in bone metabolism after gastric cancer surgery. We prospectively recruited 47 patients (38 males and 9 females) who had early gastric cancer. The bone mineral density (BMD), serum levels of 1,25-dihydroxy vitamin D (1,25(OH)2VD), 25-hydroxy vitamin D (25(OH)VD), and estradiol (E2) were measured before and after surgery. BMD significantly decreased 12 months after surgery by median degrees of 3.4% and 3.9% in male and female patients, respectively (p<0.001 and p=0.023). There was no significant difference between both genders in the rate of change in BMD after surgery. The serum E2 level in male patients significantly increased by a median value of 22 pg/ml 12 months after gastrectomy (p=0.030). Both the serum 25(OH)VD and 1,25(OH)2VD levels remained nearly within the normal range throughout the observation period in both male and female patients. BMD significantly decreased within 12 months after gastrectomy in both male and female patients with gastric cancer, and there was no significant gender-related difference in the rate of change in BMD.

Testicular steroid sulfatase overexpression is associated with Leydig cell dysfunction in primary spermatogenic failure.

Decreased testosterone (T) to LH ratio and increased 17β-estradiol (E2) serum concentrations represent a common finding among patients with severe spermatogenic failure, suggesting a concurrent Leydig cell steroidogenic dysfunction. Aromatase overexpression has been associated with increased serum and intratesticular E2 in these patients. However, it is unknown whether the sulfatase pathway contributes to the increased availability of active estrogens in patients with primary spermatogenic failure. To assess estrogen sulfotransferase (SULT1E1) and steroid sulfatase (STS) mRNA abundance in testicular tissue of patients with Sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCOS) and normal tissues, its association with serum and intratesticular hormone levels, and to explore the mRNA and protein testicular localization of both enzymes. Testicular tissues of 23 subjects with SCOS (cases) and 22 patients with obstructive azoospermia and normal spermatogenesis (controls) were obtained after biopsy. SULT1E1 and STS transcripts accumulation was quantified by RT-qPCR. For mRNA and protein localization, we performed RT-qPCR in Leydig cell clusters and seminiferous tubules isolated by laser-capture microdissection and immunofluorescence in testicular tissues. Serum and intratesticular hormones were measured by immunoradiometric assays. SULT1E1 mRNA accumulation was similar in both groups. The amount of STS mRNA was higher in cases (p=0.007) and inversely correlated with T/LH ratio (r=-0.402; p=0.02). Also, a near significant correlation was observed with intratesticular E2 (r=0.329, p=0.057), in agreement with higher intratesticular E2 in cases (p<0.001). Strong STS immunoreaction was localized in the wall of small blood vessels but not in Leydig cells. Both SULT1E1 and STS mRNA abundance was similar in Leydig cell clusters and the tubular compartment, except for lower SUTL1E1 mRNA in the seminiferous tubules of SCOS patients (p=0.001). Our results suggest that an unbalance of the STS/SULT1E1 pathway contributes to the testicular hyperestrogenic microenvironment in patients with primary spermatogenic failure and Leydig cell dysfunction.

Menopoz Tipi ve Süresinin Postmenopozal Kadınlarda Pre-Diyabet ve Diyabet Gelişimine Etkisi

Aim: The onset of menopause is an important factor determining quality of life in females. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of natural or surgical menopause, the duration of the menopausal period, and serum gonadotropin levels on the development of pre-diabetes mellitus (pre-DM) and diabetes mellitus (DM) in postmenopausal women. Material and Methods: This retrospective study included 140 postmenopausal women with pre-DM, 148 postmenopausal women with DM and 265 healthy postmenopausal women. The groups were compared in respect of menopause type, the duration of the menopausal period, and serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol (E2) levels. Statistical evaluations were made. Results: There was found to be no significant effect of natural or surgical menopause on the development of pre-DM or DM (p=0.393). Increased duration of menopause was mostly seen in women with DM and the difference was statistically significant compared to the controls (p=0.019). Serum decreased FSH and LH levels and increased E2 level were observed in the DM group and the difference was significant compared to the control group (respectively, p=0.001, p=0.001 and p=0.012). Conclusion: The onset of natural or surgical menopause does not affect the development of pre-DM and DM. Women with DM have a longer menopausal period. Women with pre-DM and DM have lower serum FSH and LH levels and higher serum E2 levels. This can be explained in part by adiposity and insulin resistance.

Serum concentrations of estriol vary widely after application of vaginal oestriol cream.

The aim of this study was to establish the pharmacokinetic profile of serum oestriol (E3 ) concentrations over 24 h following application of vaginal E3 in chronic users (>12 weeks of E3 use). The interindividual and intraindividual differences before and after E3 were examined. Ten women participated. Vaginal cream was omitted for ≥36 h prior to the study days. Blood sampling was performed for E3 , oestradiol and oestrone concentrations prior to cream application and at 1, 2, 3, 5, 8, 10, 12 and 24 h afterwards. In five women, all samples were repeated on a separate day. E3 was absorbed rapidly in most women. Peak serum E3 concentration occurred around 2 h (range 1-5 h). The decline in E3 concentrations was also rapid: falling <100 pmol L-1 in six out of ten women within 8 h and returning to ≤ 10 pmol L-1 at 24 h in nine out of the ten patients. Interindividual variability for peak concentrations was considerable (mean 546 pmol L-1 ; 95% CI 349-743). Area under the concentration-time curve (AUC) values over a dosage interval also varied widely: mean 2145 pmol.h L-1 ; 95% CI 1422-3233. However, repeated measurements in the same woman were highly (peaks: ρ = 0.94) or moderately (AUC: P = 0.74) correlated. Postmenopausal E3 concentrations are negligible. Serum E3 concentrations of chronic users of E3 cream varied greatly; however, concentrations declined rapidly within 8 h, generally reaching 'postmenopausal' levels by 24 h. The basis for the variation between subjects needs further elucidation. Additional research is required to establish the safety of topical E3 .

Roles of kisspeptin in IVF/ICSI-treated infertile women and in human granulosa cells.

Kisspeptin, a crucial central regulator of reproduction, has been used as a trigger in in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment. This study aimed to investigate the roles of kisspeptin in IVF treatment in infertile females (n = 30); and in steroidogenesis in human granulosa-like tumor cell line (KGN). In the human study, blood was collected at three time points including (1) the beginning of gonadotropin stimulation (Phase I), (2) around eight days after gonadotropin stimulation (Phase II), and (3) on the day of ovum pick-up (Phase III). Follicular fluid (FF) was collected at Phase III. Serum human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) was measured 15 days after embryo transfer and fetal heart beats were determined around 42 days of menstrual cycle to classify the subjects into successful and unsuccessful groups. FF kisspeptin levels were higher in successful compared with unsuccessful subjects (P < 0.01). Kisspeptin levels were significantly higher in FF than in serum in successful subjects (P < 0.05) but were comparable in unsuccessful subjects. Serum kisspeptin was comparable among three phases in the successful group but its levels in Phase III were significantly lower compared with Phase I in the unsuccessful group (P < 0.01). Serum kisspeptin in Phase II/III had positive correlations with serum E2 in Phases II and III and the outcomes of IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatment including serum hCG levels. For the cell experiment (n = 3), kisspeptin treatment in the presence of FSH together with IGF-1 enhanced CYP19A1 (aromatase) mRNA expression compared with control. FSH alone increased aromatase concentrations in the supernatant compared with control and kisspeptin at the dose of 10-2 mmol/L with FSH enhanced aromatase concentrations in the supernatant compared with FSH alone (P < 0.001 all). In conclusion, kisspeptin enhanced aromatase expression and secretion and was associated with positive outcomes of IVF/ICSI treatment. Further studies regarding supplementation of kisspeptin could reveal its beneficial effects on IVF/ICSI treatment.

Effects of estrogen inhibition formula herbal mixture for danazol-induced precocious puberty in female rats: An experimental study with network pharmacology

BackgroundThis study aimed at determining the effect of the herbal mixture estrogen inhibition formula (EIF) and its possible mechanisms by precocious puberty animal models and network pharmacology-based analysis. MethodsPrecocious puberty animal models were established by a single injection of 300 μg danazol, then female rats were administered EIF, vaginal openings were monitored, uterus and pituitary indices were determined. The levels of ALP, E2, LH, and FSH were measured using ELISA kits. Real-time PCR was performed to evaluate the mRNA expression of GnRH, UNC5C, and netrin-1 in hypothalamic tissues. We applied network pharmacological analysis to predict potential targets and pathways of EIF. ResultsEIF delayed danazol-induced early vaginal opening. In the onset model, EIF reduced the increased levels of serum ALP, E2, LH, and FSH; as well as mRNA expressions of GnRH, Netrin-1, and UNC5C. Moreover, long-term administration of EIF not only diminished all impaired factors but also had no effect on the normal development of the animals. The gene set enrichment analysis showed that the targets of EIF are mainly associated with the GnRH signaling and ovarian steroidogenesis pathways. ConclusionEIF could be used in preclinical research for the treatment of precocious puberty by the inhibition of HPGA pre-maturation.

Study on the morphological and metabolic changes of femur in laying hens with hypophosphatemia

Layer fatigue syndrome caused by the lack of calcium and phosphorus can cause fracture in laying hens. The effect of phosphorus deficiency on the femur of laying hens with layer fatigue syndrome has not been studied. In this study, sixty 22-week-old Roman white layers were randomly divided into control group (group C) and low phosphorus group (group P), 30 individuals in each group. The available phosphorus content of group P was 0.18%. At the age of 26, 30 and 34 weeks, the production performance, biomechanical index, protein expression, histopathological change of femur and serological index were detected. The results showed that the laying rate, egg quality and body weight of laying hens, bone density, cortical bone thickness, rigidity, flexural modulus, flexural rigidity, the maximum load of femur and expression of osteocalcin (OCN), receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-Β (RANK) and receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-Β ligand (RANKL) decreased of group P. The number of osteocytes was decreased, and the voids was increased. However, cell lacunae were not obvious. The levels of phosphorus, calcium and OCN were increased, and the content of estradiol (E2), OPG and calcitonin (CT) were decreased in serum. In conclusion, the low phosphorus diet can induce layer fatigue syndrome and affect the content of OPG and E2 in serum and the expression of OCN, OPG, RANK and RANKL in femur protein, which leads to the imbalance of bone homeostasis, the thinning of femur cortex bone and the decrease of bone density.

Sexual Maturity Promotes Yolk Precursor Synthesis and Follicle Development in Hens via Liver-Blood-Ovary Signal Axis.

Simple SummaryThe current work evaluates the liver-blood-ovary signal axis in relation to age changes involved in regulating egg yolk precursor synthesis in chickens. In this study, we observe the morphology and histology of the liver and ovary and determine the serum biochemical parameters and the expression abundance of the critical genes from the age of 90 days (d90) to d153. The mRNA and protein expressions of estrogen receptor-alpha (ER-α) and E2 levels in the liver and serum, respectively, showed similar changes. Moreover, with reference to an increased serum E2 level, the mRNA expression of genes related to yolk precursor synthesis (very low density apolipoprotein-II (ApoVLDL-II) and vitellogenin-II (VTG-II)), lipogenesis (fatty acid synthase (FAS)), and lipid transport (microsomal triglyceride transport protein (MTTP)) in the liver showed up-regulation.Several reproductive hormones were reported to be involved in regulating egg yolk precursor synthesis in chickens; however, the mechanism that shows how the liver-blood-ovary signal axis works in relation to age changes has not been reported yet. Therefore, in this study, we observe the morphology and histology of the liver and ovary and determine the serum biochemical parameters and the expression abundance of the critical genes from d90 to 153. Results show that the body weight and liver weight were significantly increased from d132, while the ovary weight increased from d139. Aside from the increase in weight, other distinct changes such as the liver color and an increased deposition of large amounts of yolk precursors into the ovarian follicles were observed. On d139, we observed small fatty vacuoles in the hepatocytes. The results of serum biochemical parameters showed a significant increase in the estradiol (E2) level, first on d125, and then it reached its peak on d132. Meanwhile, the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) increased initially and then remained at a high level from d146 to d153, while the levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) increased significantly on d132 and reached the top level on d153. Moreover, the levels of lecithin (LEC), vitellogenin (VTG), very low density lipoprotein y (VLDLy), triglyceride (TG), and total cholesterol (TC) were significantly increased at d125 and were close from d146 to d153. The mRNA and protein expression of estrogen receptor-alpha (ER-α) and E2 levels in the liver and serum, respectively, showed similar changes. Moreover, with reference to an increase in serum E2 level, the mRNA expression of genes related to yolk precursor synthesis (very low density apolipoprotein-II, ApoVLDL-II) and vitellogenin-II (VTG-II), lipogenesis (fatty acid synthase, FAS), and lipid transport (microsomal triglyceride transport protein, MTTP) in the liver showed up-regulation. These results suggest that the correlation between liver-blood-ovary alliances regulate the transport and exchange of synthetic substances to ensure synchronous development and functional coordination between the liver and ovary. We also found that E2 is an activator that is regulated by FSH, which induces histological and functional changes in the hepatocytes through the ER-α pathway.

Does the elevated estradiol level on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin administration affect embryo quality among women undergoing in vitro fertilization?

To evaluate the association between estradiol (E2 ) levels on the day of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) administration and embryo quality during in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles. A retrospective study of 6676 IVF cycles among women treated at the Reproductive Center of The First Affiliated Hospital of USTC, Hefei, China, from June 2014 to May 2017. E2 levels on hCG day were divided into four groups by 25th percentile: 0-1763pg/mL (group I), 1763-3692pg/mL (group II), 3692-4800pg/mL (group III), and higher than 4800pg/mL (group IV). Analysis of variance and multiple linear regression were used to test associations. There were significant differences in the frequency of high-quality embryos between group I (51.6±1.1%) and groups II (65.6±0.8%), III (62.1±0.7%), and IV (62.3±0.7%). Using E2 as a dummy variable and group II as a control, multiple linear regression showed that E2 levels were associated with the frequency of high-quality embryos obtained (P<0.05). Serum E2 on hCG day had an impact on embryo quality. Higher E2 levels did not produce the most high-quality embryos; the highest frequencies were achieved for E2 levels within 1763-3692pg/mL.

43 Effects of steroidal implants on feedlot growth performance, carcass characteristics, and serum and meat estradiol-17β concentrations of Holstein steers

Abstract Objectives were to determine the effects of implants on growth performance, carcass characteristics, and estradiol-17β (E2) concentrations in the serum and longissimus muscle of Holstein steers fed a grain-based diet. Seventy Holstein steers (initial BW = 275 ± 6.4 kg) were assigned to treatments: (1) Implanted on d 0 with Component TE-IS with Tylan (Elanco Animal Health, Greenfield, IN) and on d 84 with Component TE-S with Tylan (Elanco Animal Health) of the experiment; or (2) not implanted (control). Implanted Holstein steers were heavier (P ≤ 0.01) than nonimplanted Holstein steers on d 84, at time of reimplant, and at the end of the experiment (d 186). Implanting Holstein steers increased (P &amp;lt; 0.01) average daily gain (ADG) and dry matter intake (DMI) without affecting (P = 31) gain-to-feed ratio (G:F) when compared to steers that were not implanted. Carcasses from implanted Holstein steers had greater (P &amp;lt; 0.01) hot carcass weights (HCW) and longissimus muscle (LM) area than carcasses from nonimplanted steers. Implanting did not affect (P ≥ 0.21) other carcass characteristics. There was an increase (P = 0.03) of 1.3 pg of E2/g of muscle when LM from implanted Holstein steers was compared to LM from nonimplanted steers. There was an implant × day interaction (P &amp;lt; 0.01) in circulating serum E2 concentrations. Serum E2 concentrations remained relatively constant in nonimplanted Holstein steers. In implanted steers, serum E2 concentrations increased (P &amp;lt; 0.01) after each implant. Serum E2 peaked at 28 d after the first implant and then declined after d 56. Implanting Holstein steers fed grain-based diets increased ADG, HCW, and LM area due to increased circulating E2 concentrations. Implants did increase LM E2 concentrations; however, changes were minimal compared to E2 concentrations in other human foods and were not great enough to warrant concerns regarding meat consumption from implanted animals.

Efficacy of Sex Steroid Therapy Without Progestin or GnRH Agonist for Gonadal Suppression in Adult Transgender Patients.

Testosterone (T) or estradiol (E2) are administered to suppress gonadal function in female-to-male (FTM) and male-to-female (MTF) transgender patients. How often sex steroids cause adequate suppression without GnRH agonist (GnRHa) or progestin therapy has not been reported. (1) To determine how often T and E2 therapy alone can effectively suppress gonadal function in MTF and FTM transgender patients, and (2) to determine the frequency and range of serum E2 levels above the normal male range in FTM patients receiving T therapy. Retrospective cohort study. Outpatient reproductive endocrinology clinic at an academic medical center. A total of 65 FTM and 33 MTF patients were included who were > 18 years of age and not receiving progestin or GnRHa therapy. Female-to-male patients were receiving T through injections or gel. Male-to-female patients were receiving oral or subcutaneous E2. In FTM patients the indicator of ovary suppression was amenorrhea. In MTF patients, the indicator of testes suppression was T levels <50 ng/dL. Median serum total T level for FTM patients was 712 ng/dL (range, 370-1164 ng/dL). On T therapy alone, 90.8% of patients achieved amenorrhea and 49.2% of patients had serum E2 levels above the normal range for women. For MTF patients, the median serum E2 level was 129.2 pg/mL (range, 75-197 pg/mL). On E2 therapy alone, 84.8% of MTF patients had adequate suppression of testicular function. Testosterone and E2 therapy are usually effective without progestin or GnRHa therapy to suppress gonadal function in transgender patients. Progestin and/or GnRHa therapy should only be initiated in those patients who do not have adequate gonadal suppression on optimized doses of T or E2 alone.