Follicle-stimulating Hormone Concentrations Research Articles

Follicle-stimulating hormone is associated with low bone mass in postmenopausal women.

Despite preclinical evidence for an inverse association of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and bone mineral density (BMD), no large epidemiologic studies have evaluated the separate and joint influences of FSH and estradiol on bone in postmenopausal women. In a cross-sectional study of 675 postmenopausal women, we evaluated associations of serum FSH and dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA)-classified areal BMD as well as low bone mass or osteoporosis (T-score < - 1.0) of the femoral neck and total hip. We stratified this analysis by serum estradiol (cut at the median). We tested whether FSH mediates the association of estradiol and BMD using the Sobel test. In linear regression models, there was a significant inverse association of serum FSH with both femoral neck and total hip BMD (both p < 0.01) when adjusted for age, hormone therapy (HT) use, and diabetes. In fully adjusted logistic regression models, women in the highest FSH tertile had higher odds of low bone mass/osteoporosis at the femoral neck (OR = 2.98; 95% CI = 1.86-4.77) and at the total hip (OR = 1.74; 95% CI = 1.06-2.84) compared to those in the lowest FSH tertile. We report evidence of effect modification by estradiol in stratified models and an interaction term. FSH met all criteria of a mediator, including an estimated 70% attenuation of the estradiol-BMD relationship (Sobel p value < 0.001). FSH is associated with higher odds of having low bone mass/osteoporosis even after accounting for HT use. FSH is a mediator of the relationship between estradiol and BMD in healthy postmenopausal women. Larger, prospective studies of FSH concentrations and bone health are needed.

Association between Body Mass Index and Diabetes Mellitus Are Mediated through Endogenous Serum Sex Hormones among Menopause Transition Women: A Longitudinal Cohort Study.

To explore whether and to what extent endogenous sex hormones mediate the association between overweight and diabetes risk in menopausal transition women. Premenopausal women were from the Study of Women's Health Across the Nation, with measurements of serum sex hormone including sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), testosterone (T), estradiol (E2), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHAS) in first postmenopausal follow-up. At the last postmenopausal follow-up, hyperglycemia status was confirmed. The partial least squares (PLS) regression method was used to extract hormonal signals associated with body mass index (BMI). Hyperglycemia was defined as individuals with prediabetes or diabetes; overweight was defined as BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2. Causal mediation analysis was used to examine the mediation effect on the association between perimenopause overweight and post-menopause hyperglycemia through PLS score and individual sex hormones. The longitudinal study included 1438 normal glucose women with a baseline mean age (SD) of 46.5 (2.6) years and a mean follow-up period of 9.9 years. During the follow-up period, 145 (10.1) cases of hyperglycemia occurred. Compared with normal-weight participants, overweight women were associated with a higher hyperglycemia risk during the transition period (OR = 4.06, 95% CI: 2.52 to 6.80). Overweight women had higher T, E2, and lower SHBG, FSH, and DAHS concentrations (β = 0.26, 0.38, -0.52, -0.52, and -0.13, p < 0.05 for all). After adjusting for overweight and covariates, lower SHBG and FSH levels were associated with higher hyperglycemia risk (OR = 0.70 and 0.69, all p < 0.05). As a linear combination of sex hormones, the PLS score was positively associated with T, E2, and negatively with SHBG, FSH, and DHAS. PLS score interpreted 36.50% (p < 0.001) of the overweight-hyperglycemia association. Considering single-sex hormones, the mediation proportion of SHBG and FSH were 21.38% (p < 0.001) and 24.08% (p < 0.001). Sex hormones mediated the association of overweight and diabetes risk in menopause transition women. SHBG and FSH have the dominant mediation effect.

Resveratrol ameliorates bisphenol A-induced testicular toxicity in adult male rats: a stereological and functional study

BackgroundBisphenol A (BPA) is one of the most widely used synthetic chemicals worldwide. BPA as an endocrine disruptor affects the reproductive systems through estrogenic and antiandrogenic proprieties. Resveratrol (RES) as a natural polyphenol and potent antioxidant exhibits protective effects against reproductive toxicity by inhibiting of oxidative stress. 48 male rats were divided into eight groups (n=6), including CONTROL, OLIVE OIL (0.5 ml/ day), Carboxy methylcellulose (CMC) (1 ml of 10 g/l), RES (100mg/kg/day), low dose of BPA (25 mg/kg/day), high dose of BPA (50 mg/kg/day), low dose of BPA + RES, and high dose of BPA + RES. All treatments were done orally per day for 56 days. At the end of the 8th week, blood samples were collected for hormone assays. Then, the sperm parameters were analyzed, and the left testis was removed for stereological study.ResultsWe showed a significant decrease in sperm parameters in the low and high doses of BPA groups compared to control groups (P<0.05). The volume of testicular components as well as the diameter and length of seminiferous tubules significantly reduced (11-64 %), and the total number of the testicular cell types decreased (34-67 %) on average in the low and high doses of BPA groups. Moreover, serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and testosterone hormones concentration showed a significant reduction in both doses of BPA groups (P<0.01). Nonetheless, treatment with RES could ameliorate all the above-mentioned changes in the low and high doses of BPA groups (P<0.05).ConclusionsRES could prevent BPA-induced testicular structural changes and sperm quality via improving gonadotropin hormones and testosterone levels.

Pituitary-gonadal hormones associated with respiratory failure in men and women hospitalized with COVID-19: an observational cohort study.

To explore pituitary-gonadal hormone concentrations and assess their association to inflammation, severe respiratory failure and mortality in hospitalized men and women with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and compare these to hormone concentrations in hospitalized patients with bacterial community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), influenza virus CAP, and to concentrations in a reference group of healthy individuals. Serum concentrations of testosterone, estrone sulfate, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and interleukin-6 (IL-6) were measured within three days of admission. Associations were assessed by logistic regression analysis in patients with COVID-19, and results were reported as odds ratio with 95% confidence interval per two-fold reduction after adjustment for age, comorbidities, days to sample collection, and IL-6 concentrations. In total 278 with COVID-19, 21 with influenza virus CAP, and 76 with bacterial CAP were included. Testosterone concentrations were suppressed in men hospitalized with COVID-19, bacterial- and influenza virus CAP and moderately suppressed in women. Reductions in testosterone (OR 3.43 [1.14-10.30], p=0.028) and LH (OR 2.51 [1.28-4.92], p=0.008) were associated higher odds of mechanical ventilation (MV) in men with COVID-19. In women with COVID-19, reductions in LH (OR 3.34 [1.02-10-90], p=0.046) and FSH (OR 2.52 [1.01-6.27], p=0.047) were associated with higher odds of MV. Low testosterone and LH concentrations were predictive of severe respiratory failure in men with COVID-19, whereas low concentrations of LH and FSH predicted severe respiratory failure in women with COVID-19.

Therapeutic Effect of Tinospora cordifolia (Willd) Extracts on Letrozole-Induced Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome and its Complications in Murine Model.

Tinosopora cordifolia (Willd) (TC) is commonly used in Ayurvedic medicine since long time for number of ailments and its preparations are also considered by food safety and standards authority of India as nutritional supplement. However the scientific evidence on its possible safety and efficacy in polycystic ovarian syndrome and associated complications was not studied in detail. The purpose of this investigation is to examine whether or not TC can have therapeutic effects on letrozole induced PCOS and related complications such as body weight, dyslipidaemia, glucose tolerance, hormonal regulation, insulin resistance and sensitivity, severity of PCOS and histopathological changes in ovary using mice animal model. Present study is a preclinical study involving laboratory animals. After verifying the absence of PCOS, the animals began receiving Letrozole, which lasted for 21 days. Fasting blood glucose (FBG), the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), triglycerides, cholesterol, and weight were recorded. The levels of hormones like oestrogen, progesterone, insulin, testosterone, luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), histopathology was carried out. The Institutional Animal Ethics Committee at DITU gave its clearance to the animal experimentation on July 10, 2021 (DITU/IAEC/21-22/07-06). The majority of cornified epithelial cells were seen in groups treated with TC extract during the estrous phase of the cycle. Mice exposed to TC retained normal body weight. FBG, 1- and 2-hour OGTT, triglyceride and cholesterol levels were all significantly improved by extracts. Estradiol, progesterone, testosterone, insulin, LH and FSH concentration were all corrected in TC-treated animals. The HOMA-IR, HOMA-Beta and QUICKI values were also corrected with TC extracts. The morphological and microscopic features of the ovary were also greatly enhanced. Based on these findings, we conclude that treating PCOS mice with TC extracts significantly ameliorates the disease and severity down to nil-to-moderate levels by reducing hyperinsulinemia, hyperandrogenism, dyslipidaemia, enhancing insulin sensitivity, correcting oestrogen, progesterone, LH and FSH levels via enhanced ovarian function. Further molecular and cellular level of study is recommended for further elaboration of mechanism of action. • Tinospora cordifolia satva, oil and hydroalcoholic extract were studied in letrozole-induced PCOS in mice model• Anti PCOS efficacy of 3 preparations studied with respect to their mechanism of action in detail• For the first time proposing method of calculating severity of PCOS in animal model• Tinospora cordifolia oil preparation completely reversed PCOS effect of letrozole and made them normal• Histopathological and morphological studies support the biochemical claims.

Effect of ovariohysterectomy on queen myocardial function: echocardiographic evidence.

Ovariohysterectomy (OHE) is one of the most common surgeries in veterinary medicine. Although this surgical method has several advantages, it can alter the function of various organs such as heart. The present study investigated the effect of OHE on cardiac functions using M-mode echocardiography. A total of 10 healthy adult domestic short-haired cats were enrolled in the current study. Fractional shortening (FS) and ejection fraction (EF) percentages along with cardiac output (CO) were measured through the right parasternal approach in papillary muscle level view. Moreover, the levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) were measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay before OHE (D0) as well as 10 (D10), 20 (D20) and 30 (D30) days after OHE. The results of this study showed that the mean FS and EF decreased on all days of the study. The FS reduction was significant between D10 and D30 and EF changes were significant between D10 and D20. The means of CO increased significantly on D0 compared to the D10. After D20, CO reduced until the end of the study. Mean concentrations of LH and FSH increased on all research days; but, the changes were significant until D20. Despite the negative effects of OHE on myocardial function, there was no significant correlation between hormonal levels and echocardiographic findings after OHE in this study.

Effects of supplementation with different concentrations of L-citrulline on the plasma amino acid concentration, reproductive hormone concentrations, antioxidant capacity, and reproductive performance of Hu ewes

Context L-citrulline (L-Cit) does not degrade in the rumen and has the ability to form peptide bonds in the body; however, it does not participate in protein synthesis. Aims This study aimed to evaluate the effects of L-Cit on the reproductive performance of Hu ewes. Methods In total, 30 ewes were randomly categorised into five groups. The control group was fed with a basic diet, whereas the Experimental Groups I, II, III, and IV were provided feed supplemented with 5, 10, 15, and 20 g/day of L-Cit respectively. Blood samples of ewes were collected 4 h after feeding on Day 21 of the experiment and before feeding on Day 30. The optimal supplementary feeding dose was selected on the basis of blood biochemical indexes. Overall, ninety 2-year-old ewes were classified into two groups. The control group was fed with a basic diet and the experimental group was fed with a diet supplemented with 10 g/day of L-Cit. After 30 days of supplementary feeding, reproductive performance of ewes was determined. Key results The plasma concentrations of Cit, ornithine, and arginine in ewes increased linearly with an increase in the level of L-Cit supplementation. The plasma concentrations of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, luteinising hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone in the experimental group increased significantly compared with those in the control group. The plasma total antioxidant capacity and catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione peroxidase in the experimental group were significantly higher than those in the control group, whereas the concentrations of malondialdehyde in all experimental groups were significantly lower than those in the control group. The conception, lambing, and double lambing rates of the experimental group were increased by 28.76%, 15.90%, and 40.21% respectively. Conclusions Supplementation with different doses of L-Cit can improve the concentrations of some plasma amino acids and reproductive hormones as well as antioxidant capacity of ewes. Supplementary feeding with 10 g/day of L-Cit could increase the lambing and double lambing rates of ewes. Implication L-Cit can improve the reproductive performance of ewes.

Effect of maternal dietary 25OHD3 on the gonadal development of offspring mice

Context Studies have widely reported that a vitamin D3 metabolite 25OHD3 improves the growth performance of animals and offspring, but few studies have focused on offspring sex hormone secretion and gonadal development in the offspring. Aims This study focused on the effects of gestational feeding with 25OHD3 on the growth, serum calcium (Ca2+) and phosphorus (Pi) concentrations, and ovarian and testicular development in offspring. Methods From the beginning of gestation until the end of labour, maternal mice were gavaged daily with 25 ug of 25OHD3. We weighed offspring on Days 1, 10, and 21 postnatally and collected offspring serum and gonadal samples on Day 21. Key results The results showed that 25OHD3 significantly increased maternal serum Ca2+ and Pi concentrations, and increased the growth rate and serum Ca2+ and Pi concentrations of offspring, significantly increased the serum concentrations of luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and accelerated the follicle development in the female offspring. Male offspring showed significantly increased LH, FSH, and testosterone serum concentrations, and 3β-HSD and 17β-HSD mRNA expressions, and a significantly decreased CYP17A1 mRNA expression. Conclusions In conclusion, the present findings indicated that maternal feeding with 25OHD3 during pregnancy positively affects offspring hormone secretion and gonadal development. Implications These insights have shed light on the potential significance of maternal nutrition in ensuring healthier animal populations and offer valuable considerations for animal husbandry practices.

Long-term Glucose Infusions had no Influence on Gonadotropins Hormone Secretion in Ovariectomized Goats

‌Background: It is reported that high nutritional supplementation treatment for seven days stimulated pulsatile LH secretion attended by increased in the plasma glucose and insulin concentrations in goat. The present study tested the hypothesis that whether providing peripheral glucose to goats associated with digestion of high nutrition supplementation increase gonadotropin secretion in ovariectomized goats. Materials and Methods: There was two experimental groups. The treatment animals from both experiences received glucose infusion. In the first experiment (constant glucose infusion; 50% glucose + saline at a rate of 7.5 ml/h for 7 days) and in the second experiment (progressive glucose infusion; 20% glucose + saline by increasing 5% glucose in 24hr intervals for 7 days at a rate of 15 ml/h for 7 days). The control animals from both experiences received saline infusion in the same manner. Findings: In the first experiment, there was no significant diversity in the concentrations of glucose and insulin among the treatment period as compared with mean pre-infusion period or compared to control groups except for Day 2 (p&lt;0.05). In the second experiment, concentrations of both the glucose and insulin started increasing significantly from Day 2 and remained with elevated levels until day 7 as compared with mean pre-infusion period or compared to control groups (p&lt;0.05). The mean Follicle stimulating hormone concentration in treatment group was not affected by glucose infusion as compared with pre-infusion periods or control group. The mean LH (concentration and pulse frequency) was not affected by glucose or saline infusion in both experiments. Conclusion: The present studies suggest that an increase in the glucose availability does not control the gonadotropin secretion as a stimulatory mediator in ovariectomized goats.

Dynamic changes and importance of plasma concentrations of ether phospholipids, of which the majority are plasmalogens, in postpartum Holstein dairy cows.

Ethanolamine plasmalogens (EPls) and choline plasmalogens (CPls) are classes of ethanolamine ether phospholipids (ePE) and choline ether phospholipids (ePC), respectively. EPls play crucial roles in maternal and breastfed infant bodies and stimulate gonadotropin secretion by gonadotrophs. To estimate changes in and importance of plasma concentrations of EPls and CPls, utilising newly developed enzymatic fluorometric assays for ePE and ePC in postpartum Holstein cows. Plasma samples were collected from 3weeks before expected parturition until approximately 8weeks after parturition (16 primiparous and 38 multiparous cows) for analysis. Plasma concentrations of ePE and ePC, most of which are plasmalogens, declined before and increased after parturition and stabilised near the day of the first postpartum ovulation (1stOV). From weeks 2 to 3 after parturition, third-parity cows exhibited ePE concentrations that were higher than those of other parity cows. The days from parturition to 1stOV correlated with days from parturition to conception. On the day of 1stOV, milk yield correlated with plasma concentration of both ePE and ePC, while ePC concentration correlated negatively with milk fat percentage. At the early luteal phase after 1stOV, plasma ePE concentration correlated with plasma anti-Müllerian hormone concentration (r=0.39, P<0.01), and plasma ePC concentration correlated with plasma follicle-stimulating hormone concentration (r=0.43, P<0.01). The concentrations of ePE and ePC changed dramatically around parturition and 1stOV, and the concentrations correlated with important parameters for milk production and reproduction. The blood plasmalogen may play important roles in postpartum dairy cows.

Comparative evaluation of solvent extracts of Azanza garckeana fruit pulp on hormonal profiles, spermiogram and antioxidant activities in rabbit bucks

The study investigated the comparative influence of different extraction solvents on spermiogram, hormonal profiles and antioxidant activities in rabbit bucks. Adult New Zealand White rabbit bucks (n=18), with average live weight of 1.2±0.03 kg and aged 10-18 mo were fed ad libitum on a commercial diet. They were administered five different Azanza garckeana (AG) fruit pulp extracts at 500 mg/kg via oral gavage, comprising control group (Con), crude (AG Cr), methanol (AG M), n-hexane (AG H), ethyl acetate (AG E) and aqueous (AG AQ) for four weeks. The extracts improved the spermiogram in rabbit bucks administered methanol (AG M) and the reaction time was significantly (P&lt;0.05) lower in AG E group when compared to other groups. The ejaculate volume, sperm motility, pH and sperm concentration were significantly (P&lt;0.05) higher in the AG M group when compared to the other groups. There was a significant (P&lt;0.05) increase in concentrations of blood testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinising hormone in methanol extract group (AG M). While the glutathione and malondialdehyde concentrations were (P&lt;0.05) lower, catalase and superoxide dismutase activities were significantly (P&lt;0.05) higher in the groups administered methanol extract (AG M). It was concluded that AG M extracts of AG pulp elicited the best response in spermiogram, hormonal concentrations and antioxidant activities in New Zealand White rabbit bucks. Its use as the extraction solvent is recommended.

Hormones and depression in the advanced age.

In older people, depression and mental disability are more frequently present than in younger subjects. It is found that depressionis a risk factor for dementia, just as dementia is a risk factor for depression. In turn, both disturbances are known to be influenced by hormones. The present study aimed to see whether the hormonal changes in subjects over 75 years old correlate with the symptoms of depression measured using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS). In a group of patients aged over 75 years, concentrations of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), oestradiol, testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAs), and cortisol were measured in serum with the use of chemiluminescence. The symptoms of depression were estimated by GDS, and the mental functions were assessed by the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). The correlations between the obtained results were estimated by Spearman's test. A significant correlation between GDS and MMSE scores was observed in the investigated patients. Some statistically significant correlations concerning cortisol and testosterone with GDS were observed in women, but not in men. On the other hand, no significant correlations between concentrations of FSH, LH, DHEAs, and oestradiol with GDS were noticed. Our data support the role of cortisol (possibly secreted during chronic stress) in the risk of depression. The gender difference in the mechanism of depression and stress in older age could be also hypothesized.

Reducing blood loss during laparoscopic myomectomy using a tourniquet loop around the lower uterine segment

To present a simple and effective hemostatic technique using a tourniquet loop during laparoscopic myomectomy. Pericervical tourniquet has been proven to be a safe and effective measure to reduce blood loss during open myomectomy. However, the use of a tourniquet in laparoscopic myomectomy has been rarely reported probably because the application is difficult and troublesome. In our technique, a prefabricated tourniquet loop, adapted from a Foley catheter, is applied around the lower segment of the uterus. It is easy to apply a tourniquet loop around the lower uterine segment during laparoscopic myomectomy. There is no need to make a window in the broad ligament to apply a pericervical tourniquet or triple tourniquets. Meanwhile, complete blockage of blood supply from the uterine artery and utero-ovarian anastomoses may ensure better hemostasis. A tertiary hospital. The patient was a 34-year-old woman with uterine leiomyoma and a desire for future fertility. She had been suffering from urinary frequency and chronic bladder pressure for the past 6 months. Magnetic resonance imaging confirmed 2 intramural masses measuring 96 mm × 91 mm and 25 mm × 13 mm at the anterior uterine wall. Institutional review board and ethics committee approval was obtained. Laparoscopic myomectomy was performed with the application of a tourniquet loop around the lower segment of the uterus (step-by-step video demonstration): homemade tourniquet loop formation using a 14-Fr latex Foley catheter; trocar placement with 2 umbilical ports (10 mm and 5 mm) and a 5-mm port at the lower-left quadrant of the abdomen; application of a tourniquet loop around the lower uterine segment; tumor enucleation and myometrial closure; removal of the tourniquet loop and a check for bleeding; contained specimen extraction via the merged umbilical incision; and inspection of the abdominal cavity and closure of the merged umbilical incision. Feasibility of using a tourniquet loop as an effective hemostatic technique in laparoscopic myomectomy. The surgery lasted for approximately 90 minutes, and the tourniquet time was approximately half an hour. The estimated blood loss was only 20 mL. Her hemoglobin value on day 1 after the surgery was 131 g/L, the same as the preoperative level. Pathology confirmed the diagnosis of leiomyoma. The patient was discharged 2 days after the surgery with no complications. During follow-up, the patient reported that there was no discomfort and that her menses were normal. Her fallopian tubes were patent in the hysterosalpingogram. Her ovarian function, which was assessed by serum follicle-stimulating hormone concentration (5.34 mIU/mL) on day 3 of her menstrual cycle and antimüllerian hormone level (2.01ng/mL), was in the normal range. She was suggested to conceive 1 year after the procedure. Application of a tourniquet loop around the lower uterine segment is a simple and effective hemostatic technique during laparoscopic myomectomy. Randomized prospective studies are needed to determine the hemostatic effect of the laparoscopic use of a tourniquet loop and its impact on fertility and ovarian function.

The Photoperiod Regulates Granulosa Cell Apoptosis through the FSH-Nodal/ALK7 Signaling Pathway in Phodopus sungorus.

The photoperiod regulates the seasonal reproduction of mammals by affecting the follicle development, for which the granulosa cells provide nutrition. However, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. Here, Djungarian hamsters (Phodopus sungorus) were raised under different photoperiods to study the ovarian status and explore the potential mechanism of the follicle development mediated by the FSH-Nodal/ALK7 signaling pathway. Compared with the moderate daylight (MD) group, the short daylight (SD) group exhibited a significant decrease in the ovarian weight and increase in the atretic follicle number and granulosa cell apoptosis, whereas the long daylight (LD) group showed an increase in the ovarian weight, the growing follicle number, and the antral follicle number, but a decrease in the granulosa cell apoptosis. Based on these findings, the key genes of the Nodal/ALK7 signaling pathway controlling the granulosa cell apoptosis were studied using the quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction and western blotting. In the SD group, the follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) concentration significantly decreased and the Nodal/ALK7/Smad signaling pathways were activated, while the phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PIK3)/Akt signaling pathway was inhibited. The BAX expression was significantly increased, while the Bcl-xL expression was significantly decreased, leading to an increase in the caspase-3 activity, the granulosa cell apoptosis, and ovarian degeneration. However, in the LD group, the FSH concentration significantly increased, the Nodal/ALK7/Smad signaling pathway was inhibited, and the PIK3/Akt signaling pathway was activated. Taken together, our results indicate that the photoperiod can regulate the apoptosis of the granulosa cells by regulating the concentration of FSH, activating or inhibiting the Nodal/ALK7 signaling pathway, thereby affecting the ovarian function. Our research provides an important theoretical basis for understanding the photoperiod-regulated mechanisms of the mammalian seasonal reproduction.

Acute exposure to microcystins affects hypothalamic-pituitary axes of male rats

Microcystins (MCs) produced by some cyanobacteria can cause toxicity in animals and humans. In recent years, growing evidence suggests that MCs can act as endocrine disruptors. This research systematically investigated effects of microcystin-LR (MC-LR) on endocrine organs, biosynthesis of hormones and positive/negative feedback of the endocrine system in rats. Male, Sprague-Dawley rats were acutely administrated MC-LR by a single intraperitoneal injection at doses of 45, 67.5 or 90 μg MC-LR/kg body mass (bm), and then euthanized 24 h after exposure. In exposed rats, histological damage of hypothalamus, pituitary, adrenal, testis and thyroid were observed. Serum concentrations of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and corticosterone (CORT), expressions of genes and proteins for biosynthesis of hormones were lesser, which indicated an overall suppression of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. Along the hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, lesser concentrations of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and testosterone (T), but greater concentrations of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol (E2) were observed. Except for greater transcription of cyp19a1 in testes, transcriptions of genes and proteins for T and E2 biosynthesis along the HPG axis were lesser. As for the hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis, after MCs treatment, greater concentrations of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), but lesser concentrations of free tri-iodothyronine (fT3) were observed in serum. Concentrations of free tetra-iodothyronine (fT4) were greater in rats dosed with 45 μg MCs/kg, bm, but lesser in rats dosed with 67.5 or 90 μg MCs/kg, bm. Transcripts of genes for biosynthesis of hormones and receptors along the HPT axis and expressions of proteins for biosynthesis of tetra-iodothyronine (T4) and tri-iodothyronine (T3) in thyroid were significantly altered. Cross-talk among the HPA, HPG and HPT axes probably occurred. It was concluded that MCs caused an imbalance of positive and negative feedback of hormonal regulatory axes, blocked biosynthesis of key hormones and exhibited endocrine-disrupting effects.

Effect of xylazine sedation on testicular blood flow, testicular echotexture, and circulating hormones in Shiba goats.

Under field conditions, sedation may be required for a full assessment of the reproductive potential of farm animals. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of xylazine sedation on testicular hemodynamics (TBF), echotexture, testicular volume (TV), and circulating hormones in goats. Sixteen male Shiba goats were sedated using the recommended dose of xylazine (0.05mg/Kg BW). Testicular hemodynamics were evaluated using color-pulsed Doppler ultrasonography before and after sedation. Echotexture of the testicular parenchyma and TV were assessed using computerized image analysis. Concentrations of testosterone, estradiol (E2), inhibin, cortisol, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) were measured using radioimmunoassay. There were no effects of xylazine sedation in TBF, TV, testicular parenchyma parameters, and concentrations oftestosterone, inhibin, FSH, and LH (P ˃ 0.05). However, after sedation, there was significantly (P ˂ 0.05) lower cortisol and E2 concentration (42.88 ± 6.79 ng/ml and 2.47 ± 0.58 pg/ml, respectively) than before sedation (94.89 ± 13.74 ng/ml and 8.65 ± 1.79 pg/ml, respectively). The required time to perform thefull scanning of the testis was significantly lower (8.50 ± 0.38min) after xylazine sedation compared to the non-sedated goats (25.75 ± 1.14min). In conclusion, xylazine sedation may be practically recommended for the evaluation of TBF in goats because it did not significantly alter velocities parameters and Doppler indices of blood flow within the testicular arteries. Most plasma hormones did not significantly change; however, E2 and cortisol were significantly reduced after xylazine administration.

Гормональний гомеостаз у жінок репродуктивного віку з аденоміозом

The problem of adenomyosis is particularly relevant for patients of reproductive age, as it is accompanied by the significant disturbances of menstrual and generative functions. The article presents the results of studying the condition of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian system in women of reproductive age with adenomyosis.The objective: to study the state of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian system in women of reproductive age with benign endometrial and myometrial pathology.Materials and methods. The main group included 120 women of reproductive age with benign endometrial and myometrial pathology (adenomyosis, endometrial hyperplasia and combined pathology), and the control group included 40 healthy women without gynecological pathology. The functional state of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian system was evaluated by the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), prolactin (PRL), estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P) in blood serum in different phases of the menstrual cycle.Results. In women with adenomyosis, endometrial hyperplasia and combined pathology, there is hyperproduction of gonadotropic hormones with an increase of their secretion level compared to a group of healthy women: the average concentration of FSH, regardless of the phase of the menstrual cycle, increased by 1.9 times (p&lt;0.05), LH – 2.2 times, PRL – 2 times, which indicates the presence of hyperprolactinemia. Both in the I and II phases of the menstrual cycle, the occurrence of additional FSH and LH peaks from basal hormone secretion was determined in patients of the main group, which reached the level of hormone concentration in the ovulatory peak. In the patients of the main group, hyperestrogenemia during the entire menstrual cycle and hypoprogesteronemia were detected. The expression of hormonal shifts depended on gynecological pathology (adenomyosis, endometrial hyperplasia and combined pathology) and the functional state of the woman.Conclusions. The indicators of gonadotropic and prolactin-stimulating activity of the pituitary gland in women with benign uterine pathology confirm the participation of FSH, LH and prolactin in the complex processes of regulation of the reproductive system.

Hormonal homeostasis in women of reproductive age with adenomyosis

The problem of adenomyosis is particularly relevant for patients of reproductive age, as it is accompanied by the significant disturbances of menstrual and generative functions. The article presents the results of studying the condition of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian system in women of reproductive age with adenomyosis.The objective: to study the state of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian system in women of reproductive age with benign endometrial and myometrial pathology.Materials and methods. The main group included 120 women of reproductive age with benign endometrial and myometrial pathology (adenomyosis, endometrial hyperplasia and combined pathology), and the control group included 40 healthy women without gynecological pathology. The functional state of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian system was evaluated by the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), prolactin (PRL), estradiol (E2) and progesterone (P) in blood serum in different phases of the menstrual cycle.Results. In women with adenomyosis, endometrial hyperplasia and combined pathology, there is hyperproduction of gonadotropic hormones with an increase of their secretion level compared to a group of healthy women: the average concentration of FSH, regardless of the phase of the menstrual cycle, increased by 1.9 times (p&lt;0.05), LH – 2.2 times, PRL – 2 times, which indicates the presence of hyperprolactinemia. Both in the I and II phases of the menstrual cycle, the occurrence of additional FSH and LH peaks from basal hormone secretion was determined in patients of the main group, which reached the level of hormone concentration in the ovulatory peak. In the patients of the main group, hyperestrogenemia during the entire menstrual cycle and hypoprogesteronemia were detected. The expression of hormonal shifts depended on gynecological pathology (adenomyosis, endometrial hyperplasia and combined pathology) and the functional state of the woman.Conclusions. The indicators of gonadotropic and prolactin-stimulating activity of the pituitary gland in women with benign uterine pathology confirm the participation of FSH, LH and prolactin in the complex processes of regulation of the reproductive system.

Safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of SHR7280, an oral gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist in healthy premenopausal women.

Background: Treatment with gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists is a powerful strategy to suppress gonadotropin activity in women with sex hormone-dependent disorders. Herein, we provide the safety, pharmacokinetics (PK), and pharmacodynamics (PD) profiles of SHR7280, an oral non-peptide GnRH antagonist in healthy premenopausal women. Methods: In this randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, dose-ascending, phase 1 trial, healthy premenopausal women were randomized to receive SHR7280 or placebo orally. Four doses of SHR7280 (200, 300, 400, and 500mg BID) were planned. Safety, PK, and PD parameters were evaluated. Results: SHR7280 presented tolerable toxicity and most adverse events were mild in severity. SHR7280 showed rapid onset of action (median Tmax ranged from 1.0 to 1.2h for each dose), and plasma exposure was dose-dependent. PD results showed that SHR7280 300mg BID and above suppressed estrogen concentration within the estradiol (E2) treatment window for endometriosis (20-50pg/ml), inhibited the emergence of the peak of luteinizing hormone (LH) and the concentration of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), and maintained the concentration of progesterone (P) in an anovulatory state (2nmol/L). Conclusion: SHR7280 showed favorable safety, PK, and PD profiles in the dose range of 200-500mg BID in healthy premenopausal women. This study supports the continued clinical development of SHR7280 as a GnRH antagonist for sex hormone-dependent disorders in women. Clinical Trial Registration: https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04554043, Identifier NCT04554043.

Effects of zearalenone on vulva area, liver function, serum immunoglobulin, antioxidant capability and sex hormone secretion of prepubertal gilts

The study aimed to examine the multi-organs toxicity of zearalenone on prepubertal gilts. A total of 48 (Landrace × Yorkshire) prepubertal gilts were randomly divided into 4 groups with 12 replicates in each group. The control group were fed with basal diet, the experimental groups were fed test diets supplemented with 0, 200, 800 and 1600 μg/kg zearalenone in the basal diet. The experiment lasted for 28 days. The results showed that the average daily feed intake of prepubertal gilts in each group had no significant change (p > .05). Diets supplemented with zearalenone significantly reduced the serum immunoglobulin G, immunoglobulin M, follicle stimulating hormone concentrations and total antioxidant capacity activity of prepubertal gilts (p < .05). Diets supplemented with zearalenone significantly increased the vulva area, the serum concentration of interleukin-4 and activities of alanine aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase of prepubertal gilts (p < .05). In conclusion, dietary supplementation of zearalenone has no obvious effect on the average daily feed intake of prepubertal gilts. However, it can increase its vulva area, produce reproductive toxicity, cause liver damage, reduce the serum immunoglobulin concentrations and antioxidant capability and disrupt the secretion of sex hormones. HIGHLIGHTS Dietary supplementation of zearalenone significantly increases the vulva area of prepubertal gilts. Dietary supplementation of zearalenone significantly increases serum ALT and ALP activities of prepubertal gilts. Dietary supplementation of zearalenone reduce serum immunoglobulin levels and antioxidant capability of prepubertal gilts. Dietary supplementation of zearalenone decreased the secretion of FSH of prepubertal gilts. Zearalenone exerts its toxic effects in multiple ways simultaneously.