Follicle-stimulating Hormone Research Articles

Alterations in the gut microbiota community are associated with childhood obesity and precocious puberty

ObjectiveTo explore the distribution and differences in the intestinal microbiota in girls with obesity-related precocious puberty and the relationship between intestinal microbiota and obesity-related precocious puberty.Methods16 S rRNA gene amplicons from fecal samples from girls with precocious puberty and obesity-complicated precocious puberty and healthy children were sequenced to define microbial taxa.ResultsThe α- and β-diversity indices of the microbiome significantly differed among the three groups. At the phylum level, the proportions of Firmicutes, Actinobacteriota, Bacteroidota, Bacteria, Campylobacterota, and Acidobacteriota were different. At the genus level, there were differences in Bifidobacterium, Bacteroides, Anaerostipes, Fusicatenibacter, Klebsiella, Lachnospiraceae, ErysipelotrichaceaeUCG-003, Prevotella9, Ruminococcus gnavus group, and Lachnoclostridium. Additionally, Bifidobacterium, Anaerostipes, Bacteroides, Candidatus Microthrix, Eubacterium hallii group, Klebsiella, and Erysipelotrichaceae UCG-003 were identified as bacterial biomarkers by LEfSe. Furthermore, Sellimonas, Intestinibacter, Anaerostipes, Ruminococcus gnavus group, and Oscillibacter were identified as the differential biomarkers by random forest. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to evaluate the biomarkers with high predictive value for obesity-related precocious puberty. Spearman correlation analysis confirmed that Anaerostipes levels were negatively correlated with body weight, body mass index (BMI), bone age, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and estradiol.ConclusionsThere was a significant correlation between obesity-associated precocious puberty and gut microbiota, especially the functional characteristics of the microbiome and its interactions, which can provide a theoretical basis for the clinical intervention of obesity and precocious puberty through the microbiome.

Anti-Müllerian Hormone Level Determinants among Non-Polycystic-Ovary-Syndrome Women Undergoing In Vitro Fertilization: A Retrospective Cross-Sectional Study.

Background and Objectives: The anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a crucial biomarker in regulating ovarian follicle development and female fertility. AMH levels predict ovarian responses in in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles, helping clinicians tailor treatment strategies. This study aims to determine whether thyroid autoimmunity, age, body mass index (BMI), sexual hormone levels, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D levels influence serum AMH in non-polycystic-ovary-syndrome (PCOS) euthyroid women. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cross-sectional study examined 52 female patients at Zygota Fertility Clinic between 2018 and 2022. Women aged 20-45 years with regular menstrual cycles were included, while conditions such as abnormal thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels, PCOS, and systemic autoimmune diseases were excluded. A number of parameters were measured in the study, including the subjects' age, BMI, 25-hydroxyvitamin D, serum free thyroxine (fT4), TSH, various antibodies, and a range of reproductive hormones. An analysis of the relationships between AMH and other variables was conducted using Spearman's correlation coefficient, and an assessment of the impact of confounding factors on AMH levels was conducted using a multivariable linear regression model. Results: The results revealed significant negative correlations between AMH levels and age (rho: -0.484, p < 0.001) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) (rho: -0.550, p < 0.001), while positive correlations existed between AMH and estradiol (rho: 0.352, p = 0.011) and total testosterone (rho: 0.542, p < 0.001). No significant correlations were found between AMH levels and BMI, LH, or 25-hydroxyvitamin D. Conclusions: In this study, ovarian reserve was influenced by age, estradiol, and total testosterone in non-PCOS euthyroid women undergoing IVF. Conversely, BMI and vitamin D status did not significantly impact AMH levels. In order to better understand and possibly manage ovarian reserve, a holistic approach is absolutely essential, taking into account age, weight, hormonal balance, nutrition, and thyroid health.

Sudachitin Alleviates Paraquat Instigated Testicular Toxicity in Albino Rats via Regulating Nrf-2/Keap-1, Inflammatory, Steroidogenic, and Histological Profile.

Paraquat (PQ) is a noxious herbicide which adversely affects the vital organs including male reproductive system. Sudachitin (SCN) is a naturally occurring flavonoid that demonstrates a wide range of biological potentials. The current study was designed to investigate the alleviative potential of SCN to avert PQ-induced testicular toxicity in rats. Forty-eight male rats (Rattus norvegicus) were apportioned into four groups including control, PQ (5 mg/kg), PQ + SCN (5 mg/kg + 30 mg/kg), and SCN (30 mg/kg) only treated group. Our findings elucidated that PQ treatment reduced the expression of nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf-2) and its antioxidant genes as well as the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione reductase (GSR) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), while elevating the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), and malondialdehyde (MDA). Furthermore, PQ intoxication upregulated the expressions of Keap-1 while downregulating the expression of 3-beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD), 17-beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD), and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR). Moreover, sperm anomalies were increased following the exposure to PQ. Besides, PQ exposure decreased the levels of plasma testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) while increasing the levels of interleukin-6 (IL-6), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB), interleukin-1beta (IL-1β), and cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Additionally, PQ treatment escalated the expressions of cysteinyl aspartate-specific proteases-3 (Caspase-3) and Bcl-2-associated X-protein (Bax) while downregulating the expressions of B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2). Furthermore, PQ exposure disrupted the normal architecture of testicular tissues. However, SCN treatment remarkably protected the testicular tissues via regulating the aforementioned disruptions owing to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and androgenic potential.

Factors Associated with Clinical Pregnancy following Assisted Reproductive Technology: A Comparative Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract Background: Over the years, the numbers of centres performing assisted reproductive technology (ART) have increased in urban regions of Africa. We reviewed a 10-year record of ART in a public hospital in a bid to determine the pregnancy rate and identify factors associated with achieving clinical pregnancy. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective, analytical, cross-sectional study of 604 women who had undergone in vitro fertilisation (IVF) or IVF/intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection, over a 10-year period, at the [Institute of Fertility Medicine, Lagos State University Teaching Hospital]. Data were obtained from the medical records of couples who had undergone IVF at the study location and analysed using relevant descriptive and inferential statistics. Regression analysis was used to determine possible predictors of clinical pregnancy outcomes at 95% confidence level and significant P value of &lt;0.05. Results: The clinical pregnancy rate observed was 23.7%. Women aged ≥35 years of age had 2.9 odds of achieving pregnancy compared to women &lt;35 years of age. The quality of embryo and dose of the follicle-stimulating hormone used were not significantly different when compared in pregnant and non-pregnant women (P = 0.612 vs 0.881). Endometrial preparation techniques, number of embryos transferred, types of embryos transferred, sperm quality, and source of gametes used were not significantly different in pregnant and non-pregnant women. There was a 0.77 odds of achieving pregnancy when a day-5 embryo was used compared to a day-3 embryo (P = 0.008). Conclusion: Overall, these results emphasise the multifaceted nature of IVF outcomes, urging further research to elucidate the intricate factors influencing success rates in assisted reproduction.

Transcriptome and proteomic analysis reveal the protective mechanism of acupuncture on reproductive function in mice with asthenospermia

Acupuncture is an integral component of complementary and alternative medicine that has been reported to enhance sperm motility, improve semen quality, and consequently augment male fertility. However, the precise mechanisms of action and the underlying molecular pathways remain unclear. In the present study, we aimed to elucidate the potential mechanisms through which acupuncture improves reproductive function in a mouse model of cyclophosphamide-induced asthenozoospermia. We collected sperm from the epididymis for semen analysis, collected serum to determine gonadotropin and oxidative stress marker levels, conducted histological examination of testicular tissue using hematoxylin and eosin (HE) and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining, and observed mitochondrial morphology using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). We also assessed oxidative stress levels and total iron content in testicular tissue and validated the proteomic and transcriptomic analysis results of testicular tissue using real-time reverse transcription-quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR), protein imprinting analysis, and immunohistochemistry (IHC). Our results indicate that acupuncture enhances sperm quality in asthenozoospermic mice; increases serum testosterone (T), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels; and attenuates oxidative damage, iron accumulation, and mitochondrial injury in mouse testicular tissues. Through protein and transcriptomic analyses, we identified 21 key genes, of which cytochrome b-245 heavy chain (CYBB), glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), acyl-CoA synthetase long-chain family member 1 (ACSL1), and ferritin mitochondria (FTMT) were closely associated with ferroptosis. RT-qPCR, protein imprinting, and immunofluorescence (IF) analyses collectively indicated that acupuncture reduced ACSL1 and CYBB expression, and increased GPX4 and FTMT expression. Overall, the ferroptosis pathway associated with ACSL1/CYBB/FTMT/GPX4 represents a potential strategy through which acupuncture can improve the reproductive function in asthenozoospermic mice.

Effect of resveratrol on spermatogenesis in breeding boars and the proteomic analysis for testes

Effect of resveratrol (RSV) on spermatogenesis and the mechanism of resveratrol in promoting spermatogenesis of breeding boars was explored by feeding sexually mature Duroc boars with normal diet and 20 mg/kg resveratrol diet for 14 days to the control group and experimental group, respectively. Semen volume, sperm density, motility, viability and abnormality rate were analyzed on day 0, 7, and 14. Blood samples were collected, and levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and testosterone (T) in serum were analyzed. On day 14, the testis tissue was collected for antioxidant and proteomics analysis etc. The semen volume, sperm density, motility, and viability of the experimental group and the contents of serum FSH, LH, T and plasma SOD activity were significantly higher than those in the control group. However, the serum IL-6, TNF-α and plasma MDA were remarkably lower in experimental group. The above results showed that resveratrol can simulate spermatogenesis in breeding boars. Proteomic results demonstrated that three differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were up-regulated and 12 DEPs were down-regulated; ODF1, calmodulin, Cabs1, and Hp were involved in spermatogenesis; and the main enriched metabolic pathway is steroid hormone synthesis pathway. Therefore, the improvement in sperm quality by resveratrol may be achieved by regulating the changes in outer dense fiber 1, calmodulin, spermatid specific 1, and haptoglobin expression and steroid synthesis pathway.

Proneurogenic actions of follicle-stimulating hormone on neurospheres derived from ovarian cortical cells in vitro

BackgroundNeural stem and progenitor cells (NSPCs) from extra-neural origin represent a valuable tool for autologous cell therapy and research in neurogenesis. Identification of proneurogenic biomolecules on NSPCs would improve the success of cell therapies for neurodegenerative diseases. Preliminary data suggested that follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) might act in this fashion. This study was aimed to elucidate whether FSH promotes development, self-renewal, and is proneurogenic on neurospheres (NS) derived from sheep ovarian cortical cells (OCCs). Two culture strategies were carried out: (a) long-term, 21-days NS culture (control vs. FSH group) with NS morphometric evaluation, gene expression analyses of stemness and lineage markers, and immunolocalization of NSPCs antigens; (b) NS assay to demonstrate FSH actions on self-renewal and differentiation capacity of NS cultured with one of three defined media: M1: positive control with EGF/FGF2; M2: control; and M3: M2 supplemented with FSH.ResultsIn long-term cultures, FSH increased NS diameters with respect to control group (302.90 ± 25.20 μm vs. 183.20 ± 7.63 on day 9, respectively), upregulated nestin (days 15/21), Sox2 (day 21) and Pax6 (days 15/21) and increased the percentages of cells immunolocalizing these proteins. During NS assays, FSH stimulated NSCPs proliferation, and self-renewal, increasing NS diameters during the two expansion periods and the expression of the neuron precursor transcript DCX during the second one. In the FSH-group there were more frequent cell-bridges among neighbouring NS.ConclusionsFSH is a proneurogenic hormone that promotes OCC-NSPCs self-renewal and NS development. Future studies will be necessary to support the proneurogenic actions of FSH and its potential use in basic and applied research related to cell therapy.

Optimizing oocyte yield utilizing a machine learning model for dose and trigger decisions, a multi-center, prospective study

The objective of this study was to evaluate clinical outcomes for patients undergoing IVF treatment where an artificial intelligence (AI) platform was utilized by clinicians to help determine the optimal starting dose of FSH and timing of trigger injection. This was a prospective clinical trial with historical control arm. Four physicians from two assisted reproductive technology treatment centers in the United States participated in the study. The treatment arm included patients undergoing autologous IVF cycles between December 2022–April 2023 where the physician use AI to help select starting dose of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and trigger injection timing (N = 291). The control arm included historical patients treated where the same doctor did not use AI between September 2021 and September 2022. The main outcome measures were total FSH used and average number of mature metaphase II (MII) oocytes. There was a non-significant trend towards improved patient outcomes and a reduction in FSH with physician use of AI. Overall, the average number of MIIs in the treatment vs. control arm was 12.20 vs 11.24 (improvement = 0.96, p = 0.16). The average number of oocytes retrieved in the treatment vs. control arm was 16.01 vs 14.54 (improvement = 1.47, p = 0.08). The average total FSH in the treatment arm was 3671.95 IUs and the average in the control arm was 3846.29 IUs (difference = −174.35 IUs, p = 0.13). These results suggests that AI can safely assist in refining the starting dose of FSH while narrowing down the timing of the trigger injection during ovarian stimulation, benefiting the patient in optimizing the count of MII oocytes retrieved.

Use of placental-derived mesenchymal stem cells to restore ovarian function and metabolic profile in a rat model of the polycystic ovarian syndrome

IntroductionPolycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine and metabolic disturbance that affects many women worldwide and is characterized by chronic anovulation, hyperandrogenism, and ovarian dysfunction. Placenta-derived mesenchymal stem cells (PDMSCs) are derived from the placenta and have advantages over other sources of MSCs in terms of availability, safety, and immunomodulation.Materials and methodsIn this experimental study, twenty female Wistar rats were assigned to four groups (n = 5) including control, sham, PCOS, and PCOS+PDMSCs groups. Then, PCOS was induced in the rats through administering letrozole for 21 days. PDMSCs (1 × 106 cells) were injected through the tail vein. Fourteen days after the cell infusion, evaluation was performed on the number of healthy follicles, corpus luteum, and cystic follicles as well as the levels of testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, and insulin resistance. Moreover, the serum levels of cholesterol, triglyceride (TG), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) were measured. Liver function was also determined by the evaluation of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels.ResultsThe number of corpus luteum and primordial, primary, secondary, and antral follicles was significantly elevated in the PCOS+PDMSCs group compared to the PCOS group. However, the number of cystic follicles significantly decreased in the PCOS+PDMSCs group. The LH and testosterone levels also decreased significantly, while FSH levels increased significantly in the PCOS+PDMSCs group. The levels of fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, and insulin resistance notably decreased in the PCOS+PDMSCs group. Moreover, the lipid profile improved in the PCOS+PDMSCs group along with a significant decrease of cholesterol, LDL, and TG and an increase in HDL. The PCOS+PDMSCs group exhibited marked decreases in the AST and ALT levels as well.ConclusionThe results of this study suggest that PDMSCs are a potential treatment option for PCOS because they can effectively restore folliculogenesis and correct hormonal imbalances, lipid profiles and liver dysfunction in a rat model of PCOS. However, further research is needed to establish the safety and effectiveness of PDMSCs for treating PCOS.

L-Arginine supplementation for pregnant and lactating sows may improve the performance of piglets: A systematic review.

The objective was to conduct a systematic review to clarify the effects of l-arginine supplementation in pregnant and lactating sows on plasma hormone levels, milk production and composition, the body condition of sows and piglet performance. In April 2023, an online search and a systematic search were performed in the following databases: Embase, Scopus, SciELO, Web of Science, PubMed and Science Direct. The combinations of keywords used were sow and arginine and lactation; sow and arginine and lactating; sow and arginine and gestation; sow and arginine and gestating; sow and arginine and pregnancy; sow and arginine and reproduction; piglet and arginine; and sow and arginine and mammary gland. In total, 21 scientific articles with original data were selected according to preestablished criteria. Among the 21 articles, seven (33%) reported measurements of some plasma hormones, and among these, six reported an increase in the levels of at least one hormone, namely, estradiol, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), insulin, follicle stimulating hormone, growth hormone or prolactin, with l-arginine supplementation. The parameters of milk were evaluated in 11 studies (52%), one reported an increase in protein content, and one reported an increase in IGF-1 content in milk with supplementation of this amino acid. Of the 14 studies that evaluated the performance parameters of piglets, only four reported improvements in some parameters of piglets from sows that received supplementation. Dietary supplementation of arginine for sows in the final third of gestation and/or lactation may alter the plasma levels of some hormones, which may reflect in greater development of the mammary gland tissue and, consequently, promote benefits on the performance of piglets. However, more studies are needed to evaluate the real impact of this amino acid supplementation on the physiology of the sows, in general, and the performance of suckling piglets.

Trajectory model to analyze the effect of multi-metal exposures on sperm parameters and sex hormones of the MARHCS cohort in China

BackgroundAt present, several cross-sectional studies have found that exposure to metal/metalloid elements is closely associated with male reproduction. However, the long-term effects of metal exposure on male reproduction have not been explored. MethodsIn 2013, 796 volunteers were recruited, followed by first and second follow-ups in 2014 and 2015. Urine, semen, and blood samples were collected at each stage to examine urinary metal/metalloid levels, sperm parameters, and sex hormones. Initially, the latent class trajectory model (LCTM) was utilized to analyze the trajectories of urinary metals. Subsequently, the effects of urinary metal trajectories on semen parameters and sex hormones were examined using the linear mixed model. Finally, the impact of urinary metal trajectories on the classification of semen quality (normal or abnormal) was evaluated using the generalized linear mixed model. ResultsAmong the 18 metals/metalloids studied, trajectories were formed by 6 of them (Li, Al, Fe, Zn, As, Rb). Further analysis using the linear mixed model and the generalized linear mixed model revealed that Li was negatively correlated with semen volume, and sperm motility (P < 0.05). The maximum-decreasing trajectory group had a detrimental effect on semen quality (OR = 1.75, 95%CI: 1.22, 2.53) compared to the minimum-stable trajectory group. Al showed negative associations with sperm concentration, total sperm count, and normal morphology (P < 0.05). Rb was positively associated with progressive motility (P < 0.05). The high-stable trajectory group exhibited a protective effect on semen quality (OR = 0.66, 95%CI: 0.49, 0.90) compared to the low-stable trajectory group. Additionally, Fe was observed to have a negative relationship with follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) (P < 0.05), and Rb exhibited a negative correlation with progesterone (P) (P < 0.05). ConclusionOur three-year cohort study provides new evidence that Li and Al have a negative impact on semen quality, whereas Rb is associated with beneficial effects. Additionally, Rb and Fe are endocrine disruptors of sex hormones.

The epithelial Na+ channel (ENaC) in ovarian granulosa cells modulates Ca2+ mobilization and gonadotrophin signaling for estrogen homeostasis and female fertility

Ovarian granulosa cells are essential to gonadotrophin-regulated estrogen production, female cycle maintenance and fertility. The epithelial Na+ channel (ENaC) is associated with female fertility; however, whether and how it plays a role in ovarian cell function(s) remained unexplored. Here, we report patch-clamp and Na+ imaging detection of ENaC expression and channel activity in both human and mouse ovarian granulosa cells, which are promoted by pituitary gonadotrophins, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) or luteinizing hormone (LH). Cre-recombinase- and CRISPR-Cas9-based granulosa-specific knockout of ENaC α subunit (Scnn1a) in mice resulted in failed estrogen elevation at early estrus, reduced number of corpus luteum, abnormally extended estrus phase, reduced litter size and subfertility in adult female mice. Further analysis using technologies including RNA sequencing and Ca2+ imaging revealed that pharmacological inhibition, shRNA-based knockdown or the knockout of ENaC diminished spontaneous or stimulated Ca2+ oscillations, lowered the capacity of intracellular Ca2+ stores and impaired FSH/LH-stimulated transcriptome changes for estrogen production in mouse and/or human granulosa cells. Together, these results have revealed a previously undefined role of ENaC in modulating gonadotrophin signaling in granulosa cells for estrogen homeostasis and thus female fertility.

Adolescent exposure to a mixture of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) depletes the ovarian reserve, increases ovarian fibrosis, and alters the Hippo pathway in adult female mice.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are synthetic chemicals known for their environmental persistence and resistance to biodegradation. This study investigated the impact of adolescent exposure to a PFAS mixture on adult ovarian function. Female CD-1 mice were orally exposed to vehicle control or a PFAS mixture (comprised of perfluorooctanoic acid, perfluorooctanesulfonic acid, undecafluoro-2-methyl-3-oxahexanoic acid, and perfluorobutanesulfonic acid) for 15 d. After a 42-d recovery period, reproductive hormones, ovarian fibrosis, and ovarian gene and protein expression were analyzed using ELISA, Picrosirius red staining, qPCR, and immunoblotting, respectively. Results revealed that PFAS exposure did not affect adult body or organ weight, although ovarian weight slightly decreased. PFAS-exposed mice exhibited a disturbed estrous cycle, with less time spent in proestrus than control mice. Follicle counting indicated a reduction in primordial and primary follicles. Serum analysis revealed no changes in steroid hormones, follicle-stimulating hormone, or anti-Müllerian hormone, but a significant increase in luteinizing hormone was observed in PFAS-treated mice. Ovaries collected from PFAS-treated mice had increased mRNA transcripts for steroidogenic enzymes and fatty acid synthesis-related genes. PFAS exposure also increased collagen content in the ovary. Additionally, serum tumor necrosis factor-α levels were higher in PFAS-treated mice. Finally, transcripts and protein abundance for Hippo pathway components were upregulated in the ovaries of the PFAS-treated mice. Overall, these findings suggest that adolescent exposure to PFAS can disrupt ovarian function in adulthood.

Dehydroepiandrosterone supplementation improves diminished ovarian reserve clinical and in silico studies

The therapeutic role of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) supplementation among infertile women with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) is still unclear. Objective evaluation of different ovarian reserve tests (ORTs) such as serum anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), and antral follicle count (AFC) in women with diminished ovarian reserve is required. This is a cross-sectional study performed in Mosul city, Iraq, with 122 infertile women who had been diagnosed with DOR. The enrolled women’s age ranged from 18 to 45 years old (mean age of 29.46 ± 2.64 years). The ages of the enrolled women ranged from 18 to 45 years (mean age of 29.46 ± 2.64 years). To assess the influence of DHEA supplements (25 mg, three times/day for 12 weeks) across different age groups, the women were initially divided into three groups (18 to 27 years old, 28 to 37 years old, and ≥ 38 years old). Significant differences were noticed in AMH, FSH, level and AFC before and after DHEA supplementation. (AMH: 0.64 ± 0.82 vs. 1.98 ± 1.32, AFC: 2.86 ± 0.64 vs. 5.82 ± 2.42, and FSH: 12.44 ± 3.85 vs. 8.12 ± 4.64), statistically obvious significant differences regarding the results of AMH (p < 0.001), AFC (p < 0.001), and FSH (p < 0.001). DHEA supplementations improved the ovarian reserve of the enrolled women, which was more evident in younger women (<38 years old) than older women (≥38 years old). The AMH serum levels and AFC value can be considered the best, most reliable and significant OR parameters. However, large randomized multicenter studies are required to confirm the available results and data.

Effect of early postmenopause and premenopause on resting-state electroencephalographic and their correlation with ovarian hormone levels.

This study aimed to compare the effect of the early postmenopausal period on resting-state electroencephalographic spectral power with that of the premenopausal period and to analyze the correlation between electroencephalographic spectral power values and endogenous ovarian hormone levels. This study involved 13 early postmenopausal women and 10 premenopausal women in the early follicular, 10 in the ovulatory phase, and 10 in the early luteal phase who underwent resting-state quantitative electroencephalographic spectral power with eyes closed and endogenous ovarian hormone measurements. The delta, theta, alpha1, alpha2, beta1, and beta2 absolute power were compared between the early postmenopausal and premenopausal groups. Correlations between electroencephalographic spectral power values and 17β estradiol, progesterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone levels were analyzed in early postmenopausal women. Compared with the premenopausal group, the early postmenopausal group showed significantly higher resting-state theta power in the frontal region, alpha1 and alpha2 power in the frontal and central regions, beta1 power in the frontal, central, parietal, and occipital regions, and beta2 power in the centroparietal region. Beta2 power values were positively correlated with FSH levels. The current findings highlight that early postmenopausal women show greater resting-state alpha and beta power, which suggests cortical excitability of fast frequency bands involved in states of alertness, focus of attention, cognition, and emotion. Additionally, we emphasized the effect of FSH levels on fast cortical activation in early postmenopausal women.

Juglanin cures polyethylene microplastics-induced testicular damage in rats

The current research was planned to evaluate the ameliorative role of juglanin (Jug) against polyethylene microplastics (PEMP) prompted testicular impairments. 48 rats were allocated in 4 groups: control, PEMP exposed, Jug + PEMP co-administrated and Jug supplemented group. The activities of antioxidant enzyme, inflammatory markers level, hormonal level, the expressions of steroidogenic enzymes, pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic protein were assessed after the 56 days of the trial. PEMP intoxication significantly disturbed Nrf-2/Keap-1 pathway and the biochemical profile of rats. However, the administration of Jug markedly increased Nrf-2 and anti-oxidant enzymes expressions, besides decreased the Keap-1 expression. Jug administration also increased Catalase (CAT), super oxide dismutase (SOD) glutathione reductase (GPx), glutathione peroxidase (GSR) and Hemeoxygenase-1 (HO-1) activities. On the other hand, the levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were decreased following Jug administration. Moreover, Jug administration decreased the levels of inflammatory markers. Additionally, Jug administration increased luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels and steroidogenic enzymes expression including 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD), steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) expressions. Jug administration decreased Caspase-3 and Bax expressions, while increasing Bcl-2 expression. Therefore, the current findings suggested that Jug can remarkably alleviate PEMP induced testicular damage due to its therapeutical potentials.

Evaluation of ovarian reserve and the assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles’ outcome as well as the relapse rate within one year after ART in women with multiple sclerosis: a case-control study

ObjectiveTo compare the ovarian reserve and the results of infertility treatment, as well as to investigate the relapse rate in the first year after the assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycle in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) referred to Royan Institute.Materials and methodsThis retrospective study was carried out to evaluate all women diagnosed with MS and referred to Royan Institute for assessment and treatment of possible infertility between 2011 and 2022. The control group consisted of randomly selected healthy women with tubal factor infertility who were referred for treatment during the same time period and matched in terms of age. A comparison was made between groups in terms of ovarian reserve and infertility treatment outcomes. Additionally, patients with MS who met the criteria were monitored via telephone to evaluate the symptoms, disability and relapse rate both pre- and post-ART.ResultsOver the course of a decade, the database documented a total of 60 cases diagnosed with MS. Upon examination of the records, it was found that in 27 patients only admission was done without any hormonal assessment or infertility treatment cycle and 5 patients proceeded with the intrauterine insemination cycle. Eventually, 28 women with MS underwent the ART cycle and all of them were treated with interferon beta, glatiramer acetate, or some oral disease modifying therapies. No statistically significant difference in terms of the basal levels of luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone and anti-Müllerian hormone was found between the MS and control groups (P > 0.05). Two groups were comparable in terms of menstrual status. The study revealed that both groups exhibited similarities in terms of the controlled ovarian stimulation protocol and duration, the dosage of gonadotropin administered, as well as the ovarian response type, clinical pregnancy rate, and live birth rate (P > 0.05). After follow up, only 2 patients (9.5%) reported relapse of symptoms within one year after ART.ConclusionThe ovarian reserve and ovarian stimulation cycle and pregnancy outcomes following the ART cycle in MS patients were similar to the age-matched control group. The relapse rate of multiple sclerosis did not show a significant increase within a year following the ART cycle.

Association of serum uric acid with male sexual hormones and erectile dysfunction: a bidirectional 2-sample Mendelian randomization analysis.

Observational studies indicated that serum uric acid (SUA) was associated with male sexual hormones and erectile dysfunction (ED). However, their relationship was still heterogeneous. This study conducted 2-sample univariate mendelian randomization (UVMR) and multivariate mendelian randomization (MVMR) to explore the causal relationship between SUA and sexual hormones as well as ED. Genetic variants associated with SUA were derived from the UK Biobank database (N = 437 354). Outcomes from the IEU Open GWAS and summary data sets were sexual hormones (sex hormone-binding globulin [SHBG], testosterone, estradiol [E2], follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone) and ED, with 3301 to 625 650 participants. UVMR analysis primarily utilized the inverse variance weighted method, complemented by MVMR analysis. Thorough sensitivity analyses were carried out to ensure the reliability of results. Moreover, mediation analysis was conducted to estimate the mediated effect between SUA and outcomes. The primary outcomes included results of UVMR and MVMR analysis and mediation analysis, along with sensitivity analyses involving the Cochran Q test, the MR Egger intercept test, leave-1-out analysis, and the MR-PRESSO method (mendelian randomization pleiotropy residual sum and outlier). UVMR analysis revealed that an elevated SUA level could decrease levels of SHBG (β = -0.10, P = 1.70 × 10-7) and testosterone (β = -0.10, P = 5.94 × 10-3) and had a positive causal effect on ED (odds ratio,1.10; P = .018). According to reverse mendelian randomization results, increased levels of SHBG (β = -0.06, P = 4.82 × 10-4) and E2 (β = -0.04, P = .037) could also reduce SUA levels. As shown by MVMR analysis, SUA had a negative effect on SHBG and testosterone levels (P <.05), while the significant causal relationship between SUA and ED disappeared. Furthermore, SHBG mediated 98.1% of the effect of SUA on testosterone levels. Results of other mendelian randomization analyses were not statistically significant. No pleiotropy was found by sensitivity analysis in this study. Given the causal relationship between SUA and sexual hormones, we must focus on SUA and E2 levels in men, especially patients with hypogonadism and ED. This study evaluated the causal effect of SUA on male sexual hormones and ED genetically for the first time, clarifying the common biases in observational studies and confirming the negative relationship between SUA and testosterone level. Limitations include a population based on European ancestry, some crossover of the samples, and unobserved confounding factors. Genetic studies provide evidence for the causal relationship between SUA and male sexual hormones (SHBG, testosterone, E2), while the relationship between SUA and ED should be further evaluated.

Pronounced neonatal breast enlargement beyond the first week of life and its regression correlates with serum prolactin levels- a case series.

Mild breast swelling is frequently observed in newborns during the first postnatal week. Breast enlargement is also observed in a minor proportion of infants beyond the first postnatal week, leading to discussions how to deal with it. Our objective was to review a case series of infants with prolonged breast swelling. We examined five infants with pronounced breast enlargement beyond the first postnatal weekand measured human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG), estradiol (E2), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), prolactin (PRL), and progesterone (P4) in blood samples and analyzed breast volume by sonographic volume determination in all infants initially and across time. The regression of breast enlargement positively correlated with serum prolactin levels in infants with breast enlargement beyond the first week of life. Complete regression occurred after several weeks and was characterized by normalization of serum prolactin levels. The present study emphasizes the role of prolactin in neonates with pronounced breast enlargement beyond the first week of life.

Primary premature ejaculation of kidney deficiency and liver stagnation treated with warm acupuncture of large-quantity moxibustion: a randomized controlled trial

To explore the clinical effect of warm acupuncture with large-quantity moxibustion on primary premature ejaculation (kidney deficiency and liver stagnation). A total of 240 patients with primary premature ejaculation (kidney deficiency and liver stagnation) were randomly divided into a warm acupuncture group (80 cases, 5 cases dropped out), an acupuncture group (80 cases, 4 cases dropped out) and a western medication group (80 cases, 6 cases dropped out). In the warm acupuncture group, a large quantity of moxibustion was delivered after acupuncture at Baihui (GV 20), Qihai (CV 6), Guanyuan (CV 4) and Zhongji (CV 3), as well as bilateral Fengchi (GB 20), lateral line 3 of forehead (MS 4), neishengzhiqi (TF2), Ganshu (BL 18), Shenshu (BL 23), and etc. One treatment with warm acupuncture took 40 min, once daily; five treatments were given per week and 4 weeks of treatment was required. In the acupuncture group, moxibustion was not delivered, and the rest operation of acupuncture was same as the warm acupuncture group. In the western medication group, dapoxetine hydrochloride tablets were administered orally, 30 mg each time, taken with warm water 1 h to 3 h before sexual intercourse. Medication was administered at most once within 24 h, twice per week, and 6 times within 4 weeks. Before and after treatment, the score of TCM symptoms, the score of premature ejaculation diagnostic tool (PEDT), intravaginal ejaculation latency time (IELT) and the serum sex hormone content (testosterone [T], luteinizing hormone [LH] and follicule stimulating hormone [FSH]) were observed and the clinical effect was evaluated in the three groups. After treatment, the scores for less duration of intercourse (<1 min), post-ejaculation fatigue, low spirit and decreased libido, and the total scores of TCM symptoms, as well as PEDT scores were reduced when compared with those before treatment in each group (P<0.01, P<0.05), and IELT was prolonged (P<0.01) in the three groups. The serum T content was increased when compared with that before treatment in the warm acupuncture group (P<0.05). After treatment, in comparison with the acupuncture group and the western medication group, the scores for post-ejaculation fatigue, soreness and weakness in the lumbar region and knee joints, decreased libido, insomnia, dream-disturbed sleep and frequent nocturnal enuresis, as well as the total score of TCM symptoms were lower (P<0.05, P<0.01) and the serum T content was increased (P<0.05) in the warm acupuncture group. When compared with the acupuncture group, PEDT scores were lower and IELT prolonged in the warm acupuncture group and the western medication group (P<0.05, P<0.01). The total effective rate was 82.7% (62/75) in the warm acupuncture group, higher than that of the acupuncture group (68.4%, 52/76) and the western medication group (64.9%, 48/74, P<0.05) respectively. Warm acupuncture with large-quantity moxibustion ameliorates the clinical symptoms and increases intravaginal ejaculation latency time and the levels of sex hormone in the patients with primary premature ejaculation (kidney deficiency and liver stagnation).