Serum Hormone Levels Research Articles

Effects of cold stress on the blood-brain barrier in Plectropomus leopardus

BackgroundThe leopard coral grouper (Plectropomus leopardus) is a commercially valuable tropical marine fish species known to be sensitive to low temperatures. A comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms governing its response to acute cold stress is of great importance. However, there is a relative scarcity of fundamental research on low-temperature tolerance in the leopard coral grouper.MethodsIn this study, a cooling and rewarming experiment was conducted on 6-month-old leopard coral groupers. Within 24 h, we decreased the ambient temperature from 25 °C to 13 °C and subsequently allowed it to naturally return to 25 °C. During this process, a comprehensive investigation of serum hormone levels, enzyme activity, and brain transcriptome analysis was performed.ResultsP. leopardus displayed a noticeable adaptive response to the initial temperature decrease by temporarily reducing its life activities. Our transcriptome analysis revealed that the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were primarily concentrated in crucial pathways including the blood-brain barrier (BBB), inflammatory response, and coagulation cascade. In situ hybridization of claudin 15a (cldn15a), a key gene for BBB maintaining, further confirmed that exposure to low temperatures led to the disruption of the blood-brain barrier and stimulated a pronounced inflammatory reaction within the brain. Upon rewarming, there was a recovery of BBB integrity accompanied by the persistence of inflammation within the brain tissue.ConclusionsOur study reveals the complex interactions between blood-brain barrier function, inflammation, and recovery in P. leopardus during short-term temperature drops and rewarming. These findings provide valuable insights into the physiological responses of this species under cold stress conditions.

Appreciation of hematological and serological of IL-1a, IL-10 and DHEA- S hormone levels in serum of patients with Acne

There were eleven cytokines in the interleukin-1(IL) bunch. Similarly, it's an essential part. Interleukin-1α (IL-1α) is the most extensively studied of them all, and it is arguably the most widely used cytokine in the pathophysiology of skin eruptions. In the ongoing review, the patients in the Thi-Qar region will have their levels of IL-1α and IL-10 assessed. In the Al-Hussein Instructional Clinic in Iraq, we were in charge of the review. The review contained 100 blood tests from patients who had breakouts on their skin; there were 39 male and 61 female patients, ages ranging from 10 to 35. Depending on their age ranges, our patients were divided into three groups. The most prevalent age group (10–20) was 52/100 (52%) and was followed by the other groups.

Apple Polyphenol Extracts Attenuated Depressive-Like Behaviors of High-Sucrose Diet Feeding Mice by Farnesoid X Receptor-Mediated Modulation of Bile Acid Circulation within the Liver-Gut-Brain Axis.

Although the association between high-sugar diets and depression has been verified, few studies have explored the antidepressant mechanisms of apple polyphenol extracts (APE). Therefore, fifty-four C57BL/6 male mice aged 5 weeks were randomly assigned into five groups: the control group with the standard diet (CON), the constant high-sucrose diet group (HSD), the "2 + 5" alternate diet group (A-HSD), and the 500 mg/(kg·bw) APE treatment for the HSD group (APE) and the A-HSD group (A-APE), respectively. The data of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis function and behavioral experiments confirmed the success in the establishment of depression-like mouse models in both HSD and A-HSD groups, which were significantly alleviated after APE treatment. Meanwhile, APE reduced serum levels of corticosterone and adrenocorticotrophic hormone, alleviated histopathological damage of the liver, colon, and brain, respectively, elevated the protein expressions of Occludin, ZO-1, and MUC-2, and decreased Firmicutes/Bacteroidota ratio and Dubosiella abundance with the increased microbiota of Tannerellaceae_unclassified, Muribaculum, and Lachnospiraceae_unclassified. Moreover, APE treatment reduced Farnesoid X receptor (FXR) protein levels along with the increased expressions of CYP7A1 and TGR5, lowered the contents of serum and fecal total bile acids, and modulated fecal BA compositions, particularly glycocholic acid (GCA) and isolithocholic acid (ILCA). Thus, both the constant and alternate high-sucrose diets successfully induced depression-like behaviors in mice, and APE might be a potential nutraceutical to attenuate high-sucrose diet-induced depression by regulating BAs circulation within the liver-gut-brain axis mediated by FXR.

Assessment of Artemisia campestris L. Leaf Extract Effects on Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome in Rats, Antioxidant and α-Amylase Inhibition Activities.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is characterized by metabolic and reproductive dysfunction, often associated with elevated oxidative stress markers in the bloodstream. This study examines the potential antioxidant properties and α-amylase inhibitory activity of Artemisia campestris leaves extract (Artemisia campestris L) and its effects on rats with induced PCOS. Estradiol valerate was administered to ten mature Wistar rats to induce PCOS, while a control group consisted of five mature Wistar rats. Following a 16-day induction period, the rats were categorized into three groups: a control group, a PCOS group, and an experimental group receiving 200 mg/kg body weight of A. campestris L. extract orally for 15 days. Serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) were measured using the ELISA technique. The group treated with A. campestris L. extract exhibited significantly reduced LH levels compared to the PCOS group. Histomorphometric analysis indicated notable changes in follicle counts and the thickness of the theca layer. These findings suggest a significant alleviation of PCOS symptoms, potentially linked to the effects of A. campestris L. on oxidative stress pathways. Furthermore, aqueous extracts of A. campestris L. displayed potent in vitro inhibition of α-amylase, with an IC50 value of 2.418 µg/mL.

FSHB and FSHR genes variants in combination with hormones levels predict low and high ovarian response to controlled ovarian stimulation: a logistic regressive model

BackgroundPredicting the number of follicles obtained after controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) is challenging, especially considering individual variability. Since FSH is a fundamental hormone that controls growing follicle activity, genetic variants are predicted to affect ovarian response to stimulation.The aim of the studyThe purpose of this study was to analyze whether FSHB rs10835638 and FSHR rs6166 genetic variants in combination with clinical parameters might be considered as potential precise predictors of ovarian response during COS.Materials and methodsThe present study included 144 women from infertile couples who underwent assisted reproductive technologies. Women with reduced FSH and/or AMH serum levels were excluded from the study. Genotyping was carried out applying restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis.ResultsGenotypes frequencies for FSHB rs10835638 and FSHR rs6166 were GG (73%), GT (24%), TT (3%) and AA (42%), AG (39%), GG (19%), respectively. FSHR rs6166 GG genotype was shown as associated with higher early follicular phase serum FSH, LH and progesterone levels, compared to AA and AG genotypes. Logistic regressive models that simultaneously use the patient’s genetic and clinical characteristics to calculate the probability of low or high ovarian response have been developed.ConclusionThe present study suggests that rs10835638 and rs6166 genetic variants affect hypothalamic-pituitary–gonadal hormones serum levels, and together may provide an improved model for predicting an ovarian response during COS.

Association of Spexin Hormone Levels with Metabolic Disturbance in Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Background: Polycystic ovarian syndrome is affecting around 5–15% of females. Spexin hormone, identified as neuropeptide Q, has been newly recognized by bioinformatics methods. Objective: To evaluate the relationship concerning levels of spexin hormone with metabolic disruption in women with polycystic ovarian syndrome. Patients and Methods: A case-control study carried out in the department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in Al-Imamain Al-Khademain medical city/Baghdad, Iraq, from Jan 1, 2022, to the end of Dec 31, 2022. The study sample comprises, 192 participants aged 18-45 years were joined and allocated into a case group (96 women with PCOS) and a control group (96 women without PCOS). Results: Mean value of spexin hormone was (2.7±0.3 ng/mL) in the PCOS group, while it was (3.5±0.7 ng/mL) in the control group; fasting blood sugar shows significant association with a negative, weak correlation with Spexin in patients (P-value= 0.005), Insulin shows significant association with inverse correlation with Spexin in patients (P-value= 0.04), Homeostasis model valuation of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) shows significant association with inverse correlation with Spexin in patients (P-value= 0.003). Spexin had a significant inverse correlation with LH, SHBG, testosterone, FAI, and Dehydroepiandrosterone. Conclusion: Serum level of spexin hormone was meaningfully decreased in patients with PCOS than that in healthy women.

Trace antibiotic exposure affects murine gut microbiota and metabolism

Gut microbiota is important for host metabolism regulation. Antibiotic exposure disturbs this regulation by affecting the microbiome. Trace levels of antibiotics in water have been widely reported and the impact on gut microbiota remains understudied. We provide evidence of trace antibiotic exposure affecting the host's gut microbiota using a mouse model exposed to trace amounts of azithromycin (AZI) or ciprofloxacin (CIP) in drinking water. AZI exposure in males changed the distribution of gram-positive (Firmicutes and Bacteroidetes) and gram-negative (Proteobacteria, Fusobacteria, and Verrucomicrobia) bacteria at an early age. Both AZI and CIP resulted in abnormal microbiota maturation. Additionally, the production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs), including acetate, butyrate, and propionate, in females is affected. Serum hormone and metabolome levels shifted after trace antibiotic exposure. AZI and CIP exposure broadly disrupted original host-microbe interaction relationships between the gut microbiota and SCFAs or serum metabolites. In this study, we demonstrated that trace antibiotic exposure was associated with extensive gut microbiota and metabolism perturbation in mice and that the potential health risks in susceptible populations should be considered.

Anti-Müllerian Hormone Serum Levels as Biomarker of Ovarian Reserve in Adult Women with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis Treated with csDMARDs and/or bDMARDs: A Pilot Study

Background/Objectives: Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is a chronic childhood disease that often persists into the reproductive years. JIA may impact long-term fertility due to the prolonged exposure to immunosuppressive therapies. Methods: A total of 35 adult JIA female patients of childbearing age and 20 age-matched healthy controls were studied to test their anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) serum levels as a biomarker of ovarian reserve. Demographic characteristics, disease duration, previous and current treatments, disease activity (DAS44), and a health assessment questionnaire (HAQ) were recorded. Results: JIA patients had a mean age of 22.3 ± 2.9 years, a disease duration of 12.3 ± 6.1 years, and a DAS44 of 1.24 ± 0.61. No differences were found in AMH serum levels between JIA and controls (5.78 ± 2.37 ng/mL vs. 6.60 ± 2.68 ng/mL, respectively; p = 0.17). Among the patients, 22 (62.9%) were receiving a stable dose of methotrexate (MTX) and 19 (54.3%) a dose of TNFα inhibitors. No difference in AMH serum levels was observed between JIA patients who were or were not exposed to MTX (p = 0.29) or to TNFα inhibitors (p = 0.50). Conclusions: Ovarian reserve as assessed by AMH serum levels appears to be comparable between those with JIA and age-matched controls and does not appear to be influenced by disease characteristics or prior/concomitant exposure to immunosuppressive drugs.

Asiaticoside improves depressive-like behavior in mice with chronic unpredictable mild stress through modulation of the gut microbiota.

Asiaticoside, the main active ingredient of Centella asiatica, is a pentacyclic triterpenoid compound. Previous studies have suggested that asiaticoside possesses neuroprotective and anti-depressive properties, however, the mechanism of its anti-depressant action not fully understood. In recent years, a growing body of research on anti-depressants has focused on the microbiota-gut-brain axis, we noted that disruption of the gut microbial community structure and diversity can induce or exacerbate depression, which plays a key role in the regulation of depression. Behavioral experiments were conducted to detect depression-like behavior in mice through sucrose preference, forced swimming, and open field tests. Additionally, gut microbial composition and short-chain fatty acid (SCFA) levels in mouse feces were analyzed 16S rRNA sequencing and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Hippocampal brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and 5-hydroxytryptamine receptor 1A (5-HT1A) expression in mice was assessed by western blotting. Changes in serum levels of inflammatory factors, neurotransmitters, and hormones were measured in mice using ELISA. This study revealed that oral administration of asiaticoside significantly improved depression-like behavior in chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS) mice. It partially restored the gut microbial community structure in CUMS mice, altered SCFA metabolism, regulated the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA axis) and inflammatory factor levels, upregulated BDNF and 5-HT1A receptor protein expression, and increased serum serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine, 5-HT) concentration. These findings reveal that asiaticoside exerts antidepressant effects via the microbiota-gut-brain axis. These results suggested that asiaticoside exerts antidepressant effects through the microbiota-gut-brain axis in a CUMS mouse model.

Acupoint catgut embedding: a potential intervention strategy for obesity-related precocious puberty.

Obesity-related precocious puberty is induced by obesity, and acupoint catgut embedding (ACE) therapy is known to treat obesity. This study aims to validate the hypothesis that ACE can delay the onset of obesity-related precocious puberty. Female Sprague-Dawley rats, 21 days old, were randomly divided into three groups: the high-fat diet combined with ACE treatment group (ACE), the high-fat diet group (HFD), and the normal control diet group (NCD), with 8 rats in each group. The vaginal opening (VO) time was monitored, and serum levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and total estradiol (E2) were measured, followed by statistical analysis. Kaplan-Meier survival curves, with VO as the endpoint, showed that vaginal opening was delayed in the ACE group compared to the HFD group, with a statistically significant difference (p < 0.05). The changes in levels of FSH, LH, and E2 indicated that sexual development was delayed in the ACE group compared to the HFD group and was more similar to the NCD group. Combining the vaginal opening time and changes in hormone levels, this study confirms the potential role of ACE in delaying the onset of obesity-related precocious puberty.

Combination therapy of Sanjie Zhentong capsules for endometriosis: Impact on hormone regulation and serum expression of FOLR1 and MSLN.

Examining the impact of Sanjie Zhentong capsules on hormone levels and serum expression of folate receptor 1 (FOLR1) and Mesothelin (MSLN) in endometriosis patients. A cohort of 150 endometriosis patients admitted between June 2019 and June 2023 was divided into 2 groups based on Sanjie Zhentong intake, comprising 75 cases each. Comparative analyses encompassed uterine artery hemodynamic parameters, ultrasound (B-mode) findings, Visual Analog Scale scores, traditional Chinese medicine symptom scores, Endometriosis Health Profile-30 scores, and serum levels of FOLR1, MSLN, and sex hormones before and after treatment. Post-treatment, both groups exhibited increased peak systolic velocity compared to pretreatment, with the Sanjie Zhentong group showing a significantly higher increase (P < .05). Moreover, resistance index decreased in both groups post-treatment, with the Sanjie Zhentong group displaying a greater reduction (P < .05). Adnexal mass diameters, endometrial thickness, and uterine volume decreased post-treatment in both groups, with the Sanjie Zhentong group experiencing a more pronounced decrease (P < .05). Serum FOLR1, MSLN, and sex hormone levels also decreased post-treatment in both groups, with the Sanjie Zhentong group exhibiting a more significant decrease (P < .05). Additionally, pain scores, traditional Chinese medicine symptoms, and Endometriosis Health Profile-30 scores decreased post-treatment in both groups, with the Sanjie Zhentong group demonstrating a greater reduction (P < .05). Sanjie Zhentong capsules demonstrate efficacy in regulating sex hormones, reducing serum FOLR1 and MSLN expression, alleviating pain, shrinking adnexal masses, decreasing uterine size, and improving uterine artery blood flow in endometriosis patients.

8693 Dexamethasone Increases Bone Mass In Mice

Abstract Disclosure: F. Sultana: None. M.L. Temple: None. S. Kim: None. V. Ryu: None. F. Korkmaz: None. A. Gumerova: None. P. Georgii: None. U. Cheliadinova: None. D. Vasilyeva: None. V. Laurencin: None. R. Witztum: None. O. Barak: None. L. Cullen: None. A.R. Pallapati: None. S. Rojekar: None. J. Gimenez Roig: None. D. Lizneva: None. W. Zhou: None. T. Yuen: None. M. Zaidi: None. Severe osteoporosis and bone fractures are strongly associated with long-term or recurring glucocorticoid use in people. Steroids have traditionally been used as an anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive agent, and while their use has been widely implicated in causing bone loss by suppressing osteoblastic bone formation, recent data have consistently shown mixed results in mice. It is also important to stress that dexamethasone (DEX) in particular has been used for over three decades in cell cultures to stimulate osteoblast formation. We therefore posit that mechanisms other than direct steroid effects on osteoblasts contribute to bone loss, and that, at least physiologically, steroids stimulate (rather than inhibit) bone formation. Here, we have aimed to clarify the effects of DEX on bone metabolism. We first studied the effects of low and high doses of DEX (1 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg), given daily as intraperitoneal injections to 8-week-old C57BL/6 mice. Micro-CT showed that DEX markedly increased bone microarchitecture, including the bone volume fraction, connectivity density, and trabecular number, while decreasing trabecular spacing in femoral epiphyses compared with vehicle-injected controls. Serum levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and corticosterone did not change following DEX. These findings suggest that both low and high DEX doses are anabolic to the skeleton. Reaffirming these data, we found that adrenalectomy (with salt replacement) caused a significant decline in bone mineral density. Likewise, Tpit-/- mice, in which ACTH and corticosterone are both reduced, display reduced bone microarchitectural parameters, together with low mineralizing surface and bone formation rates on dynamic histomorphometry, impaired osteoblast formation in Cfu-f cultures, and lowered expression of the osteoblastogenesis genes Bmp2, Ibsp, Runx2 and Sp7. Finally, deleting the glucocorticoid receptor (Gr) specifically in osteoclasts in Acp5-Cre;Grfl/fl mice had no effect on microarchitectural parameters at the spine or proximal tibial metaphysis. However, and importantly, absent GR in the osteoclast, DEX increased bone mass significantly, suggesting that its notable anabolic action was mediated by the osteoblast. Our findings challenge the longstanding premise that steroids directly impact the osteoblast to cause bone loss, and that other mechanisms, such as reduced ACTH levels and/or central effects of DEX, may play a key role. Presentation: 6/1/2024

Sturgeon swim bladder hydrolysates alleviate cadmium-induced reproductive toxicity in male mice via regulating homeostasis of gut microbiota and testicular redox

Cadmium is a toxic heavy metal contributing to lower male fertility, while swim bladder extracts may have a protective effect against reproductive toxicity caused by cadmium due to its various biological activities such as antioxidant and anti-aging. Herein so as to investigate the ameliorative effects of ethanol-soluble sturgeon swim bladder hydrolysate (SSBH-ES) on reproductive toxicity caused by cadmium in male mice and to explore its mechanisms involved. The results revealed that SSBH-ES could effectively alleviate Cd-induced weight loss and testicular mass loss in mice, restore testicular tissue structure, increase antioxidant levels and energy enzyme activities, and maintain serum hormone levels. Moreover, SSBH-ES could preserve the balance of gut microbiota by elevating the levels of Bacteroides, Paramuribaculum and Mucispirillum, while reducing the levels of Crytobacteroides Mailhella and Prevotella with these changes correlating with variations in reproductive indicators. These results demonstrated the beneficial effects of SSBH-ES supplementation on gut microbiota and male reproductive health, providing new insight for the therapeutic potential against Cd-induced testicular toxicity.

8686 scRNA-seq of pituitary from letrozole-induced PCOS mouse model reveals abnormal prolactin secretion

Abstract Disclosure: G. De Robles: None. N. Ujagar: None. Z. Del Mundo: None. D. Nicholas: None. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has a complex pathophysiology and is the most common endocrine disorder among reproductive-aged women. Ovarian hormonal dynamics are regulated via the secretion of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which stimulates the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the anterior pituitary gland. High serum levels of LH in PCOS patients indicate an increase in GnRH levels, but the mechanisms within the anterior pituitary at a cellular level are unclear. We performed single-cell mRNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) on the pituitaries of the letrozole-induced (LET) mouse model of PCOS to profile the functional genomics of endocrine cell populations relative to serum hormone levels. The population percentage of lactotropes significantly decreased; in contrast, two gonadotrope populations significantly increased in the LET mice compared to the placebo-treated mice. Consistent with these changes, an increasing trend of serum LH levels and a decreasing trend of serum prolactin (PRL) levels were observed in the LET mice, while no change occurred in serum growth hormone levels. A gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) on the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from the lactotropes revealed an association with negative regulation of protein kinase activity. These DEGs included Hspb1, Park7, Pcp4, and Ppia, which all share the function of mediating stress-induced apoptosis. A GSEA on the DEGs between the two gonadotrope clusters in the LET mice also confirmed a variation in biological pathways linked to ribosomal subunits, transcription regulation, and the regulation of steroid metabolic processes. Based on the scRNA-seq results of the anterior pituitaries of LET mice, alterations in the proportions of hormone-secreting cells may be a response to hyperandrogenism, in which functionally diverse gonadotropes could contribute to heterogeneity in reproductive phenotypes. Changes in the lactotrope population and PRL serum levels also support further research on the lactation hormone and its role in PCOS. PRL is involved in metabolic homeostasis and reproduction, and understanding its dysregulations may provide additional insight into the pathophysiology of PCOS. Presentation: 6/3/2024

12539 Estrogen Type In Contraceptives Matters: Effects On Spatial Memory And Anxiety-Like Behaviors In A Female Rat Model

Abstract Disclosure: A.P. Hegwood: None. S. Kujawa: None. A.V. Prakapenka: None. According to U.S. Centers for Disease Control &amp; Prevention, ∼12% of the U.S. population uses combined oral contraceptives (COCs). Behavioral side effects are common factors in COC discontinuation. Management of COC-related side effects primarily centers around altering the synthetic ethinyl estradiol (EE) dose, the predominant estrogen in COCs. Estradiol valerate (EV) is a recently introduced natural estrogen alternative to EE. EE-containing COCs, such as EE/dienogest (DNG), were found to decrease free steroid hormone serum levels compared to EV-containing COCs, such as EV/DNG. In women and in female rodent models, steroid hormones (e.g., 17-ß estradiol (E2), testosterone) dose-dependently modulate spatial memory and anxiety-related behaviors. We hypothesized that in a rat model of hormonal contraceptive use, EE/DNG differentially modulates spatial memory and anxiety-like behaviors compared to EV/DNG, corresponding to circulating steroid hormone levels. Thirty-six young-adult (3-4-months-old) female rats were randomly assigned to EE/DNG (0.13µg EE and 8.6µg DNG per day), EV/DNG (8.6µg EV and 8.6µg DNG per day), or vehicle treatment (propylene glycol) continuously administered by subcutaneous osmotic pump. At four weeks of treatment, rats were tested on the delayed spontaneous alternation (dSA) task to evaluate spatial memory and the elevated plus maze (EPM) to evaluate anxiety-like behavior. Following EPM, serum was collected and analyzed for E2, progesterone, androstenedione, and testosterone levels using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry and corticosterone levels using radioimmunoassay. Spontaneous alternation behaviors were similar across all three groups on the dSA. However, EE/DNG increased use of an egocentric navigational strategy, the use of consecutive turns, on the dSA compared to vehicle and EV/DNG. Egocentric strategy is likely mediated by the striatal memory system, engagement of which is elevated with stress and anxiety. Of note, EE/DNG decreased time spent in the open arms of the EPM compared to vehicle and EV/DNG, indicating increased anxiety-like behaviors with EE/DNG. Both EE/DNG and EV/DNG decreased androstenedione, testosterone, and E2 circulating levels compared to vehicle. Steroid hormone serum levels did not differ between EE/DNG and EV/DNG; 58% of EE/DNG serum samples were undetermined/below threshold for E2 levels, limiting statistical analysis. Altogether, we found that, compared to vehicle and the natural EV, the synthetic EE component in hormonal contraceptives elevates anxiety-like behaviors in female rats, an effect that corresponds to increased use of an egocentric navigational strategy on a spatial memory task. Our findings support the notion that estrogen type matters for behavioral outcomes associated with contraceptive use, identifying estrogen type as a possible tool for management of COC-related side effects. Presentation: 6/1/2024

Examining the Influence of the Route of Administration and Dose of Estradiol on Serum Estradiol and Testosterone Levels in Feminizing Gender-Affirming Hormone Therapy

IntroductionIndividuals may seek gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) to align their physical appearance with their gender identity. Feminizing GAHT typically involves the use of estrogen. This study investigates the effect of route of administration (ROA) and dose of estradiol on estradiol (E2) and testosterone (T) levels in transfeminine individuals. MethodsWe conducted a chart review of 573 patients with an active prescription for estradiol for feminizing GAHT and serum hormone levels available. Multiple linear regression and ANOVA were used to analyze the effect of dose and ROA of estradiol on serum E2 and T. ResultsOral estradiol was the only ROA demonstrating a linear dose-response, with each 1 mg/d increase associated with a reduction in T of 19.03 ng/dL (P = .005). Lower T levels were seen with higher doses of transdermal estradiol but a significant dose-response was not demonstrated. Intramuscular estradiol was associated with lower T and higher E2 compared to oral and transdermal ROAs (P < .001), with many achieving target hormone levels even at low doses. With higher oral estradiol doses, ANOVA detected dose-dependent decreases in mean serum LH and FSH (P < .05). ConclusionOral estradiol can be titrated to achieve a stepwise decrease in serum T. The intramuscular ROA appears to be the most potent delivery of estradiol with impact on serum hormone levels with doses on the low end of guideline-suggested ranges. Serum T may be a more reliable biomarker than E2 for managing feminizing GAHT. Serum LH and FSH may also help with the management of feminizing GAHT.

Differences in perinatal complications and serum hormone levels due to uterine endometrial preparation methods in frozen-thawed embryo transfer.

In frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET), differences in endometrial preparation methods affect the incidence of perinatal complications. However, the underlying causes are unclear. We aimed to investigate whether serum E2, P4 levels are associated with perinatal complications. This is a retrospective cohort study, involving 306 successful FET pregnancies from 2017 to 2022. Participants were divided into Natural Cycle (NC) and Hormone Replacement Cycle (HRC) group. We compared serum hormone levels, maternal backgrounds, and perinatal outcomes and complications. Furthermore, within the HRC group, serum hormone levels were compared for perinatal complications previously reported to show differences in incidence rates depending on the method of endometrial preparation. HRC exhibited significantly higher serum E2 levels during the implantation period, but lower P4 levels during ovulation, implantation, and pregnancy test period compared with NC. HRC also had significantly higher rates of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) and placenta accreta spectrum (PAS). There was no association found between perinatal complications more likely to occur in HRC and serum E2, P4 levels. In HRC, there were more occurrences of PPH and PAS. Although serum E2, P4 levels during FET did not correlate with perinatal complications.

Lindera aggregata improves intestinal function and alleviates depressive behaviors through the BDNF/TrkB/CREB signaling pathway induced by CUMS in mice

Depression is a common mental illness, which is highly related to intestinal motor dysfunction and causes a global burden of disease. Lindera aggregata (LA), a traditional medicinal herb, has been used to treat gastrointestinal disorders; however, the effect of LA on depression remains unclear. Here, we assessed the impact of LA on chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS)-induced depression in mice and explored the related mechanisms. The results showed that LA ameliorated depressive behaviors in mice exposed to CUMS, as evidenced by improved performance in the sucrose preference test, force swimming test, and open field test, as well as increased serum levels of adrenocorticotropic hormone and 5-hydroxytryptamine. In addition, LA increased the serum levels of D-xylose and ghrelin, indicating that LA can promote gastrointestinal motility. Additional studies revealed that LA relieved CUMS-induced hippocampal tissue damage, as shown by hematoxylin and eosin and Nissl staining. LA increased the expression levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and promoted the activation of tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) and cAMP response element-binding (CREB) in the hippocampus of CUMS-exposed mice or in corticosterone-injured HT22 cells. In conclusion, LA can improve CUMS-induced depressive behavior in mice, potentially through hippocampal neuroprotection mediated by the BDNF/TrkB/CREB signaling pathway, which also contributes to improved intestinal function.

Acupuncture Combined with Bushen-Jianpi Decoction Ameliorates the Ovarian Function of Diminished Ovarian Reserve Rats by Regulating Phosphoinositide 3-Kinase/AKT Signaling.

This study aimed to explore the therapeutic efficiency as well as mechanism of acupuncture combined with Bushen-Jianpi decoction (BJD) to treat rats with diminished ovarian reserve (DOR). A DOR rat model was constructed using zona pellucida 3 peptide, and acupuncture, BJD, and their combination were administered as therapeutic interventions. We measured changes in the ovarian indexes, the number of follicles at all levels, the serum levels of sex hormones and immune factors, the expression levels of phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K), AKT, p-AKT, and caspase-3, and the changes in the proportions of splenic T cell subtypes, including T-helper 17 (Th17), Tc17, regulatory T (Treg), CD4+, and CD8+ cells. Acupuncture combined with BJD induced a decrease in the levels of follicle-stimulating and luteinizing hormones, and the effect was greater than that elicited by BJD or acupuncture alone (P < 0.05). Additionally, this combination treatment effectively abrogated the increase in the levels of interleukin-2 (IL-2), IL-17, anti-zona pellucida antibody, and cleaved caspase-3 (P < 0.05), while promoting the regulation of IL-6 and p-AKT (P < 0.01). Furthermore, treatment with acupuncture combined with BJD restored the proportions of CD4+ cells and the CD4+ / CD8+ T cell ratio (P < 0.01), decreased the proportion of CD8+ T and Th17 cells (P < 0.01), and increased the proportions of Tc17 and Treg cells (P < 0.01). Combining acupuncture with BJD can enhance ovarian function in DOR rats. The regulation of sex hormone levels and immune function in rats may be attributed to the adjustment of the mRNA and proteins levels of PI3K, AKT, and caspase-3 in the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, which leads to an improvement in the immune function of DOR rats.

Effect of Choline Inositol and Metformin Combination Versus Metformin Alone on Ovarian Activities in PCOS Iraqi Women: A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a predominant endocrine sickness disturbing females. It is marked via unequal menstrual cycles, hyper-androgenism, and polycystic ovarian morphology. Furthermore, PCOS is linked to several health issues, including insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. PCOS management encompasses a range of strategies and treatments. Medications acting on hormones, including insulin sensitizers such as inositol and metformin, are commonly used to treat PCOS symptoms. Also choline is other potential therapies that could improve reproductive health. It has been suggested to be beneficial in various aspects of fertility, including endocrine disorders like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Aim of the study: The current study aims to determine the effect of choline inositol and metformin combination versus metformin alone on ovarian. Materials and methods: This study was performed at the Maternity and Paediatrics Teaching Hospital in ALdiwaniyah Province, Iraq. The study involved a total of (150) patients at (18- &lt;40) years. A gynecologist uses Rotterdam criteria and ultrasound ovarian morphology in the selection of PCOS patients. The study consisted of several groups: G1 is a thirty women had received oral Metformin 500 mg bid during meal for last three months and served as metformin group. G2 is a thirty women had received choline inositol supplement 500/500 mg per- oral twice daily for last three months and served as the choline inositol supplement group. G3 is a thirty women had received choline inositol and metformin combination, they received with the same above dose for last three months and served as the choline inositol and metformin combination group . G4 is a thirty women who have not received any treatment for PCOS and served as new diagnosis PCOS group. Finally G5 is a thirty healthy women control group (control group). Characteristics included body mass index, type of period (regular, irregular ,amenorrhea ) were evaluated for all the participants. Furthermore, follicle and ovary volume were measured for all women .Additionally, serum hormonal levels [prolactin, (FSH), (LH), (TSH)], test were done. Results: There was no important alteration in the mean age, TSH and prolactin among the five groups. The results showed that metformin had significantly lowered in BMI but the addition choline inositol to metformin showed more significantly lowering in BMI but new PCOS group had higher significant BMI than other groups followed by choline inositol group. Rate of amenorrhea and rate of cycle irregularity stayed considerably upper in metformin grouping paralleled to choline inositol and choline inositol + metformin combination groups but this rate was more significantly higher in new PCOS compared to other groups. Metformin had significantly higher LH level compared to other groups but choline inositol + metformin and choline inositol groups had significantly lower LH level and there were no significance in the mean of LH between Choline inositol + metformin and choline inositol groups. Moreover, choline inositol + metformin group showed more significant FSH normal followed by metformin and new PCOS then by choline inositol and lastly control group. Choline inositol followed by metformin showed a significance in the mean of follicle and ovary volume but when adding choline inositol to metformin it showed more significant improvement in follicle and ovary volume ,so positive pregnancy was only seen in choline inositol + metformin as compared to other groups.