Female Hormones Research Articles

Modulation of female reproductive hormones by Zingiber officinale and Allium sativum ethanol extracts administered singly and in combinations in female Wister rats

The reproductive system in females is responsible for producing gametes, sex hormones, and maintaining fertilized eggs as they develop. The female reproductive system is regulated by a balance of hormones. This study was aimed at analyzing the modulation of female reproductive hormones including FSH, LH and prolactin by Zingiber officinale and Allium sativum separately and in combination in female Wister rat models. A total of 40 mature female Wister rats were divided into 8 groups (n=5). Groups 1 were treated with distilled water and served as the normal control. Group 2 were treated with Zingiber officinale ethanol extract alone. Group 3 were treated with Allium sativum ethanol extract alone. Group 4-8 were treated with combined administration of Zingiber officinale and Allium sativum ethanol extracts in the ratios of ZO:AS = 2:8, 4:6, 5:5, 6:4, and 8:2 respectively.. Treatment were administered for 90 days. On the 91st day of treatment after administration of the 90th doses, blood samples were collected by ocular puncture from all the rats from each of groups 1-8 for serum hormone testing. Zingiber officinale monotherapy increased the serum levels of FSH and LH and decreased the level of prolactin. The reverse was the case with Allium sativum monotherapy. The combination of the two herbs increased FSH and LH; or decreased prolactin only when the proportions of Zingiber officinale were higher. In conclusion, only the monotherapy of Zingiber officinale enhanced the serum levels of FSH and LH and modulated prolactin level to a desired level.

Tokishakuyakusan alleviates ultraviolet-induced skin pigmentation by decreasing the expression of melanogenesis-related enzymes

Ethnopharmacological relevanceTokishakuyakusan (TSS), a traditional Kampo medicine, can effectively alleviate symptoms unique to women, such as menstrual pain and menopausal symptoms, and this effect is believed to be related to its ability to increase the secretion of female hormones. TSS is also believed to be effective against skin pigmentation. However, no studies have examined the effect of TSS on pigmentation. Aim of the studyIn this study, we conducted basic research to determine the effects of TSS on pigmentation. Materials and MethodsFemale HRM-2 mice were given free access to a normal diet or a TSS-containing diet for 7 weeks. For 3 weeks starting from the 4th week of treatment, the back of the skin was irradiated with ultraviolet (UV) light, and the melanin level was measured. The expression levels of melanogenesis-related genes and inflammatory markers in the skin were analyzed. ResultsThe melanin level in the skin of the mice exposed to UV radiation was approximately three times greater than that in the skin of the mice in the non-UV-irradiated group, confirming pigmentation due to UV irradiation. The protein expression levels of tyrosinase (Tyr), tyrosinase-related protein-1 (Tyrp1), and dopachrome tautomerase (Dct), which are important for melanin production, were significantly greater in the UV irradiation group than in the non-UV irradiation group. In contrast, the amount of skin melanin in the mice treated with TSS was significantly lower than that in the UV-irradiated group, and the expression levels of melanogenesis-related enzymes were also lower. Furthermore, TSS significantly decreased the expression of microphthalmia transcription factor (MITF), a transcription factor for melanogenesis-related enzymes, and the inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1β and interleukin-6. ConclusionsTSS inhibits melanin production in melanocytes by suppressing the increase in the expression of melanogenesis-related enzymes caused by UV irradiation. These findings suggested that this effect of TSS is exerted through the combined regulation of MITF expression and anti-inflammatory responses.

Harmine exhibits anti-apoptotic properties and reduces diabetes-induced testicular damage caused by streptozotocin in rats.

Diabetes mellitus induces fertility problems in men, mainly because of increased free radicals. Natural resources are effective for male infertility treatment. This study investigated the effects of harmine, an alkaloid available in Peganum harmala L., on the male reproductive system of diabetic rats. We divided 32 rats into four groups, and eight were randomly placed in each group. For diabetes induction, the animals received 50 mg/kg of streptozotocin intraperitoneally. After 1 week, animals received 15 mg/kg of harmine (28 days; intraperitoneal). Histopathological examinations, serum levels of male hormones, levels of nitric oxide (NO) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the testes, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), insulin serum levels, fasting blood glucose levels, the apoptotic index, and semen analysis were assessed. The diabetes group exhibited morphological changes in testicular tissue, significant decreases in the diameter of the seminiferous tubule, the Johnsen score, testosterone, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, insulin serum levels, and TAC in testicular tissue (p<0.01). Harmine treatment ameliorated the morphological changes in the testes and improved sperm parameters relative to the diabetes group (p<0.05). The NO and MDA levels in the testes, fasting blood glucose serum levels, and apoptotic index parameters were significantly elevated in the diabetes group, while in the diabetes+harmine group, these parameters were reduced (p<0.01). Harmine protects testicular tissue and sperm against diabetes-induced damage. This effect of harmine is associated with a rebalancing of the antioxidant capacity that subsequently decreases apoptosis in the testes.

Intracerebroventricular PROK2 infusion could increase the secretion of male reproductive hormones by stimulating the HPG axis.

Prokineticin 2 (PROK2), an important neuropeptide that plays a key role in the neuronal migration of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) in the hypothalamus, is known to have regulatory effects on the gonads. In the present study, the impact of intracerebroventricular (icv) PROK2 infusion on hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis (HPG) hormones, testicular tissues, and sperm concentration was investigated. Rats were randomly divided into four groups: control, sham, PROK2 1.5 and PROK2 4.5. Rats in the PROK2 1.5 and PROK2 4.5 groups were administered 1.5nmol and 4.5nmol PROK2 intracerebroventricularly for 7days via an osmotic mini pump (1µl/h), respectively. Rat blood serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone hormone levels were determined with the ELISA method in the blood samples after 7days of infusion. GnRH mRNA expression was determined with the RT-PCR in hypothalamus tissues. analyze Sperm concentration was determined, and testicular tissue was examined histologically with the hematoxylin-eosin staining method. It was observed that GnRH mRNA expression increased in both PROK2 infusion groups. Serum FSH, LH and testosterone hormone levels also increased in these groups. Although sperm concentration increased in PROK2 infusion groups when compared to the control and sham, the differences were not statistically significant. Testicular tissue seminiferous epithelial thickness was higher in the PROK2 groups when compared to the control and sham groups. The present study findings demonstrated that icv PROK2 infusion induced the HPG axis. It could be suggested that PROK2 could be a potential agent in the treatment of male infertility induced by endocrinological defects.

Can Plant Extracts Help Prevent Hair Loss or Promote Hair Growth? A Review Comparing Their Therapeutic Efficacies, Phytochemical Components, and Modulatory Targets

This narrative review aims to examine the therapeutic potential and mechanism of action of plant extracts in preventing and treating alopecia (baldness). We searched and selected research papers on plant extracts related to hair loss, hair growth, or hair regrowth, and comprehensively compared the therapeutic efficacies, phytochemical components, and modulatory targets of plant extracts. These studies showed that various plant extracts increased the survival and proliferation of dermal papilla cells in vitro, enhanced cell proliferation and hair growth in hair follicles ex vivo, and promoted hair growth or regrowth in animal models in vivo. The hair growth-promoting efficacy of several plant extracts was verified in clinical trials. Some phenolic compounds, terpenes and terpenoids, sulfur-containing compounds, and fatty acids were identified as active compounds contained in plant extracts. The pharmacological effects of plant extracts and their active compounds were associated with the promotion of cell survival, cell proliferation, or cell cycle progression, and the upregulation of several growth factors, such as IGF-1, VEGF, HGF, and KGF (FGF-7), leading to the induction and extension of the anagen phase in the hair cycle. Those effects were also associated with the alleviation of oxidative stress, inflammatory response, cellular senescence, or apoptosis, and the downregulation of male hormones and their receptors, preventing the entry into the telogen phase in the hair cycle. Several active plant extracts and phytochemicals stimulated the signaling pathways mediated by protein kinase B (PKB, also called AKT), extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK), Wingless and Int-1 (WNT), or sonic hedgehog (SHH), while suppressing other cell signaling pathways mediated by transforming growth factor (TGF)-β or bone morphogenetic protein (BMP). Thus, well-selected plant extracts and their active compounds can have beneficial effects on hair health. It is proposed that the discovery of phytochemicals targeting the aforementioned cellular events and cell signaling pathways will facilitate the development of new targeted therapies for alopecia.

C-reactive protein concentrations diverge as a function of substance use disorder: A pre-registered replication in a clinical sample

BackgroundInflammatory biomarkers may differentiate clinical disorders, which could lead to more targeted interventions. Analyses within a clinical sample (May et al., 2021) revealed that females with substance use disorders (SUD) exhibited lower C-reactive protein (CRP) and higher interleukin (IL)-8 and −10 concentrations than females without SUD who met criteria for mood/anxiety disorders. We aimed to replicate these findings in a new sample. MethodsHypotheses and analyses were preregistered. Treatment-seeking individuals with mood/anxiety disorders and/or SUD (N = 184) completed a blood draw, clinical interview, and questionnaires. Participants were categorized as SUD+ (45F, 43M) and SUD- (78F, 18M). Principal component analysis (PCA) of questionnaire data resulted in two factors reflecting appetitive and aversive emotional states. SUD group and nuisance covariates (PCA factors, age, body mass index [BMI], medication, nicotine [and hormones in females]) predicted biomarker concentrations (CRP, IL-8, and IL-10) in regressions. ResultsIn females, the omnibus CRP model [F(8, 114) = 8.02, p <.001, R²-adjusted =.32] indicated that SUD+ exhibited lower CRP concentrations than SUD- (β = −.33, t = −3.09, p =.002, 95% CI [-.54, −.12]) and greater BMI was associated with higher CRP levels (β =.58, t = 7.17, p <.001, 95% CI [.42,.74]). SUD+ exhibited higher IL-8 levels than SUD- in simple but not omnibus regression models. ConclusionFindings across two samples bolster confidence that females with SUD show attenuated CRP-indexed inflammation. As SUD+ comorbidity was high, replication is warranted with respect to specific SUD classes (i.e., stimulants versus cannabis).

Effect of Electro-Acupuncture versus Ultrasound Cavitation on Leptin Hormone in Females with Insulin Resistance

Effect of Electro-Acupuncture versus Ultrasound Cavitation on Leptin Hormone in Females with Insulin Resistance

Palm oil amends serum female hormones, ovarian antioxidants, inflammatory markers, and DNA fragmentation in favism-induced female rats.

Favism is a metabolic disease and this study evaluates the effectiveness of palm oil and its triacylglycerol constituent in favism-induced female rats to restore serum female hormones, ovarian antioxidants, inflammatory markers, and DNA fragmentation. Animals were 36 female albino rats. They classified to two equal (normal and favism) groups. The normal group was divided into three equal subgroups: the control, palm oil, and triacylglycerol subgroups. The normal rats were given 1 mL of saline, 1 mL of palm oil, and 1 mL of triacylglycerol orally, respectively. The Favism group was classified also into three equal subgroups: the favism group, the favism + palm oil, the Favism + triacylglycerol. The favism rats were given 1 mL of saline, 1 mL of palm oil, and 1 mL of triacylglycerol orally. For four weeks, all treatments were administered orally via oral gavage once daily. The hemoglobin, hematocrite, the blood cells, glucose and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, and liver function were decreased in favism. Female hormones suchas serum luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, Estrone, Estriol, 17α-Estradiol, 17β-Estradiol, and Estradiol-17-β-stearate were decreased in favism. Ovarian antioxidants were decreased while ovarian inflammatory markers were increased in favism. Favism induced ovarian DNA apoptosis. Furthermore, oral administration with palm oil or its triacylglycerol constituent in favism-induced female rats restored all these parameters to be approached the control levels. Palm oil restored serum female hormones, ovarian antioxidants, inflammatory markers, and DNA fragmentation in favism-induced female rats and this effect related to oil triacylglycerol constituent.

Female RNA concussion (FeRNAC) study: assessing hormone profiles and salivary RNA in females with concussion by emergency departments in New Zealand: a study protocol

BackgroundFemales of reproductive age with concussion report a greater number of symptoms that can be more severe and continue for longer than age matched males. Underlying mechanisms for sex differences are not well understood. Short non-coding Ribonucleic Acids (sncRNAs) are candidate salivary biomarkers for concussion and have been studied primarily in male athletes. Female sex hormones influence expression of these biomarkers, and it remains unclear whether a similar pattern of sncRNA expression would be observed in females following concussion. This study aims to evaluate recovery time, the ratio of salivary sncRNAs and symptom severity across different hormone profiles in females presenting to emergency departments (ED) with concussion and, to investigate the presence of low energy availability (LEA) as a potential modifier of concussion symptoms.MethodsThis prospective cohort study recruits participants from New Zealand EDs who are biologically female, of reproductive age (16–50 years) and with a confirmed diagnosis of concussion from an ED healthcare professional. Participants are excluded by ED healthcare professionals from study recruitment as part of initial routine assessment if they have a pre-diagnosed psychiatric condition, neurological condition (i.e., epilepsy, cerebral palsy) or more than three previously diagnosed concussions. Participants provide a saliva sample for measurement of sncRNA’s, and online survey responses relating to hormone profile and symptom recovery at 7-day intervals after injury until they report a full return to work/study. The study is being performed in accordance with ethical standards of the Declaration of Helsinki with ethics approval obtained from the Health and Disability Ethics Committee (HDEC #2021 EXP 11655), Auckland University of Technology Ethics Committee (AUTEC #22/110) and locality consent through Wellington hospital research office.DiscussionIf saliva samples confirm presence of sncRNAs in females with concussion, it will provide evidence of the potential of saliva sampling as an objective tool to aid in diagnosis of, and confirmation of recovery from, concussion. Findings will determine whether expression of sncRNAs is influenced by steroid hormones in females and may outline the need for sex specific application and interpretation of sncRNAs as a clinical and/or research tool.Trial registrationAustralian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry (ANZCTR) registration number ACTRN12623001129673.

Sertoli-Leydig Cell Tumour in a Patient with Ambiguous Genitalia and Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia

Background: Hyperandrogenism, characterized by elevated levels of male hormones such as testosterone, presents various clinical manifestations including secondary amenorrhea, hirsutism, and clitoromegaly. While often associated with polycystic ovarian syndrome, other differentials such as Sertoli-Leydig cell tumors and Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) are critical to consider. These conditions can manifest at different life stages and are seldom seen together. Objective: This case study aims to explore the rare co-presentation of CAH and a Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor in a patient presenting with secondary amenorrhea and ambiguous genitalia, and to discuss the diagnostic challenges and management strategies involved. Methods: A 16-year-old female presented with irregular menstrual cycles and secondary amenorrhea, alongside symptoms of hyperandrogenism such as voice deepening and hirsutism. Diagnostic procedures included physical examinations, ultrasound imaging, and hormone level assessments. A detailed ultrasound revealed a large right-sided ovarian mass, and biopsies confirmed a Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor. Surgical intervention involved the excision of the mass, with subsequent histopathological examination. The patient underwent three cycles of chemotherapy and was scheduled for reconstructive surgery. Results: Ultrasound dimensions of the ovarian mass were 7.2 x 13.4 x 16 cm, with the post-surgical tumor measuring 18 x 17 cm. Laboratory findings included testosterone levels above 200 ng/ml, and elevated alpha-fetoprotein levels. The histopathological report confirmed a poorly differentiated Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor (FIGO stage 1a). Post-treatment follow-up showed a marked reduction in androgen levels and stabilization of the patient's menstrual cycle. Conclusion: The coexistence of CAH and a Sertoli-Leydig cell tumor presents unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This case emphasizes the importance of a thorough evaluation and a multidisciplinary approach in the management of complex hyperandrogenic states to achieve optimal clinical outcomes.

The effect of bisphenols on sex and thyroid hormone concentrations in cord blood among newborns

This study aims to investigate the associations of bisphenols with sex and thyroid hormones in cord blood among newborns. Four bisphenols, three hormones related to gonadal function, and four parameters related to thyroid function were measured in umbilical cord blood in 378 mother-newborn pairs. Multivariable linear regression, quantile-based g-computation (QGC), and Bayesian kernel machine regression were used. In the multivariable linear regression, bisphenol A (BPA) was associated with increased testosterone (TT) (regression coefficient, β= 0.049, 95% confidence interval, CI: 0.013,0.085; p = 0.007) and free tri-iodothyronine (FT3) levels (β= 0.019, 95% CI: 0.003, 0.035; p = 0.023), and decreased thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) (β = -0.053, 95% CI: -0.098, -0.008; p = 0.021). Consistently associations were observed in males, except TT, which was observed in females, and bisphenol AF (BPAF) was associated with decreased follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in females. These associations were also observed in a mixture of bisphenols. Moreover, we observed maternal prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) and delivery mode disparity in the relationship between bisphenols and sex and thyroid hormones. This study suggests that bisphenols may exert effects on sex and thyroid hormones in newborns, the effect may vary with sex differences, maternal prepregnancy BMI, and delivery mode.

ASSOCIATION BETWEEN FEMALE HORMONES (FSH, LH, AND ESTROGEN) AS WELL AS HYPERLIPIDEMIA AND OBESITY IN AL- NAJAF HOLY CITY

An excessively high level of lipids, or fat, in the blood is called hyperlipidemia. The levels of hormones in females were examined, along with their correlation with elevated body fat and impact on cardiovascular conditions. The information was gathered in Najaf City between November 1, 2023, and December 20, 2023. The results of this study showed that the concentrations for a hormone that promotes follicle development within samples had increased by 58%. LH increased in 50% of the samples that were analyzed. Better pubertal development has been associated with elevated FSH levels in the blood. Improved metabolism has been associated with an increase in blood FSH. Moreover, nonlinear correlations were found between adiposity measures and serum FSH levels.

Tribulus terrestris and Sport Performance: A Quantitative and Qualitative Evaluation of Its Advertisement and Availability via Online Shopping in Six Different Countries.

Dietary supplements are commonly used among athletes, and the Internet may be an easy source of these products. Tribulus terrestris is an herbal supplement with multiple properties. Of interest to athletes are reports that its consumption can lead to muscle mass gain and a faster recovery process. The objective of this cross-sectional study was to determine the availability of Tribulus terrestris via the Internet in six countries (Canada, Puerto Rico, Russia, Spain, Ukraine, and the United States of America) via a specifically designed computer program. The characteristics of the websites selling this substance, the country from which it can be purchased, the route of administration, and recommendations for its use were analyzed. The results of the study show that this supplement is marketed mainly in Russia, Ukraine, and Spain on many websites that are mostly dedicated to sports products. Just over half of the webpages (59.14%) identified only distribute this supplement within the same country. The main claims for its consumption refer to sports performance benefits, but there are also claims that it may improve male hormone levels and sexual function. Athletes should be encouraged to seek professional advice prior to ingesting this supplement to ensure that it is suitable for their specific training and sports objectives.

Hybrid Machine Learning Approach for Early Diagnosis of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome with Stable Features

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal condition that typically affects female during the time of their reproduction. It is identified by the disruptions in hormonal balance, particularly an increase in levels of androgen (male hormone) in the female body. PCOS can lead to various symptoms and health complications including irregular menstrual cycles, ovarian cysts, fertility issues, insulin resistance, weight gain, acne, and excess hair growth. The real-world PCOS detection is a challenging task whilst PCOS specific cause is unknown and its symptoms are unclear. Thus, accurate and timely diagnosis of PCOS is crucial for effective management and prevention of long-term complications. In such cases, Machine learning based PCOS prediction model support diagnostic process, address potential errors and time constraints. Machine learning algorithms can analyze large set of patient data, including medical history, hormonal profiles, and imaging results, to assist in the diagnosis of PCOS. In particular, the performance of data analysis chore and prediction model is improved by ensemble feature selection strategies. These methods concentrate on selecting a subset of pertinent features from a broader range of features. The unstable nature of the outcome of feature selection algorithm is a frequent issue in practical applications, when it is applied multiple times on similar dataset or with slight modifications in the data. Thus, evaluating the robustness of feature selection algorithm is most important. To address these issues and quantify the robustness, this study uses Jenson-Shannon divergence, an information theoretic approach with ensemble feature selection method to handle the various findings, such as complete ranking, half ranking and top-k lists (without ranking). Furthermore, this article proposes a hybrid machine learning classifier with SMOTE – SVM for the prompt detection of PCOS and the performance of the model is compared with a number of other individual classifiers including KNN (K-Nearest Neighbour), Support Vector Machine (SVM), AdaBoost, LR –Logistic Regression, NB –Nave Bayes, RF –Random Forest, Decision Tree. The proposed SWISS-AdaBoost classifier surpassed other models with 97.81% of accuracy and AUC of 99.08%.

Serum Levels of Prostate Specific Antigen and Specific Reproductive Hormones Among Male Subjects with Benign Prostate Hyperplasia in Port Harcourt, Nigeria

Benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) is a medical condition in elderly men in which there is proliferation and enlargement of the prostate gland. This study evaluated the levels of male reproductive hormones among subjects with BPH. The study involved 150 subjects aged 40 years and above, comprising 80 BPH subjects attending the urology clinic and 70 control subjects. Five millilitres (5ml) of venous blood were collected from each subject into plain bottles for the determination of prostate-specific antigen (PSA), testosterone, prolactin, and estradiol, using the ELISA technique. The mean values of PSA (16.68±10.96 ng/ml), estradiol (71.03±18.56 pg/ml) and for the BPH subjects and prolactin (9.38±4.51 ng/ml) were significantly higher compared to the mean values of PSA (0.48±0.25ng/ml), estradiol (51.33±7.13npg/ml) and prolactin (6.92±1.93ng/ml) of the control subjects. However, the mean testosterone value of the BPH subjects (5.02±1.93 ng/ml) was significantly lower than the mean value for the control (6.57±3.48ng/ml). The BPH who used to consume alcohol had higher PSA (24.26±8.33ng/ml) and testosterone (7.68±3.41ng/ml) compared to the PSA (16.34±3.22ng/ml) and testosterone (4.95±3.62ng/ml) of those who never consumed alcohol. The BPH had significantly altered hormone parameters as well as raised PSA levels. Including hormonal parameters in diagnosing and managing BPH could be an important consideration in our population.

Effects of probiotic supplementation on testosterone levels in healthy ageing men: A 12-week double-blind, placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial

Levels of the male sex hormone testosterone are generally stable in the age interval 20–70 years, but several studies indicate an earlier, age-dependent decline. Testosterone deficiency is often underdiagnosed and under-treated, but replacement therapy has nonetheless increased during the last couple of years. Owing to possible negative side effects, alternative treatments have been investigated, including different supplementation protocols. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of probiotic supplementation on the testosterone level in healthy men aged between 55 and 65. Hence, 12 weeks randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial was conducted to investigate the effect on testosterone levels following supplementation of the recognized probiotic Limosilactobacillus reuteri ATCC PTA 6475 on testosterone levels, using high-, low- or placebo treatment. Venous blood samples were collected at baseline, 6 and 12 weeks, for analysis of bloodwork, lipid profile, hormones, and electrolytes. Subjects were also asked to complete a questionnaire. The supplementation had no effect on testosterone levels, neither using high- or low dose, nor placebo. However, a significant decrease of triglyceride levels was observed in the high-dose group. No other parameters showed any significant change. The present study does not support the hypothesis that a probiotic supplementation can increase testosterone levels in ageing men.

Mitigating effect of pomegranate peel extract against the furan induced testicular injury by apoptosis, steroidogenic enzymes and oxidative stress

Furan is generated in a wide array of heat-treated foods through thermal degradation, leading to severe impairments in the male reproductive system. The main objective of this study was to investigate the potential of pomegranate peel extract (PGPE) in mitigating testicular dysfunctions induced by furan. Male rats were categorized into four groups: control/untreated, PGPE, furan, and PGPE + furan group. The study results revealed that furan-treated rats exhibited significantly elevated aminotransferase and phosphatase activity, and also generated increased oxidative stress, and reduced antioxidative stress protein activity. Additionally, protein content levels (ALT, AST, ALP, and ACP) and activities of steroidogenic Leydig cell hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD and 17β-HSD) enzymes were significantly decreased. Significant variations in testicular parameters, apoptotic genes (Bcl-2, P53, and Caspase3), inflammatory and anti-inflammatory cytokines (IL1β, IL10), male sex hormones follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, and sperm quality were also observed. Furthermore, testicular histological abnormalities were confirmed by biochemical and molecular modifications. Notably, PGPE pre-treated furan-intoxicated animals exhibited significant improvements in most of the assessed parameters compared to furan-treated groups. In conclusion, PGPE presents essential preventive measures and a novel pharmacological potential therapy against furan-induced testicular injury.

Sex Dimorphism in Pain Threshold and Neuroinflammatory Response: The Protective Effect of Female Sexual Hormones on Behavior and Seizures in an Allergic Rhinitis Model.

Our previous research demonstrated that allergic rhinitis could impact behavior and seizure threshold in male mice. However, due to the complex hormonal cycles and hormonal influences on behavior in female mice, male mice are more commonly used for behavioral tests. In this study, we aimed to determine whether these findings were replicable in female mice and to explore the potential involvement of sexual hormones in regulating neuroinflammation in an allergic model.Our results indicate that pain threshold was decreased in female mice with allergic rhinitis and the levels of IL-23/IL-17A/IL-17R were increased in their Dorsal root ganglia. However, unlike males, female mice with AR did not display neuropsychological symptoms such as learning and memory deficits, depression, and anxiety-like behavior. This was along with decreased levels of DNA methyl transferase 1 (DNMT1) and inflammatory cytokines in their hippocampus. Ovariectomized mice were used to mitigate hormonal effects, and the results showed that they had behavioral changes and neuroinflammation in their hippocampus similar to male mice, as well as increased levels of DNMT1.These findings demonstrate sex differences in how allergic rhinitis affects behavior, pain sensitivity, and seizure thresholds. Furthermore, our data suggest that DNMT1 may be influenced by sexual hormones, which could play a role in modulating inflammation in allergic conditions.

Modulatory Functions of Craterispermum schweinfurthi on the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis of Male Wistar Rats in Phenyl Hydrazine Induced Testicular Toxicity

Introduction: Modulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis is mediated by different factors which are of research interest. Aim: To evaluate the modulatory functions of Craterispermum schweinfurthi leaf extract on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis of male Wistar rats in phenyl hydrazine induced testicular toxicity. Methodology: 40 male Wistar rats weighing between 100-250g were randomly divided into 8 groups of 5 rats each. Testicular toxicity was induced through intraperitoneal administration of 40mg/kg of phenyl hydrazine at 9am on day 0 and two additional injections at 9am and 6pm on day 1 in all rat groups except groups 1 and 8 and were treated as follows for 14 days; Group 1: Rats in this group received distilled water only: Group 2: Untreated Phenyl hydrazine induced toxicity rats: Groups 3-5 received 250mg/kg, 500mg/kg and 750mg/kg body weight of the extract: Group 6: Rats in this group were administered 0.23ml/kg of Bioferon: Group7: Phenyl hydrazine + Phytosterol (2000mg/kg): Group 8: Phytosterol only (2000mg/kg). 24 hours after the last administration, the rats were anaesthetized using 3.5% chloroform soaked in cotton wool and blood samples collected through direct cardiac puncture for the estimation of serum concentration of reproductive hormones. Also, rat’s caudal epididymis was excised for the determination of sperm indices. Results: Administration of the hydromethanol leaf extract of Craterispermum schweinfurthi to rats Groups 3-5, significantly increased serum concentration of luteinizing, Follicle stimulating hormones and Testosterone compared to Group 2 (phenyl hydrazine induced toxicity) rats (p&lt;0.05): Suggesting a possible modulatory function of the extract. Significantly dose dependent higher values of sperm volume, viability, count, normal and active sperm were observed amongst groups 3-5 rats following the administration of graded doses of the extract compared to Group 2 (phenyl hydrazine induced toxicity) rats (p&lt;0.05). Suggesting a possible amelioration of the toxic effects of phenyl hydrazine. Conclusion: This study reports that administration of hydromethanol extract of Craterispermum schweinfurthi caused a significant and dose dependent improvement in the concentration of male reproductive hormones: resulting in a predictable increase in sperm indices.

Cumulative effect of arsenic on the number of mouse offspring and the female reproductive hormones in mice.

In this study, we evaluated the cumulative effects of arsenic (III) oxide on the number of mouse offspring over three consecutive generations and monitored changes in levels of the reproductive hormones, oestradiol and progesterone in female mice during the dioestrus phase of the cycle. The control group received water from the mains. In two experimental groups, mice were given drinking water containing dissolved arsenic (III) oxide at concentrations of 10.6 mg L-1 and 106 mg L-1, respectively. These concentrations represent the values converted from a human model to an animal model (mice) thus correspond to the arsenic content of the groundwater in the southern part of the Pannonian Basin, in the province of Vojvodina, in the Banat region, in particular in the town of Zrenjanin. The average number of newborn mice in both experimental groups decreased for three consecutive generations. The total arsenic content of day-old mice did not show significant differences between the experimental groups. Arsenic (III) oxide affected the reproductive hormone levels of femalemice at both concentrations.