Implications For Reproductive Health Research Articles

The enigmatic interplay of immune cells and abnormal spermatozoa through Mendelian randomization.

Abnormal spermatozoa significantly impact reproductive health, affecting fertility rates, potentially prolonging conception time, and increasing the risk of miscarriages. This study employs Mendelian randomization to explore their potential link with immune cells, aiming to reveal their potential causal association and wider implications for reproductive health. We conducted forward and reverse Mendelian randomization analyses to explore the potential causal connection between 731 immune cell signatures and abnormal spermatozoa. Using publicly available genetic data, we investigated various immune signatures such as median fluorescence intensities (MFI), relative cell (RC), absolute cell (AC), and morphological parameters (MP). Robustness was ensured through comprehensive sensitivity analyses assessing consistency, heterogeneity, and potential horizontal pleiotropy. The MR study produced a statistically significant p-value of.0000684, Bonferroni-corrected for the 731 exposures. The Mendelian randomization analysis revealed strong indications of a reciprocal relationship between immune cell pathways and sperm integrity. When examining immune cell exposure, a potential causal link with abnormal sperm was observed in 35 different types of immune cells. Conversely, the reverse Mendelian randomization results indicated that abnormal sperm might causally affect 39 types of immune cells. These outcomes suggest a potential mutual influence between alterations in immune cell functionality and the quality of spermatozoa. This study highlights the close link between immune responses and sperm development, suggesting implications for reproductive health and immune therapies. Further research may offer crucial insights into male fertility and immune disorders.

Impact of anabolic steroids on male fertility and the role of post-cycle therapy in recovery

Impact of anabolic steroids on male fertility and the role of post-cycle therapy in recovery

Bacterial diversity in semen from stallions in three European countries evaluated by 16S sequencing

The microbiome plays a significant role in shaping the health and functioning of the systems it inhabits. The seminal microbiome of stallions has implications for the health of the reproductive tract, sperm quality during preservation and antibiotic use in semen extenders. Diverse bacteria are present on the external genital tract and a mix of commensal microorganisms populates various parts of the reproductive tract, influencing the seminal bacterial content. Other sources of bacteria include the environment, semen collection equipment, and personnel. The bacterial load can adversely affect sperm quality and fertility, particularly in artificial insemination, where semen is extended and stored before use. Antibiotics are frequently used to inhibit bacterial growth, but their effectiveness varies depending on the bacterial strains present. The aim of this study was to assess the bacterial diversity in semen from 37 healthy stallions across three European nations (Germany, Portugal, and Sweden) using 16S sequencing. Semen samples were collected from individual stallions at three AI centers; DNA extraction, sequencing, and bioinformatic analysis were performed. Differences in bacterial diversity among the stallions were seen; although bacterial phyla were shared across the regions, differences were observed at the genus level. Climate, husbandry practices, and individual variability likely contribute to these differences. These findings underscore the importance of tailoring antibiotic strategies for semen preservation based on regional bacterial profiles. The study presents a comprehensive approach to understanding the intricacies of the stallion seminal microbiome and its potential implications for reproductive technologies and animal health.

Changes in seminal plasma microecological dynamics and the mechanistic impact of core metabolite hexadecanamide in asthenozoospermia patients.

Asthenozoospermia (AZS) is a prevalent contributor to male infertility, characterized by a substantial decline in sperm motility. In recent years, large-scale studies have explored the interplay between the male reproductive system's microecology and its implications for reproductive health. Nevertheless, the direct association between seminal microecology and male infertility pathogenesis remains inconclusive. This study used 16S rDNA sequencing and multi-omics analysis to conduct a comprehensive investigation of the seminal microbial community and metabolites in AZS patients. Patients were categorized into four distinct groups: Normal, mild AZS (AZS-I), moderate AZS (AZS-II), and severe AZS (AZS-III). Microbiome differential abundance analysis revealed significant differences in microbial composition and metabolite profiles within the seminal plasma of these groups. Subsequently, patients were classified into a control group (Normal and AZS-I) and an AZS group (AZS-II and AZS-III). Correlation and cross-reference analyses identified distinct microbial genera and metabolites. Notably, the AZS group exhibited a reduced abundance of bacterial genera such as Pseudomonas, Serratia, and Methylobacterium-Methylorubrum in seminal plasma, positively correlating with core differential metabolite (hexadecanamide). Conversely, the AZS group displayed an increased abundance of bacterial genera such as Uruburuella, Vibrio, and Pseudoalteromonas, with a negative correlation with core differential metabolite (hexadecanamide). In vitro and in vivo experiments validated that hexadecanamide significantly enhanced sperm motility. Using predictive metabolite-targeting gene analysis and single-cell transcriptome sequencing, we profiled the gene expression of candidate target genes PAOX and CA2. Protein immunoblotting techniques validated the upregulation protein levels of PAOX and CA2 in sperm samples after hexadecanamide treatment, enhancing sperm motility. In conclusion, this study uncovered a significant correlation between six microbial genera in seminal plasma and the content of the metabolite hexadecanamide, which is related to AZS. Hexadecanamide notably enhances sperm motility, suggesting its potential integration into clinical strategies for managing AZS, providing a foundational framework for diagnostic and therapeutic advancements.

The Association between Histidine-Rich Glycoprotein rs10770 Genotype and Recurrent Miscarriage in Iranian Women.

Recurrent miscarriage (RM) is a significant reproductive concern affecting numerous women globally. Genetic factors are believed to play a crucial role in RM, making the histidine-rich glycoprotein (HRG) gene, a topic of interest due to its potential involvement in angiogenesis. This study is aimed at investigating the association between the HRG rs10770 genotype and RM. Blood samples were collected from a total of 200 women at the beginning of the study. Subsequently, a comparative analysis was conducted between the blood samples of 100 women with a history of RM (case group) and the blood samples of another 100 healthy women (control group). HRG rs10770 genotyping was performed through polymerase chain reaction restriction-fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP), followed by statistical analysis to evaluate the relationship between HRG rs10770 genotype and RM. The results indicated a significant statistical difference between the C/C genotype (OR = 3.32, CI: 1.22-9.04, p = 0.01) and the C/T genotype (OR = 1.24, CI: 0.67-2.30, p = 0.47) in both the case and control groups. Additionally, a significant correlation was observed in the C allelic frequency among RM participants compared to the control group (OR = 1.65, CI: 1.06-2.58, p = 0.02). The study highlights the importance of HRG rs10770 in understanding RM, shedding light on its implications for reproductive health. Furthermore, it became evident that women carrying the homozygous C/C genotype exhibited increased susceptibility to the risk of RM.

Long-term impact of commonly performed operations in pediatric urology on reproductive and sexual health.

Sexual dysfunction is highly prevalent among men of reproductive age. Clinical practice guidelines have been established to assist providers in identification and education of patients who are at increased risk for infertility and sexual dysfunction with certain congenital and acquired urogenital disorders. The authors sought to review the reproductive and sexual health implications of treating common childhood urological conditions with commonly performed surgical procedures. To ensure the inclusion of influential and highly regarded research, we prioritized citations from the most-frequently cited articles on our respective review topics. Our inclusion criteria considered studies with substantial sample sizes and rigorously designed methodologies. Several topics were reviewed, including penile chordee, hypospadias, posterior urethral valves, varicoceles, undescended testicles, and testicular torsion. For chordee, surgical plication or corporal grafting may be employed. Erectile function remains unaltered post-surgery, while penile length may decrease after repair, which may be avoided using dermal grafts. Hypospadias repair hinges on severity and availability of the urethral plate. Those who underwent hypospadias repair report decreased penile length, but sexual satisfaction, libido, and semen quality are comparable to controls. Posterior urethral valves are usually treated with valve ablation. While valve ablation and bladder neck incision have not been found to affect ejaculatory function, high degree of concurrent renal dysfunction related to nephrogenic and bladder dysfunction may impact semen parameters and erectile function. Regarding varicocele, earlier management has been associated with better long-term fertility outcomes, and surgical intervention is advisable if there is observable testicular atrophy. Earlier repair of undescended testicle with orchiopexy has been found to improve fertility rates as well as decrease malignancy rates. Unilateral orchiectomy for testicular torsion without the ability for salvage has been shown to have decreased semen parameters but unaffected fertility rates. Infertility and sexual dysfunction are multivariable entities, with etiologies both congenital and acquired. At the same time, many common pediatric urology surgeries are performed to correct anatomic pathology that may lead to reproductive dysfunction in adulthood. This review highlights the need for diagnosis and management of pediatric urologic conditions as these conditions may impact long-term sexual function post-operatively.

High Reproductive Risk and Contraception

Background: Patients with high reproductive risk have important risk factors for the development of complications, including maternal death. Rejection of a method is influenced by various factors, including: biological, cultural and social factors. Objective: Identify the main sociocultural and demographic factors associated with not choosing a contraceptive method in women at high reproductive risk. Material and Methods: it is an observational, cross-sectional, analytical and prospective study with non-probabilistic sampling carried out in pregnant women with high reproductive risk who were offered contraception through a questionnaire. Results: 75 patients with high reproductive risk (20%) were included, with an average age of 27 years, occupation as a housewife (48%), living in an urban area (66.7%), complete primary schooling (22.67%), Catholic religion (72%), married (57.3%), middle class (72%); alcoholism in 2 patients (2.67%) and 2 other drugs (2.67%); 68% rejected contraception; for personal reasons (76.4%). A significant relationship was found with the Jehovah’s Witness religion (p = 0.018). Conclusions: rejection of contraception is influenced by personal history and religion, with implications for reproductive health

Association between waist circumference and female infertility in the United States.

Obesity has significant implications for fertility and reproductive health. However, evidences linking abdominal obesity to female infertility were limited and inconclusive. Our objective was to figure out the potential relationship between waist circumference (WC) and infertility among women of childbearing age in the United States using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Our cross-sectional study included 3239 female participants aged 18-45 years. To explore the independent relationship between WC and female infertility, the weighted multivariable logistic regression and smoothed curve fitting were performed. Interaction and subgroup analyzes were then conducted for secondary analysis. WC was positively associated with female infertility independent of BMI after adjusting for BMI and other potential confounders. In fully adjusted model, for every 1cm increase in waist circumference, the risk of infertility increased by 3% (OR = 1.03, 95% CI: 1.01-1.06). When WC was divided into five equal groups, women in the highest quintile had 2.64 times risk of infertility than that in the lowest quintile (OR = 2.64, 95% CI: 1.31-5.30). Smooth curve fitting revealed a non-linear but positively dose-dependent relationship between WC and female infertility. Furthermore, we found an inverted U-shaped relationship (turning point: 113.5 cm) between WC and female infertility in participants who had moderate recreational activities and a J-shaped relationship (turning point: 103 cm) between WC and female infertility in participants who had deficient recreational activities. Waist circumference is a positive predictor of female infertility, independent of BMI. Moderate recreational activities can lower the risk of female infertility associated with abdominal obesity.

Pubertal Development Pattern in HIV-Infected Girls in Port Harcourt, Southern Nigeria

Background: Unidentified and untreated pubertal abnormalities in HIV-infected girls may result in adverse psychosocial consequences as well as a reduced final adult height. The aim of the study was to determine the pubertal development pattern in HIV-infected girls receiving care in two tertiary hospitals in Port Harcourt, Southern Nigeria.
 Materials and Methods: This was a comparative cross-sectional study involving 90 HIV-infected girls aged 10-18 years and 90 age, sex and socio-economic class matched non-HIV-infected girls.
 Results: The mean age of pubertal onset in HIV-infected girls was 11.57±1.05 which was significantly higher than the mean age of 10.78±0.69 seen in the non-HIV-infected group (ꭓ 2= 2.667, p=0.011). Sixty three (70%) of HIV-infected females had commenced puberty (Tanner stage 2 or above for breast development) compared to 83 (92.2%) of non-HIV-infected females. (χ2=16.277, p=0.003). Forty per cent (40%) of HIV-infected girls had attained menarche (40%) as against 52.2% in the comparison group but this difference was not statistically significant (χ2=2.705, p=0.100). There was a higher prevalence of pubertal delay in HIV-infected girls (6.7%) compared to non-HIV-infected girls (1.1%).
 Conclusion: The mean age of Pubertal onset was significantly later in HIV-infected girls compared to non-HIV-infected. This could have negative implications for psychosocial and reproductive health in HIV-infected girls.

Influence of marine habitat on microplastic prevalence in forage fish and salmon in the Salish Sea

Microplastics are increasingly prevalent in marine systems and are a growing concern as a marine pollutant and contaminant with consequences for high trophic level consumers, including humans. Given evidence that links plastics to degraded ecosystem functioning and organismal health, there is increased interest in understanding the prevalence, fate and consequences of marine plastics. Microplastics contain and absorb harmful chemicals which may serve as endocrine disruptors and have negative implications for growth, reproductive health, and longevity. To expand current knowledge on microplastics in coastal marine ecosystems and the potential for biomagnification in marine food webs, we conducted stomach analyses of microplastics in Pacific salmon (Oncorhynchus spp.) and Pacific sand lance (Ammodytes personatus), an important prey for salmon. Prevalence of microplastics was substantial; 77 % of all salmon and 25 % of all sand lance stomachs contained at least one microplastic. Fish were sampled at multiple sites throughout the inland Salish Sea, including beaches and sediment bedforms for Pacific sand lance and open-water pelagic habitat for Pacific salmon. Pacific sand lance sampled at beach sites had more microplastics compared to those sampled in subtidal sediments and there were more plastics in sand lance at a protected beach site as compared to an exposed beach site. Prevalence of plastics in salmon differed according to species and included analyses of pink salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha), Chinook (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha), and Coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch); plastics were predominantly fibers in all species, though there were relatively higher rates of ingestion of films and particles in Chinook. Comparisons between plastic concentrations and stomach fullness indicated a slight negative trend, suggesting that plastics may be retained. Further investigation is needed to develop a more thorough understanding of the prevalence and fate of microplastics in coastal marine systems such as the Salish Sea, their concentration within marine food webs, and the implications for species targeted in fisheries.

Thyroid-gonadal hormonal interplay in zebrafish exposed to sodium perchlorate: Implications for reproductive health

Perchlorate, a widespread environmental contaminant originating from various industrial applications, agricultural practices, and natural sources, poses potential risks to ecosystems and human health. While previous studies have highlighted its influence on the thyroid endocrine system and its impact on gonadal maturation, reproduction, and sex hormone synthesis, the specific interplay between thyroid and steroid hormones, in this context, remains largely unexplored. Therefore, this study was undertaken to investigate the adverse effects and underlying mechanisms triggered by exposure to sodium perchlorate (SP) on reproductive endocrine activity in zebrafish. For 21 d, the fish were exposed to test SP concentrations (0, 3, 30, 300 mg/L), which were determined based on the exposure concentrations that induced various toxic effects in the fish, considering naturally occurring concentrations. Exposure to SP, except at 3 mg/L in males, significantly decreased the production of thyroid hormone (TH) in both female and male zebrafish. Moreover, gonadal steroid levels were markedly reduced in both sexes. The expression of hepatic vitellogenin (VTG) mRNA in female zebrafish was significantly decreased, whereas aromatase activity in male zebrafish was significantly elevated in the SP exposure groups. The reduced levels of THs and gonadal steroid hormones were strongly correlated. Abnormal responses to SP exposure led to reduced reproductive success in the 300 mg/L SP exposure group. These findings indicate that prolonged and continuous exposure to a specific concentration of SP may lead to long-term reproductive problems in zebrafish, primarily through hormonal imbalances and suppression of hepatic VTG mRNA expression.

Menopausal age and cardiovascular disease risk in American women: evidence from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey

Objective Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a significant contributor to the deaths of females, and premature menopause adds to the risk of CVD in females. Therefore, our study aimed to investigate the age of menopause and CVD incidence in American females using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Method We analyzed data from 6347 females to investigate the association between menopausal age and the risk of CVD using multivariate logistic regression analysis. Results The study found that a later menopausal age reduces the risk of developing CVD (odds ratio [OR] = 0.74, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.63 − 0.88, p < 0.001). Moreover, females with early-onset CVD had an increased risk of premature menopause before the age of 40 years (OR = 2.44, 95% CI = 1.60 − 3.72, p < 0.001). Conclusion Menopausal age is associated with the risk of developing CVD in American females. Specifically, if menopause occurs earlier, there is an increased risk of CVD. Additionally, early-onset CVD significantly raises the risk of premature menopause, which in turn has important implications for female reproductive health.

Diyet ileri glikasyon son ürünleri (AGE) ve kadın infertilitesi

Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are molecules formed by non-enzymatic reactions between reducing sugars and proteins, nucleic acids, or lipids. Advanced glycation end products may be formed endogenously under normal metabolic conditions or metabolic conditions such as diabetes and hyperglycemia, or exogenously during processing of foods at high temperatures and low humidity, including roasting, grilling, and frying. The accumulation of AGEs has a significant role in the development of disorders associated with infertility. Infertility is an increasingly common health problem in recent years. Dietary habits and nutrient intake are among the many factors affecting infertility in women. Receptor AGEs (RAGE) and AGEs have been observed in theca and granulosa cells of the ovaries. High levels of AGEs affect fertility through ovarian dysfunction, follicular growth, oocyte number, fertilization rate, embryo development, adverse effects on pregnancy rate, insulin resistance, apoptosis, endothelial dysfunction, increased inflammation, and reactive oxygen species (ROS). This review aims to investigate the pathophysiology of AGEs and their receptors, as well as their possible implications for female reproductive health.

Mechanisms of Regeneration and Fibrosis in the Endometrium.

The uterine lining (endometrium) regenerates repeatedly over the life span as part of its normal physiology. Substantial portions of the endometrium are shed during childbirth (parturition) and, in some species, menstruation, but the tissue is rapidly rebuilt without scarring, rendering it a powerful model of regeneration in mammals. Nonetheless, following some assaults, including medical procedures and infections, the endometrium fails to regenerate and instead forms scars that may interfere with normal endometrial function and contribute to infertility. Thus, the endometrium provides an exceptional platform to answer a central question of regenerative medicine: Why do some systems regenerate while others scar? Here, we review our current understanding of diverse endometrial disruption events in humans, nonhuman primates, and rodents, and the associated mechanisms of regenerative success and failure. Elucidating the determinants of these disparate repair processes promises insights into fundamental mechanisms of mammalian regeneration with substantial implications for reproductive health.

Reproductive and sexual health implications of illegal migration among young adults in Benin Metropolis, Edo State, Nigeria.

Reproductive and sexual health implications of illegal migration among young adults encompass a range of complex and interconnected challenges that demand attention and comprehensive solutions. This study is aimed at determining the reproductive and sexual health implications of illegal migration among young adults in Benin metropolis. Analytical cross-sectional study design was adopted. A purposive sampling technique was used to select a sample size of three hundred and forty-four participants. A one-time-survey method was adopted for the study as the questionnaire was administered on a face-to-face basis. Simple frequencies, percentage, charts, and graph were used to analyze the data, with the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS) version 22. The results showed that majority of the respondents were sexually abused which resulted in unwanted pregnancies, when travelling through an illegal route. Majority of irregular migrants were doing so for socio-economic reasons in search of greener pastures. It was concluded that most of the respondents were faced by unethical challenges while travelling through the route like sexual harassment and robbery.. Most returnees are likely to contact STD/STIs including HIV/AIDs, as well as engage in abortion especially among the young adults, which may have some adverse effects on their reproductive and sexual health later in the future. It is recommended that there is a need to enlighten the young adults who want to migrate illegally on the implication of the illegal migration on their reproductive and sexual health. Campaigns against illegal migration/trafficking should be conducted regularly, stressing the negative effects such as the risks to which victims are exposed along the routes.

Reproduction and Anti-Obesity Medications: A Review of Current Evidence

Obesity, typified by the disproportionate accumulation of body fat, constitutes a burgeoning global health dilemma with far-reaching impacts on numerous facets of human well-being, prominently inclusive of reproductive health. The pervasive effects of this worldwide health predicament are both direct and indirect, having a compelling influence on fertility, thus underlining the exigency for efficacious therapeutic interventions. FDA-approved anti-obesity pharmaceuticals, comprising metformin, orlistat, phentermine, and glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists such as liraglutide and semaglutide, have been substantiated to facilitate weight loss and enhance metabolic indices. However, despite their promising roles in mitigating obesity, the extent of our understanding of these drugs' implications for reproductive health remains inadequate.This thorough review endeavors to aggregate and scrutinize the present corpus of evidence relating to the influence of these anti-obesity drugs on fertility. By exploring the prospective direct and indirect impacts of these pharmaceuticals on reproductive health, we aspire to illuminate their multifunctional roles extending beyond the sphere of weight regulation. In the female population, obesity has been correlated with menstrual abnormalities, infertility, and complications during gestation, frequently concurrent with an increased incidence of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). In the male counterpart, obesity has been associated with compromised semen quality and erectile function, often compounded by Metabolic Syndrome (MetS) and hormonal disequilibrium.This exhaustive analysis seeks to equip physicians with a framework for refining their therapeutic approaches, appreciating the intricate interplay between obesity treatment and reproductive health. We aim to afford a broader and more nuanced comprehension of the complex interrelations between obesity, anti-obesity medications, and reproductive well-being. The intention is to empower healthcare practitioners with the insights necessary to deliver bespoke care strategies to those grappling with obesity and attendant fertility complications. Ultimately, this initiative augments our evolving understanding of the complex mechanisms operating at the juncture of obesity and fertility, thereby paving the way for future investigations in this critical field of study.

Obesity and Miscarriage.

Obesity affects nearly 40% of reproductive-aged women and has serious implications for women's overall and reproductive health. Women with an elevated body mass index (BMI) have higher rates of anovulation and irregular menses, lower success with fertility treatment, and significantly higher rates of pregnancy complications, such as hypertension/preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and preterm delivery. Many studies have also shown an association between obesity and early pregnancy loss. However, the causal association between BMI and miscarriage has not been elucidated, likely due to the multifactorial effects that BMI may have on early pregnancy development. In addition, BMI as an isolated variable fails to capture other relevant confounding health risk factors, such as nutrition, physical activity, and insulin resistance. In this review, we will summarize the current literature demonstrating the association between BMI and miscarriage, highlight the research that attempts to explain the association, and finally provide data on therapeutic interventions to improve reproductive outcomes in women suffering from obesity and early pregnancy loss.

Migrant and Refugee Youth's Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights: A Scoping Review to Inform Policies and Programs.

Objectives: Migrants and refugee youth (MRY) in Western nations are less likely to participate in sexual reproductive health (SRH) services. Consequently, MRY are more likely to encounter adverse SRH experiences due to limited access to and knowledge of SRH services. A scoping review was conducted to examine MRY's understanding of and the implications for inclusive sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) programs and policies. Methods: A systematic search of literature across seven academic databases was conducted. Data were extracted following Partners for Dignity and Rights' Human Rights Assessment framework and analysed using the thematic-synthesis method. Results: 38 literature (peer-reviewed, 24 and grey, 14) were considered eligible for inclusion. The findings highlighted significant barriers and the under-implementation of SRHR support and services by MRY. Key policy implications include a need for programs to support MRY's SRHR education, diversity, equity and inclusiveness and privacy protections. Conclusion: The review shows that the emerging evidence on MRY SRHR suggests gaps in practices for resourcing policies and programs that promote sustainable SRH for vulnerable populations. Policies for MRY's SRHR should prioritise programs that focus on diversity, equity and inclusion with targeted education and community resourcing strategies for sustainability.

Women’s Autonomy and Birth Spacing; Implications for Reproductive Health in Zaria Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Nigeria

Women’s Autonomy and Birth Spacing; Implications for Reproductive Health in Zaria Local Government Area of Kaduna State, Nigeria

Nesfatin-1 regulates steroidogenesis in mouse Leydig cells

Nesfatin-1 is a polypeptide hormone known to regulate appetite and energy metabolism and is derived from the precursor protein nucleobindin 2 (NUCB2). Recent studies have shown that nesfatin-1 is expressed in many peripheral tissues in mice, including the reproductive organs. However, its function and regulation in the testis remain unknown. In this study, we investigated the expression of Nucb2 mRNA and nesfatin-1 protein in mouse Leydig cells and the Leydig cell line, TM3 cells. We also examined whether Nucb2 mRNA expression is regulated by gonadotropins and whether exogenous nesfatin-1 affects steroidogenesis in primary Leydig cells isolated from the testis and TM3 cells. We found that Nucb2 mRNA and nesfatin-1 protein were present in primary Leydig cells and TM3 cells, and nesfatin-1 binding sites were also found in both cell types. Nucb2 mRNA expression in testis, primary Leydig cells, and TM3 cells was increased after treatment with pregnant mare’s serum gonadotropin and human chorionic gonadotropin. After nesfatin-1 treatment, the expression of steroidogenesis-related enzyme genes Cyp17a1 and Hsd3b was upregulated in primary Leydig cells and TM3 cells. Our results suggest that NUCB2/nesfatin-1 expression in mouse Leydig cells may be regulated through the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and that nesfatin-1 produced by Leydig cells may locally regulate steroidogenesis in an autocrine manner. This study provides insight into the regulation of NUCB2/nesfatin-1 expression in Leydig cells and the effect of nesfatin-1 on steroidogenesis, which may have implications for male reproductive health.