Increase In Follicle-stimulating Hormone Research Articles

Therapeutic effects of Artocarpus communis J.R.Forst. & G.Forst. Seeds on Letrozole-induced Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Wistar rats

BackgroundHerbal extracts are an effective treatment for polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and have been shown to improve insulin resistance, hyperandrogenism, sex hormones, ovulation, and PCOS symptoms. Artocarpus communis seed's potential effects on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have not been studied. PurposeThis research aims to investigate the beneficial effects of Artocarpus communis seeds on PCOS induced by letrozole in Wistar rats. MethodsTo induce PCOS, female Wistar rats weighing between 160g to 250g were administered letrozole (1 mg/kg) for 21 days. Subsequently, for 12 days, the rats were given the Artocarpus communis seed methanol extract, and its hexane, DCM, ethyl acetate and aqueous fractions (100 mg/kg body weight) and Clomiphene citrate (1 mg/kg body weight), a standard medication. Luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and estradiol levels were assessed using ELISA, and the expression of P53, insulin receptor substrate (IRS), type 2 17-HSD (17-HSD), fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO), and 11a-hydroxylase/17,20-desmolase (CYP11a) genes were investigated. The data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, and a significance threshold of p<0.05 was set for Dunnett's Multiple Comparison Test. ResultsAdministration of the methanol extract of Artocarpus communis seed and its Hexane fraction led to a decrease in LH level and an increase in FSH and estradiol levels in the PCOS-induced animals. Furthermore, methanol extract, DCM, and ethyl acetate fraction normalize the expression of P53, insulin receptor substrate (IRS), type 2 17-HSD (17-HSD), fat mass and obesity-associated (FTO), and 11a-hydroxylase/17,20-desmolase (CYP11a) genes in PCOS rats cervix. ConclusionArtocarpus communis seed exhibited ameliorative effects on polycystic ovary conditions in Wistar rats, suggesting its potential use in the management of PCOS.

Clomiphene citrate and optional human chorionic gonadotropin for treating male hypogonadism arising from long-term anabolic-androgenic steroid use—A pilot study

IntroductionLong-term anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) use poses several health risks, including secondary hypogonadism. There is a knowledge gap on treatment targeting the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis among men with anabolic steroid-induced hypogonadism (ASIH). This study aims to gain insights into the potential utility of endocrine therapy to restore endogenous testosterone levels and alleviate ASIH symptoms in AAS dependent men. MethodsIn this proof-of-concept, single-site, open longitudinal pilot study, AAS dependent men with continuous AAS use and a desire to permanently discontinue use, were given endocrine therapy. The treatment included 25 mg clomiphene citrate (CC) every second day for 16 weeks, transdermal testosterone daily during the first four weeks, and if indicated, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) injections for a maximum of eight weeks. Physical exams including blood collection and online questionnaires were completed every four and two weeks, respectively. ResultsTen participants, with median age 32 years (interquartile range 30–45), with mean ± standard deviation AAS use of 11 ± 4 years, completed the CC intervention. Seven participants received hCG as part of their treatment protocol. Mild adverse events included headaches, dizziness, and mood swings, and no serious adverse events occurred. During the intervention, there was a decrease in levels of hematocrit, hemoglobin and ALT (alanine aminotransferase), as well as an increase in serum FSH (follicle stimulating hormone), LH (luteinizing hormone) and SHBG (sex hormone binding globulin). Five of ten participants reached a total testosterone level within normal range (9–30 nmol/l). The HPG axis response varied greatly among participants, and was not aligned with the severity of ASIH related withdrawal symptoms. ConclusionsThe findings from this proof-of-concept study may guide future randomized controlled trials aiming to investigate potential endocrine therapeutic approaches to ASIH.

Correlation of serum kisspeptin and leptin with non-obstructive azoospermia: A cross-sectional study in a subset of Karachi population.

To determine the association of serum kisspeptin, leptin, and other hormonal profile with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) in infertile male subjects. This cross-sectional study was conducted at Australian Concept Infertility Medical Center, and Ziauddin University, Karachi from March 2018 to March 2020. The duration of the study was two years. Serum samples of 106 azoospermic participants were taken. Division of the subjects was done on a histological basis into obstructive azoospermia (OA) n=36, NOA n=70 which were further divided into spermatid maturation arrest (SMA), n=41, and sertoli cell-only syndrome (SCOS) n=29. Serum kisspeptin and leptin were measured by ELISA (Cloud-Clone Corp). The follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) (p<0.01), luteinizing hormone (LH) (p<0.01), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) (p<0.01), and estradiol (p<0.01) was significantly high in the NOA group. However, kisspeptin was significantly decreased (p<0.01) in the NOA group. In the multivariate analysis after adjusting for other variables, the results showed that with the decrease in kisspeptin, the chances of being NOA were increased. Moreover, with the increase in Leptin, FSH, LH, and TSH the chances of being NOA were significantly enhanced. Serum kisspeptin, leptin, FSH, LH, TSH, and estradiol can be a potential marker for NOA in terms of better diagnosis, targeted therapeutic management, and the decision to proceed with surgical intervention.

Effect of fsh on lipid profile in postmenopausal women

The World Health Organization (WHO) and Stages of Reproductive Aging Workshop (STRAW) define menopause as a permanent endpoint of the menstrual cycle for one year that occurs naturally or by induction of surgical procedure, chemotherapy or radiation .The etiology of menopause is classified into physiological and non-physiological. Pathophysiology of menopause includes the decline of ovary function in menopause, response to a loss of ovarian feedback mechanism, and the decline of the hypothalamus and pituitary function. Endocrine changes in menopause lead to alteration of gonadotropin secretion cycle patterns, changes in steroid and peptide hormones through monophasic patterns to increase gonadotropin, and decreased estrogen .Aim: This study aims to investigate the effect of FSH on lipid profile in postmenopausal women. Study design: A cross-section observational study. Method: The study is a cross-sectional study done on 90 women. These women aged more than 50 years had cessation of menstrual cycle for over a year. The blood samples were taken from 90 postmenopausal women, and interviews were conducted using a questionnaire. FSH measure, by ElectroChemiLuminescence (ECL) technology for immunoassay analysis done by Cobas e411 device. Lipid profile measure, by manual techniques done by use of spectrophotometer device. Result: We observed increase in Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) during postmenopause has a positive significant correlation with body mass index (BMI) (r 0.350, p 0.001), total cholesterol (TC) (r 0.397, p 0.001) and Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) ( r 0.421, p 0.001) FSH also correlated positively but insignificant correlation with triglyceride (TG) (r 0.175, p 0.098) and very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) ( r 0.055, p 0.604). FHS has a negative significant correlation with Estradiol ( r -0.509, p 0.001) and Vit.D( r-0.220, p 0.037) as well as FSH correlated negative but insignificant with age ( r -0.142, p 0.183) and High-density lipoprotein (HDL) (r -0.048, p 0.656). Conclusion: The current study showed a significant positive correlation of FSH with TC and LDL, an insignificant positive correlation with TG, and an insignificant negative correlation with HDL. Keywords: Postmenopause, FSH, Lituenizing Hormone, HDL

The effects of endogenous FSH and its receptor on oogenesis and folliculogenesis in female Alligator sinensis

BackgroundThe precise mechanisms of hormone action responsible for the full course of events modulating folliculogenesis in crocodilian have not been determined, although histological features have been identified.ResultsThe Alligator sinensis ovarian morphological characteristics observed at 1, 15, 30, 60, 90, and 300 days post hatching(dph) revealed that the dynamic changes in germ cells varied in different meiotic and developmental stages, confirming that the processes of folliculogenesis were protracted and asynchronous. The presence of endogenous follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH) mRNA and protein expression within the cerebrum at 1 dph, in parallel with the increase in germ cells within the germ cell nests(Nest) from 1 dph to 15 dph, suggested that endocrine regulation of the pituitary-gonad axis is an early event in oogonia division. Furthermore, the endogenous expression of FSH showed a trend of negative feedback augmentation accompanied by the exhaustion of maternal yolk E2 observed at 15 dph. Such significant elevation of endogenous FSH levels was observed to be related to pivotal events in the transition from mitosis to meiosis, as reflected by the proportion of oogonia during premeiosis interphase, with endogenous FSH levels reaching a peak at the earliest time step of 1 dph. In addition, the simultaneous upregulation of premeiotic marker STRA8 mRNA expression and the increase in endogenous FSH further verified the above speculation. The strongly FSHr-positive label in the oocytes within Pre-previtellogenic follicles was synchronized with the significant elevation of ovarian cAMP detected at 300 dph, which suggested that diplotene arrest maintenance during early vitellogenesis might be FSH dependent. In addition, preferential selection in asynchronous meiotic initiation has been supposed to act on somatic supportive cells and not directly on germ cells via regulation of FSH that in turn affects downstream estrogen levels. This suggestion was verified by the reciprocal stimulating effect of FSH and E2 on the accelerated meiotic marker SYCP3 and by the inhibited cell apoptosis demonstrated in ovarian cell culture in vitro.ConclusionThe corresponding results contribute an expansion of the understanding of physiological processes and shed some light on the specific factors responsible for gonadotropin function in the early folliculogenesis of crocodilians.

Protective Role of Rosa damascena Miller hydroalcoholic extract on Oxidative Stress Parameters and Testis Tissue in Rats Treated with Sodium Arsenite

Regarding the strong antioxidant properties of Rosa damascene extract, this study aimed to investigate the protective role of Rosa damascene Miller hydroalcoholic petal extract on oxidative stress parameters and testis tissue in rats treated with sodium arsenite. To this end, 30 male rats were divided into five groups, including control, positive control (treated with arsenite), and three groups of patients affected by sodium arsenite with 150 mg/kg, 300 mg/kg, and 450 mg/kg Rosa damascene extract for 34 days by gavage. The animals were then anesthetized, and the blood samples were collected from the heart. The left testis was removed for histopathological studies. The findings revealed that Sodium arsenite in the positive group caused a significant reduction in TAC, testosterone, and serum Luteinizing hormone (LH) and a significant increase in serum Malondialdehyde. In addition, there was no statistically significant difference among the groups regarding the amount of Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Moreover, the consumption of Rosa damascene extract with sodium arsenite caused a significant increase in testosterone, LH, and FSH compared to the positive control group. Histopathological results showed that in the experimental group receiving a dosage of 300 mg/kg b.w and the control group, the number of sperm tubes increased, and the germinal epithelium’s thickness was appropriate. Daily treatment with Rosa damascene extract with a dosage of 300 mg/kg b.w for 34 days could improve the changes caused by sodium arsenite and reduce Malondialdehyde levels. Thus, it seems that Rosa damascene hydroalcoholic extract can effectively improve the male reproductive system’s function.

The impact of hot flashes on sleep

The prevalence of sleep disturbances is 35-60% among postmenopausal women. During the menopausal transition, hormonal changes along with the vasomotor symptoms (VMS) and night sweats are responsible from poor sleep quality independent of age, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome and mood. The decline in estradiol and increase in follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels are associated with trouble falling asleep and sleep maintenance. In the SWAN study, the patients with HF complained about sleep disturbances (trouble falling asleep, waking up several times and waking up earlier than planned) more than the women who did not have HF.

Association of follicle-stimulating hormone with bone turnover markers and bone mineral density in Chinese women across the menopausal transition.

Elevated follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is associated with an increased risk of postmenopausal osteoporosis. This study investigated the association of serum FSH with bone turnover markers (BTMs) and bone mineral density (BMD) in healthy women undergoing menopausal transition. A total of 487 healthy women (age 35-65 years, 50 ± 8.5 years) were enrolled in this study. Serum FSH, BTMs, and BMD at lumbar spine and total hip were measured in these subjects. Follicle-stimulating hormone was positively correlated with various BTMs (r = 0.339-0.583, all p < 0.001) and negatively correlated with lumbar spine and total hip BMD (r = -0.629 and -0.514, all p < 0.001). After adjusting for age and body mass index, the partial correlation coefficients of FSH with BTMs and BMD remained significant. Estimating from the regression equation, for every 10 IU/L increase in serum FSH, BTMs increased by 0.38-3.6 units, and BMD decreased by 0.03-0.05 g/cm2 , respectively. Multiple linear regression analysis showed that FSH was a positive factor for serum bone-specific alkaline phosphatase, osteocalcin, and N-telopeptide of collagen type 1 (β = 0.188-0.403, all p < 0.001), and a negative factor for lumbar spine BMD and serum C-telopeptide of collagen type 1 (β = -0.629 and -0.183, all p < 0.001). This study suggests that serum FSH levels are an independent risk factor for BTMs and BMD in menopause-transitioning women, particularly for serum BAP and lumbar spine BMD.

Sleep symptoms signaling the menopausal transition.

To describe changes in sleep quality and associated sleep symptoms as women begin menopausal transition compared with premenopausal controls. In a repeated-measures design, we analyzed data collected every 2-6 months from a community-based sample of 223 women aged 40-50 (45.6 ± 2.3) years old over a 2-year period. Each 6-month visit included urinary follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) as a marker of ovarian function and the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) and other questionnaires (Center for Epidemiological Studies-Depression Scale; Perceived Stress Scale). Menstrual cycle and vasomotor symptoms (Seattle Women's Health Symptom Checklist) were tracked every 2 months by phone. For women entering menopausal transition (n = 68) we used data from the two consecutive visits prior to their FSH rise and the next two visits. Data from the last four consecutive visits were used for controls remaining premenopausal (n = 155). The transition group did not differ from controls on age, vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes/night sweats), stress, or depression but did have a higher body mass index. Measures were stable over time for controls. However, the transition group experienced an increase in PSQI scores (initial PSQI = 5.7 ± 3.2 and final PSQI = 6.3 ± 3.8; P = .030) and frequency of trouble sleeping because of feeling too hot (P = .016), which lagged the FSH rise by 6 months with no notable change in report of hot flashes/night sweats. Trouble sleeping because of feeling too hot, distinct from awareness of vasomotor symptoms, was the only uniform contribution to higher PSQI scores after the initial FSH increase and may signal the onset of the menopausal transition. Zak R, Zitser J, Jones HJ, Gilliss CL, Lee KA. Sleep symptoms signaling the menopausal transition. J Clin Sleep Med. 2023;19(8):1513-1521.

Hormono-metabolic disorders in women with hypothalamic syndrome in the ontogenetic aspect

Introduction. The rising incidence of obesity among children and adolescents has become a major public health problem. Problems of female reproductive function associated with obesity include menstrual irregularities, complications of pregnancy and childbirth, and infertility.Aim. To conduct a prospective analysis of carbohydrate, lipid metabolism, neuroendocrine regulation in women with primary infertility and hypothalamic syndrome of puberty.Materials and methods. Prospective, longitudinal study of adolescent girls (n=170) with hypothalamic dysfunction for 14.2±1.6 years, mean age was 14.41±0.26 years. The second stage of the study included an assessment of the hormonal status and metabolic changes in 86 women, of which 46 were fertile, 26 had primary infertility and 14 had secondary infertility, mean age was 21.89±1.15 years. Clinical and laboratory methods were used to study the indicators of lipid and carbohydrate metabolism, pituitary-ovarian and adrenal hormonal regulation systems, instrumental and functional research methods, as well as statistical analysis methods were carried out.Results. Among adolescent girls with hypothalamic dysfunction a high proportion of secondary amenorrhea − 31% (p=0.042) and metabolic syndrome − 86% was revealed, as well as a significant increase in follicle-stimulating hormone, testosterone, cortisol and a decrease in the concentration of progesterone, inhibin B, an increase in cholesterol, low density lipoproteins, triglycerides, the HOMA index, insulin and a decrease in high density lipoprotein cholesterol. We found a high proportion of polycystic ovary syndrome − 19.8%, polymenorrhea − 18.6%, oligomenorrhea − 19.8%, primary infertility − 30.2%, (p=0.001) in women with a history of hypothalamic obesity in the pubertal period. We determined a set of primary infertility predictors: the presence of triglyceridemia and hyperlipidemia in the puberty period (OR 9.5; 95%CI [1.7–51.9]) and hormone-dependent diseases in the reproductive period (OR 5.6; 95%CI [2.5–18.2]).Conclusion. In our opinion, timely prevention and correction of lipid metabolism disorders in adolescents, as well as early detection of hormone-dependent diseases in the reproductive period are promising for the prevention of reproductive disorders.

Reproductive and metabolic toxic effects of polystyrene microplastics in adult female Wistar rats: a mechanistic study

Microplastics, such as polystyrene microplastics (PS-MPs), have become an emerging environmental hazard for animals and humans. Long-term exposure to PS-MPs has led to neurotoxicity, reproductive dysfunction, and carcinogenesis. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of sub-chronic exposure of PS-MPs on metabolic and reproductive functions in female rats. The PS-MPs were prepared by cryogenic technique. The PS-MPs were given orally to female Wistar rats for 45days at 2.5, 5, and 10mg/kg/day. The average PS-MPs' size diameter was 876nm. The PS-MPs administration resulted in a significant decrease in the activity of superoxide dismutase and catalase in the liver and ovary. The effect of PS-MPs on reduced glutathione and lipid peroxidation in the liver and ovarian tissues of rats was statistically insignificant. The PS-MP exposure exhibited an increase in the levels of triglycerides, total cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein and decrease in high-density lipoprotein. The PS-MPs caused glucose intolerance and increase in insulin. Moreover, the PS-MP exposure increased follicle stimulating hormone, estradiol, and testosterone. Serum level of interleukin-6 and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) was elevated in animals treated with PS-MPs. The PS-MP exposed rats showed normal ovarian histology, but activated hepatic stellate cells and liver fibrosis. It is concluded that the sub-chronic exposure to PS-MPs resulted in metabolic and endocrine disruption in female rats through oxidative damage, hormonal imbalance, and chronic inflammation.

THE EFFECT OF AROMATASES INHIBITOR-BASED PRODUCTS ON COW REPRODUCTIVE ABILITY

Mycotoxin zearalenone is a phytoestrogenic substance that can disrupt the functioning of the organs of the reproductive system of cows. At the same time, a hyperestrogenic state occurs, which&#x0D; leads to overeating, multiple unsuccessful inseminations and infertility of cows.&#x0D; The purpose of the research is to investigate the effect of a single application of drugs based on aromatase inhibitors on the main biochemical and hormonal parameters of the blood of cows, as well as to establish their effectiveness during spontaneous expression of desire and when applying synchronization schemes.&#x0D; The effect of a single dose of aromatase inhibitors on the dynamics of sex hormones in cows, which directly affect the formation of the dominant follicle and its ovulation, was investigated. At the same time, a 1.56-fold decrease in estradiol, a 1.67-fold increase in progesterone, a 1.29-fold increase in luteinizing hormone, and a 1.76-fold increase in follicle-stimulating hormone were found. At the same time, the maturation of the dominant follicle and its ovulation at a size of 22 to 24 mm have been established. A change in the biochemical parameters of the blood serum of cows after the use of products based on an aromatase inhibitor was revealed. A tendency was established to restore the level of calcium to 2.01±0.27 mmol/l, phosphorus – 1.1±0.41 mmol/l, magnesium – 0.87±0.11 mmol/l, selenium –1.0± 0.1 mmol/l. At the same time, the level of creatinine decreased by 1.2 times compared to sick animals, the indicators of liver transferases also tended to decrease. A significant decrease in the blood urea index by 1.69 times was established, which indicates the restoration of protein and lipid metabolism.&#x0D; The indicators of fertilization of cows with spontaneous manifestation of sexual desire when using agents based on aromatase inhibitors were studied. At the same time, the fertility rate ranged from 69.39% in cows older than 5 years to 80.39% in cows after the 1st calving.&#x0D; A positive effect of aromatase inhibitors, introduced before the use of estrus synchronization schemes in cows, was established on the development of the dominant follicle, luteogenesis and the appearance of a new wave of follicle development. Fertilization averaged from 68.1% to 76.42%.

Pu-erh tea intake enhances the anti-obesity effect of intermittent fasting via modulating follicle-stimulating hormone and gut dysbacteriosis in female high-fat-diet mice

Intermittent fasting (IF) could not work well in females indicating that additional interventions might be necessary to improve outcomes. We here investigated whether Pu-erh tea extract (PTE) intake could enhance anti-obesity effect of IF in female mice and explored the underlying mechanisms. The combination of PTE and IF treated obesity by reducing lipogenesis and enhancing adipose thermogenesis. This combination might decrease follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) to reduce FSH-mediated UCP1 inhibition by AMPK/PGC1α/UCP1 pathways, finally promoting adipose thermogenesis. Based on this, we speculated increase of FSH might be a key reason for poor anti-obesity effect in female mice under IF. Besides, this combination modulated the composition of gut microbes (restored Firmicutes/Bacteroidetes and improved Akkermansia abundance) by protecting the intestinal barrier, and further promoted the production of SCFAs especially butyrate which might finally induce thermogenesis in adipose. Our results suggested this combination could be an effective strategy to combating obesity for females.

Exposure to oxyfluorfen-induced hematobiochemical alterations, oxidative stress, genotoxicity, and disruption of sex hormones in male African catfish and the potential to confront by Chlorella vulgaris

The present study evaluated the effect of chronic exposure to oxyfluorfen (OXY) on different physiological responses of male African catfish, Clarias gariepinus, and the ameliorative effect of Chlorella vulgaris. The fish (160 ± 5.10 g) were exposed to 1/20 LC50 of OXY (0.58 mg/L) for 60 consecutive days with or without co-administration of C. vulgaris (25 g/kg diet) in triplicate groups. The results revealed that chronic exposure to a sublethal level of OXY induced severe anemia and leukopenia. OXY-exposed fish experienced hypoproteinemia, marked lower AchE levels, and a significant increase in glucose, liver, and kidney function biomarkers. The DNA fragmentation of the liver increased by 15 % in fish compared to the control. On the other hand, lipid peroxidation, superoxide dismutase, and catalase activities were markedly increased in the liver and testes homogenates of the OXY-exposed fish. Meanwhile, total antioxidant capacity and glutathione S-transferase levels declined in the same tissues. Exposure to OXY induced a significant reduction in testosterone and luteinizing hormone levels and a significant increase in follicle stimulating hormone and estradiol. Meanwhile, C. vulgaris dietary supplementation succeeded in alleviating the negative impact of OXY on hematobiochemical parameters and restoring the antioxidant balance in the liver and testes. Furthermore, it ameliorated endocrine disruption and repaired sex hormone levels. In conclusion, exposure to OXY could induce systemic stress, oxidative stress, and endocrine disruption in male C. gariepinus. The dietary supplementation of C. vulgaris could be a potential protective strategy against the toxicity of OXY.

Associations of follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone with metabolic syndrome during the menopausal transition from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

The increased risk of metabolic syndrome (MetS) during the menopausal transition might partly attribute to the changes in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). However, few studies were conducted to examine the associations of FSH and LH concentrations with MetS at the full range of reproductive aging, especially in the US population. The aim of this study is to examine the associations of FSH, LH, and LH/FSH ratio with the risk of MetS and severity score in the US women. Data were derived from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Women aged from 35 to 60 years were eligible. MetS was defined as having at least 3 of the following: a waist circumference ≥ 88cm, a triglycerides level ≥ 150 mg/dL, a high density lipoprotein < 50 mg/dL, a systolic blood pressure ≥ 130mm Hg or a diastolic blood pressure ≥ 85mm Hg or taking hypertension medications, or a fasting plasma glucose level ≥100 mg/dL or taking diabetes medications. The MetS severity score was calculated according to race/ethnicity- specific equation. There were 3,831 women included in this study. Increases in serum FSH and LH levels per 1 SD were separately linked to a 22.6% (OR: 0.774; 95% CI: 0.646, 0.929; and P= 0.006) and 18.5% (OR: 0.815; 95% CI: 0.690, 0.962; and P= 0.006) lower risk of MetS only in postmenopausal women. Meanwhile, increases in serum FSH and LH levels per 1SD were associated with a decrease of -0.157 (95% CI :-2.967, -2.034) and -0.078 (95% CI: -2.688, -1.806) MetS severity score in perimenopausal women and -0.195 (95% CI: -2.192, -1.023) and -0.098 (95% CI:-1.884, -0.733) in postmenopausal women. However, LH/FSH ratio had no connections with the risk of MetS and MetS severity score across the menopausal transition. Elevated serum FSH and LH levels, but not LH/FSH ratio, were associated with a lower risk of MetS and MetS severity score, especially in postmenopausal women. Therefore, serum FSH and LH levels might be efficient predictors for screening and identifying women at risk of MetS across the menopausal transition.

An examination of predictive markers for successful sperm extraction procedures: a linear model and systematic review.

The authors performed a comprehensive review of current literature to create a model comparing commonly evaluated variables in male factor infertility, for example, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), testicular volume (TV), and testosterone (T), to better predict sperm retrieval rate (SRR). Twenty-nine studies were included, 9 with data on conventional testicular sperm extraction (cTESE) for a total of 1227 patients and 20 studies including data on microdissection testicular sperm extraction (mTESE) for a total of 4760 patients. A weighted-means value of SRR, FSH, T, and TV was created, and a weighted linear regression was then used to describe associations among SRR, type of procedure, FSH, T, and TV. In this study, weighted-means values demonstrated mTESE to be superior to cTESE with an SRR of 51.9% vs 40.1%. Multiple weighted linear regressions were created to describe associations among SRR, procedure type, FSH, T, and TV. The models showed that for every 1.19 mIU ml-1 increase in FSH, there would be a significant decrease in SRR by 1.0%. Seeking to create a more clinically relevant model, FSH values were then divided into normal, moderate elevation, and significant elevation categories (FSH <10 mIU ml-1, 10-19 mIU ml-1, and >20 mIU ml-1, respectively). For an index patient undergoing cTESE, the retrieval rates would be 57.1%, 44.3%, and 31.2% for values normal, moderately elevated, and significantly elevated, respectively. In conclusion, in a large meta-analysis, mTESE was shown to be more successful than cTESE for sperm retrievals. FSH has an inverse relationship to SRR in retrieval techniques and can alone be predictive of cTESE SRR.

Beneficial Impact of Folic Acid Against Eco-Physiological Toxicity Induced By Potassium Bromate In Male Rats

Potassium bromate (KBrO3) used in both the food and cosmetics industry, and a drinking water disinfection. Strong oxidizer KBrO3 has been employed in the milling of flour. It is a substance that is nephrotoxic and carcinogenic. Acute renal failure and the potential for injury to the reproductive systems were both associated with the therapy KBrO3. Food naturally contains folic acid, especially dark green leafy vegetables. The study aimed to investigation the effects of folic acid supplementation on the KBrO3 toxicity. Animals were randomly divided into four groups: group I control; group II received daily potassium bromate administration (200 mg/kg bw); group III received daily folic acid administration (40 mg/kg); and group IV received daily administration of 200 mg/kg potassium bromate and 40 mg/kg folic acid, respectively. Blood samples were examined for levels of creatine kinase (CK-MB), troponin, lactate dehydrogenase, creatinine, urea, luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). The experimental animals administered by PB had a substantial increase in CK-MB, troponin, LDH, creatinine, urea, and FSH whereas all experimental rats had a drop in LH and testosterone levels in accordance with the toxicity of potassium bromate. The administration of folic acid had a protective effect on the group of rats treated concurrently with potassium bromate and folic acid. . The heart, kidney, and testis tissues underwent histological examinations, which supported the biochemical findings that the heart, kidney, and testis of KBrO3-treated animals had experienced significant extensive damage. In conclusion, these results show that KBrO3 has serious damaging effects on experimental animals and therefore, its use should be avoided. These dangerous effects should stop its use in human being.

Natural Ghee Enhances the Biochemical and Immunohistochemical Reproductive Performance of Female Rabbits.

The reproductive effects of several dietary fats (margarine, ghee, and olive oil) on female rabbits were studied. For that purpose, 40 mature female rabbits were designed into four groups of ten rabbits each. Group I was given a control diet, Group II received 10% margarine, Group III received 10% ghee, and Group IV received 10% olive oil; after two months, all rabbits were sacrificed. Lipid profile and reproductive hormones levels were assayed in serum besides ovarian antioxidant enzyme and lipid peroxidation. Furthermore, ovarian tissue was examined using hematoxylin-eosin staining and immunohistochemistry of estrogen, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) receptor, and caspase 3. Our data revealed that the margarine significantly (p &lt; 0.05) increased lipid profile and malondialdehyde (MDA) level, which decreased in olive oil and ghee compared to the control. In addition, serum FSH and estrogen (estradiol (E2)) were significantly (p &lt; 0.05) decreased in the group treated with margarine. Furthermore, there was a significant decrease in ovarian superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase activity in the margarine-treated group. In contrast, SOD and MDA showed a significant (p &gt; 0.05) increase in the olive oil and ghee- treated group compared to the control group. At the same time, there was a significant increase in serum FSH and (estradiol (E2)) in the ghee and olive oil groups, respectively, compared to the control. The margarine feed group showed moderate immunoreaction of estrogen, FSH, LH receptor, and strong caspase 3, while ghee and olive oil showed strong immunoreaction of estrogen, FSH, LH receptor, and mild immunoreaction of caspase 3 in ovarian tissue. Photomicrograph of rabbit ovarian tissue showed vacuolation in small and growing follicles in the margarine group but appeared normal in ghee and the olive oil-treated group. In conclusion, based on these results, olive oil and ghee have a strong capability of enhancing lipid profile, antioxidant status, and female hormonal functions.

The Effects of Ficus carica on Male and Female Reproductive Capabilities in Rats.

The basic purpose of pharmacology is to look into the benefits of natural remedies and make them available to the general populace. Herbal medicines are now considered to be the future of humanity. The current study explored the effects of Ficus carica (FC) extract in rats of two-generation F0 (parents) and F1 (offspring) in either sex. The F. carica extract was initially tested for acute and sub-chronic toxicity. Extracts were also tested for fertility assessment and effects on reproductive hormones like follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), estradiol, testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate (DHEAS), insulin, progesterone, and prolactin. The antioxidant activity of the extract was also evaluated by testing mRNA expressions of SOD2, GPX1, CAT, and GR in male testes and female ovaries. The animals treated with 100 mg/kg FC extract produced a more pronounced fertility effect in both genders. Expression of CAT, SOD2, GPX1, and GR was found to be increased in the reproductive organs of both sexes. Histology of the testes reveals increased spermatogenesis and increased folliculogenesis in ovaries. The hormone profile showed an increase in FSH, DHT, estradiol, and DHEAS levels in males and FSH, LH, estrogen, and DHEAS in females. The results of the study establish the effectiveness of natural products in improving fertility issues in either sex.

Estradiol and follicle-stimulating hormone imbalance associated with mineral-bone metabolism disturbances and cardiovascular complications in women on hemodialysis

BACKGROUND. The influence of female sex hormones on the regulation of the processes of formation and resorption of bone tissue, as well as the effect of excess or deficiency of sex hormones on renal function is associated with the development of cardiovascular complications in patients at different stages of chronic kidney disease. THE AIM : to study the relationship between estradiol deficiency and excess FSH content with disorders of mineral and bone metabolism and cardiovascular complications in postmenopausal women on hemodialysis. PATIENTS AND METHODS. 119 women from 34 to 57 years old on hemodialysis were examined. The concentration of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol2, sclerostin, and fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF-23) was determined using a sandwich-variant solid-phase ELISA on a «Multiscan EX analyzer» («ThermoFisher Scientific Inc.», Finland) with kits of «Alkor-Bio Company» (Russian Federation) and sets of "sandwich" type manufactured by Cloud-Clone Corp., USA. Echocardiography was performed using an «ALOKA 4000 Aplio» (Toshiba, Japan) in Doppler mode. Determined the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), peak systolic velocity in the aortic arch (Vps – peak systolic velocity); LV myocardial mass index (LVMI). Left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) was defined with LVMI greater than 95 g /m 2 in women. RESULTS. There was a direct correlation between high levels of FSH and high levels of sclerostin, FSH, and FGF23, an inverse correlation between low levels of estradiol2 and sclerostin, estradiol2 and FGF23, expressed in groups of patients with more severe changes in LVMI and Vps. CONCLUSION. In women on hemodialysis, bone mineral and cardiovascular abnormalities are associated with both renal failure proper and changes in the system of female sex hormones. A decrease in estradiol levels causes an increase in the nephrotoxic FSH and contributes to the excessive synthesis of sclerostin, a key factor in bone-mineral and cardiovascular complications in CKD.