Increase In Testosterone Concentrations Research Articles

Hematological, biochemical, and hormonal effects of organochlorine pesticide residues found in canal and tap waters on albino white rats

Analysis of water from the canal that feeds the Damanhour water station and tap water in Damanhour, Beheira Governorate, Egypt, revealed the presence of gamma-HCH, beta-HCH, heptachlor epoxide, p, p D.D.E., dieldrin, endrin aldehyde, endosulfan sulfate, and endrin ketone. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the adverse effects of administration of the OCl pesticide residues found in canal water (0.0448 µg/ kg b. wt.) and tap water (0.022 µg/ kg b. wt.) to white Albino rats. Results revealed that treatment of male and female rats with a single oral dose of OCl pesticide residues found in both canal and tap water caused slight alteration in Hemoglobin (Hb), red blood cells (RBC) in male rats, and packed cell volume (PCV) in male and female treated rats relative to control. There was a significant increase in Hb, a decrease in RBC counts in treated female rats, and a significant decrease in WBC count in both male and female rats. There was a slight alteration in GOT, GPT, and G.GT activity in both male and female rats and a significant increase in alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity in male rats. Compared to controls, treated rats had substantial increases in uric acid and albumin concentrations and a slight alteration in total protein concentration in the serum. Administration of OCl residues to rats caused no significant effect on male or female progesterone. It caused a significant increase in testosterone concentration in treated female rats and a decrease in the serum of male rats. Compared to controls, treated male rats had slightly lower follicle stimulation hormone (FSH) levels, and treated female rats had higher levels. Also, no significant difference was observed in T4 levels between the control and treated females in treated rats. However, the T4 level increased significantly in the males administered the high O.C.s found in canal water. T3 levels decreased in the serum of male and female rats, but T3 was significantly reduced in male rats given an oral dose of OCl residues in canal water. Unlike their effects on T3 levels, the impact of OCl residues on T4 levels in this study was inconsistent in treated rats. Conclusions: Administration of a single oral dose of OCl pesticide residues found in both canal and tap water to rats caused significant and non-significant alteration in some hematological, biochemical, and hormonal biomarkers in the serum of treated rats compared to control.

Segmental hair analysis as a retrospective testosterone diary: possibilities and pitfalls

Testosterone is thought to be incorporated in growing hair strands so that specific hair segments reflect average free hormone concentrations from the corresponding time period. However, the exact mechanisms of hormone integration in scalp hair have not yet been established and it is not known how testosterone is stored in the hair segments over time. The aim of this study was to investigate the stability of testosterone concentrations in hair as it grows and to determine if segmental hair analysis can be used as a retrospective testosterone diary. Thirty men and 40 women provided two hair samples and 16 saliva samples during a period of three months. Hair growth between the two samplings was measured. Hair samples were cut into 10 mm segments resulting in three segments from the first sampling and six segments from the second sampling. Hair samples were pulverised and extracted with methanol. Hair testosterone concentrations were analysed using an in-house radioimmunoassay. Salivary testosterone was analysed using a commercial enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (Demeditec). The results demonstrated that there is a degree of segmental hormone conservation over time (rho = 0.405–0.461, p < 0.001, n = 66–67), but also highlighted three potential confounders. Firstly, testosterone concentrations were higher in distal hair segments (mean concentration ratio most distal by most scalp-near was 1.55, SD 0.70), which may be due to continuous hormone integration from sebum and changes in hair matrix composition. Secondly, more frequent hair washing stunted the increase in testosterone concentrations in distal segments (rho = −0.404, p = < 0.001, n = 66). And lastly, intra- and inter- individual variability in hair growth rate influenced the temporal resolution along the hair, although mean growth rate was indeed 30.0 mm for three months. In a multiple regression model the biological sex, natural hair colour, and relationship status were significant explanatory variables to hair testosterone concentrations. The current results indicate that repeated hair sampling near the hair roots during a study may be preferable to analysing concentration changes between proximal and distal segments within the same hair sample. Also, hair testosterone analysis needs to be adjusted for sex and the natural hair colour.

Retinoic acid loaded with chitosan nanoparticles improves spermatogenesis in scrotal hyperthermia in mice.

High temperatures can trigger cellular oxidative stress and disrupt spermatogenesis, potentially leading to male infertility. We investigated the effects of retinoic acid (RA), chitosan nanoparticles (CHNPs), and retinoic acid loaded with chitosan nanoparticles (RACHNPs) on spermatogenesis in mice induced by scrotal hyperthermia (Hyp). Thirty mice (weighing 25 to 30 g) were divided into five experimental groups of six mice each. The groups were as follows: control, Hyp induced by a water bath (43 °C for 30 minutes/day for 5 weeks), Hyp+RA (2 mg/kg/day), Hyp+CHNPs (2 mg/kg/72 hours), and Hyp+RACHNPs (4 mg/kg/72 hours). The mice were treated for 35 days. After the experimental treatments, the animals were euthanized. Sperm samples were collected for analysis of sperm parameters, and blood serum was isolated for testosterone measurement. Testis samples were also collected for histopathology assessment, reactive oxygen species (ROS) evaluation, and RNA extraction, which was done to compare the expression levels of the bax, bcl2, p53, Fas, and FasL genes among groups. Additionally, immunohistochemical staining was performed. Treatment with RACHNPs significantly increased stereological parameters such as testicular volume, seminiferous tubule length, and testicular cell count. Additionally, it increased testosterone concentration and improved sperm parameters. We observed significant decreases in ROS production and caspase-3 immunostaining in the RACHNP group. Moreover, the expression levels of bax, p53, Fas, and FasL significantly decreased in the groups treated with RACHNPs and RA. RACHNPs can be considered a potent antioxidative and antiapoptotic agent for therapeutic strategies in reproductive and regenerative medicine.

Male-specific consequences of obesity - functional hypogonadism and fertility disorders.

Obesity is currently one of the most serious public health problems which affects up to 30-40% of the population, and its prevalence is higher in men than in women. Complications of obesity include atherosclerosis, cardiovascular diseases, and type 2 diabetes mellitus, but it also has a negative impact on the hormonal system and fertility. The hormonal consequences of excess body fat in men are functional hypogonadism, which not only causes clinical symptoms of testosterone deficiency, but is also a risk factor for obesity (a vicious circle mechanism). Reduced fertility in obese men may be a consequence of functional hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (decreased gonadotropins and testosterone secretion, reduced libido, and erectile dysfunction), but other mechanisms associated with excess adipose tissue, like hyperinsulinaemia, hyperleptinaemia, chronic inflammation, and oxidative stress also play an important role. Therefore, in obese men deterioration of semen parameters (sperm concentration, motility, and morphology) and reduced fertility are observed, also concerning the effectiveness of assisted reproductive techniques. Reducing the mass of adipose tissue causes an increase in testosterone concentrations and has a beneficial effect on semen parameters. Functional hypogonadism in obese men should be diagnosed only after exclusion of organic causes of hypogonadism. Lifestyle changes, including physical exercise and low-caloric diet, and optimization of comorbidities, are still first line of treatment. In some patients, if such treatment is ineffective, pharmacotherapy or bariatric surgery may be considered. Testosterone replacement therapy is contraindicated in obese men with functional hypogonadism, especially in those who desire fertility. Selective oestrogen receptor modulators and aromatase inhibitors improve sperm quality but are not recommended for the treatment of hypogonadism in obese men. GLP-1 analogues appear to be effective and safe in the treatment of low testosterone and infertility in obese men and may be the main method of pharmacotherapy in the future.

A pumpless monolayer microfluidic device based on mesenchymal stem cell-conditioned medium promotes neonatal mouse in vitro spermatogenesis

BackgroundChildhood cancer treatment-induced gonadotoxicity causes permanent infertility/sub-infertility in nearly half of males. The current clinical and experimental approaches are limited to cryopreservation of prepubertal testicular strips and in vitro spermatogenesis which are inadequate to achieve the expanded spermatogonial stem/progenitor cells and spermatogenesis in vitro. Recently, we reported the supportive effect of bone marrow-derived mesenchymal cell co-culture which is inadequate after 14 days of culture in static conditions in prepubertal mouse testis due to lack of microvascular flow and diffusion. Therefore, we generated a novel, pumpless, single polydimethylsiloxane-layered testis-on-chip platform providing a continuous and stabilized microfluidic flow and real-time cellular paracrine contribution of allogeneic bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells.MethodsWe aimed to evaluate the efficacy of this new setup in terms of self-renewal of stem/progenitor cells, spermatogenesis and structural and functional maturation of seminiferous tubules in vitro by measuring the number of undifferentiated and differentiating spermatogonia, spermatocytes, spermatids and tubular growth by histochemical, immunohistochemical, flow cytometric and chromatographic techniques.ResultsBone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell-based testis-on-chip platform supported the maintenance of SALL4(+) and PLZF(+) spermatogonial stem/progenitor cells, for 42 days. The new setup improved in vitro spermatogenesis in terms of c-Kit(+) differentiating spermatogonia, VASA(+) total germ cells, the meiotic cells including spermatocytes and spermatids and testicular maturation by increasing testosterone concentration and improved tubular growth for 42 days in comparison with hanging drop and non-mesenchymal stem cell control.ConclusionsFuture fertility preservation for male pediatric cancer survivors depends on the protection/expansion of spermatogonial stem/progenitor cell pool and induction of in vitro spermatogenesis. Our findings demonstrate that a novel bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cell-based microfluidic testis-on-chip device supporting the maintenance of stem cells and spermatogenesis in prepubertal mice in vitro. This new, cell therapy-based microfluidic platform may contribute to a safe, precision-based cell and tissue banking protocols for prepubertal fertility restoration in future.

Acute Performance, Daily Well-Being, and Hormone Responses to Water Immersion After Resistance Exercise in Junior International and Subelite Male Volleyball Athletes.

Horgan, BG, Tee, N, West, NP, Drinkwater, EJ, Halson, SL, Colomer, CME, Fonda, CJ, Tatham, J, Chapman, DW, and Haff, GG. Acute performance, daily well-being and hormone responses to water immersion after resistance exercise in junior international and subelite male volleyball athletes. J Strength Cond Res 37(8): 1643-1653, 2023-Athletes use postexercise hydrotherapy strategies to improve recovery and competition performance and to enhance adaptative responses to training. Using a randomized cross-over design, the acute effects of 3 postresistance exercise water immersion strategies on perceived recovery, neuromuscular performance, and hormone concentrations in junior international and subelite male volleyball athletes ( n = 18) were investigated. After resistance exercise, subjects randomly completed either 15-minute passive control (CON), contrast water therapy (CWT), cold (CWI), or hot water immersion (HWI) interventions. A treatment effect occurred after HWI; reducing perceptions of fatigue (HWI > CWT: p = 0.05, g = 0.43); improved sleep quality, compared with CON ( p < 0.001, g = 1.15), CWI ( p = 0.017, g = 0.70), and CWT ( p = 0.018, g = 0.51); as well as increasing testosterone concentration (HWI > CWT: p = 0.038, g = 0.24). There were trivial to small ( p < 0.001-0.039, g = 0.02-0.34) improvements (treatment effect) in jump performance (i.e., squat jump and countermovement jump) after all water immersion strategies, as compared with CON, with high variability in the individual responses. There were no significant differences (interaction effect, p > 0.05) observed between the water immersion intervention strategies and CON in performance ( p = 0.153-0.99), hormone ( p = 0.207-0.938), nor perceptual ( p = 0.368-0.955) measures. To optimize recovery and performance responses, e.g., during an in-season competition phase, postresistance exercise HWI may assist with providing small-to-large improvements for up to 38 hours in perceived recovery (i.e., increased sleep quality and reduced fatigue) and increases in circulating testosterone concentration. Practitioners should consider individual athlete neuromuscular performance responses when prescribing postexercise hydrotherapy. These findings apply to athletes who aim to improve their recovery status, where postresistance exercise HWI optimizes sleep quality and next-day perceptions of fatigue.

Рівень гормонів у підлітків із фізіологічним і патологічним перебігом пубертатного періоду за різної інтенсивності фізичної активності

Scientific evidence suggests a global pandemic of motor inactivity in adolescents that contributes to a number of chronic diseases. At the same time, regular physical activity has a favorable effect on the growth and sexual development of children and adolescents. Purpose - to evaluate the influence of physical activity (PA) on the hormonal blood spectrum of adolescents with physiological and pathological course of puberty. Materials and methods. We examined 55 boys and 46 girls aged 11-17 years old. Concentration of total testosterone, estradiol, cortisol, prolactin was determined by enzyme immunoassay, serotonin content was determined by fluorometric method. PA was studied using the questionnaire of IPAQ (International Physical Activity Questionnaire). Depending on the course of pubertal period adolescents were divided into 2 groups: the Group 1 - with physiological course of puberty; the Group 2 - with pathological course of puberty (boys with delayed puberty and girls with menstrual disorders). Adolescents were divided into 2 groups according to their PA level: low (&lt;7 points) and high (&gt;9 points) levels of PA. Results. It was found that in boys with a physiological course of puberty high PA compared with low activity leads to an increase in testosterone concentration and has a positive effect on physical development. High PA, on the contrary, decreases the content of testosterone in the pathological course of puberty and possibly aggravates puberty in boys. In girls high PA against the physiological course of puberty leads to an increase in serotonin, an indicator of the stress-limiting system. In the pathological course of puberty high PA has a positive effect, reducing the levels of testosterone and prolactin compared with low activity, which may contribute to the normalization of menstrual function, as well as reducing stress levels. Conclusions. Physical activity in adolescents should continue to be encouraged, given its positive effect on the hormonal blood spectrum. However, gender differences, pubertal development status and different mechanisms of adaptation to PA of girls and boys should be taken into account. It is very important to determine the optimal level of PA to meet the needs of children and adolescents, which would have a beneficial effect on both physical and psycho-emotional development. The research was carried out in accordance with the principles of the Helsinki Declaration. The study protocol was approved by the Local Ethics Committee of the participating institution. The informed consent of the patient was obtained for conducting the studies. No conflict of interests was declared by the authors.

СОСТОЯНИЕ КОПУЛЯТИВНОЙ ФУНКЦИИ У ПАЦИЕНТОВ ПОСЛЕ ТРАНСУРЕТРАЛЬНОЙ МЕХАНИЧЕСКОЙ ЭНУКЛЕАЦИИ БИПОЛЯРНЫМ ЭЛЕКТРОДОМ ДОБРОКАЧЕСТВЕННОЙ ГИПЕРПЛАЗИИ ПРЕДСТАТЕЛЬНОЙ ЖЕЛЕЗЫ

Aim. Today, the problem of treating sexual disorders does not have limitations on the age factor; in this connection, the state of copulatory function (CF) in patients after surgery for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is an important aspect. In the world and domestic literature, there are very few works that comprehensively evaluate the effect of bipolar transurethral mechanical enucleation (TUEB) on the state of CF in general with a parallel study of reflex and hormonal. Objective. To study the effect of TUEB on the state of CF, reflex and hormonal status. Materials and methods. The results of the treatment of 102 patients who underwent TUEB (n=102). IPSS scores and quality of life index, IIEF, AMS questionnaire scores, ICF scale, bulbocavernous reflex (BCR), testosterone fractions (TF) and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) were investigated. The patients were examined preoperatively, 6 and 12 months later. Results. Progressive improvement in erectile function (EF) after surgical treatment with the TUEB method. The duration of the latent period of BCR decreased, indicating an improvement in reflex status, as well as an increase in the duration of nocturnal sleep with a parallel increase in testosterone concentration in the operated patients. Conclusions. Surgical treatment of BPH through the application of TUEB in general shows duality of influence on the state of EF, consisting of positive influence (improvement of EF) and negative influence, which is expressed in increased specific weight of patients with postoperative hypoorgasmia (HO) and retrograde ejaculation (RE). This technique was found to improve reflex and hormonal status.

Effects of Leptin antagonist treatments on testosterone and testis histological characteristics of immature male mice

The present study aimed to ascertain how leptin antagonist injection affected testis weights, testis morphology and testosterone levels in immature male Swiss mice. Animals were administered with anti-leptin antibody subcutaneously, with or without equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG). Control animals were treated with non-immune serum. Blood and testis were collected. The Androgen profile was analyzed in serum and tissue homogenates, and testes were histologically examined. Compared to controls, mice treated with an anti-leptin antibody with or without gonadotropins had a significant (p&lt;0.05) increase in testis weight. Testosterone concentrations in the testis were significantly (p&lt;0.05) higher in mice administered with anti-leptin antibody compared to control, but testosterone concentrations in blood were not affected. The diameter of seminiferous tubules, the diameter of the lumen and the width of spermatogenic cells were significantly (p&lt;0.05) higher in mice in treatment groups compared to controls. We conclude that anti-leptin antibody administration in immature male mice increased testosterone concentrations in the testis and improved testis histological characteristics. Keywords: leptin; mouse; histology; testis; testosterone; immature male

Changes in levels of testosterone, insulin sensitivity and metabolic profiles during GnRH therapy: Reciprocity between insulin sensitivity and pituitary responsiveness to GnRH in teenage and young male patients with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism.

A direct evaluation of insulin sensitivity on pituitary response to gonadotropin relasing hormone (GnRH) has not been shown in congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (CHH), despite a growing body of evidence in the association of testosterone concentrations with insulin sensitiviy. The objective of the study was to explore whether increased testosterone concentrations in men with CHH improve insulin sensitivity, or vice versa. A retrospective study at a tertiary centre. Series of male CHH patients were included from Jannuary 2014 to December 2019. Insulin sensitivity indices calculated from oral glucose tolerance test and steroid hormone levels were examined in 52 patients with newly diagnosed CHH and 22 healthy controls. Thirty-two of the 52 CHH patients received pulsatile GnRH therapy with follow-up every 3-6 months. Compared to healthy controls, CHH patients had elevated 2 hpost-load glucose, HbA1c, fasting insulin, HOMA of insulin resistance(HOMA-IR)and decreased Matsuda index and testosterone (p ≤ .01). The median follow-up for patients (n = 32) who received pulsatile GnRH therapy was 13.5 (11.3-24) months (432 person-months in total). GnRH therapy increased testosterone and Matsuda index (p ≤ .0001), whilst decreased platelet count (p = .04), leptin (p = .04), fasting glucose (p = .01)and HOMA-IR (p &lt; .0001) compared with baseline. The median treatment duration first time to reach the lower limit of normal testosterone concentrations of patients with high and low baseline insulin sensitivity was 15 (95% CI:8.1-21.9) and 30 months (21.2-38.8), respectively. Correspondingly, after GnRH therapy, luteinizing hormone responsiveness to GnRH provocative test was more vigorous in patients with high insulin sensitivity than those with low insulin sensitivity [17.0 (9.5-25.9)vs. 8.2 (3.3-13.0), p = .01]. Pulsatile GnRH therapy elevated testosterone levels in male CHH patients, ameliorated impaired insulin sensitivity and attenuated subclinical inflammatory response, increased insulin sensitivity, in turn, may benefit the efficacy of pulsatile GnRH therapy.

RESPOSTAS HORMONAIS INDUZIDAS POR EXERCÍCIOS À ADMINISTRAÇÃO DO HMB: UMA REVISÃO SISTEMÁTICA E META-ANÁLISE

ABSTRACT Introduction: The β-hydroxy β-methyl butyrate (HMB) is an amino acid leucine metabolite with several ergogenic benefits. It is known that it can benefit testosterone and cortisol concentration in athletes. However, no systematic review and meta-analysis has focused on the effects of HMB supplementation on testosterone and cortisol in trained athletes. Objectives: The meta-analysis evaluates the effect of HMB supplementation on testosterone and cortisol in trained athletes and verifies conflicting results between studies. Methods: A systemic review was performed in Scopus, Medline, and Google scholar databases of articles published until August 2021. The Cochrane Collaboration tool was used to assess the risk of bias and assess the quality of the studies. Random effects model, weighted mean difference (WMD), and 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to estimate the overall effect. Results: Although the meta-analysis showed that HMB consumption does not alter cortisol and testosterone concentration, subgroup analysis based on exercise type exhibited a significant decrease in cortisol concentration in resistance training exercises (P&lt;0.05) and a significant increase in testosterone concentration in combined aerobic and anaerobic sports (P&lt;0.05). Conclusion: The results indicate that HMB supplementation in athletes can reduce cortisol concentration in endurance exercise and increase testosterone concentration in combined aerobic and anaerobic exercise. Evidence Level II; Therapeutic Studies – Investigating the results.

Exposure of rams in sexual rest to sexually activated males in spring increases plasma LH and testosterone concentrations

Eight stimulating rams, and twelve stimulated rams, were used to determine whether a similar endocrine response to the introduction of sexually active males in spring in a flock of ewes is observed in a flock of rams. The stimulating rams (n = 4) were induced into a sexually active state by exposure to 2 months of long days (16 h light/d) (15 December-15 February). At the end of the long-day period, rams were returned to the natural photoperiod. Control-stimulating rams (n = 4) were kept under the natural photoperiod. On April 20, stimulated rams were divided into 2 groups, and joined with activated (ACT; n = 6) or control stimulating rams (C; n = 6). On the day of ram introduction, stimulated rams were blood sampled for 8 h at 20-min intervals, from 4 h before to 4 h after ram introduction, and next day from 24 to 28 h after ram introduction, and analyzed for plasma LH concentrations, and 10, 20 and 30 days after ram introduction to measure plasma testosterone levels. Mean (±SEM) plasma LH concentrations (ng/ml) of stimulated rams were similar during the 4 h before stimulating-ram introduction (ACT: 0.59 ± 0.03; C: 0.53 ± 0.04; P > 0.05). The introduction of the photoperiod-treated stimulating rams increased LH concentrations of stimulated rams during the 4 h after their introduction (1.14 ± 0.37) compared with the C group (0.51 ± 0.03; P < 0.05), especially during the first hour (ACT: 0.93 ± 0.16; C: 0.49 ± 0.03; P < 0.05), and during the blood sampling period 24–28 h after ram introduction (0.75 ± 0.07 vs. 0.58 ± 0.04; P < 0.05). Before the introduction of stimulating rams, the LH pulse frequencies and amplitudes did not differ between groups; however, LH pulsatility was higher at 4 h (0.58 ± 0.11 pulses/h; P < 0.05), and had trend to be higher 24 h (0.50 ± 0.06) (P = 0.10) after the introduction of the photoperiod-treated stimulating rams compared with the control-stimulating rams (0.29 ± 0.08 and 0.29 ± 0.10, respectively). As for LH pulses, there was an effect of group (P < 0.05) on LH amplitude, which presented a trend to be higher in ACT rams 4 h after ram introduction (1.68 ± 0.30; P < 0.10) and higher 24 h (1.07 ± 0.08; P < 0.05) after ram introduction, compared with LH amplitudes of C rams (0.71 ± 0.06 and 0.82 ± 0.07, respectively). Plasma testosterone concentrations of rams exposed to photoperiod-treated activated rams were higher than those of rams exposed to control-stimulating rams, at 4 h, 20 and 30 days after ram introduction (P < 0.05). In conclusion, sexually active rams in spring are able to stimulate LH and testosterone secretion of other rams in sexual rest, a phenomenon we called “ram-to-ram effect".

Lycopene modulates hepatic toxicity and testicular injury induced by etoposide in male rats

Lycopene (C40H56), a carotenoid found in red colour fruits, is known as a powerful antioxidant that protects cells from damage caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS). Etoposide inhibits topoisomerase II activity and restricts the development of cancer cells, though it establishes oxidative stress. To study the effect of lycopene (Ly) against hepatotoxicity and testis injury induced by etoposide in male rats. Forty male Wister albino rats. The experiment lasted for seven consecutive weeks including one week as acclimatization time. The experiment was in a completely randomized design with a 2×2 factorial arrangement. The animals were grouped as follow: No etoposide injection and no lycopene (control), lycopene supplementation (LY), etoposide injection (ET), and rats with etoposide injection and lycopene supplement (ET+LY). At the end of the experiment, rats were sacrificed by cervical dislocation. Blood samples were harvested and analyzed for serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein-Cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), total cholesterol (TC), Total Protein (TP), glucose (GLU) and testosterone. The left testis was manipulated for histological examination. The result of experiment showed that rats with etoposide injection had higher ALT, AST, and ALP than the control rats. In contrast co-treated rats (ET+LY) significantly modulated the levels of the hepatic parameters. Administration of lycopene increased testosterone concentration and germinal epithelium of seminiferous tubules in testes rats. Lycopene might be a promising agent with hepatoprotective effect in restoring testis injury induced by etoposide in rats.

The High Testosterone Concentrations of the Bucks Used in the "Male Effect" Is Not a Prerequisite for Obtaining High Ovarian Activity in Goats from Mediterranean Latitudes.

Simple SummaryThe introduction of males to anovulatory females previously separated from males (or even without separation) can induce estrous activity within a few days; this is termed the “male effect”. It is a common reproductive management practice on the extensive and semi-extensive goat farms of the Mediterranean area. High testosterone concentrations at the moment of the induction of the “male effect” are usually considered essential to obtain a high reproductive response from female goats. By controlling the secretion of GnRH, it is possible to control the gonadotropins and testosterone secretion. GnRH agonists have been used to control testosterone concentration in different species. Two experiments were carried out to determine if the contact during the seasonal anestrous of the males with the females modifies the testosterone concentrations and if the use of a GnRH agonist on the bucks to avoid variation in testosterone concentrations when the male effect is induced causes variation in the reproductive response of the does.Two experiments were carried out. Firstly, 54 anestrous females were placed in contact with photostimulated males (Photo; n = 27) or with no photostimulated males (Natural; n = 27). Moreover, a group of bucks treated with artificial photoperiod and a group of bucks subjected to natural photoperiod without contact with females was used (Photo Isolated and Natural Isolated, respectively). In the Natural groups, the testosterone concentrations were similar except for three days after the introduction of the bucks to the does (19.72 ± 4.11 vs. 2.05 ± 0.25 ng/mL for Natural and Natural isolated bucks, respectively, p < 0.05). However, no differences were observed in the Photo groups during the entire experiment. The percentage of females showing estrous was higher in the group of females in contact with photostimulated bucks (96 vs. 74%, respectively, p < 0.05). In the second experiment, a GnRH agonist, deslorelin, was used to regulate the testosterone concentrations of the bucks. Seventy anestrous females were divided into five groups depending on the treatment received by the bucks to which they were exposed: photostimulated bucks (Photo group, n = 14); photostimulated bucks but treated with the agonist at the onset of the photoperiod treatment (Photo-Ago Long group, n = 13); photostimulated bucks but treated with the agonist at the end of the photoperiod treatment (Photo-Ago Short group, n = 15); bucks receiving no photostimulation but treated with the agonist at the end of the photoperiod treatment period (Natural-Ago Short group, n = 13) and bucks receiving no photostimulation nor agonist (Natural group, n = 15). The agonist treatment increased testosterone concentrations after the injection, which remained high for the entire experiment (p < 0.05). Six days after the introduction of the bucks to the does, the testosterone concentrations increased only in the Natural group reaching similar concentrations to the other groups (12.17 ± 6.55, 16.69 ± 4.53, 8.70 ± 0.61, 11.03 ± 1.45 and 14.42 ± 3.64 ng/mL for Photo, Photo-Ago Long, Photo-Ago Short, Natural-Ago Short and Natural bucks, respectively, p > 0.05). No differences in reproductive parameters were observed (p > 0.05). These results demonstrate that, at Mediterranean latitudes, anestrous females can stimulate the testosterone concentrations of bucks after a period of isolation. The high testosterone concentrations are not a prerequisite for an adequate response to the male effect.

Serum multiple organochlorine pesticides in relation to testosterone concentrations among Chinese men from an infertility clinic

BackgroundOrganochlorine pesticides (OCPs) are endocrine-disrupting chemicals and may alter male reproductive hormone concentrations. ObjectiveTo explore the associations between multiple OCP exposures and serum testosterone concentrations among Chinese men. MethodsWe investigated 421 men who provided serum samples from an infertility clinic in Wuhan, China. Each man completed a questionnaire concerning demographic characteristics and lifestyle habits. Serum concentrations of 18 OCPs and total testosterone were measured. Linear regression models were used to explore whether serum OCP levels were associated with altered testosterone concentrations, and potential effect modifications by age and body mass index (BMI) were also examined. ResultsAfter adjusting for potential confounders, elevated dieldrin and p,p'-DDD levels had monotonically negative and positive exposure-response associations with testosterone concentrations, respectively (−30.98 ng/dL, 95% CI: −72.34, 10.37; P for trend = 0.12 and 41.31 ng/dL, 95% CI: −0.32, 82.93; P for trend = 0.06 for the highest vs. non-detectable exposure category, respectively). After stratification by age and BMI, dieldrin in relation to decreased testosterone concentrations was more pronounced among men aged <30 years old, and p,p'-DDD in relation to increased testosterone concentrations was stronger among men aged ≥30 years old and among men with a BMI <24 kg/m2, though the differences were not statistically significant. ConclusionThe study found evidence that serum dieldrin and p,p'-DDD concentrations might be associated with altered serum testosterone concentrations.

High prevalence of subnormal testosterone in obese adolescent males: reversal with bariatric surgery.

Obesity in adolescent males is associated with the lowering of total and free testosterone concentrations. Weight loss may increase testosterone concentrations. We evaluated the changes in sex hormones following bariatric surgery in 34 males (age range: 14.6-19.8 years) with obesity. These participants were part of a prospective multicenter study, Teen-Longitudinal Assessment of Bariatric Surgery. The participants were followed up for 5 years after surgery. Total testosterone, total estradiol, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, sex hormone-binding globulin, C-reactive protein, insulin and glucose were measured at baseline, 6 months and annually thereafter. Free testosterone, free estradiol and HOMA2-IR were calculated. Study participants lost one-third of their body weight after bariatric surgery, with maximum weight loss achieved at 24 months for most participants. Free testosterone increased from 0.17 (95% CI: 0.13 to 0.20) at baseline to 0.34 (95% CI: 0.30 to 0.38) and 0.27 nmol/L (95% CI: 0.23 to 0.32) at 2 and 5 years (P < 0.001 for both), respectively. Total testosterone increased from 6.7 (95% CI: 4.7 to 8.8) at baseline to 17.6 (95% CI: 15.3 to 19.9) and 13.8 (95% CI: 11.0 to 16.5) nmol/L at 2 and 5 years (P < 0.001), respectively. Prior to surgery, 73% of the participants had subnormal free testosterone (<0.23 nmol/L). After 2 and 5 years, only 20 and 33%, respectively, had subnormal free testosterone concentrations. Weight regain was related to a fall in free testosterone concentrations. Bariatric surgery led to a robust increase in testosterone concentrations in adolescent males with severe obesity. Participants who regained weight had a decline in their testosterone concentrations.

Development of a single-dose intranasal testosterone administration paradigm for use in men and women

For over two decades, researchers in the field of human social neuroendocrinology have been using single-dose pharmacological challenge protocols to determine the causal effects of testosterone on psychological, behavioural, and neural processes. Most of these single-dose administration studies have so far used (1) single-sex samples and (2) varying modes of testosterone administration (intramuscular, transdermal, sublingual, and intranasal) that produced vastly different dose-response curves. Moreover, whereas studies with male participants increased men's testosterone concentrations within the high normal physiological range, studies with women typically increased testosterone concentrations to supraphysiological levels. The purpose of this study was to develop a single-dose administration protocol using intranasal testosterone that would produce a proportionally similar rise in testosterone for both sexes. We found that an 11 mg intranasal testosterone dose in men and a 0.3 mg dose in women raised testosterone concentrations to the high normal physiological range for each sex, producing similar dose-response dynamics in both sexes. This paradigm will allow researchers to design studies with mixed-sex samples that test physiologically plausible sex differences/similarities in the causal effects of testosterone. It will also provide a replicable protocol to examine the possible adaptive functions of acute increases in testosterone in both sexes.

Determining the Effects of Serial Injections of Pregnant Mare Serum Gonadotropin on Plasma Testosterone Concentrations, Testicular Dynamics, and Semen Production in Leopard Geckos (Eublepharis macularius).

Simple SummaryCurrent estimates have determined that one in five reptile species are already threatened with extinction. The aim of this study was to determine if pregnant mare serum gonadotropin could be used in leopard geckos (Eublepharis macularius) to stimulate the production of sperm and increase their testosterone concentrations. This information may aid in the development of breeding programs for endangered gecko species in the future that will be useful for conservation efforts. Our results demonstrated that this hormone did stimulate sperm production and increased testicular size in leopard geckos. However, it did not increase testosterone concentrations under the current conditions between October–December in the Northern hemisphere. Ultimately, future studies are needed to further characterize the annual reproductive cycle of leopard geckos.Reptiles are highly susceptible to anthropogenic activities as a result of their narrow geographical ranges and habitat specialization, making them a conservation concern. Geckos represent one of the mega-diverse reptile lineages under pressure; however, limited assisted reproductive technologies currently exist for these animals. Exogenous pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG) has been found to exhibit follicle stimulating hormone-like action and has been routinely used to alter reproductive hormones of vertebrates in assisted reproductive protocols. The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of serial injections of 20 IU and 50 IU PMSG on circulating testosterone concentrations, testicular dynamics, and semen production in a model species of gecko. Twenty-four captive-bred, adult, male leopard geckos (Eublepharis macularius) were divided into three treatment groups and administered a once-weekly injection of either PMSG or saline for a total of nine weeks. Ultrasonographic testicular measurements, electrostimulation for semen collection, and venipuncture were performed on days 0, 21, 42, and 63. Right unilateral orchidectomies and epididymectomies were performed in all animals on day 63; tissues were submitted for histopathology. PMSG treated geckos had significantly higher testicular volumes and weights, spermatozoa motility, and spermatozoa concentrations compared with controls. However, there were no significant differences in testosterone concentrations by treatment or time. Under the conditions outlined, PMSG is effective at stimulating spermatogenesis and increasing testicular size, but not effective at increasing testosterone concentrations in the leopard gecko between October–December in the Northern hemisphere.

Correlation between age, testosterone and adiponectin concentrations, and sperm abnormalities in Simmental bulls.

Background and Aim:Capacity for sperm production is affected by age, which is related to the morphology of sperm abnormalities and can affect fertility. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between age and concentrations of testosterone and adiponectin with sperm abnormalities in Simmental bulls.Materials and Methods:The study used 11 bulls, separated into three groups. The first group consisted of five bulls aged 4-5 years, and the second and third groups each consisted of three bulls, aged 6-7 and 8-10 years, respectively. The average sperm motility of the animals ranged from 57.66±2.60% to 70.17±0.22%. Blood samples were obtained from the coccygeal region of the animals. Testosterone and adiponectin analysis was performed using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay method. Sperm morphology was evaluated using carbol fuchsin-eosin staining according to the Williams method. Finally, correlations between testosterone and adiponectin concentrations, age, and sperm abnormalities were analyzed using Pearson’s correlation analysis.Results:The findings revealed a significant correlation (p<0.01) between the concentrations of testosterone and adiponectin (−0.538), age (−0.588), and abnormal sperm morphology (−0.912). Moreover, they revealed that the concentration of testosterone in the bulls aged 8-10 years was lower, at 21.89±4.56 ng/mL, compared to that in the bulls aged 4-5 years, at 36.15±1.29 ng/mL, and 6-7 years, at 35.16±5.39 ng/mL. The findings also revealed a positive correlation between adiponectin concentration and age (0.529) and sperm abnormalities (0.506). The increase in testosterone concentration was inversely related to the adiponectin concentration (−0.538). Moreover, the mean amount of abnormal sperm increased with increasing age: 3.82±0.33% in the group aged 4-5 years, and 4.40±0.72% and 10.20±1.97% in the groups aged 6-7 years and 8-10 years, respectively.Conclusion:The study data indicate that there is a decrease in testosterone concentration, a high adiponectin concentration, and an increase in abnormal sperm with increasing age in bulls.

Evaluation of testicular hemodynamics following gonadotropin-releasing hormone administration with the aid of pulse wave Doppler in rams and their relation to hormonal response

Vascularization of the testis through testicular artery is of great importance to maintain its normal function. Vascular disruption due to inadequate arterial blood flow of the testis negatively affects testicular function and semen quality. This study aimed to determine the efficacy of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) administration on testicular vascularity in relation to testosterone hormonal response. Five clinically healthy adult ossimi rams 18- to 30-months-old were used. Testicular arteries Doppler examination, blood sampling following GnRH administration and testosterone hormonal assay were conducted. Both pulsatility index (PI) and resistance index (RI) significantly decreased in all treated rams starting from 1 hr till 120 hrs after single GnRH administration, both Doppler indices returned to their pre-treatment values at 144 hours after GnRH administration. Doppler peak systolic velocity (PSV) did not change in response to GnRH administration. Testosterone hormone concentrations negatively correlated with PI and RI but not PSV. In conclusion, GnRH would be useful a beneficial therapy for treatment of testicular dysfunction in rams by increasing testosterone concentrations and testicular blood flow. And pulse wave Doppler ultrasonography would be a useful non-invasive clinical tool for evaluation of the efficacy of novel therapeutic treatments in rams.