Luteinizing Hormone Profiles Research Articles

The effect of alpha-lipoic acid supplementation on anthropometric, glycemic, lipid, oxidative stress, and hormonal parameters in individuals with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials.

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to examine the effect of the antioxidant alpha-lipoic acid (ALA) on various cardiometabolic risk factors and hormonal parameters in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). We searched PubMed, EMBASE, SCOPUS, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases without language restrictions until May 2023 to find randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that assessed the impact of ALA supplementation on anthropometric, glycemic, lipid, oxidative stress, and hormonal parameters in women with PCOS. Outcomes were summarized using the standardized mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) in a random-effects model. An I2 statistic of >60% established significant between-study heterogeneity. The overall certainty of the evidence for each outcome was determined using the grading of recommendations, assessment, development, and evaluations system. Seven RCTs met the inclusion criteria. The ALA group had significant reductions in fasting blood sugar (fasting blood sugar (FBS), n=7 RCTs, SMD, -0.60; 95% CI, -1.10 to -0.10; I2=63.54%, moderate certainty of evidence) and homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), n=4 RCTs, SMD, -2.03; 95% CI, -3.85 to -0.20; I2=96.32%, low certainty of evidence) compared with the control group. However, significant differences were observed between the groups in body mass index, insulin, estrogen, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, testosterone, low-density lipoprotein, highdensity lipoprotein, triglyceride, total cholesterol, malondialdehyde, or total antioxidant capacity profiles. ALA supplementation improves FBS and HOMA-IR levels in women with PCOS. ALA consumption is an effective complementary therapy for the management of women with PCOS.

Effect of growth rates on hormonal and pubertal status in Nellore heifers early weaned.

This study aimed to determine the effect of growth rates on the hormonal status and puberty onset. Forty-eight Nellore heifers were weaned at 3.0 ± 0.1 (means ± standard error of the mean) months old were blocked according to body weight at weaning (84 ± 2 kg) and randomly assigned to treatments. The treatments were arranged in 2 × 2 factorial according to the feeding program. The first program was high (H; 0.79 kg/day) or control (C; 0.45 kg/day) average daily gain (ADG) from 3rd to 7th month of age (growing phase I). The second program was also high (H; 0.70 kg/day) or control (C; 0.50 kg/day) ADG from the 7th month until puberty (growing phase II), resulting in four treatments: HH (n = 13), HC (n = 10), CH (n = 13), and CC (n = 12). To achieve desired gains, heifers in high ADG program were fed ad libitum dry matter intake (DMI), and the control group was offered around 50% of ad libitum DMI of high group. All heifers received a diet with similar composition. Puberty was assessed weekly by ultrasound examination, and the largest follicle diameter was evaluated every month. Blood samples were collected to quantify leptin, insulin growth factor-1 (IGF1) and luteinizing hormone (LH). At 7 months of age, heifers in high ADG were 35 kg heavier than the control. Heifers in the HH had greater DMI compared with CH in phase II. The puberty rate at 19 months old was greater in the HH treatment (84%) than in the CC (23%), but there was no difference between HC (60%) and CH (50%) treatments. Heifers from HH treatment had greater serum leptin concentration than others at 13 months old, and serum leptin was greater in HH compared with CH and CC at 18 months old. High heifers in phase I had greater serum IGF1 concentration than the control. In addition, HH heifers had a greater diameter of the largest follicle than CC. There was no interaction between phases and age in any variable relative to the LH profile. However, the heifers' age was the main factor that increased the frequency of LH pulse. In conclusion, increasing ADG was associated with greater ADG, serum leptin and IGF-1 concentration, and puberty onset; however, LH concentration was affected mainly by age of the animal. The increasing growth rate at younger age made heifers more efficient.

Abstract #1375340: Correlation of Follicle Stimulating Hormone and Luteinizing Hormone Levels with HbA1c in Post-Menopausal Females

Menopause in female is a normal physiological process however, it is also a well-established risk factor for CVD and osteoporosis. Few studies suggest that low FSH is associated with adiposity and diabetes in post-menopausal women. Aim of this study was to explore correlations of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels with HbA1c level in post-menopausal females. The study was conducted at of Dr. S.N. Medical College, Jodhpur, India. Otherwise healthy postmenopausal women attending hospital for preventive health checkup were included in study. Postmenopausal status was confirmed by the absence of menses for at least 12 months. Known case of T2D/T1D, subjects on hormone replacement therapy, acutely sick were excluded from study. The baseline fasting blood samples were collected. Samples was assayed for FSH, LH, HbA1c and standard biochemical profile (glucose, lipid profile, Live function tests and renal function tests) using standard methods. The participants were classified as having diabetes or prediabetes using ADA criterias. Total 229 postmenopausal women were enrolled. Mean age of subjects was 63.2±9.9 years. Mean Hba1c was 6.2±1.4 gm% and subjects were further divided in to non-diabetes (68/229), prediabetes (104/229) and diabetes group (57/229) according to Hba1c levels. Mean LH was 25.8±15.6, FSH was 61.1±30.1 and LH/FSH ratio was 0.47±0.35. Mean LH was 31.4±15.8, 26.0±16.3, 19.5±12.6 in non-diabetes, prediabetes and diabetes group respectively. Mean FSH was 75.9±29.3, 59.6±27.6, 46.9±29.0 in non-diabetes, prediabetes and diabetes group respectively. The LH and FSH values in non-diabetes and diabetes group were statistically significant (p<0.01). In this study low FSH and LH levels were associated with higher level of HbA1c and increased risk of T2D.

Therapeutic Potential of Selenium Nanoparticles on Letrozole-Induced Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome in Female Wistar Rats.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is considered the most frequent gynecological endocrine disorder that causes anovulatory infertility. The current study aimed to investigate the potential significance of selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs), an IL-1 inhibitor, in the treatment of letrozole-induced PCOS in rats that satisfied the metabolic and endocrine parameters found in PCOS patients. Letrozole (2ppm, per orally, p.o.) was given orally to female Wistar rats for 21days to develop PCOS. After PCOS induction, rats were given SeNPs (25ppm/day, p.o.), SeNPs (50ppm/day, p.o.), or metformin (2ppm/day, p.o.) for 14days. PCOS was associated with an increase in body weight, ovarian weight, ovarian size, and cysts, as well as an increase in blood testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH), and insulin, glycaemia, and lipid profile levels. The SeNP administration decreased all of these variables. Furthermore, SeNPs significantly reduced letrozole-induced oxidative stress in the ovaries, muscles, and liver by decreasing elevated levels of malondialdehyde and total nitrite while raising suppressed levels of superoxide dismutase and catalase. SeNPs increased the amounts of the protective proteins Kelch-like ECH-associated protein 1 (Keap-1), nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2), and OH-1. It was depicted from the study that SeNPs reduce the upregulation of inflammatory cytokines that are interleukin 6 (IL-6), tumour necrosis factor α (TNF-α), and the interleukin 1 (IL-1). Our findings show that SeNPs, through their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory characteristics, alleviate letrozole-induced PCOS.

Relationship between GnRH-induced LH increase profiles in the serum and vaginal mucus of Japanese Black beef cows.

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between increases in the luteinizing hormone (LH) profiles in the serum and vaginal mucus of cows induced by gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH). Samples for LH determination were collected from Japanese Black beef cows during estrus, which was induced with a controlled internal progesterone-releasing device and the administration of cloprostenol immediately before GnRH administration and every 30 min from the start of GnRH administration until 6.5 h. The peak serum LH concentration was clearly identified at 2.5 h post-GnRH administration, with serum concentrations returning to near-pre-GnRH-administration values after 6.5 h, whereas the peak vaginal mucus LH concentration was identified 4.5 h after GnRH administration. These results indicate that the LH secretion peak in vaginal mucus appeared about 2 h after peak LH secretion in the serum.

Dapagliflozin partially restores reproductive function in MC4R KO obese female mice

Obese women often have certain degree of reproductive dysfunction with infertility. Although the clinical impact of obesity on female infertility has been extensively studied, the effective and targeted treatment is still lacking. Melanocortin-4-receptor knock-out (MC4R KO) mouse is an over-eating obese model with hyperphagia, hyperinsulinemia, reduced growth hormone (GH), and insulin resistance. Dapagliflozin improved the metabolic and hormonal parameters in MC4R KO mice. MC4R KO female mice were treated with dapagliflozin for 14 weeks from 14-week age. Age-matched WT littermates and non-treated MC4R KO mice were used as control groups. Food intake was measured daily. Body weight was measured twice a week. Estrous cycles, GH, and luteinizing hormone (LH) profiles were measured. Selected tissues were collected at the end of experiments for gene expression profiles and hematoxylin-eosin staining. Regularity and mode of hormonal profiles were restored by the dapagliflozin treatment. Estrous cycle was partially normalized, number of CL was significantly increased, and the expression of Kiss1 and Gnrh1 in the hypothalamus and LH in the pituitary was markedly increased by the dapagliflozin treatment. It is conclsuded that dapagliflozin may recover LH and GH profiles partially through modification of relevant gene expression in the hypothalamus and pituitary, and result in an improved ovulation rate in obese mouse model. Dapagliflozin may therefore improve fertility in obese patients.

P-668 The LH endocrine profile in Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone analogue cycles

Abstract Study question What does the evolution of luteinizing hormone (LH) throughout the follicular phase look like in different treatment protocols for ovarian stimulation in IVF/ICSI? Summary answer Evolution of LH during the follicular phase of ovarian stimulation differs between Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH) analogues, with a significant decrease of LH in antagonist cycles. What is known already Physicians aim to tailor ovarian stimulation protocols to the patient, with protocols varying in type of GnRH analogue and gonadotropin. However, there is no clear consensus on the best treatment protocol and especially the role of LH is still not completely understood as earlier studies focused mainly on suppressing LH levels. Literature has since indicated that excessively suppressed LH levels could be detrimental for clinical outcomes. Research on LH is hampered by multiple measurements during the cycle, different treatment schedules and patients switching schedules over time. Study design, size, duration This was a non-interventional, retrospective, observational cohort study. 2200 ovarian stimulation cycles for assisted reproduction were analyzed, in 1303 individual patients. Patients were treated during the period of January 1st 2015 until September 30th 2020. Cycles were included if the patient was between 18 and 43 years of age, stimulated with human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) or recombinant follicle stimulating hormone (rec-FSH, follitropin α or β) and using GnRH analogues. Participants/materials, setting, methods Data were extracted from two databases used at a tertiary infertility clinic. Cycles were divided into six treatment protocols: GnRH antagonist/hMG (13.8%), antagonist/rec-FSH (19.7%), long agonist/hMG (35.7%), long agonist/rec-FSH (4.8%), short agonist/hMG (22.5%) and short agonist/rec-FSH (3.5%). 59.5% of cycles were pretreated with an oral contraceptive pill (OCP). LH evolution was visualized by plotting LH levels against the days of the follicular phase and repeated daily LH measures were fitted with a linear mixed model. Main results and the role of chance Basal LH was significantly lower in antagonist/hMG cycles pretreated with OCP compared to no pretreatment (estimated difference -1.23 IU/L, p &amp;lt; 0.001). Mean LH value throughout the follicular phase was significantly lower with OCP pretreatment in antagonist/hMG (estimated difference -1.05 IU/L, p &amp;lt; 0.001) and antagonist/rec-FSH cycles (estimated difference -0.52 IU/L, p &amp;lt; 0.001). When LH evolution throughout the follicular phase was analyzed, no significantly different evolution between cycles with and without OCP was detected (all p &amp;gt; 0.1). Hence further analysis of the LH profiles was performed in the six protocol groups making no distinction between OCP use or not. LH evolution was significantly different between all six protocol groups (p &amp;lt; 0.001). In antagonist/hMG cycles, LH values showed a significant decrease of 0.17 IU/L per day (p &amp;lt; 0.001). In antagonist/rec-FSH cycles, the decrease per day was 0.26 IU/L (p &amp;lt; 0.001).The decrease in LH was significantly larger in rec-FSH cycles than hMG (estimated difference 0.09 IU/L per day, p &amp;lt; 0.001). Short agonist/hMG cycles showed a significant increase in LH of 0.04 IU/L per day (p = 0.002), while the increase of 0.01 IU/L per day in rec-FSH cycles was not significant (p = 1.00). In long agonist cycles, no significant in- or decrease in LH values during the follicular phase was found (p = 1.00). Limitations, reasons for caution Stimulation protocols were chosen by the treating physician which is a limitation of the retrospective design. The authors were able to partly respond to this limitation by adjusting for age and using different cycles per patient in all mixed models. Wider implications of the findings Using profiles to show LH evolution allowed the visualization of the decrease in the evolution of LH in antagonist cycles, even more pronounced in cycles stimulated with rec-FSH compared to hMG. This decrease in LH and the potential impact on estradiol levels and follicle growth needs further examination. Trial registration number not applicable

Role of Aromatase Inhibitors in Managing Hypogonadism in Adult Males Related to Obesity and Aging: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

No meta-analysis is available which has analysed the role of aromatase inhibitors (AIs) in hypogonadism in adult males related to obesity and aging. This meta-analysis intended to address this knowledge gap. Electronic databases were searched for studies involving adult males with hypogonadism. The primary outcomes were changes in total testosterone (TT). Secondary outcomes were alterations in oestradiol, luteinizing hormone (LH), and side-effect profile. From initially screened 177 articles, data from three randomised controlled trials(RCTs) (118 patients) and three uncontrolled studies(52 patients) were analysed. AIs were associated with significantly greater improvement in TT after three months [mean difference (MD) 7.08 nmol/L (95% Confidence Interval (CI): 5.92-8.24); P < 0.01; I2 = 0%], six months [MD 6.61 nmol/L (95% CI: 5.30-7.93); P < 0.01] and 12 months [MD 5.20 nmol/L (95% CI: 3.78-6.62); P < 0.01] therapy. AIs were associated with greater reduction in oestradiol after three months [MD -3.07 pmol/L (95% CI: -5.27- -0.87); P < 0.01; I2 = 40%], six months [MD -5.39 pmol/L (95% CI: -7.18- -3.60); P < 0.01] and 12 months [MD -8.3 pmol/L (95% CI: -15.97- -0.63); P = 0.03] therapy. AIs were associated with greater increase in LH after three months [MD 1.79 IU/L (95% CI: 0.77-2.81); P < 0.01; I2 = 0%], six months [MD 2.20 IU/L (95% CI: 0.29 - 4.11); P = 0.02] and 12 months [MD 1.70 IU/L (95% CI: 0.28-3.12); P = 0.02] therapy. Occurrence of treatment-emergent adverse events[Risk ratio (RR) 1.48 (95% CI: 0.47-4.66); P = 0.45; I2 = 0%] and severe adverse events[RR 2.48 (95% CI: 0.42-14.66); P = 0.32; I2 = 0%] were similar among AIs and controls. Following six-month treatment, AIs were associated with significantly lower bone mineral density (BMD) at lumbar-spine [MD -0.04 gm/cm2 (95% CI: -0.08- -0.01); P = 0.03], but not total hip [MD 0.01 gm/cm2 (95% CI: -0.02-0.04); P = 0.55] and femoral neck [MD 0.02 gm/cm2 (95% CI: -0.01-0.05); P = 0.12] compared to controls. This meta-analysis highlights the good efficacy of AIs in improving TT over 3-12 months of use. Adverse impact on spine bone density remains a concern in obese ageing males and warrants further evaluation.

Effects of Vitamin D3 Supplementation in Male Reproductive Function: A Double-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial

Vitamin D3 supplementation has been shown to be beneficial in improving male reproductive function in some but not all studies. Hence, the benefits of vitamin D3 supplementation on seminal parameters of male infertility remain inconclusive. The current study aims to evaluate the effect of vitamin D3 supplementation on male reproductive function. A double blinded randomized controlled trial was conducted among 120 infertile men. They were randomly assigned into vitamin D and placebo groups. Vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol) supplementation (2,000 IU) was given orally twice daily, and the placebo group received oral vitamin B complex supplementation twice daily. Basic spermogram parameters and hormonal assays including follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and thyroid hormone profile (free T3, free T4, and thyroid stimulating hormone) were performed before and after intervention. Two-way analysis of variance showed statistically significant difference (P &lt; 0.001) with reference to progressive motility, total motility, sperm volume, and total sperm number. There was no statistical difference in the hormonal assay parameters of follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone; however, the thyroid profile (free T3) alone showed significance between the groups. The present study revealed the beneficial effect of vitamin D3 oral supplementation on spermogram parameters. However, intake of vitamin D3 did not change the levels of follicle stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone among subfertile men.

Reformulation of PULSAR for Analysis of Pulsatile LH Secretion and a Revised Model of Estrogen-Negative Feedback in Mice.

The recent use of the tail-tip bleeding approach in mice has enabled researchers to generate detailed pulse and surge profiles of luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion in mice. However, the analysis of pulsatile LH secretion is piecemeal across the field with each laboratory using their own methodology. We have reformulated the once-popular PULSAR algorithm of Merriam and Wachter to operate on contemporary computer systems and provide downloadable and online pulse analysis platforms. As it is now possible to record the activity of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone pulse generator in freely behaving mice, we have been able to unambiguously define LH pulses in intact and gonadectomized male and female mice. These data sets were used to determine the appropriate PULSAR parameter sets for analyzing pulsatile LH secretion in the mouse. This was then used to establish an accurate model of estrogen negative feedback in the mouse. Intact and ovariectomized mice given Silastic capsules containing 1, 2, and 4 μg 17-β-estradiol/20 g body weight were tail-tip bled at 6-min intervals, and the resultant LH profiles were analyzed with PULSAR. Only the 4 μg 17-β-estradiol capsule treatment was found to return LH pulse amplitude and frequency to that of intact diestrous mice. Ultrasensitive mass spectrometry analysis showed that the 4 μg 17-β-estradiol capsule generated circulating estradiol levels equivalent to that of diestrous mice. It is hoped that the reformulation of PULSAR and generation of a realistic model of estrogen-negative feedback will provide a platform for the more uniform assessment of pulsatile hormone secretion in mice.

A Simple Algorithm is Created for Identifying Intermenstrual Intervals Containing an Oscillatory LH Pattern That Associates With Vasomotor Symptoms Using Daily Urinary LH Excretion in the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation (SWAN)

Background: A specific and unique pattern of luteinizing hormone (LH) excretion has been associated with vasomotor symptoms (VMS) in early menopausal women. Described as “oscillations” of LH excretion, this pattern is consistent with secretory “surges” of LH followed by pituitary “fatigue”. This pattern has not been observed in non-VMS intermenstrual intervals and supports the concept that a breakdown in the hypothalamic-pituitary ovarian axis feed-back loops leads to extreme and cyclic variations in gonadotropin hormone releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion that stimulates collateral nerves to alter core body temperature. Regardless of the precise mechanism, the pattern of LH secretion, as transduced in daily urine as oscillations, provides the basis for the development and validation of a VMS algorithm. Objective: The purpose of this study was to create a simple algorithm to identify intermenstrual intervals exhibiting oscillatory LH, to facilitate investigations into its associations with VMS and other symptoms during the menopausal transition (MT). Methods: As part of the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation (SWAN), participants in the Daily Hormone Substudy (DHS) were asked to provide daily urine samples - from which LH, E1c, and PdG were measured - and complete a daily symptoms diary for one menstrual cycle (up to 50 days). Analyses included 144 participants whose first DHS collection did not meet the Kassam criterion for evidence of luteal activity; of these, 61 were assessed by an expert as having oscillatory LH and 83 as non-oscillatory LH. Proposed algorithm-based classifications regarding oscillatory LH included number of days with LH at least 50% of the collection maximum LH (number of large-LH days) and number of days with LH no more than twice the collection minimum LH (number of small-LH days). Agreement of these 2 criteria with rater-assigned oscillatory LH was assessed using nonparametric t-tests and binomial logistic regression. Associations of these with VMS frequency were assessed using Spearman correlations. Results: The number of large-LH days was strongly associated with oscillatory LH: median (interquartile range) = 13 (7,22) for oscillatory collections versus 4 (2, 11) for non-oscillatory collections (p<.0001) but number of small-LH days was unrelated (p=.98). Percentage of collection days with VMS was significantly correlated with number of large-LH days (Spearman r=.37, p<.0001) but not with number of small-LH days (Spearman r=.03, p>.05); adjustment for total collection length had negligible impact. Conclusion: A simple algorithm using urinary LH profiles can be used to identify intermenstrual collections that likely contain intervals of VMS.

Egg Production, Fertility, Hatchability and Luteinizing Hormone Profile of Progesterone Hormone Injected to Arabic Gold Chicken (Gallus turcicus)

Egg Production, Fertility, Hatchability and Luteinizing Hormone Profile of Progesterone Hormone Injected to Arabic Gold Chicken (Gallus turcicus)

Chemical and Nutraceutical Studies on Infertility of Albino Rats Induced by Cadmium Chloride.

Infertility in couples is rated one in every eight couple worldwide which affects 15% of couples and a male factor is found to be solely responsible or in conjunction with a female factor in 50% of cases. The natural chemicals found in rocca and red cabbage leaves breakdown into compounds like indole-3-carbinol, which has anti-cancer property. Flavonoids of the crop have good therapeutic potential in inflammation and pain. Meanwhile, this investigation aimed to evaluate the effect of rocca leaves and red cabbage leaves on male infertility rats. Thirty-six adult male Sprague Dawley rats were divided into six groups. Group 1: Normal rats fed on basal diet as control negative (C-), Group 2: Control positive C+, in which infertility rats were fed on basal diet. Group 3: Infertility rats fed on basal diet and 5% rocca leaves. Group 4: Infertility rats fed on basal diet and 10% rocca leaves. Group 5: Infertility rats fed on basal diet and 5% red cabbage leaves. Group 6: Infertility rats fed on basal diet and 10% red cabbage leaves. At the end of experiment, after 28 days of feeding, all serum samples were analyzed for biochemical parameters. Injection with cadmium chloride caused a significant increase in the level of glucose, urea, creatinine, uric acid, AST, ALT, ALP, total cholesterol, triglycerides, LDLc, VLDLc, AI, Glob, TB, IB, DB and LH hormone while a significant decrease was recorded in HDLc, testosterone, FSH hormones, TP and Alb. Meanwhile, in infertility rats then treated with rocca leaves 5 and 10% and red cabbage leaves at the same doses 5 and 10% caused significant improvement in all tested parameters. The obtained results demonstrated that rocca leaves and red cabbage leaves had significant improvement in testosterone, Follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, total protein, albumin and lipids profile in cadmium chloride induced infertility in rats.

Effects of aqueous seed extract of Moringa oleifera (L) on haematology, gonadotropins and testosterone profiles of Yankasa rams

Introduction: Moringa oleifera is a multipurpose plant, which belongs to the family Moringaceae, and is recognised globally. Moringa oleifera aqueous seed extract was used to determine its effects on the haematology and some reproductive hormone profiles in Yankasa rams. Methods: Twenty-Five Yankasa rams weighing 18-20 kg, were purchased and kept at the experimental pen of the Department of Veterinary Parasitology and Entomology, Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria for this study. The rams were screened and acclimatized for 2 weeks prior to the commencement of the research. Thereafter, the rams were randomly divided into five groups A, B, C, D and E with five rams each as treatment and control groups respectively. The rams were fed basal diet of Digitaria smuttssi. Water was provided ad libitum. Group A, B, C, D and E were given oral dose of M. oleifera aqueous seed extract and water daily at a dose rate of 1000, 2000, 3000, 4000 mg/kg and 10 ml/kg respectively. Blood samples were collected via jugular vein once every week to evaluate packed cell volume (PVC %), total red blood cells (TRBC× 1012/L) and Total white blood cells (TWBC × 1012/L). To obtain sera blood was collected 3 times at 30 minutes interval between 7:00 and 8:00 A.M, the sera were evaluated for follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone concentrations in Yankasa rams. Results: Haematology results revealed significant (p &lt; 0.05) increase in PCV in group C (37.5 ± 0.7 %). There was significant (p &lt; 0.05) increase in the testosterone and luteinizing hormone level at 7:00 A.M in group A (5.42 ± 0.1 ng/ml). Also, there was significant (p &lt; 0.05) increase in the levels of FSH, LH and testosterone. Significance: In conclusion, treatment of Yankasa rams with M. oleifera aqueous seed extract at the dose rate of 1000-3000 mg/kg increased testosterone, PCV, LH and FSH profiles. Therefore, M. oleifera aqueous seed extract may be recommended as a fertility enhancing agent in Yankasa rams.

Altrenogest affects expression of galectin-3 and fibroblast growth factor 9 in the reproductive tract of sows

A synthetic progestin altrenogest (ALT) is used to synchronize the estrus cycle of swine for fixed-time artificial insemination (AI) and has been shown to improve follicular development and reproductive performances in post-weaning sows. However, the effects of ALT treatment on reproductive tracts, including the ovaries, oviducts and uterus have not been yet clarified. In this study, we examined the expression of genes involved in endometrial responses in ALT-treated sows. ALT did not significantly alter luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol profiles in blood compared to untreated control. Quantitative RT-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) analysis showed that the expression of genes encoding galectin-3 (LGALS3) and fibroblast growth factor 9 (FGF9) was upregulated in the reproductive tracts of ALT-treated sows, including the ovaries, oviducts and uteri. Moreover, ALT treatment induced the expression of FGF9 and galectin-3 proteins, and promoted their localization to the luminal epithelium of the oviducts and uterus. Our findings suggest that the enhancement of reproductive performance shown by ALT-treated sows is associated with the upregulation of galectin-3 and FGF9, which are essential for endometrial receptivity, successful implantation, and pregnancy.

Insight Into the Ontogeny of GnRH Neurons From Patients Born Without a Nose.

The reproductive axis is controlled by a network of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons born in the primitive nose that migrate to the hypothalamus alongside axons of the olfactory system. The observation that congenital anosmia (inability to smell) is often associated with GnRH deficiency in humans led to the prevailing view that GnRH neurons depend on olfactory structures to reach the brain, but this hypothesis has not been confirmed. The objective of this work is to determine the potential for normal reproductive function in the setting of completely absent internal and external olfactory structures. We conducted comprehensive phenotyping studies in 11 patients with congenital arhinia. These studies were augmented by review of medical records and study questionnaires in another 40 international patients. All male patients demonstrated clinical and/or biochemical signs of GnRH deficiency, and the 5 men studied in person had no luteinizing hormone (LH) pulses, suggesting absent GnRH activity. The 6 women studied in person also had apulsatile LH profiles, yet 3 had spontaneous breast development and 2 women (studied from afar) had normal breast development and menstrual cycles, suggesting a fully intact reproductive axis. Administration of pulsatile GnRH to 2 GnRH-deficient patients revealed normal pituitary responsiveness but gonadal failure in the male patient. Patients with arhinia teach us that the GnRH neuron, a key gatekeeper of the reproductive axis, is associated with but may not depend on olfactory structures for normal migration and function, and more broadly, illustrate the power of extreme human phenotypes in answering fundamental questions about human embryology.

Neural Determinants of Pulsatile Luteinizing Hormone Secretion in Male Mice.

The gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) pulse generator drives pulsatile luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion essential for fertility. However, the constraints within which the pulse generator operates to drive efficient LH pulsatility remain unclear. We used optogenetic activation of the arcuate nucleus kisspeptin neurons, recently identified as the GnRH pulse generator, to assess the efficiency of different pulse generator frequencies in driving pulsatile LH secretion in intact freely behaving male mice. Activating the pulse generator at 45-minute intervals generated LH pulses similar to those observed in intact male mice while 9-minute interval stimulation generated LH profiles indistinguishable from gonadectomized (GDX) male mice. However, more frequent activation of the pulse generator resulted in disordered LH secretion. Optogenetic experiments directly activating the distal projections of the GnRH neuron gave the exact same results, indicating the pituitary to be the locus of the high frequency decoding. To evaluate the state-dependent behavior of the pulse generator, the effects of high-frequency activation of the arcuate kisspeptin neurons were compared in GDX and intact mice. The same stimulus resulted in an overall inhibition of LH release in GDX mice but stimulation in intact males. These studies demonstrate that the GnRH pulse generator is the primary determinant of LH pulse profile and that a nonlinear relationship exists between pulse generator frequency and LH pulse frequency. This may underlie the ability of stimulatory inputs to the pulse generator to have opposite effects on LH secretion in intact and GDX animals.

Investigation of Ovarian Follicular Waves and Major Hormonal Profile in Red Chittagong Cattle

Red Chittagong Cattle (RCC) is one of the renowned varieties of cattle which is indigenous and most potential type of domestic animal genetic resource in Bangladesh with distinct phenotypic characteristics. Reproductive management might be a process for multiplying this cattle variety. Therefore, the goals of this study were to characterize the follicular waves of RCC and to determine the Progesterone (P4), Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH) profile during three consecutive estrus cycle. Follicular wave emergence (Day 0) was identified using trans-vaginal ultrasound technique and follicular growth was then monitored from Day 0 to Day 23 during three consecutive estrus cycle and blood samples were collected. After measuring the growth and diameter of the follicles, hormonal assays of collected blood samples were performed using Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA). We found that, both RCC cows and heifers showed two waves inter-ovulatory intervals. The length of inter-ovulatory intervals and the diameter of the ovulatory follicle of RCC cows and heifers were slightly different from each other. The identification of the dominant follicle was confirmed from the start of its deviation from other subordinate follicles till it reached to the maximum diameter and identified as dominant follicle which increases linearly for approximately six days (growing phase). This dominant follicle is remained approximately same size for five days (static phase), and then begins to regress (regressing phase) decreasing the antral diameter. The follicular waves are first detectable as 4 - 5 mm follicles approximately at day 0 and day 10 both for RCC cows and heifers which showed two waves inter-ovulatory intervals. The circulating varied concentrations of LH, FSH and P4 were determined using ELISA in case of both cows and heifers and the concentration curves followed the similar pattern of change during the estrus cycle. Hence, the knowledge about ovarian follicular waves will create a base line for reproductive management of RCC as well as to allow reproductive biotechnologies to improve and multiply this cattle variety.

The interrelationship between the occurrence of oversized follicles and the peripheral and intra-follicular concentrations of E2, P4, FSH, and LH in female dromedary camels

The present study aimed to clarify the phenomenon of presence of larger than normal follicles (OVGF) in female dromedary camels. Females with OVGF (n=125) were examined by manual palpation and ultrasonography. Accordingly, the OVGF were subdivided into those with thin walls and clear hypoechogenic content (OVGF-TH, n=18) and those with thick walls and fibrous trabeculae (OVGF-TK, n=107). Transvaginal follicle aspiration was performed in females with OVGF and from a control group with growing follicles (1-2 cm in diameter, GF group, n=5). Serum was collected at the same time of follicle aspiration and analyzed for Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), progesterone (P4) and estradiol-17β profiles (E2). The follicular fluid (FF) was analyzed for E2 and P4. The results showed that mean E2 concentration in FF and serum were lower in OVGF-TH and OVGHTK groups than in the GF group (P &lt; 0.05). Difference between OVGF-TH and OVGH-TK groups was not significant. P4 in FF did not significantly differ among groups. Positive correlation was found between E2 in FF and E2 in serum (r = 0.495, r = 0.03). Mean FSH concentration in serum was higher in OVGF-TH and OVGH-TK groups than in the GF group (P = 0.03). Mean LH concentration was non-significantly (P=0.1) greater in OVGF-TH and OVGH-TK groups than in the GF group. In conclusion, female dromedary camels with OVGF had endocrine characteristics differed from camels with no OVGF. It seems that the high FSH and/or LH concentration(s) stimulated the continuing growth of the developing follicles to reach these large sizes, suggesting that the phenomenon of OVGF in camels is a pathological finding.

SUN-219 Human Congenital Arhinia Is Associated with GnRH Deficiency and Primary Testicular Defects

Congenital arhinia (absent external nose) is an extremely rare mendelian disorder (<100 case reports in the past century) caused by heterozygous missense mutations in the gene SMCHD1. Arhinia is frequently accompanied by ocular and reproductive defects, a clinical triad which defines the Bosma arhinia microphthalmia syndrome (BAMS). The etiology and spectrum of reproductive defects in BAMS is unknown. We studied eleven subjects with arhinia or nasal hypoplasia (aged 18-53 yrs; 5 males) to assess endogenous luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion (n=11), a validated marker of GnRH, responsiveness to pulsatile GnRH (n=2), and non-reproductive phenotypes (n=11). Clinical data abstracted from questionnaires were analyzed in 33 additional international patients. Nearly every male demonstrated clinical and biochemical signs of severe congenital GnRH deficiency (CGD) including a history of microphallus and/or cryptorchidism, testicular volumes < 3 ml, hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH), low inhibin B levels, and apulsatile LH profiles; two young boys (studied from afar) had normal genitals but an absent mini-puberty of infancy was confirmed biochemically in one case. Pulsatile GnRH administered to one adult male and hCG to two others also revealed testicular resistance. Several females reported spontaneous breast bud development, but all had primary amenorrhea, small ovaries on pelvic ultrasound, HH, and apulsatile LH profiles. Pulsatile GnRH administered to one female induced ovulation on treatment day 21. Two females (studied from afar) reported normal thelarche and menstrual cycles. The 11 subjects studied in detail were completely anosmic with absent internal olfactory structures on brain MRI but normal hypothalamic-pituitary anatomy. Subjects with arhinia demonstrated some, but not all, non-reproductive phenotypes characteristic of Kallmann syndrome (KS) and/or CHARGE syndrome including dental agenesis (56%) and congenital mirror movements (CMMs; 50%); none had renal agenesis, severe congenital heart defects, or deafness. This study demonstrates for the first time that the hypogonadotropism observed in BAMS is indeed secondary to GnRH deficiency. In contrast to the male predominance (3-5:1) in KS, there is no sex bias in the incidence of BAMS. However, females may demonstrate partial or complete pubertal development whereas males are severely affected with some showing both hypothalamic and testicular defects. The combination of defects in the nasal skeleton, olfactory structures, and GnRH ontogeny point to aberrant development of the nasal placode in BAMS, yet the high prevalence of CMMs, a sign of misrouted commissural axons, suggests insults may occur even earlier in neurogenesis, at the neural plate border.