Estradiol Concentrations Research Articles

Evaluation of the relations between reproduction-related pituitary and ovarian hormones and abdominal fat area-related variables determined with computed tomography in overweight or obese women who have undergone bariatric surgery: a cross-sectional study.

An understanding of the associations between midregion fat depots and systemic hormone levels will be crucial for developing health-promotion messages aimed at overweight or obese women. However, related research in this area is rare. The present study was performed to identify and quantify fat-related reproduction pituitary and ovarian hormones in overweight or obese women. A total of 250 eligible overweight or obese women scheduled to undergo laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) from a single center were retrospectively included in this study. Computed tomography (CT) images at the level of the umbilicus were selected, and abdominal fat areas were measured and calculated. The reproduction-related pituitary and ovarian hormones were also measured. The correlations among the parameters were examined using Spearman correlation test. Multiple linear regression analysis was performed after log and β-transformation of the hormone levels and fat area-related variables. Positive correlations were detected for prolactin (PRL) with total fat area (TFA) [β=0.045; P=0.029; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.004-0.085] and subcutaneous fat area (SFA) (β=0.066; P=0.023; 95% CI: 0.009-0.123), whereas estradiol showed a negative correlation with visceral fat area (VFA) (β=-0.056, P=0.005; 95% CI: -0.096 to -0.017) and relative VFA (rVFA) (β=-0.068; P=0.001; 95% CI: -0.109 to -0.027) and a positive correlation with SFA (β=0.036; P=0.042; 95% CI: 0.001-0.071). Progesterone (PROG) was negatively correlated with both VFA (β=-0.037; P=0.002; 95% CI: -0.061 to -0.013) and rVFA (β=-0.039; P=0.002; 95% CI: -0.063 to -0.014). The final results revealed that TFA was increased by 3.1% and SFA was increased by 4.7% with a doubling of PRL concentration; VFA was reduced by 2.5% and rVFA was reduced by 2.6% with a doubling of PROG concentration; and VFA was reduced by 3.8%, rVFA was reduced by 4.6%, and SFA was increased by 2.5% with a doubling of estradiol concentration. There exist certain associations between some reproduction-related pituitary and ovarian hormones and fat areas. Our findings provide new insights into the associations between midregion fat depots and systemic hormone levels in overweight or obese women.

Linking Cardiovascular Risk With Estradiol Level in Men.

Aim To study the relationship between the cardiovascular risk and the level of estradiol in men of young and middle age. The main group included 71 patients with newly diagnosed hyperestrogenia (HE) (serum estradiol >41.2 pg/ ml). Using pseudorandomization, 68 men with normal estradiol level and age- and body weight index (BWI)-matched with the main group were included into the control group. Anthropometric data, bioimpedance variables, blood pressure (BP), and concentrations of estradiol, testosterone, glucose, and total cholesterol were analyzed in both groups.Results Patients of the main and control groups did not differ in age, BWI, and smoking status. Testosterone concentration was 10.18 nmol/l in the HE group and 12.18 nmol /l in the control group (p=0.006). Systolic BP was 142.0 mm Hg in the HE group and 135.2 mm Hg in the control group (p=0.011); diastolic BP was 90.3 mm Hg in the HE group and 86.2 mm Hg in the control group (p=0.008). Total cholesterol was 5.87 mmol/l in the HE group and 5.33 mmol/l in the control group (p=0.023). Blood glucose did not differ between the groups. The presence of HE in men 2.11 times (р=0.038) increased the probability of arterial hypertension. The intergroup difference by the SCORE scale did not reach statistical significance (р=0.172). BWI, waist and hip circumferences, and bioimpedance body composition parameters did not differ between the groups.Conclusion In the studied cohort of young and middle-aged men, HE was an independent predictor for the presence of arterial hypertension. There were no significant intergroup differences in the total risk of cardiovascular diseases calculated with the SCORE scale.

Hormone imbalance of fetoplacental complex as a factor of premature birth

Despite the sufficient study of the pathogenetic factors of preterm birth, there is currently no consensus on the peculiarities of the pathogenesis of disorders of the functional state of the fetoplacental complex in this complication of pregnancy, no unified methodological approaches to early diagnosis have been developed, and there are no standards for the examination and treatment of pregnant women with detected disorders.The purpose of the work. To investigate the level of FPC hormones in pregnant women at risk of preterm birth.Materials and methods. The main group consisted of pregnant women with signs of placental dysfunction and a history of miscarriage (50 women). The control group consisted of 50 healthy pregnant women. Determination of hormones (progesterone, estradiol, placental lactogen) was carried out by the method of solid-phase enzyme immunoassay. The research was performed on an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay according to the instructions for the specified sets of reagents.Results. The content of the hormones estradiol, progesterone and placental lactogen during pregnancy was determined to study the changes in the placental system hormonal function of pregnant women with a threat of premature birth. The concentration of estradiol in the blood serum of pregnant women of the main group was below the norm during the entire pregnancy period. It leads to a decrease in estrogens and progesterone synthesis by the corpus luteum of the ovary, and then by the placenta. A reduction of these hormone levels, which take a direct part in the flow of basic biochemical and physiological processes in the muscles of the uterus, leads to an increase in the contractile activity of the myometrium, which is shown by the phenomena of placental dysfunction and premature birth.Conclusion. Studying the levels of hormones of the fetoplacental complex in pregnant women at risk will allow predicting the development of premature birth.

Effects of Chaihu Shugan San on Brain Functional Network Connectivity in the Hippocampus of a Perimenopausal Depression Rat Model.

In this study, we used Chaihu Shugan San (CSS), a traditional Chinese herbal formula, as a probe to investigate the involvement of brain functional network connectivity and hippocampus energy metabolism in perimenopausal depression. A network pharmacology approach was performed to discover the underlying mechanisms of CSS in improving perimenopausal depression, which were verified in perimenopausal depression rat models. Network pharmacology analysis indicated that complex mechanisms of energy metabolism, neurotransmitter metabolism, inflammation, and hormone metabolic processes were closely associated with the anti-depressive effects of CSS. Thus, the serum concentrations of estradiol (E2), glutamate (Glu), and 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT) were detected by ELISA. The brain functional network connectivity between the hippocampus and adjacent brain regions was evaluated using resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI). A targeted metabolomic analysis of the hippocampal tricarboxylic acid cycle was also performed to measure the changes in hippocampal energy metabolism using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). CSS treatment significantly improved the behavioral performance, decreased the serum Glu levels, and increased the serum 5-HT levels of PMS + CUMS rats. The brain functional connectivity between the hippocampus and other brain regions was significantly changed by PMS + CUMS processes but improved by CSS treatment. Moreover, among the metabolites in the hippocampal tricarboxylic acid cycle, the concentrations of citrate and the upregulation of isocitrate and downregulation of guanosine triphosphate(GTP) in PMS + CUMS rats could be significantly improved by CSS treatment. A brain functional network connectivity mechanism may be involved in perimenopausal depression, wherein the hippocampal tricarboxylic acid cycle plays a vital role.

Estradiol Concentrations During Estrous in Dairy Cattle and Its Association with Pregnancy and Genotype Diversity

This study determined estradiol concentrations during estrous in dairy cattle and its association with pregnancy and genotype diversity. A total of fifteen female dairy cows that had been identified with their genotype type using the PCR-RFLP method on follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) and prolactin (PRL) genes were used in this study. The parameters measured were serum estrogen concentrations during estrous, estrous intensity, and pregnancy. Estradiol concentrations were analyzed by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. The data were analyzed using a general linear model procedure in the SAS program. The results showed that the average estradiol concentrations in dairy cows during estrous were 60.06±33.25 pg/ml. There was no difference (P>0.05) in estradiol concentrations in different classifications of age, body condition score (BCS), and estrous intensity. Estradiol concentrations in the group that showed success in post-insemination pregnancy were higher and significantly different (P<0.05) from the non-pregnant group. Differences in genotype variations of the FSHR and PRL genes had no significant effect (P>0.05) on the estradiol concentrations. In conclusion, estradiol concentrations during estrous were not associated with age, BCS, estrous intensity, and genotype diversity of FSHR and prolactin genes but were associated with pregnancy.

Menopause age, reproductive span and hormone therapy duration predict the volume of medial temporal lobe brain structures in postmenopausal women

Medial temporal lobe (MTL) atrophy is correlated with risk and severity of Alzheimer disease (AD) pathology and cognitive decline. Increasing evidence suggest that oestrogens affect the aging of MTL structures. Here we investigate the relationship between reproductive hormone exposure, polygenic scores for AD risk and oestradiol concentration, MTL anatomy and cognitive performance in postmenopausal women. To this end, we used data from 10,924 female participants in the UK Biobank from whom brain MRI and genetic data were available. We fitted linear regression models to test whether the volume of structures comprising the MTL were predicted by a) timing related to menopause, b) the use and timing of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and c) polygenic scores for AD risk and oestradiol concentration. Results showed that longer use of HRT was associated with larger parahippocampal volumes (2.53 mm3/year, p = 0.042). A later age of natural menopause, and a longer reproductive span, was associated with larger hippocampal (6.08 and 5.72 mm3/year, p = 0.0006 and 0.0005), parahippocampal (4.17 mm3 and 4.19 mm3/year, p = 0.00006 and 0.00001), amygdala (2.10 and 2.22 mm3/year, p = 0.028 and 0.01) and perirhinal cortical (2.56 and 2.95 mm3/year, p = 0.028 and 0.008) volumes. Superior prospective memory performance was associated with later age at natural menopause, and a longer reproductive span (ß = 0.05 and 0.05 respectively, p = 0.019 and 0.019). Polygenic scores for AD risk and for oestradiol concentration were not associated with MTL volume and did not interact with menopause-related factors to affect MTL structure. Our results suggest that HRT use did not have any detrimental effects on cognition or brain structure, whilst greater exposure to reproductive hormones across time is associated both with slightly larger volumes of specific MTL structures and marginally superior memory performance, independent of genetic risk for AD and genetic predisposition for higher oestradiol levels. However, the clinical utility of maintenance of oestrogens post-menopause for brain health and protection against cognitive decline is curtailed by the small effect sizes observed.

THE IMPACT OF SEX ON METABOLIC AND FUNCTIONAL ABNORMALITIES, INDUCED BY HIGH-FRUCTOSE-DIET IN RATS

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a cluster of cardiometabolic risk factors, which manifestation may be different for men and women. Changes in sex hormone levels in men and women during lifespan contribute to increased cardiometabolic risk. Data of clinical researches suggest that transition from normal glucose tolerance to dysglycemia lead to more adverse differences in cardiometabolic risk factors in women than in men, suggesting an important impact of sex on the development of metabolic abnormalities. A significant increase in risk may be due to the sex differences in manifestation of some components of metabolic syndrome, but accurate reasons of these discrepancies need future investigations. The aim of this study was to determine the differences in impairment of glucose, lipid metabolism and cardiovascular systems function between male and female rats with different levels of estrogen sufficiency. Materials and Methods. MetS was modelled in male and female rats with different levels of estrogens by chronic (for 8 weeks) intake of fructose (high-fructose diet - HFD) with drinking water at a concentration 200 g/L. Estrogens deficiency was reproduced by bilateral ovariectomy. Experimental rats were divided into five groups: control males (n=6), control females (n=6), males with HFD (n=6), sham-operated females with intact ovaries and HFD (n=6), ovariectomized (OVX) females with HFD (n=6). Glucose homeostasis was assessed by basal glycemia, glycemia during the intra-abdominal glucose tolerance test and fructosamine level. Insulin sensitivity was determined using intra-abdominal insulin tolerance test. Body weight gain, visceral fats, level of total cholesterol, triglycerides, levels of estradiol and testosterone in blood serum were determined. At the end of the study, electrocardiograms were recorded in three standard leads from the limbs. Data are presented as mean ± standard error of mean (SEM). Results. It was established that HFD have not been induced metabolic abnormalities in female rats with intact ovaries. HFD, independently of sex, led to the development of insulin resistance and significant increase in fructosamine level in blood serum of rats. Ovariectomized females with HFD had greater intensity of body weight gain, significantly higher levels of relative mass of fats, more pronounced alterations of lipid metabolism with increased total cholesterol and significantly higher levels of triglycerides, than HFD-treated male rats. However, impairment of glucose tolerance, induced by HFD, was more pronounced in male than in OVX female rats. We found the decline testosterone levels and slight increase in estradiol levels in male rats with HFD. OVX females with HFD had a moderate significant increase in testosterone levels and dramatically decrease in estradiol concentration as result of bilateral ovariectomy. HFD, independently from sex, induced the development of sinus tachycardia in experimental animals. Metabolic abnormalities, induced by HFD, in OVX female rats led to more pronounced disturbances of heart depolarization and repolarization processes and development of diastolic dysfunction compare to HFD-treated males. Conclusions. We revealed that sex and estrogens levels have a great impact on the impairment of glucose and lipid metabolism and cardiovascular systems function, induced by high-fructose diet in rats. The obtained data justifies the necessity to take into account sex and estrogens sufficiency in the development of gender-specific prevention and treatment of metabolic syndrome.

Interaction of estradiol and vitamin D with low skeletal muscle mass among middle-aged and elderly women

BackgroundSince the connection between muscle atrophy and vitamin D and estradiol status ambiguous, this study was thus conducted to determine whether low skeletal muscle mass (SMM) in middle-aged and elderly women was affected by estradiol and vitamin D levels together.MethodsBaseline data from a sub-cohort of the China Northwest Natural Population Cohort: Ningxia Project (CNC-NX) were analyzed. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH) D) and estradiol were measured by chemiluminescence immunoassay analyzer. Bivariate logistic regression and multiplicative interaction analyses were used to assess the impact of estradiol level and vitamin D status on low SMM, as well as the combined impact of estradiol and low vitamin D status on low SMM.ResultsA total of 287 (9.49%) participants had low SMM, which had lower levels of estradiol and vitamin D concentration than normal SMM group. While, after adjusting the confounding variables, these correlations were maintained in estradiol Q1, Q2, Q3 and vitamin D Q1. Furthermore, the significant combined effect of the highest quartile of estradiol concentrations and non-vitamin D deficiency, and interactions between vitamin D Q1 and estradiol Q2, vitamin D Q1 and estradiol Q3, vitamin D Q2 and estradiol Q1, vitamin D Q3 and estradiol Q3 on low SMM were stably reflected (P for interaction < 0.05).ConclusionsEstradiol and vitamin D were interrelated with low SMM in middle-aged and elderly women. Combination of estradiol and vitamin D supplements should be encouraged for middle-aged and elderly women who are at risk of muscle atrophy or experiencing muscle atrophy.

Development of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for determining FSH plasma concentrations in green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas), using recombinant gonadotropins

Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) is involved in the regulation of essential reproductive processes such as gametogenesis and follicular growth. There are presently no immunoassays for measuring FSH in turtles. Recently we produced green sea turtle (Chelonia mydas) recombinant (r) FSH as a single-chain polypeptide using the methylotrophic yeast Pichia pastoris expression system, and polyclonal antibodies for the recombinant FSH. In this work we developed a competitive enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for the measurement of FSH concentrations in plasma samples from green sea turtles. We used the rFSHβα for standard, rFSHβ for coating and a cmFSHβ antibody. The sensitivity of the assay was 0.13 ng/ml and the intra-assay and inter-assay coefficients of variation were 5.54% and 13.52% respectively. Parallelism was observed between the linearized FSH standard curves and the corresponding serial dilutions of green sea turtle plasma samples. We also observed parallelism between the linearized standard and serial dilutions of plasma samples from the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta), hawksbill sea turtle (Eretmochelys imbricate), and African softshell turtle (Trionyx triunguis). The ELISA was used to study the FSH plasma concentrations during the reproductive cycles and was compared to hormonal steroid concentrations (Testosterone, Estradiol and Progesterone). This revealed a positive correlation between FSH and estradiol concentrations in females; estradiol concentrations were increased immediately after FSH elevation. In addition, nested females presented an increase in FSH concentrations prior to progesterone elevation in January to April, slightly before egg laying. This ELISA will increase our understanding of gonadotropin functions, and their effects on reproduction in the green sea turtle.

Effects of sub-chronic exposure to microcystin-LR on the endocrine system of male rats

Microcystins (MCs) can cause reproductive and developmental toxicity and disrupt endocrine homeostasis in mammals. In the present study, male, Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were administrated 3 or 30 μg MC-LR/kg, body mass (bm) per day via intraperitoneal (i.p.) injections for 6 weeks. Effects of MC-LR on histology, hormone concentrations, gene transcriptional profiles and protein expressions along the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA), ‐gonad (HPG) and -thyroid (HPT) axes were assessed. Sub-chronic administration with MC-LR caused histological damage to hypothalamus, pituitary, adrenal, testes and thyroid and affected relative masses of pituitary, adrenal and testes. The HPA axis was activated and serum concentrations of corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH), adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and corticosterone (CORT) were significantly augmented. Along the HPG axis, serum concentrations of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) were diminished, while concentrations of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone (T) and estradiol (E2) were augmented. For the HPT axis, only concentrations of free tetra-iodothyronine (fT4) were significantly diminished, while concentrations of thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) or free tri-iodothyronine (fT3) were not significantly changed. Also, several genes and proteins related to synthesis of steroid hormones were significantly altered. Findings of the present study illustrate that MC-LR can cause endocrine-disrupting effects through the disruption of synthesis and secretion of hormones along the HPA, HPG and HPT axes and negative feedback regulation. Also, there could be crosstalk among HPA, HPG and HPT axes. These findings elucidate mechanisms of endocrine-disrupting effects of MCs.

Oestradiol concentrations in trans women with HIV suppressed on unboosted integrase inhibitor regimens versus trans women without HIV taking oral oestradiol: a pilot study.

Feminizing hormone therapy (FHT) is essential to many trans women. Concern about negative drug interactions between FHT and ART can be an ART adherence barrier among trans women with HIV. In this single-centre, parallel group, cross-sectional pilot study, we measured serum oestradiol concentrations in trans women with HIV taking FHT and unboosted integrase strand transfer inhibitor (INSTI)-based ART versus trans women without HIV taking FHT. We included trans women with and without HIV, aged ≥18 years, taking ≥2 mg/day of oral oestradiol for at least 3 months plus an anti-androgen. Trans women with HIV were on suppressive ART ≥3 months. Serum oestradiol concentrations were measured prior to medication dosing and 2, 4, 6 and 8 h post-dose. Median oestradiol concentrations were compared between groups using Wilcoxon rank-sum tests. Participants (n = 8 with HIV, n = 7 without) had a median age of 32 (IQR: 28, 39) years. Among participants, the median oral oestradiol dose was 4 mg (range 2-6 mg). Participants had been taking FHT for a median of 4 years (IQR: 2, 8). Six trans women with HIV were taking bictegravir/emtricitabine/tenofovir alafenamide and two were taking dolutegravir/abacavir/lamivudine. All oestradiol concentrations were not significantly different between groups. Eleven (73%) participants had target oestradiol concentrations in the range 200-735 pmol/L at C4h (75% among women with HIV, 71% among those without HIV). Oestradiol concentrations were not statistically different in trans women with HIV compared with those without HIV, suggesting a low probability of clinically relevant drug-drug interactions between FHT and unboosted INSTI-based ART.

Endogenous estradiol contributes to vascular endothelial dysfunction in premenopausal women with type 1 diabetes

BackgroundEndogenous estrogen is cardio-protective in healthy premenopausal women. Despite this favorable action of estrogen, animal models depict a detrimental effect of estradiol on vascular function in the presence of diabetes. The present study sought to determine the role of endogenous estradiol on endothelial function in women with type 1 diabetes.Method32 women with type 1 diabetes (HbA1c = 8.6 ± 1.7%) and 25 apparently healthy women (HbA1c = 5.2 ± 0.3%) participated. Flow-mediated dilation (FMD), a bioassay of nitric-oxide bioavailability and endothelial function was performed during menses (M) and the late follicular (LF) phase of the menstrual cycle to represent low and high concentrations of estrogen, respectively. In addition, a venous blood sample was collected at each visit to determine circulating concentrations of estradiol, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS), and nitrate/nitrite (NOx), biomarkers of oxidative stress and nitric oxide, respectively. Data were collected in (1) 9 additional women with type 1 diabetes using oral hormonal birth control (HBC) (HbA1c = 8.3 ± 2.1%) during the placebo pill week and second active pill week, and (2) a subgroup of 9 demographically matched women with type 1 diabetes not using HBC (HbA1c = 8.9 ± 2.1%).ResultsOverall, estradiol was significantly increased during the LF phase compared to M in both type 1 diabetes (Δestradiol = 75 ± 86 pg/mL) and controls (Δestradiol = 71 ± 76 pg/mL); however, an increase in TBARS was only observed in patients with type 1 diabetes (ΔTBARS = 3 ± 13 µM) compared to controls (ΔTBARS = 0 ± 4 µM). FMD was similar (p = 0.406) between groups at M. In addition, FMD increased significantly from M to the LF phase in controls (p = 0.024), whereas a decrease was observed in type 1 diabetes. FMD was greater (p = 0.015) in patients using HBC compared to those not on HBC, independent of menstrual cycle phase.ConclusionEndogenous estradiol increases oxidative stress and contributes to endothelial dysfunction in women with diabetes. Additionally, HBC use appears to be beneficial to endothelial function in type 1 diabetes.

A method to detect Fulvestrant interference in estradiol in breast cancer patients.

Fulvestrant resembles estradiol in its structure. Reports have been published concerning fulvestrant measured as estradiol by the immunoassays. This may induce falsely elevated estradiol results and wrongly impact medical decisions. Our aim was to confirm the interference of fulvestrant on estradiol concentration and test a method to identify the false results. Four serum samples with low estradiol levels were spiked with fulvestrant at various concentrations. Estradiol was then measured directly on serum (Dir), after a 1:5 dilution (Dil) and a ratio Dil/Dir was estimated. On the second part of the study, estradiol results (Dir, Dil and ratio Dil/Dir) from 14 women treated with fulvestrant were analysed, as well as from 14 patients not under this treatment. The addition of exogenous fulvestrant to the serum samples induced a gradual rise on estradiol concentration with a mean ratio for the Dil/Dir samples of 2.1±0.4 (range 1.7-2.9). Patients on fulvestrant treatment experienced a mean ratio for the Dil/Dir estradiol sample of 2.4±0.4 (range 1.6-3.0). In the control group, a mean estradiol ratio Dil/Dir of 1.1±0.1 was observed (range 0.8-1.3). No correlation between the number of days after fulvestrant injection and estradiol result (r=0.531) was observed. Our study confirmed the interference of fulvestrant in the estradiol measurement by immunoassay. When fulvestrant was present, the estradiol ratio for Dil/Dir sample was about two. In the control group was around one. The estradiol Dil/Dir ratio is a simple tool which can be used to identify fulvestrant false immunoassay estradiol results.

Subsets of preoperative sex hormones in testicular germ cell cancer: a retrospective multicenter study

Preoperative homeostasis of sex hormones in testicular germ cell tumor (TGCT) patients is scarcely characterized. We aimed to explore regulation of sex hormones and their implications for histopathological parameters and prognosis in TGCT using a data-driven explorative approach. Pre-surgery serum concentrations of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone (T), estradiol (E2) and prolactin were measured in a retrospective multicenter TGCT cohort (n = 518). Clusters of patients were defined by latent class analysis. Clinical, pathologic and survival parameters were compared between the clusters by statistical hypothesis testing, Random Forest modeling and Peto-Peto test. Cancer tissue expression of sex hormone-related genes was explored in the publicly available TCGA cohort (n = 149). We included 354 patients with pure seminoma and 164 patients with non-seminomatous germ cell tumors (NSGCT), with a median age of 36 years. Three hormonal clusters were defined: ‘neutral’ (n = 228) with normal sex hormone homeostasis, ‘testicle’ (n = 91) with elevated T and E2, low pituitary hormones, and finally ‘pituitary’ subset (n = 103) with increased FSH and LH paralleled by low-to-normal levels of the gonadal hormones. Relapse-free survival in the hormonal subsets was comparable (p = 0.64). Cancer tissue expression of luteinizing hormone- and follicle-stimulating hormone-coding genes was significantly higher in seminomas, while genes of T and E2 biosynthesis enzymes were strongly upregulated in NSGCT. Substantial percentages of TGCT patients are at increased risk of sex hormone dysfunction at primary diagnosis before orchiectomy. TGCT may directly influence systemic hormonal homeostasis by in-situ synthesis of sex hormones.

Effects of short-term water velocity stimulation on the biochemical and transcriptional responses of grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus).

Since 2011, ecological operation trials of the Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR) have been continuously conducted to improve the spawning quantity of the four major Chinese carp species below the Gezhouba Dam. In particular, exploring the effects of short-term water velocity stimulation on ovarian development in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) is essential to understand the response of natural reproduction to ecological flows. We performed ovary histology analysis and biochemical assays among individuals with or without stimulation by running water. Although there were no obvious effects on the ovarian development characteristics of grass carp under short-term water velocity stimulation, estradiol, progesterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and triiodothyronine (T3) concentrations were elevated. Then, we further explored the ovarian development of grass carp under short-term water velocity stimulation by RNA sequencing of ovarian tissues. In total, 221 and 741 genes were up- or downregulated under short-term water velocity stimulation, respectively, compared to the control group. The majority of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were enriched in pathways including ABC transporters, cytokine-cytokine receptor interaction, ECM-receptor interaction, and steroid hormone biosynthesis. Important genes including gpr4, vtg1, C-type lectin, hsd17b1, cyp19a1a, cyp17a1, and rdh12 that are involved in ovarian development were regulated. Our results provide new insights and reveal potential regulatory genes and pathways involved in the ovarian development of grass carp under short-term water velocity stimulation, which may be beneficial when devising further ecological regulation strategies.

Resting energy metabolism and sweet taste preference during the menstrual cycle in healthy women.

Differences in blood concentration of sex hormones in the follicular (FP) and luteal (LP) phases may influence energy metabolism in women. We compared fasting energy metabolism and sweet taste preference on a representative day of the FP and LP in twenty healthy women (25·3 (sd 5·1) years, BMI: 22·2 (sd 2·2) kg/m2) with regular self-reported menses and without the use of hormonal contraceptives. From the self-reported duration of the three prior menstrual cycles, the predicted FP and LP visits were scheduled for days 5-12 and 20-25 after menses, respectively. The order of the FP and LP visits was randomly assigned. On each visit, RMR and RQ by indirect calorimetry, sweet taste preference by the Monell two-series forced-choice tracking procedure, serum fibroblast growth factor 21 by a commercial ELISA (FGF21, a liver-derived protein with action in energy balance, fuel oxidation and sugar preference) and dietary food intake by a 24-h dietary recall were determined. Serum progesterone and oestradiol concentrations displayed the expected differences between phases. RMR was lower in the FP v. LP (5042 (sd 460) v. 5197 (sd 490) kJ/d, respectively; P = 0·04; Cohen effect size, d rm = 0·33), while RQ showed borderline significant higher values (0·84 (sd 0·05) v. 0·81 (sd 0·05), respectively; P = 0·07; d rm = 0·62). Also, in the FP v. LP, sweet taste preference was lower (12 (sd 8) v. 16 (sd 9) %; P = 0·04; d rm = 0·47) concomitant with higher serum FGF21 concentration (294 (sd 164) v. 197 (sd 104) pg/ml; P < 0·01; d rm = 0·66). The menstrual cycle is associated with changes in energy expenditure, sweet taste preference and oxidative fuel partitioning.

Induced Sex Reversal in Adult Males of the Protandric Hermaphrodite Centropomus undecimalis Using 17 β-Estradiol: Enhancing Management Strategies for Captive Broodstock

The common snook (Centropomus undecimalis) is a protandric hermaphrodite fish that undergoes a sex change during its life cycle. In nature, common snook females develop directly from males shortly after spawning. However, the factors triggering this process remain unknown. This knowledge gap poses challenges for managing the species in captivity. To address this, we conducted a study on sex change induction in three-year-old males using estradiol and evaluated the potential effects of photoperiod manipulation on early maturation. Four treatment groups were employed: (1) fish with estradiol + natural photoperiod; (2) fish without estradiol + natural photoperiod; (3) fish without estradiol + controlled photoperiod; and (4) fish with estradiol + controlled photoperiod. The effectiveness of these treatments was assessed through histological procedures, which allowed for the examination of the fishes’ gonads. Furthermore, the concentration of alkali labile phosphorus in fish plasma was measured and correlated with the histological results. Our findings revealed that administering 2 mg/kg estradiol implants resulted in a remarkable 100% female population within the estradiol-treated groups. No significant effect on fish maturation was observed due to the manipulated photoperiod conditions. This protocol offers improved management strategies for captive broodstock. Firstly, the concentration of estradiol used in this study proved sufficient to induce sex change in this hermaphroditic species, enabling the production of viable females at an early age and smaller size and facilitating easier broodstock manipulation. Secondly, the implementation of the alkali labile phosphorus technique allows for sex identification without the need to sacrifice the fish. In conclusion, our study provides valuable insights into sex change induction and photoperiod manipulation in common snook. The findings contribute to enhanced management practices for captive broodstock. However, further research is needed to explore the underlying mechanisms triggering sex change and to optimize protocols for long-term maintenance and successful reproduction in captivity.

Effects of electroacupuncture on the secretion function of ovarian cells and kisspeptin/kiss1r system in rats with polycystic ovarian syndrome

To observe the effects of electroacupuncture （EA） on hormone secretion function of ovarian granulosa cells and theca cells, as well as the expression changes of kisspeptin and kiss1r in rats with polycystic ovarian syndrome （PCOS）, so as to explore the mechanism of EA for relieving ovarian dysfunction in PCOS rats. Forty-eight SD female rats were randomly divided into control group, model group, EA group and flutamide group, with 12 rats in each group. PCOS rat model was replicated with the gavage of letrozole （0.1 mg/mL, 10 mL•kg-1•d-1）. In the EA group, EA （2 Hz, 2 mA） was used to stimulate "Guanyuan" （CV4） for 20 min each time. In the flutamide group, flutamide solution （50 mg•kg-1•d-1） was administrated by gavage. The treatments were given once daily for 14 days in each group. After the modeling and treatment, the body and ovarian weights of the rats were measured, and the ovarian index was calculated. Using HE staining, the morphological changes of ovary were observed. ELISA was adopted to detect the contents of testosterone （T）, luteinizing hormone （LH） and estradiol （E2） in serum, the contents of E2 and T in the culture medium of ovarian granulosa cells and theca cells, as well as the content of kisspeptin in the ovarian tissue. The positive expression of kisspeptin in ovary was observed by immunohistochemical method, and the protein expression of its receptor kiss1r was detected by Western blot. Compared with the control group, the body and ovarian weights, ovarian index, the contents of T and LH in serum and that of T in the culture medium of theca cells, as well as the content and positive expression of kisspeptin in ovary were all increased （P<0.01, P<0.05）； and the content of E2 in the culture medium of granulosa cells was decreased （P<0.01） in the model group. When compared with the model group, in the EA and flutamide groups, the body and ovarian weights, ovarian index, the contents of T and LH in serum and that of T in the culture medium of theca cells, as well as the content and expression of kisspeptin in ovary were all decreased （P<0.01, P<0.05）； and the content of E2 in the culture medium of granulosa cells was increased （P<0.05, P<0.01）. EA regulates the serum sex hormone levels, the secretion function of the ovarian granulosa cells and theca cells, and the ovarian kisspeptin/kiss1r protein expression in PCOS rats, showing the similar effect as receptor blockade intervention. It is suggested that the improvement of EA in ovarian dysfunction of PCOS rats may be related to the kisspeptin/kiss1r system.

Effects of electroacupuncture on the secretion function of ovarian cells and kisspeptin/kiss1r system in rats with polycystic ovarian syndrome

To observe the effects of electroacupuncture （EA） on hormone secretion function of ovarian granulosa cells and theca cells, as well as the expression changes of kisspeptin and kiss1r in rats with polycystic ovarian syndrome （PCOS）, so as to explore the mechanism of EA for relieving ovarian dysfunction in PCOS rats. Forty-eight SD female rats were randomly divided into control group, model group, EA group and flutamide group, with 12 rats in each group. PCOS rat model was replicated with the gavage of letrozole （0.1 mg/mL, 10 mL•kg-1•d-1）. In the EA group, EA （2 Hz, 2 mA） was used to stimulate "Guanyuan" （CV4） for 20 min each time. In the flutamide group, flutamide solution （50 mg•kg-1•d-1） was administrated by gavage. The treatments were given once daily for 14 days in each group. After the modeling and treatment, the body and ovarian weights of the rats were measured, and the ovarian index was calculated. Using HE staining, the morphological changes of ovary were observed. ELISA was adopted to detect the contents of testosterone （T）, luteinizing hormone （LH） and estradiol （E2） in serum, the contents of E2 and T in the culture medium of ovarian granulosa cells and theca cells, as well as the content of kisspeptin in the ovarian tissue. The positive expression of kisspeptin in ovary was observed by immunohistochemical method, and the protein expression of its receptor kiss1r was detected by Western blot. Compared with the control group, the body and ovarian weights, ovarian index, the contents of T and LH in serum and that of T in the culture medium of theca cells, as well as the content and positive expression of kisspeptin in ovary were all increased （P<0.01, P<0.05）； and the content of E2 in the culture medium of granulosa cells was decreased （P<0.01） in the model group. When compared with the model group, in the EA and flutamide groups, the body and ovarian weights, ovarian index, the contents of T and LH in serum and that of T in the culture medium of theca cells, as well as the content and expression of kisspeptin in ovary were all decreased （P<0.01, P<0.05）； and the content of E2 in the culture medium of granulosa cells was increased （P<0.05, P<0.01）. EA regulates the serum sex hormone levels, the secretion function of the ovarian granulosa cells and theca cells, and the ovarian kisspeptin/kiss1r protein expression in PCOS rats, showing the similar effect as receptor blockade intervention. It is suggested that the improvement of EA in ovarian dysfunction of PCOS rats may be related to the kisspeptin/kiss1r system.

Association Between Estradiol and Human Aggression: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Although several studies have examined the association between estradiol and human aggression, a consistent understanding of their correlation has yet to be established. This study aimed to investigate this relationship comprehensively. We systematically searched five English databases (PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and CINAHL) from their inception to June 5, 2023. Two authors independently screened publications and extracted data based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Statistical analyses were performed using Review Manager 5.4, and a random-effects model was used to pool the data. We identified 14 eligible studies comprising data from 1820 participants that met the inclusion criteria. This meta-analysis indicated a positive correlation between estradiol and human aggression, albeit a weak one. The pooled Fisher z value was 0.16 (95% confidence interval = 0.05-0.26; I2 = 73%, p <.00001). Furthermore, we found that participants' sex and age, the measures of aggression, and the literature quality might be sources of heterogeneity. Human aggression exhibited a weak positive correlation with estradiol concentration, whereas this relationship was influenced by participants' sex and age, the measure of aggression used, and the quality assessment of the literature. Gaining a better understanding of the association between estradiol and aggression could aid in the identification of populations prone to aggression.