Plasma Progesterone Levels Research Articles

Dyslipidemia’s influence on the secretion ovarian’s steroids in female mice

Introduction: The synthesis ovarian’s steroids is a process thats depends on the supply of cholesterol. Objective: to evaluate the influence of dyslipidemia on the secretion ovarian’s steroids. Methodology: wild female mice were used (C57BL6) and LDL (LDLR-/-), which they were separated into 4 groups (n = 10): WTS: fed a standard diet; WTHL: fed a high-fat diet; KOS: fed a standard diet; KOHL: fed a high-fat diet. After 60 days, the estrous cycle was analyzed and after anesthetized, blood was collected for the to assess the lipid profile, glucose, plasma insulin level and HOMA index was calculated. In addition, plasma levels of C-reactive protein, estrogen and progesterone were determined. Results: The hyperlipidic diet in both the WTHL and the KOHL group generated hypercholesterolemia when compared to the WTS and KOS, respectively, with a decrease in HDLc, associated with an increase in CRP levels. Severe hypercholesterolemia in the KOHL group generated insulin resistance, marked by an increase in HOMAir. Food hypercholesterolemia in the WTHL group, food and genetics in the KOHL group, compared to their WTS and KOS controls, was definitive in reducing plasma levels of estrogen and progesterone. The genetic hypercholesterolemia associated with insulin resistance observed in the KOS and KOHL groups reduced the levels of progesterone, this reduction being more severe in the KOHL group, which had the highest HOMAir. Conclusion: dyslipidemia affected ovarian steroidogenesis in mice by means of oxidative stress, inflammation and insulin resistance and / or by decreasing HDL cholesterol levels.

Maternal aerobic running during mid or late gestation improves the quality of oogenesis and folliculogenesis in the ovary of neonatal rats: An experimental study.

BackgroundRegular maternal exercise in pregnancy enhances the physiological, metabolic, and psychological health of mother and fetus.ObjectiveTo determine the effect of maternal aerobic running during mid or late gestation on plasma levels of estrogen and progesterone and the histological alterations in the ovary of neonatal rats.Materials and MethodsTwenty-one female Wistar rats were randomly divided into experimental groups to exercises during the 2 or 3 wk of pregnancy (n = 14) and a control group (n = 7). After birth, the neonate's blood was obtained and the estrogen and progesterone levels were evaluated. The ovaries were then removed and used for histological investigations and apoptic assessment.ResultsHigher concentrations of estrogen and progesterone were found in the neonates of the experimental groups (p = 0.001) compared to the control group. The experimental groups had a large ovarian diameter (2 wk: p = 0.044; 3 wk: p = 0.005) and angiogenesis (2 wk: p = 0.003; 3 wk: p = 0.001). In addition, significant enhancements were seen in the the experimental groups in terms of the number (2 wk: p = 0.017; p = 0.035) and diameter (2 wk: p = 0.046; 3 wk: p = 0.004) of primordial follicles, as well as in the diameter of primary oocytes (2 wk: p = 0.073; 3 wk: p = 0.019) compared to the control group. Moreover, rats that exercised had a lower number of apoptotic primordial follicles than the control group (2 wk: p = 0.001; 3 wk: p = 0.001).Conclusion It was shown that maternal aerobic running can lead to increased plasma levels of estrogen and progesterone, also improved histological characteristics of the ovary in neonatal rats.

Ameliorative Potential of Aqueous Extract of Broccoli Sprouts Against Triazophos Induced Ovarian Toxicity in Wistar Rats

Traditional therapeutic procedures using antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables have been in vogue for the development of evidence-based biomarkers for assessing reproductive health. Present investigation was designed to study the antioxidative potential of broccoli sprouts aqueous extract (BE), against ovarian toxicity in female rats induced by triazophos (TZ). In the experimental setup, six groups of rats were formed; Control (group 1), BE (group 2), TZ (group 3), and also BE+TZ groups such as BE1 (group 4), BE2 (group 5) and BE3 (group 6) groups. Body weight was weekly recorded of all the rats, while vaginal smear was observed daily during 30 days experiment. After sacrifice, oxidative stress (OS) biomarkers levels viz; catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and lipid peroxidation (LPO) were determined along with histopathological and apoptotic observation. Results revealed differentially modified changes in OS biomarkers as CAT, SOD, GR, GPx, and GST, while LPO levels were significantly improved with broccoli supplementation compared to TZ group rats. Plasma progesterone and estradiol levels were also restored along with improved ovarian histoarchitecture among all BE+TZ treated rats. Reduced apoptotic granulosa cells with reduced atresia and normal ovarian surface epithelium height were also observed with BE treatment. BE exerts multi-mechanistic protective effects against TZ induced ovarian toxicity which is attributable to its antioxidant and protective actions.

Pituitary and ovarian hormones: is their plasma concentration affected by litter size in primiparous lactating rabbit does?

Genetic selection in commercial rabbit lines based on litter size has positively improved the number of kits suckling, presumably to weaning. Although it has been proven that the energetic balance of primiparous does is due to the need to satisfy pregnancy, lactation and growth requirements, litter size adjustment from 7 to 12 kits is applied as a routine in commercial rabbit farms. The suckling stimulus provokes a prolactin (PRL) secretion, which in turn can modulate the preovulatory release of luteinising hormone (LH) and, consequently, the ovulatory and productive responses of the does. This study aimed to determine if litter size of prolific primiparous rabbit does during lactation [Group HL, with high litter density (10-12 kits; n=21) and Group LL, with low litter density (7-9 kits; n=29)] influences plasma concentration of PRL. Blood samples from lactating does were taken weekly throughout lactation starting on day 4 post-partum, until day 32 post-partum, before and immediately after suckling. In addition, the does were re-inseminated after weaning (day 32 post-partum), and sampled at 0 and 60 min after induction of ovulation to determine whether litter size affected the peak of LH, progesterone (P4) concentrations and the main productive parameters of their second pregnancy. All hormones were determined by enzyme immunoassay. Statistical analysis of the results revealed that the PRL concentrations of hyperprolific rabbit does before and immediately after a suckling stimulus from 7-9 or 10-12 kits were significanltly different, as we only detected basal levels, with a rise after weaning in both groups. More studies are necessary, delaying blood sampling to later periods of time after the suckling stimulus, in order to conclude whether the peak release of this hormone is altered or not. There were also no differences in plasma LH and progesterone levels after artificial insemination, or in productive performance of these females after their second pregnancy. In conclusion, the litter size adjustment of prolific primiparous rabbits with 7 to 12 kits determines adequate pituitary, ovarian and reproductive responses at second parturition if the does are inseminated after weaning.

Assessment of Age Effects on Ovarian Hemodynamics Using Doppler Ultrasound and Progesterone Concentrations in Cycling Spanish Purebred Mares.

Simple SummaryPower Doppler is a non-invasive imaging technique that allows complete monitoring of the ovary changes in cycling mares. We use Power Doppler to investigate differences in follicular diameter and corpus luteum area as well as in follicular and corpus luteum blood flows between young and mature Spanish Purebred mares. Young mares had higher follicular and corpus luteum blood flows as well as higher blood progesterone levels. Moreover, we found that blood progesterone levels could be predicted in both groups from corpus luteum blood flow with moderate precision and accuracy. These results support the usefulness of Power Doppler to monitor ovarian hemodynamics and the suitability of corpus luteum blood flow to estimate blood progesterone levels in cycling mares.In equine reproduction, accurate and timely detection of the moment of ovulation is of great importance. Power Doppler ultrasound technology is a non-invasive method that enables to assess the morpho-echogenic features and blood flow changes during the estral cycle in mares. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the influence of age on ultrasonographic parameters (follicular diameter, follicular blood flow—FBF, corpus luteum (CL) area and corpus luteum blood flow—CLBF) and blood plasma progesterone concentrations in cycling Spanish Purebred mares (15 less than 8 years old and 15 equal o higher than 8 years old). The ultrasound images obtained were analyzed with the Image Colour Summarizer software, which allows the quantification of the pixels of each image. Young mares had significantly higher FBF, CLBF and plasma progesterone levels. Moreover, linear regression analysis showed that blood progesterone levels could be predicted in both groups from CLBF with moderate precision and accuracy. In conclusion, Power Doppler was useful to assess ovarian hemodynamics. Our results support that age is a factor that significantly influences FBF and CLBF as well as blood progesterone concentration in mares. More studies would be needed to develop high precision and accuracy predictive models of blood progesterone concentration from CLBF measured by Power Doppler.

P–619 Oral dydrogesterone (OD) versus micronized vaginal progesterone (MVP) for luteal phase support (LPS) in IVF/ICSI: a double blind, cross-over, pharmacokinetic study

Abstract Study question How does the blood pharmacokinetic (PK) profile of OD/MVP differ after the first and last administration dose when used as LPS for fresh embryo transfer? Summary answer: The PK profile differed strongly between both LPS administration strategies with a more rapid absorption, metabolism and clearance of OD in comparison with MVP. What is known already Adequate LPS is crucial to achieve a successful pregnancy following ovarian stimulation (OS) and fresh embryo transfer. OD has been proven to be non-inferior compared to MVP in two phase III clinical trials. Additionally, a combined individual participant data and aggregate data meta-analysis showed an odds ratio in favor of OD for live birth. Little information is available on the PK of LPS strategies, leaving an important field unexplored. Individualization of LPS has recently gained more interest and insight into the PK of progestogens is essential to correctly interpret the potential impact of circulating hormone levels on reproductive outcomes. Study design, size, duration Twenty oocyte donors underwent two OS cycles followed by one week of LPS (OD or MVP) in a randomized, cross-over, double blind, double dummy fashion. As both dydrogesterone (D) and 20αdihydrodydrogesterone (DHD) are progestogenic, D, DHD and progesterone (P) plasma levels were established using a validated liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry assay in each cycle, on the 1st (single dose PK) and 8th day (multiple dose PK) of LPS (9 and 12 harvesting time-points, respectively). Participants/materials, setting, methods All oocyte donors were <35 years, had regular menstrual cycles, no intra-uterine contraceptive device, AMH within normal range and BMI ≤ 29 kg/m2. OS was performed in a GnRH antagonist protocol followed by dual triggering (1000U hCG + 0.2mg triptorelin) as soon as ≥ 3 follicles of 20mm were present. Following oocyte retrieval, subjects initiated LPS consisting of MVP 200 mg (Utrogestan®) or OD 10 mg (Duphaston®), both three times daily. Main results and the role of chance The mean (±SD) age of the subjects was 27.4 (± 3.8) years and BMI was 24.0 (±3.2) kg/m2. The mean (±SD) number of oocytes retrieved was 19.7 ±10. No adverse events were reported during the intake of the study medication. The PK results are best estimates as sampling was reduced compared to a formal PK study. Following the intake of the first dose of OD, the observed maximal plasma concentrations (Cmax) for D and DHD were 2.9 and 77 ng/ml (single dose). The Cmax for D and DHD was reached after 1.5 and 1.6 hours (=Tmax), respectively. On the 8th day of LPS the first administration of that day gave rise to a Cmax of 3.6 and 88 ng/ml for D and DHD (multiple dose). For both, the observed Tmax was 1.5 hours. Following the intake of the first dose of MVP, the Cmax for P was 16 ng/mL with a Tmax of 4.2 hours. On the 8th day of LPS the first administration of that day showed a Cmax for P of 21 ng/mL with a Tmax of 7.3 hours. Although low, the role of chance could be influenced by the relatively low sampling numbers and frequency. Limitations, reasons for caution Peripheral concentrations do not necessarily reflect the steroidogenic effect on endometrial progesterone receptors. Extrapolation to clinical practice is therefore difficult, however, molecular analyses of endometrial tissue harvested within this study protocol are underway to investigate further pharmacodynamics and the progestogenic impact on endometrial receptivity during the embryo implantation period. Wider implications of the findings: This is the first study comparing OD/MVP pharmacokinetics in IVF/ICSI. Results suggest administration frequency to be as important as dose, definitely for OD, showing a rapid absorption/clearance. More studies are needed to investigate blood levels in relation to time of LPS administration, especially in (artificially prepared) FET and LPS individualization. Trial registration number EUDRACT 2018–000105–23

Comparison between the effects of aerobic and isometric exercises on primary dysmenorrhea

Background: Primary dysmenorrhea is a cramping pain in the lower abdomen occurring just before or during menstruation without pelvic pathology. One of the methods used to decrease this condition's severity is exercise. Objective: The aim of this study was to compare the effects of aerobic and isometric exercises on primary dysmenorrhea. Methods: This was a randomized clinical trial that included 105 females aged 18-25 years complaining of primary dysmenorrhea. The participants were divided into three groups equal in number: (1) aerobic exercise (n = 35), (2) isometric exercise (n = 35), and (3) control group (n = 35). The two intervention groups performed exercises three times a week for eight weeks (two menstrual cycles). Participants were assessed using the plasma progesterone levels, visual analogue scale, and modified menstrual symptom questionnaire. Results: The within-group comparisons before and after the training program demonstrated significant differences in the aerobic exercise group regarding the visual analogue scale (p = .001, d = 0.652), plasma progesterone levels (p = .001, d = 0.688), and modified menstrual symptoms questionnaire (p = .001, d = 0.607). Also, there were significant differences in the isometric exercise group regarding the visual analogue scale (p = .001, d = 0.633), plasma progesterone levels (p = .001, d = 0.502), and modified menstrual symptoms questionnaire (p = .001, d = 0.462); however, no significant differences were observed in the control group. In addition, after the end of the exercise program when compared with their corresponding values measured before intervention significant differences were observed regarding these parameters between the aerobic and control group (p = .001) as well as between the isometric and control group (p = .001). On the other hand, after the end of the exercise program no significant differences were observed between the aerobic and isometric groups regarding the visual analogue scale (p = .14) or plasma progesterone level (p = .14); however, a significant difference was observed in the modified menstrual symptoms questionnaire between these two groups (p = .001) with favor to the aerobic exercise group. Conclusions: Both aerobic and isometric exercises are effective in reducing the severity of dysmenorrhea.

Reproductive performance is associated with seasonal plasma reproductive hormone levels, steroidogenic enzymes and sex hormone receptor expression levels in cultured Asian yellow pond turtles (Mauremys mutica).

In order to understand the endocrine mechanism associated with fecundity of seasonally breeding animals, we investigated the plasma reproductive hormones levels and detected the differences in steroidogenic enzymes and sex hormone receptor mRNA levels in female Mauremys mutica. These turtles were divided into higher fecundity (HF) group than those in lower fecundity (LF) group based on paternity identification in our previous research. The plasma estrogen (E2), testosterone (T) and progesterone (P4) levels were significantly higher in pre-breeding season (PBS) than those in non-breeding season (NBS) and were markedly higher in the HF group than those in LF group. In the hypothalamus, there was significantly higher mRNA abundance of P450-cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (P450Scc) encoded by Cyp11α1, aromatase (Cyp19α1) and 5-reductase (5α-R), but significantly lower mRNA levels of follicular stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR) and progesterone receptor (PR) detected in PBS than those in NBS. The pituitary steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR), cytochrome P450-17alpha-hydroxylase (Cyp17α1), 3-hydroxy-steroid dehydrogenase (3βHSD), 17-hydroxy-steroid dehydrogenase 3 (17βHSD3), Cyp19α1, 5α-R, FSHR, estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1), androgen receptor (AR) and PR transcriptional levels in HF group were up-regulated significantly compared with the LF group. In the ovary, Cyp17α1 and 17βHSD3 transcriptional levels were markedly higher in PBS than those in NBS. We detected significantly increased expression levels of all steroidogenic enzymes, but notably lower mRNA levels of FSHR and PR in uterus during the PBS, and the HF group has significantly higher expression levels of StAR, Cyp17α1, 5α-R and AR than LF group. Our work reveals seasonal variations in hormone regulation as well as gene regulation in turtles, providing reliable information to understand the mechanisms underlying the different reproductive capacity of reptiles.

Hormonal and neural responses to restraint stress in an animal model of perimenopause in female rats.

The present study investigated the hormonal and neural responses to stress in a perimenopause animal model induced by 4-vinylcyclohexene diepoxide (VCD), which induces progressive follicular depletion in rodents, allowing studies on the transition to ovarian failure. Female rats, aged 28days old, were s.c. injected for 15 consecutive days with corn oil or VCD. At 85±5days after the onset of treatment, the jugular vein was cannulated in the afternoon of metoestrus and in next morning (dioestrus) at 10.00am, rats were subjected to 30minutes of restraint stress. Blood samples were withdrawn before (-5minutes), during (2, 5, 15 and 30minutes) and after (45, 60 and 90minutes) stress and plasma prolactin, progesterone and corticosterone levels were measured. Animals were perfused, brains processed for c-Fos/tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) in the locus coeruleus (LC) and c-Fos/corticotrophin-releasing factor (CRF) in the paraventricular nucleus (PVN). In unstressed rats the density of β-endorphin fibres was assessed in LC and PVN. In VCD-treated rats, stress-induced prolactin peak was higher, basal and peak progesterone levels were lower, and both levels of corticosterone were similar to controls. However, the recovery period was longer for both adrenal hormones. In VCD-treated rats the number of c-Fos/TH and c-Fos/CRF-immunoreactive neurones was higher whereas the density of β-endorphin fibres was lower in LC and PVN. We surmise that the hyperactivity of the LC and PVN neurones in VCD-treated rats may be a result of the lower progesterone levels that resulted in the decrease of β-endorphin content in both nuclei, thus impairing the negative-feedback mechanism in the recovery period.

EFFECT OF PLATELET-RICH PLASMA IN CYCLOPHOSPHAMIDE-INDUCED OVARIAN FAILURE IN ALBINO RATS: HISTOLOGICAL AND ANATOMICAL STUDY

Amenorrhea and ovarian disorders are a common concern of women under the age of 40, a condition medically known as premature ovarian failure (POF). The incidence of POF among Egyptian women before the age of 40, is about 8% that exceeds the global incidence which is about 1%. Chemotherapeutic agents were linked to toxicity of ovarian tissues and disturbance of ovarian functions. Provision of a suitable protective agent with high efficacy, low side effects and cost is a major challenge in the field of oncofertility. Aim of the study: is to evaluate the mechanism of PRP treatment in induced ovarian failure due to cyclophosphamide.Materials and methods: The present study was carried out on twenty-nine albino rats. Twenty-four adult female albino rats were used as the experimental group. Five age-matched healthy male albino rats were used to get the PRP. The twenty-four adult female albino rats were randomly assigned into three groups (control, group II: received cyclophosphamide, group III: received cyclophosphamide and PRP). Plasma estradiol and progesterone levels were measured on day 22 after cyclophosphamide treatment before experimental rats euthanasia. The rats were euthanized and ovaries were anatomically examined using dissecting stereomicroscope. Sections of the ovaries were prepared and examined histologically, immunohistochemicaly and using transmission electron microscope.Results: Cyclophosphamide treated groups showed signs of degeneration of follicles and oocyte and deterioration of ovarian functions. PRP treated group showed improved appearance of ovarian follicles and improved ovarian functions. Conclusion: PRP seems to have protective effects on ovarian tissues and functions and its concomitant use with cyclophosphamide helps to restore the ovarian tissues.

Neuroendocrine and neuroimmune responses in male and female rats: evidence for functional immaturity of the neuroimmune system during early adolescence.

Adolescence is a developmental period characterized by rapid behavioral and physiological changes, including enhanced vulnerability to stress. Recent studies using rodent models of adolescence have demonstrated age differences in neuroendocrine responses and blunted neuroimmune responding to pharmacological challenges. The present study was designed to test whether this neuroimmune insensitivity would generalize to a non-pharmacological stress challenge. Male and female adolescent (P29-33) and adult (P70-80) Sprague Dawley rats were exposed to intermittent footshock for one-, two-, or two-hours+recovery. Plasma corticosterone and progesterone levels as well as gene expression of several cytokines and c-Fos gene expression in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus (PVN), the medial amygdala (MeA), and the ventral hippocampus (vHPC) were analyzed. The results of the present study demonstrated differences in response to footshock, with these differences dependent on age, sex, and brain region of interest. Adult males and females demonstrated time-dependent increases in IL-1β and IL-1R2 in the PVN, with these changes not evident in adolescent males and substantially blunted in adolescent females. TNFα expression was decreased in all regions of interest, with adults demonstrating more suppression relative to adolescents and age differences more apparent in males than in females. IL-6 expression was affected by footshock predominantly in the vHPC of adolescent and adult males and females, with females demonstrating prolonged elevation of IL-6 gene expression. In summary, central cytokine responses to acute stressor exposure are blunted in adolescent rats, with the most pronounced immaturity evident for the brain IL-1 signaling system.

Ovarian Follicular Dynamics, and Hormonal and Biochemical Profile in Post-Pubertal and Postpartum Jaffrabadi Buffaloes

Jaffrabadi buffalo is one of the heaviest buffalo breeds of the world (800 kg) and is known for poor reproductive efficiency. There is a scarcity of normal physiological data regarding reproductive parameters of Jaffrabadi buffalo. The primary objective of this study was to elucidate ovarian follicular dynamics, hormonal and biochemical profiles in 10 post-pubertal heifers (n=5 each of age 42±2 and 48±2 months) and five >90 days postpartum lactating buffaloes. Ultrasound monitoring of ovaries of animals was done at weekly interval and all follicles with diameter less than 4 mm (small follicles), 4-8 mm (medium follicles) and greater than 8 mm (large follicles) as well as CLs identified were recorded. Blood samples were also collected soon after each USG from all animals for assay of hormonal and biochemical profiles. The findings revealed that the average number of small, medium and large follicles, total number of follicles per ovary as well as diameters of largest and subordinate follicles varied greatly among periods between three groups. The size of corpus luteum ranged from 13.7 to 21.2 mm, 13.7 to 23.9 mm and 15.3 to 22.7 mm, respectively, in Group-I, II and III. In the first week of study, significantly higher (p less than 0.05) average numbers of small follicles in Group-I and III, and medium follicles and total numbers of follicles in Group-III were observed as compared to other groups. The diameter of largest follicles and subordinate follicles were non-significantly different among all groups at all periods of the study. Plasma estrogen levels were significantly higher (p less than 0.05) in Group-I as compared to Group-III and Group-II on first and second week, however, it increased significantly (p less than 0.05) in Group-II and I on fourth week of study period. Plasma insulin concentrations were significantly (p less than 0.01) lower in buffaloes (Group-III) than in heifers (Group-I and II) throughout the study period, while plasma total cholesterol and total protein levels were higher in Group-III on 3rd to 5th weeks of study. Further, there were no significant differences in the plasma FSH, LH, progesterone and blood glucose levels in animals of three groups between periods at any of the week. The ultrasonographic and endocrine profile suggested establishment of cyclicity with silent ovulation. However, the behavioural estrus was still not manifested by these post-pubertal heifers and postpartum lactating buffaloes. These results are helpful to diagnose anovulatory conditions and/or true anestrus and initiate estrus synchronization protocols for early conception in Jaffrabadi buffaloes.

Progesterone's Effects on Cognitive Performance of Male Mice Are Independent of Progestin Receptors but Relate to Increases in GABAA Activity in the Hippocampus and Cortex.

Progestogens' (e.g., progesterone and its neuroactive metabolite, allopregnanolone), cognitive effects and mechanisms among males are not well-understood. We hypothesized if progestogen's effects on cognitive performance are through its metabolite allopregnanolone, and not actions via binding to traditional progestin receptors (PRs), then progesterone administration would enhance performance in tasks mediated by the hippocampus and cortex, coincident with increasing allopregnanolone concentrations, brain derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and/or muscimol binding of PR knock out (PRKO) and wild-type PR replete mice. Experiment 1: Progesterone (4 mg/kg, subcutaneously (SC; n = 12/grp), or oil vehicle control, was administered to gonadally-intact adult male mice PRKO mice and their wild-type counterparts and cognitive behaviors in object recognition, T-maze and water maze was examined. Progesterone, compared to vehicle, when administered post-training increased time investigating novel objects by the PRKO and wild-type mice in the object recognition task. In the T-maze task, progesterone administration to wild-type and PRKO mice had significantly greater number of spontaneous alternations compared to their vehicle-administered counterparts. In the water maze task, PRKO mice administered vehicle spent significantly fewer seconds in the quadrant associated with the escape platform on testing compared to all other groups. Experiment 2: Progesterone administered to wild-type and PRKO mice increased plasma progesterone and allopregnanolone levels (n = 5/group). PRKO mice had higher allopregnanolone levels in plasma and hippocampus, but not cortex, when administered progesterone and compared to wild-type mice. Experiment 3: Assessment of PR binding revealed progesterone administered wild-type mice had significantly greater levels of PRs in the hippocampus and cortex, compared to all other groups (n = 5/group). Wild-type mice administered progesterone, but not vehicle, had increased BDNF levels in the hippocampus, but not the cortex, compared to PRKOs. Wild-type as well as PRKO mice administered progesterone experienced significant increases in maximal GABAA agonist, muscimol, binding in hippocampus and cortex, compared to their vehicle-administered counterparts. Thus, adult male mice can be responsive to progesterone for cognitive performance, and such effects may be independent of PRs trophic actions of BDNF levels in the hippocampus and/or increases in GABAA activity in the hippocampus and cortex.

The delivery of a placenta/fetus with high gonadal steroid production contributes to postpartum depressive symptoms.

A correlation between gonadal steroids and depressive symptoms during the perinatal period has long been suggested; however, the underlying mechanism for this relationship remains unclear. This study was designed to examine the correlation between gonadal steroid concentrations of umbilical cord blood and postpartum depressive symptoms as well as longitudinal alterations in maternal plasma gonadal steroid concentrations among 204 perinatal women. The levels of postpartum depressive state at 1 month postpartum were evaluated using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Umbilical progesterone, estradiol, and testosterone levels were significantly higher in infants delivered by depressed mothers (870.7 ± 281.7 ng/ml, 8607.7 ± 4354.6 pg/ml, and 2.5 ± 0.9 ng/ml, respectively) than those delivered bynondepressed mothers (741.3 ± 324.0 ng/ml, 5221.9 ± 3416.3 pg/ml, and 2.1 ± 0.6 ng/ml, p < .01, p < .05, and p < .05, respectively). Postpartum plasma progesterone levels of depressed mothers (3.5 ± 3.1 ng/ml) measured in the early postpartum period were significantly lower than those of nondepressed mothers (9.1 ± 9.7 ng/ml, p < .01). The decrease in progesterone from mid-pregnancy to the early postpartum period was significantly higher in depressed mothers than in nondepressed mothers. Subgroup analyses specific to primiparasor multiparas indicated that a significant drop of progesterone was seen only in primiparas. The current study suggests that the delivery of a placenta/fetus with high gonadal steroid production may cause a wider range of fluctuations in maternal plasma gonadal steroid concentrations, which may be concurrent with postpartum depressive symptoms.

Relationship between plasma concentrations of estradiol-17β and progesterone and the distribution of epithelial and inflammatory cells in the external opening of the river buffaloes’ uterine cervix during the gestational period

Changes in the distribution of the epithelial and inflammatory cells in the external opening of the uterine cervix in river buffaloes at three different occasions during the gestation period were investigated by light microscopic evaluation of mucus smears prepared by wet swab sampling and Giemsa-stained. Forty five pregnant river buffaloes that were in the first (n=15), second (n=15) and third (n=15) approximately equal parts of their gestation period were sampled twice concurrently by individual wet swabs from the external opening of the uterine cervix. Five smears were prepared from each sample. Immediately after mucus sampling, blood samples were obtained from the jugular vein of each animal, centrifuged immediately and stored at -20 oC to assay the plasma levels of estradiol-17β and progesterone. The results showed that changes in the percentage of the vacuolated and non-vacuolated epithelial cells, lymphocytes, eosinophils, and basophils were not statistically significant between the groups, which suggests that as the pregnancy progressed, changes in the blood levels of estradiol-17β and progesterone had little or no effect on the distribution of these cells in the region, but changes in the percentage of neutrophils were statistically significant between the groups. It was also found that changes in the percentage of macrophages between the second and third trimesters of the gestation period were not significant, but the difference between the first and the other trimesters was statistically significant. It was concluded that the percentages of neutrophils and macrophages increase significantly as the plasma concentrations of progesterone decrease during the gestation.

Changes in the ovary and the peripheral concentrations of sex hormones after the aspiration of follicular fluid from the spontaneous follicular cysts of dairy cows.

The aim of the present study was to clarify the ovarian and hormonal dynamics after the aspiration of follicular fluid in cows with follicular cysts. Follicular fluid was aspirated from the follicular cysts and follicles that were fated to become cystic follicles and other coexisting normal follicles, respectively, in lactating cows (n = 3). After the aspiration procedure, new follicles developed and reached a diameter of 25 mm without ovulation within 13–19 days. The plasma concentrations of inhibin decreased and follicle-stimulating hormone increased rapidly after the aspiration procedure, and subsequently increased and decreased, respectively, as a new follicle grew. No luteal structures developed after the aspiration procedure, and the animals’ plasma progesterone levels remained low. The present study indicates that the cystic follicles are never luteinized by the aspiration of follicular fluid, and consequently, new follicular cysts are observed to repeatedly develop.

Characterization of hypothalamo–pituitary–thyroid axis gene expression in the hypothalamus, pituitary gland, and ovarian follicles of turkey hens during the preovulatory surge and in hens with low and high egg production

Dysregulation of the preovulatory surge (PS) leads to lowered egg production. The hypothalamo–pituitary–thyroid (HPT) axis has been shown to influence plasma progesterone levels and follicle ovulation. The presence of thyroid hormone receptors (THR) in the reproductive axis suggests possible effects of thyroid hormone. To further understand the potential role of thyroid hormone on the PS, HPT axis plasma hormone concentrations and gene expression were characterized surrounding the PS in average egg producing hens (AEPH), low egg producing hens (LEPH), and high egg producing hens (HEPH) (n = 3 hens/group). Data were analyzed using the mixed models procedure of SAS, with significance indicated at P < 0.05. Average egg producing hens and HEPH displayed lower levels of triiodothyronine (T3) and higher levels of thyroxine (T4) inside of the PS, whereas LEPH showed inverse T3 and T4 levels relative to the PS. Expression of mRNA for hypothalamic thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH), pituitary thyrotropin (TSHB), and the main thyroid hormone metabolism enzyme (DIO2) were downregulated during the PS in AEPH and HEPH. Low egg producing hens displayed higher expression of mRNA for hypothalamic TRH as well as pituitary TSHB and DIO2 compared with HEPH. Average egg producing hens expression of THR mRNAs was upregulated during the PS in the hypothalamus but downregulated in the pituitary. High egg producing hens showed decreased expression of THR mRNAs in both the hypothalamus and pituitary when compared with LEPH. In ovarian follicles, THR mRNAs were more prevalent in the thecal layer of the follicle wall compared with the granulosa layer, and expression tended to decrease with follicle maturity. Minimal differences in follicular THR expression were seen between LEPH and HEPH, indicating that THR expression is unlikely to be responsible for steroid hormone production differences occurring between LEPH and HEPH. Generally, downregulation of the HPT axis was seen during the PS in AEPH and HEPH, whereas upregulation of the HPT axis was seen in LEPH. Further studies will be required to clarify the role of the HPT axis in the regulation of ovulation and egg production rates in turkey hens.

Huperzine-A administration recovers rat ovary function after sympathetic stress.

Chronic cold stress affects ovarian morphology and impairs fertility in rats. It causes an ovarian polycystic ovary (PCOS)-like phenotype, which resembles PCOS in women. The mechanism of cold stress action involves increased ovarian noradrenaline (NA) levels, which remain elevated after cessation of cold stress. By contrast, ovarian acetylcholine (ACh) levels are only transiently elevated and returned to control levels after a 28-day post stress period. Because ACh can exert trophic actions in the ovary, we hypothesised that a sustained elevation of ovarian ACh levels by intraovarian exposure to the ACh-esterase blocker huperzine-A (Hup-A) may interfere with cold stress-induced ovarian changes. This possibility was examined in female Sprague-Dawley rats exposed to cold stress (4°C for 3hday-1 for 28days), followed by a 28-day period without stress. To elevate ACh, in a second group Hup-A was delivered into the ovary of cold stress-exposed rats. A third group was not exposed to cold stress. As expected, cold stress elevated ovarian NA, reduced the number of corpora lutea and increased the number of follicular cysts. It increased plasma testosterone and oestradiol but decreased plasma levels of progesterone. In the Hup-A group, ovarian levels of both, NA and ACh, were elevated, there were fewer cysts and normal testosterone and oestradiol plasma levels were found. However, progesterone levels remained low. Most likely, low progesterone was associated with impaired mating behaviour and low pregnancy rate. We propose that elevated intraovarian levels of ACh are involved in the rescue of ovarian function, opening a target to control ovarian diseases affecting follicular development.

Improving ovulation in gilts using anti-inhibin serum treatment combined with fixed-time artificial insemination.

For successful batch farrowing, porcine oestrus and ovulation must be synchronized using fixed-time artificial insemination (FTAI). However, exogenous gonadotropins, which are currently used in FTAI, negatively affect gilt ovulation. Here, we aimed to improve sexually mature gilt superovulation efficiency using passive immunization against inhibin during FTAI. Altrenogest-treated gilts were challenged with 10ml anti-inhibin serum (AIS group, n=6), 1,000IU pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG group, n=6), or 10ml goat serum (control group, n=6). Gilts in the AIS and PMSG groups were inseminated according to the FTAI protocol, and gilts in the control group were inseminated during natural oestrus. When PMSG was replaced by AIS during FTAI of gilts, ovulation rate and embryos recovered were significantly greater in the AIS group as compared to the other two groups (p<.05). Especially the average number of 6-8-cell embryos in the AIS group was significantly higher than that in the PMSG group (p<.01). Moreover, the blastocyst number in the AIS group was significantly higher than that in the PMSG group and the control group (p<.05). But there was no significant difference in the blastocyst number between the PMSG group and the control group (p>.05). Besides, plasma levels of estradiol-β (E2) and progesterone (P4) were significantly greater in the AIS group as compared to the other two groups on Day 23 and D 27, respectively (p<.01). In summary, we devised an improved high-yield FTAI protocol for sexually mature gilts using AIS; this protocol had a greater superovulation efficiency than the FTAI using PMSG.

Alterations in the Blood Parameters and Fecal Microbiota and Metabolites during Pregnant and Lactating Stages in Bama Mini Pigs as a Model.

This study was conducted to analyze plasma reproductive hormone and biochemical parameter changes, as well as fecal microbiota composition and metabolites in sows, at different pregnancy and lactation stages, using Bama mini pig as an experimental animal model. We found that plasma prolactin (PRL), progesterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and estrogen levels decreased from day 45 to day 105 of pregnancy. Plasma total protein and albumin levels were lower in pregnant sows, while glucose, urea nitrogen, total cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, as well as fecal acetate, butyrate, valerate, total short-chain fatty acids, skatole, and tyramine levels, were higher in lactating sows. Interestingly, the lactating sows showed lower α-diversity and Spirochaetes and Verrucomicrobia relative abundances, while pregnant sows showed a higher Proteobacteria relative abundance. Notably, the Akkermansia relative abundance was highest on day 7 of lactation. Spearman analysis showed a positive correlation between plasma triglyceride and cholinesterase levels and Akkermansia and Streptococcus relative abundances. Moreover, Oscillospira and Desulfovibrio relative abundances were also positively correlated with plasma FSH, LH, and E2 levels, as well as PRL and LH with Bacteroides. Collectively, plasma reproductive hormones, biochemical parameters, and fecal microbiota composition and metabolite levels could alter along with pregnancy and lactation, which might contribute to the growth and development demands of fetuses and newborns.