Secondary Sexual Characteristics Research Articles

Experiences of body image in the gender non-binary community: A qualitative analysis

Body image concerns are prevalent within transgender communities – many transgender people engage in disordered eating to suppress or accentuate secondary sex characteristics and reduce gender dysphoria. However, this research has mostly been conducted with binary transgender people. Here, we examine how non-binary people experience and relate to their bodies. Semi-structured one-on-one interviews were conducted with 13 gender non-binary individuals living in Australia. Photo elicitation techniques were utilised, and the transcribed interview data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. Six themes were identified: Expansive Understandings of Body Image, Body Image can be Linked to Gender Dysphoria, Cultivating a Preferred Body can Lead to Gender Euphoria, Appreciating Diversity in Non-Binary Body Ideals, The Androgynous Body Ideal is not Universally Accepted, and Experiencing the Body as Functional rather than Aesthetic. The present findings highlight the diversity of experiences of body image for non-binary people. The non-binary concept of body image was found to be expansive, stressing various physical attributes involved in social gender recognition and physiological sources of gender dysphoria. Some participants valued gender-affirming medical intervention, others were accepting of their bodies as they are, attributing their body confidence to the process of affirming their non-binary gender.

P-598 Novel inactivating homozygous mutation of the luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor (LHCGR) and first live birth after in vitro maturation (IVM): a breakthrough

Abstract Study question How can pregnancy and live birth be achieved in patients with inactivating homozygous luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor (LHCGR) mutation? Summary answer We report the first live birth after IVM in a patient with a novel homozygous inactivating LHCGR mutation (exon 6,c.470A>G). What is known already LH plays a fundamental role in female reproductive physiology and is responsible for steroidogenesis, oocyte maturation, ovulation and subsequent progesterone production by the corpus luteum. LH binds to the LHCGR located on the membrane of theca cells and mature granulosa cells. Inactivating mutations of the LHCG receptor lead to the impossibility to obtain final oocyte maturation both during natural cycles and after ovarian stimulation for in vitro fertilization purpose. Until now, egg donation represented the only option to treat their infertility. Study design, size, duration A case report. Participants/materials, setting, methods A 35 year-old nulliparous patient was referred to our university hospital for primary infertility. Main results and the role of chance The 35-year-old nulliparous patient presented with primary spaniomenorrhea but timely and spontaneous onset of secondary sexual characteristics. Serum LH levels were high (ranging from 15 to 30 IU/L) and to a lesser extent so were FSH levels. The ovarian reserve was normal for age, as assessed by serum AMH levels and ultrasound. There was no argument for polycystic ovarian syndrome, 21-hydroxylase deficiency, Cushing’s syndrome or hyperprolactinemia. Two previous attempts of controlled ovarian stimulation with gonadotropins and ovulation trigger with hCG and GnRH-agonist trigger had failed, resulting in low estradiol levels despite correct follicular growth on ultrasound and absence of ovulation after trigger. We identified by genetic analysis a novel homozygous inactivating LHCGR mutation (exon 6, c.470A>G) that had never been described previously. IVM was performed. A total of 7 oocytes were obtained after IVM, resulting in 4 Day 3 embryos. All embryos were frozen. Subsequently, 2 Day 3 embryos were replaced after endometrial preparation by hormone replacement therapy. The patient became pregnant and gave birth to a healthy baby. Two Day 3 embryos remain. Limitations, reasons for caution By definition, a case-report requires further studies to confirm our findings. Wider implications of the findings We describe a novel inactivating LHCGR mutation with subsequent live birth after IVM. As a growing number of gonadotropin receptor mutations are identified, this live birth successfully obtained places IVM as the only reliable option for these patients to conceive with their own eggs. Trial registration number not applicable

Efficacy of GnRH Pulses in Hypogonadism Secondary to Primary Empty Sella: Case Report.

This study aims to assess the effectiveness of pulsed gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) micropump replacement therapy in the treatment of hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (HH) caused by primary empty sella (PES).The efficacy of pulsed GnRH replacement therapy using the micropump was evaluated in a middle-aged male patient with HH who had experienced the loss of his only child. Relevant literature was also consulted to compare the differences between pulse GnRH treatment and conventional treatment in terms of the development of secondary sexual characteristics, sex hormone levels, sperm production rate, and sperm activity rate in male patient with HH.In this report, a 45-year-old male diagnosed with HH and PES presented with fatigue and decreased libido. The main characteristics included decreased follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels of 0.03 mIU/mL, luteinizing hormone (LH) levels of 0.02 mIU/mL, and testosterone (T) levels of 0.72 nmol/L. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed an empty sella. Semen analysis showed a small number of normal sperm with reduced motility. During treatment with the micropump pulse GnRH, the patient experienced no side effects and showed improvements in fatigue, reduced libido, sexual urge, anxiety, and feelings of inferiority. LH, FSH, and T levels returned to normal, while sperm activity rate increased to 79.9%. Ultimately, the patient's spouse achieved a natural pregnancy.Pulsed gonadotropin delivery using the micropump demonstrates good efficacy and tolerability, and aligns more closely with the physiological rhythm of GnRH secretion in the human body.

Strategies for developing 3D printed ovarian model for restoring fertility.

Ovaries play a crucial role in the regulation of numerous essential processes that occur within the intricate framework of female physiology. They are entrusted with the responsibility of both generating a new life and orchestrating a delicate hormonal symphony. Understanding their functioning is crucial for gaining insight into the complexities of reproduction, health, and fertility. In addition, ovaries secrete hormones that are crucial for both secondary sexual characteristics and the maintenance of overall health. A three-dimensional (3D) prosthetic ovary has the potential to restore ovarian function and preserve fertility in younger females who have undergone ovariectomies or are afflicted with ovarian malfunction. Clinical studies have not yet commenced, and the production of 3D ovarian tissue for human implantation is still in the research phase. The main challenges faced while creating a 3D ovary for invivo implantation include sustenance of ovarian follicles, achieving vascular infiltration into the host tissue, and restoring hormone circulation. The complex ovarian microenvironment that is compartmentalized and rigid makes the biomimicking of the 3D ovary challenging in terms of biomaterial selection and bioink composition. The successful restoration of these properties in animal models has led to expectations for the development of human ovaries for implantation. This review article summarizes and evaluates the optimal 3D models of ovarian structures and their safety and efficacy concerns to provide concrete suggestions for future research.

The Chinese medaka (Oryzias sinensis) dmrt1 gene converts females to males in medaka (Oryzias latipes)

BackgroundChinese medaka (Oryzias sinensis) is widely distributed in freshwater rivers in China. Similar to the medaka (Oryzias latipes), Chinese medaka has the characteristics of small size, rapid reproductive cycle, and strong adaptability, which makes it suitable as a model organism for studies in basic biology and environmental toxicology. Chinese medaka exhibits distinct sexual dimorphism. However, due to the lack of complete genomic information, the regulation of sex determination and differentiation-related genes in Chinese medaka remains unclear. MethodsChinese medaka dmrt1 (Osdmrt1) was cloned by PCR, and transgenic individuals of medaka [Tg(CMV:Osdmrt1)] overexpressing Osdmrt1 were generated to investigate the role of Osdmrt1 in sex determination. Western blot was used to validate the integration of the Osdmrt1 into the medaka genome. Tissue sectioning and HE staining were used to identify Tg(CMV:Osdmrt1) physiological gender and phenotype. qRT-PCR was used to analyze the expression of gonad-specific genes. ResultsOsdmrt1 was cloned and identified, and it shared similar evolutionary relationships with medaka dmrt1. Tg(CMV:Osdmrt1) exhibited partial sex reversal from female to male in the F2 generation, with genetically female individuals developing testes and producing functional sperm. Additionally, the secondary sexual characteristics of the transgenic females also changed to males. ConclusionThe Chinese medaka dmrt1 gene could convert females to males in medaka.General significance: These results not only elucidate the function of Chinese medaka dmrt1, but also accumulate knowledge for studying the function of economically important fish genes in model fish by transgenic technology.

Proto-Endocrinological Theories of Masculinity/Femininity (1490-1904).

From the mid-seventeenth century, resorption of a testicular "ferment" and resorption of some part of the semen constituted reputable accounts of secondary sexual characteristics. Only in the early twentieth century was the latter, "recrementitious secretion" theory, explicitly considered superseded by one of internal secretion, an advance ushering in the hormone era. A reconstruction of these proto-endocrinological concepts is offered onward from the first, 1490 print edition of Galen's On Semen. Early modern physicians picking up from Galen deliberated widely on the medium and pathway of male and female testicular influences on "the entire body," including the mind, causing "femininity" and "masculinity" in physical, mental-temperamental, and behavioral terms. A switch is discernible from "heat and strength" (Galen) to blood-borne "virility" or testicular vapor (such as proposed in 1564 by Tomás Rodrigues da Veiga), to iatrochemical postulations of a "seminal ferment" (suggested in the late 1650s, perhaps independently, by Thomas Willis at Oxford and Lambert van Velthuysen in Utrecht), finally to a "seminal recrement" or "reabsorbed semen" concept soon after (emergent in the posthumous work of Giovanni Alfonso Borelli, among others). During the late eighteenth century, mounting controversy surrounded both the very idea of that concept and the involved anatomical pathways, informed by multiple experiments.

Pubertal Delay Secondary to Hashimoto's Disease in the Hypothyroid Phase: About a Case in the Internal Medicine Department of the Gabriel Touré University Hospital in Bamako, Mali

Introduction: Pubertal delay is defined by the absence of development of secondary sexual characteristics beyond the age of 13 in girls or 14 years in boys. In children of puberty age, delayed puberty is common in long-standing, untreated hypothyroidism. We report a case of delayed puberty revealed by Hashimoto's disease in the hypothyroid phase diagnosed in the Internal Medicine department of the Gabriel Touré University Hospital in Bamako, Mali. Observation: This was a female patient, aged 20 years old, without any particular medico-surgical ATCD or notion of taking medication, who had consulted at the end of 2021, in the Internal Medicine department of the University Hospital Gabriel Touré from Bamako for primary amenorrhea and delayed puberty. At the end of the clinical and paraclinical examination, a hypometabolism syndrome and pubertal delay were noted. On an evolutionary level, development of secondary sexual characteristics (From T1 to T3, and appearance of menstruation) after one year of treatment. Conclusion: Delayed puberty may be the consequence of hypothyroidism. Opotherapy with L Thyroxine helps restore normal pubertal development.

Mayer–Rokitansky–Küster–Hauser syndrome managed with McIndoe’s vaginoplasty: a case series and literature review

Introduction: Mayer–Rokitansky–Küster–Hauser (MRKH) syndrome is a congenital anomaly characterized by the absence of the uterus and the upper two-thirds of the vagina. It is a rare congenital anomaly with an incidence of 1 in 5000 female live births. Case series: The authors describe three cases of females presenting with primary amenorrhoea who were diagnosed with MRKH syndrome. The patients were managed with McIndoe’s vaginoplasty with neovagina creation with an amnion graft. Discussion: Management of MRKH syndrome involves vaginoplasty with neovagina creation. The approach to neovagina creation can be done surgically or non-surgically. Non-surgical creation of the vaginal cavity involves serial use of vaginal dilators, while there are several ways for surgical creation of neovagina. The modified Abbe-McIndoe procedure using amnion to create neovagina is a minimally invasive, rapid, and simple procedure with no risk of immune rejection because the amnion membrane lacks histocompatibility antigens. In addition, the graft is also readily available, storable, and inexpensive. Conclusion: Diagnosis of MRKH syndrome can be made when a young female with primary amenorrhoea and normal secondary sexual characteristics has agenesis of the uterus, and upper two-thirds of the vagina revealed on ultrasonography or magnetic resonance imaging. The patient can be offered treatment with vaginoplasty with neovagina creation.

Insulin sensitivity, body composition and bone mineral density after testosterone treatment in transgender youth with and without prior GnRH agonist therapy

Background1.8% of youth identify as transgender; a growing proportion are transgender male (female sex, male gender identity). Many receive gonadotropin releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa) therapy to suppress endogenous puberty and/or will start testosterone to induce secondary sex characteristics that align with gender identity. Objective(s)To determine the effects of 12 months of testosterone on cardiometabolic health among transgender youth, including insulin sensitivity, body composition, and bone mineral density and whether changes in outcomes differ based on prior GnRHa treatment. MethodsParticipants (n = 19, baseline age 15.0 ± 1.0 years) were examined prior to and 12 months after testosterone therapy in a longitudinal observational study. Fasted morning blood draw, a 2-hour 75-gram oral glucose tolerance test, body composition and bone mineral density (dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry) were assessed at baseline and 12 months. Insulin sensitivity was estimated by HOMA-IR and Matsuda index. Changes were compared with mixed linear regression models evaluating time (baseline, 12 months), group (GnRHa treatment yes/no), and their interaction. ResultsIn the entire cohort, fasted insulin decreased (median [25,75 %ile]: −3 [-5, 0] mIU/L, p = 0.044) and 2-hour glucose increased (mean ± standard deviation): +18.5 ± 28.9 mg/dL, p = 0.013 from baseline after 12 months of testosterone therapy. There were no significant changes in HOMA-IR (p = 0.062) or Matsuda index (p = 0.096), nor by GnRHa status. Absolute (+6.2 [4.7, 7.5] kg, p = 0.016) and percent fat-free mass increased (+7.3 [5.4, 9.1] %, p = 0.003) and percent fat mass declined (−7.4 [-9.3, 5.3]%, p = 0.005) for the entire cohort. There were time*group interactions for absolute (p = 0.0007) and percent fat-free mass (p = 0.033). There were time*group interactions for bone mineral content (p = 0.006). ConclusionsTwelve months of testosterone in transgender adolescents resulted in changes in body composition and bone mineral density, with baseline differences between the +/-GnRHa group and convergence after 12 months. There were no changes in insulin sensitivity over time or between groups.

Alterations of the hormones follitropin and lutropin in the blood of young mice dosed with lindane

BackgroundThe gonadotropins lutropin and follitropin stimulate steroid synthesis in the gonads during gonadal maturation by promoting oogenesis and spermatogenesis. Endocrine disruptors such as lindane (γHCH) can alter the reproductive stage so and could alter puberty by interfering with lutropin and follitropin signaling. γHCH was classified by World Health Organization as “moderately restricted”, and in 2009 it is production and agricultural use was prohibited, under the Stockholm Convention, however, its use as a pharmaceutical treatment against lice and scabies is still allowed (and mainly, for use by the health sector). This study aimed to examine the effects of single-dose exposure to γHCH in young mice (Mus musculus) on lutropin and follitropin concentration, and to correlate gonadal maturity status and phenotypic characteristics.MethodsYoung γHCH-treated mice (16 females and 16 males) received a single dose of 25, 10, 5, or 0 µg/ml γHCH per gram of body weight, ocular route. Once secondary sexual characteristics were observed, the gonads were dissected and examined using histological techniques and the ovarian follicles were classified as dependent and independent of gonadotropins; the testicles were classified as inactive, early and late spermatogenesis; and the blood was processed with the lutropin and follitropin ELISA kit.ResultsThe results indicate significant differences in the concentration of lutropin and follitropin between males and females (Fisher p < 0.05). The lutropin and follitropin levels showed a tendency to decrease in females, whereas, in males they tended to increase as the dose of γHCH increased. In females, it was observed that at the follitropin and lutropin decreased 42.3% and 83.7%, respectively at dose of 25 µg/ml; while in males, follitropin increased 51.9% at the dose of 25 µg/ml, and at the dose of 10 µg/ml lutropin increased by 242.5%. Contrary to that, gonadal maturity increased in females and decreased in males with increasing γHCH dose, disagreeing with the idea that gonadotropins coincide with the onset of puberty and gonadal maturity.ConclusionsThe results allow us to infer that exposure to γHCH could promote non-monotonic responses; however, this does not seem to alter puberty in the doses and conditions of the present experiment.

No immediate attentional bias towards or choice bias for male secondary sexual characteristics in Bornean orang-utans (Pongo pygmaeus).

Primate faces provide information about a range of variant and invariant traits, including some that are relevant for mate choice. For example, faces of males may convey information about their health or genetic quality through symmetry or facial masculinity. Because perceiving and processing such information may have bearing on the reproductive success of an individual, cognitive systems are expected to be sensitive to facial cues of mate quality. However, few studies have investigated this topic in non-human primate species. Orang-utans are an interesting species to test mate-relevant cognitive biases, because they are characterised by male bimaturism: some adult males are fully developed and bear conspicuous flanges on the side of their face, while other males look relatively similar to females. Here, we describe two non-invasive computerised experiments with Bornean orang-utans (Pongo pygmaeus), testing (i) immediate attention towards large flanges and symmetrical faces using a dot-probe task (N = 3 individuals; 2F) and (ii) choice bias for pictures of flanged males over unflanged males using a preference test (N = 6 individuals; 4F). In contrast with our expectations, we found no immediate attentional bias towards either large flanges or symmetrical faces. In addition, individuals did not show a choice bias for stimuli of flanged males. We did find exploratory evidence for a colour bias and energy efficiency trade-offs in the preference task. We discuss our null results and exploratory results in the context of the evolutionary history of Bornean orang-utans, and provide suggestions for a more biocentric approach to the study oforang-utan cognition.

Strategies For The Treatment Of Chronic Bronchitis In Children, Taking Into Account Sexual Development

A study was carried out to study the characteristics of sexual development and measures of secondary prophylaxis in patients with chronic bronchitis. The study included 84 children with chronic bronchitis aged 10 to 16 years. Of them, 37 (44%) are girls and 47 (56%) are boys. Moderate - severe course of the disease was revealed in 43 (51,2%) children, severe - in 41 (48,8%). It was revealed that chronic bronchitis adversely affects the sexual development of children of both sexes. The pace of development of secondary sexual characteristics occurs gradually and does not complete until the end of puberty. The comprehensive stage-by-stage secondary prophylaxis we proposed for children with chronic bronchitis disease contributed to the improvement of both the underlying disease and sexual development.

Features of the biological development of schoolchildren in the Moscow region with different levels of health

BACKGROUND: The study of the health status of children and the dynamics of the physical and biological development of schoolchildren remains an urgent scientific issue both in our country and worldwide. The lifestyles of modern children and adolescents change based on regional standards for physical and biological development. AIM: To analyze the dynamics of puberty in modern schoolchildren depending on their health status and update biological development standards of schoolchildren in the Moscow region. MATERIALS AND METHODS: In the 2020s, an observational single-center cross-sectional study of the health status and physical and biological development of schoolchildren aged 12–16 years was performed in Moscow. Physical and biological development was assessed in each age and sex group according to standard methods using certified anthropometric instruments to measure height and weight. RESULTS: The study involved 508 schoolchildren with different levels of health, who were divided into groups 1 (n=107, 21.1%), 2 (n=208, 58.7%), and 3 (n=103, 20.2%). Diseases of the eye and its adnexal apparatus (24%) were prevalent functional abnormalities, and musculoskeletal system and connective tissue diseases were found in 20% of the sample. The level of biological development in groups 1 and 2 in comparison with group 3 did not differ significantly (р 0.05); however, later development of secondary sexual characteristics tended to occur in schoolchildren with chronic diseases. Significant (р=0.038) differences in the age at menarche in girls were found depending on the level of physical development. Thus, when developing standards for biological development, data of schoolchildren in groups 1 and 2 must be considered. CONCLUSION: The results of this study clearly demonstrated the prevalence of functional abnormalities and chronic diseases of various nosologies among schoolchildren in the Moscow region. The results of the study provided an update on the standards for the biological development of schoolchildren in Moscow.

A case of Mayer-Rokitansky-Kuster- Hauser syndrome type I

Rokitansky-Kuster-Hauser (MRKH) syndrome is a rare congenital disorder characterised by absence of uterus and vagina. Ovaries and fallopian tubes are normal and functional. Its incidence is 1 in 4500-5000 female. Patients present with primary amenorrhea with normal external genitalia and development of secondary sexual characteristics, and 46XX karyotype. It is usually diagnosed by MRI, CT or transabdominal USG, with MRI being the gold standard.

Clinical features and follow-up study on 55 patients with adolescence-onset methylmalonic acidemia

Objective: To investigate the clinical features and outcomes of adolescence-onset methylmalonic acidemia (MMA) and explore preventive strategies. Methods: This was a retrospective case analysis of the phenotypes, genotypes and prognoses of adolescence-onset MMA patients. There were 55 patients diagnosed in Peking University First Hospital from January 2002 to June 2023, the data of symptoms, signs, laboratory results, gene variations, and outcomes was collected. The follow-ups were done through WeChat, telephone, or clinic visits every 3 to 6 months. Results: Among the 55 patients, 31 were males and 24 were females. The median age of onset was 12 years old (range 10-18 yearsold). They visited clinics at Tanner stages 2 to 5 with typical secondary sexual characteristics. Nine cases (16%) were trigged by infection and 5 cases (9%) were triggered by insidious exercises. The period from onset to diagnosis was between 2 months and 6 years. Forty-five cases (82%) had neuropsychiatric symptoms as the main symptoms, followed by cardiovascular symptoms in 12 cases (22%), kidney damage in 7 cases (13%), and eye disease in 12 cases (22%). Fifty-four cases (98%) had the biochemical characteristics of methylmalonic acidemia combined with homocysteinemia, and 1 case (2%) had the isolated methylmalonic acidemia. Genetic diagnosis was obtained in 54 cases, with 20 variants identified in MMACHC gene and 2 in MMUT gene. In 53 children with MMACHC gene mutation,1 case had dual gene variants of PRDX1 and MMACHC, with 105 alleles. The top 5 frequent variants in MMACHC were c.482G>A in 39 alleles (37%), c.609G>A in 17 alleles (16%), c.658_660delAAG in 11 alleles (10%), c.80A>G in 10 alleles (10%), c.567dupT and c.394C>T both are 4 alleles (4%). All patients recovered using cobalamin, L-carnitine, betaine, and symptomatic therapy, and 54 patients (98%) returned to school or work. Conclusions: Patients with adolescence-onset MMA may triggered by fatigue or infection. The diagnosis is often delayed due to non-specific symptoms. Metabolic and genetic tests are crucial for a definite diagnosis. Treatment with cobalamin, L-carnitine, and betaine can effectively reverse the prognosis of MMA in adolescence-onset patients.

Radiological study of carrying angle among male and female and its clinical importance

: The long axes of the ulna and humerus form an acute angle when the upper limb is in its anatomical position and the elbow is fully extended is known as the carrying angle. It is typically larger in females than in males Anthropologists use the carrying angle to predict a person's sex; orthopaedic surgeons use it to surgically treat a variety of elbow disorders; and total elbow prosthetics. The study aimed to assess the carrying angle in an attempt to determine its value in both sexes, proposing a simple and reliable method for measuring it.The elbow radiographs taken in the normal anteroposterior and lateral views were assessed independently and uniformly by anatomists. A total of 70 adult radiographs between the ages of 18 to 76 years, 35 males and 35 females were gathered. To measure the angle, two lines were drawn: one along the mid-axis of the upper limb of the forearm, passing between the radius and ulna through the superior radioulnar joint, and the other along the mid-axis of the lower third of the humerus, where the angle is measured.The carrying angle is statistically more significant in females than in males among 70 radiographs. The p-value was 0.000 and the mean and SD for males were 14.3±2.740, while the mean and SD for females were 21.92±3.170.The current study concludes that there is a significant gender difference between females and males; carrying angle influences secondary sexual characteristics.

Delayed diagnosis of pituitary stalk interruption syndrome in a girl with short stature, spaniomenorrhea and normal secondary sexual characteristics: a case report

Delayed diagnosis of pituitary stalk interruption syndrome in a girl with short stature, spaniomenorrhea and normal secondary sexual characteristics: a case report

Is the deficiency in secondary sex characteristics a potential manifestation of SPENCD (Spondyloenchondrodysplasia)?

Is the deficiency in secondary sex characteristics a potential manifestation of SPENCD (Spondyloenchondrodysplasia)?

Mayer–Rokitansky–Kuster–Hauser Syndrome Type II with Mullerian Duct Aplasia–Renal Dysplasia–Cervical Somite Anomalies Association: A Case Report and Review of Literature

Mayer–Rokitansky–Kuster–Hauser (MRKH) syndrome, also known as Mullerian aplasia/Mullerian agenesis, is characterized by the absence of the uterus and upper two-thirds of the vagina in women who have normal ovarian function and secondary sexual characteristics. The syndrome occurs at a rate of approximately 1 in every 4500–5000 females. Its primary clinical presentation is primary amenorrhea. MRKH syndrome varies in severity and is classified into two types: type I, which is isolated, and type II, involving abnormalities in other organ systems, particularly the kidneys and skeleton. Due to the nature of this condition, individuals with MRKH syndrome may experience significant psychological challenges, highlighting the importance of counseling. This case report describes the diagnosis of type II MRKH syndrome in a 14-year-old girl with primary amenorrhea, also associated with Mullerian duct aplasia–renal dysplasia–cervical somite anomalies.

Isolation, culture, characterization and the functional study of testicular Leydig cells from Hezuo pig.

Testosterone, an important sex hormone, regulates sexual maturation, testicular development, spermatogenesis and the maintenance of secondary sexual characteristics in males. Testicular Leydig cells are the primary source of testosterone production in the body. Hezuo pigs, native to the southern part of Gansu, China, are characterized by early sexual maturity, strong disease resistance and roughage tolerance. This study employed type IV collagenase digestion combined with cell sieve filtration to isolate and purify Leydig cells from the testicular tissue of 1-month-old Hezuo pigs. We also preliminarily investigated the functions of these cells. The results indicated that the purity of the isolated and purified Leydig cells was as high as 95%. Immunofluorescence analysis demonstrated that the isolated cells specifically expressed the 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase antibody. Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay results showed that the testosterone secretion of the Leydig cells cultured invitro (generations 5-9) ranged between 1.29-1.67 ng/mL. Additionally, the content of the cellular autophagy signature protein microtubule-associated protein 1 light chain 3 was measured at 230-280 pg/mL. Through this study, we established an invitro system for the isolation, purification and characterization of testicular Leydig cells from 1-month-old Hezuo pigs, providing a reference for exploring the molecular mechanism behind precocious puberty in Hezuo pigs.