Serum Hormone Levels Research Articles

Involvement of Sex Hormones and Their Receptors in the Pathogenesis of Classic Kaposi's Sarcoma in Xinjiang.

This study aims to examine the expression of androgen receptor (AR) and estrogen receptor (ER) in patients with classic Kaposi's sarcoma (CKS) in Xinjiang, as well as to assess the serum levels of sex hormones in these patients. The objective is to explore potential new directions and targets for diagnosing and treating CKS in Xinjiang. The case group comprised 35 patients diagnosed with CKS who presented at our hospital from 2014 to 2021. The control group consisted of 35 patients with pyogenic granuloma (PG) who visited the hospital during the same period, selected using propensity score matching (PSM). Immunohistochemistry was used to detect AR, human herpesvirus type 8 (HHV-8), and ER in paraffin-embedded tissue samples from patients diagnosed with CKS and PG. Additionally, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to quantitatively measure serum sex hormone levels in the 35 patients with CKS and 35 patients with PG. AR expression was relatively weak in both the CKS and PG groups, with the PG group exhibiting a slightly stronger expression than the CKS group. Conversely, the expression of ER was significantly higher in the CKS group compared to the PG group (p < 0.05). Additionally, serum testosterone (T) levels were elevated in the CKS group, while serum estradiol (E2) levels were higher in the PG group (p < 0.05). Sex hormones and their receptors are implicated in the pathogenesis of CKS in Xinjiang. The use of ER antagonists may represent a novel avenue for research and treatment of CKS.

Quercetin diminishes the apoptotic pathway of magnetite nanoparticles in rats' ovary: Antioxidant status and hormonal profiles

Magnetite nanoparticles have attracted the attention of researchers for biomedical uses, but their impacts on the reproductive system did not report. Here, we have studied the possible attenuation efficiency of quercetin against magnetite nanoparticles-induced apoptosis in ovarian. Forty female rats were divided equally into control, quercetin (100 mg/kg), magnetite nanoparticles (50 mg/kg), and magnetite nanoparticles+quercetin, where all rats received their doses for four weeks. Compared with the control, magnetite nanoparticles significantly reduced the serum hormonal levels (follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, estrogen, and progesterone) along with glutathione and superoxide dismutase in ovarian tissues. Moreover, magnetite nanoparticles markedly increased the ovarian malondialdehyde, and apoptotic gene expressions (Bax and caspase-3), and induced many histopathological changes. Significantly, co-treatment with quercetin markedly alleviated the hormonal profile, antioxidant disturbance, and ovarian apoptotic pathway of magnetite nanoparticles. Furthermore, our docking study revealed that quercetin could act as a caspase-3 inhibitor and allosteric agonist to follicle-stimulating hormone (Met520 and Val53), luteinizing hormone (Met517, Ala589, Ser604, and Lys595), estrogen (Met421, Phe425, and Ala350), and progesterone (Met759 and Met909) receptors. Those records reveal that the antioxidants and antiapoptotic characteristics are acceptable pointers for female infertility defenders of quercetin, especially during nanoparticle exposure.

Associations of the AVPR1A RS1 Microsatellite Locus with the Level of Hormones of the Anterior Pituitary Gland and Personality Traits.

The arginine vasopressin receptor gene (AVPR1A) is one of the genes affecting mental processes. The aim of this study was to search for associations of microsatellite locus RS1, which is related to the AVPR1A expression level, with the level of hormones of the anterior pituitary gland and personality traits. The study sample included Yakut men aged 18-26years (n = 121). The analysis of RS1 locus was carried out using the PCR method and sequencing of the primary nucleotide sequence. Serum hormonal levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and prolactin were determined by the time-resolved fluorescence immunoassay (DELFIA), plasma adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). In the Yakut population "short" (S) alleles of the AVPR1A RS1 locus containing ≤ 10 repeats (63%) and the corresponding SS genotypes (44.6%) were more frequent, while individuals with "long" (LL) and "heterozygous" (SL) genotypes accounted for 18.2 and 37.2%, respectively. The range of concentrations of ACTH and TSH in the group of SS genotype carriers was significantly lower than that observed in the group of LL genotype carriers (p = 0.042 and p = 0.048, respectively); the LH level was significantly higher (p = 0.029). The trend towards higher neuroticism in SS genotype carriers compared to the individuals with LL genotypes (p = 0.05) is revealed. The results obtained indicate the modulating effect of genetic variants of the AVPR1A gene on the level of anterior pituitary hormones, which could slightly affect the level of neuroticism in humans.

Active surveillance of papillary thyroid carcinoma in Latin America: a scoping review.

Thyroid nodules are a very common finding and have a malignancy rate of 7%-15%. Some malignant nodules have an indolent behavior and may not affect mortality if left untreated. Active surveillance (AS) is a strategy to prevent overtreatment in patients with papillary thyroid microcarcinomas (PTMCs). This review was conducted to evaluate the status of AS for low-risk PTMC in Latin America, including cultural and logistical challenges, disease progression data, and financial viability. We searched PubMed (MEDLINE), SciELO, LILACS, and Web of Science for articles published after 2014 and enrolling adult Latin American patients. Articles cited in the selected studies were also retrieved. We analyzed the AS protocols, technical or logistical challenges, patient adherence, reasons for AS interruption, surgical conversion rates, duration of AS, and disease progression during AS in our region. Three articles were included in the analysis, all of which considered AS a viable option and reported tumor progression and outcomes similar to those reported in other countries. Neck ultrasound and serum levels of thyroglobulin, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), thyroxine (T4), and antithyroglobulin antibodies were included in the follow-up. No cases of new distant metastases were reported, and the outcomes were favorable when surgery was required. Anxiety was the main reason for AS interruption. We conclude that AS can be an acceptable approach and is safe and effective in Latin America, although more prospective studies are needed to consolidate this strategy in our region. Adequate infrastructure, follow-up, and patient education, as well as multidisciplinary healthcare teams trained in conducting AS must be ensured for successful results.

Autoimmune Hypothyroidism Associated with Helicobacter Pylori Infection

Objective: The study aimed to investigate the correlation between Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) and thyroid autoimmunity. Material and Methods: To demonstrate the possible correlation between H. pylori infection and autoimmune hypothyroidism, 200 individuals were enrolled in this research (100 patients with active H. pylori infection and 100 healthy controls). All of them were tested for serum levels of thyroid hormones, thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), and autoantibodies, as well as Helicobacter pylori-Immunoglobulin G (H. pylori-IgG) and cytotoxin-associated gene A-Immunoglobulin G (cagA-IgG) antibodies. Results: The study found that H. pylori infection was associated with higher levels of TSH, thyroperoxidase and thyroglobulin (TPO and TG) (p-value&lt;0.000, 0.001 and 0.006, respectively) and a significant decrease in the levels of free-thyroid hormone (FT3 and FT4) (p-values=0.008 and 0.007 respectively) in patients compared with the control group. Moreover, using Pearson’s correlation tests, significant proportional correlations were found between H. pylori IgG and TSH (r=0.302, p-value=0.001), and a significant negative correlation was found between anti-H. pylori-IgG and with FT3 and FT4 (r=-0.261, p-value=0.003 and r=-0.260, p-value=0.003, respectively). Moreover, Spearman’s correlation results showed that H. pylori IgG was positively linked to TPO (r=0.531, p-value&lt;0.001) and TG (r=0.320, p-value=0.001). Conclusion: The current investigation found that H. pylori infection was linked to higher concentrations of thyroid autoantibody and TSH and lower levels of thyroid hormones, suggesting that the bacterium may play a role in the development of subclinical autoimmune hypothyroidism.

Effectiveness of Acupuncture for Infertility in Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Systematic Review and Network Meta-Analysis.

This study employs a network meta-analysis method to investigate the clinical effectiveness of acupuncture in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) experiencing infertility. Prospective randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of clomiphene citrate (CC) and letrozole (LE) combined with acupuncture in PCOS infertility patients were identified through computerized searches in databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), Wanfang Data, and Chongqing VIP Database. The search period was set from inception until August 1, 2023, with no language restrictions. Two researchers screened articles, extracted data, and independently assessed the risk of bias in eligible trials. Data were analyzed and visualized using the R software gemtc package. With patients with medication treatment only set as controls, a meta-analysis was performed to investigate the difference in the pregnancy outcomes of the PCOS patients following medication amalgamated with different acupuncture treatments, namely, manual acupuncture (MA), electroacupuncture (EA), and warm acupuncture (WA). The serum concentrations of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) did not exhibit significant changes following acupuncture treatments. Notably, acupuncture-based medication treatment significantly reduced serum levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and elevated the testosterone (T) concentrations of patients when compared to medication treatment alone. Patients also showed significantly escalated serum estradiol (E2) levels after receiving CC integrated with acupuncture than those given monotherapy of CC. The combined regimen of medication and acupuncture appeared to improve the pregnancy outcomes compared to the monotherapy of medication, as evidenced by the significantly increased success rate of pregnancy. Furthermore, the treatment combination of CC plus WA and LE plus MA yielded the highest probability of achieving the best pregnancy outcomes. For PCOS infertility patients, acupuncture, as a complementary treatment to CC and LE, holds advantages in improving reproductive hormone levels and enhancing pregnancy success rates. The highest probability of achieving the best pregnancy outcomes is associated with the treatment combination of CC with WA and LE with MA.

The Transcriptome Characterization of the Hypothalamus and the Identification of Key Genes during Sexual Maturation in Goats.

Sexual maturation in goats is a dynamic process regulated precisely by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and is essential for reproduction. The hypothalamus plays a crucial role in this process and is the control center of the reproductive activity. It is significant to study the molecular mechanisms in the hypothalamus regulating sexual maturation in goats. We analyzed the serum hormone profiles and hypothalamic mRNA expression profiles of female goats during sexual development (1 day old (neonatal, D1, n = 5), 2 months old (prepuberty, M2, n = 5), 4 months old (sexual maturity, M4, n = 5), and 6 months old (breeding period, M6, n = 5)). The results indicated that from D1 to M6, serum hormone levels, including FSH, LH, progesterone, estradiol, IGF1, and leptin, exhibited an initial increase followed by a decline, peaking at M4. Furthermore, we identified a total of 508 differentially expressed genes in the hypothalamus, with a total of four distinct expression patterns. Nuclear receptor subfamily 1, group D, member 1 (NR1D1), glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor (GLP1R), and gonadotropin-releasing hormone 1 (GnRH-1) may contribute to hormone secretion, energy metabolism, and signal transduction during goat sexual maturation via circadian rhythm regulation, ECM receptor interactions, neuroactive ligand-receptor interactions, and Wnt signaling pathways. This investigation offers novel insights into the molecular mechanisms governing the hypothalamic regulation of goat sexual maturation.

Associations between Thyroid Hormones and Cognitive Impairment in Patients with Parkinson's Disease.

This study aims to explore the correlation of serum thyroid hormone levels to cognitive impairments in Parkinson's disease (PD) patients. In this retrospective study, 106 Chinese patients without cognitive impairments and 94 patients with cognitive impairments, including 55 with mild cognitive impairment (PD-MCI) and 39 with PD dementia (PDD), were analyzed. Clinical data regarding the PD assessments, including disease duration, Unified Parkinson's Disease Rating Scale (UPDRS) Part 3 scores, and Hoehn and Yahr (H-Y) staging, were analyzed. Cognitive functions were evaluated using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment score. Serum levels of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (FT4), and free triiodothyronine (FT3), were measured using ELISA. Significantly altered H-Y staging, disease duration, and UPDRS Part 3 scores were observed in PD patients with cognitive impairment compared with those without. Serum levels of FT3 were significantly decreased, while FT4 and TSH levels were significantly elevated in PD patients with cognitive impairment compared with those without. Combined detection of TSH, FT3, and FT4 showed value in distinguishing PD patients with and without cognitive impairment. Furthermore, a comparison of serum levels between PD-MCI and PDD patients revealed significant association between thyroid hormone levels and the degree of cognitive impairment in PD patients. Our findings suggest a relationship between changes in serum thyroid hormone levels and cognitive impairments in PD patients. Thyroid hormone levels, particularly FT3, may serve as potential markers for cognitive dysfunction in PD.

Bushen Huoxue formula attenuates lipid accumulation evoking excessive autophagy in premature ovarian insufficiency rats and palmitic acid-challenged KGN cells by modulating lipid metabolism.

Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) has affected about 3.7% of women of reproductive age and is a major factor contributing to infertility. Bushen Huoxue formula (BHF), a traditional Chinese medicine prescription, is clinically used to treat POI in China. This study aims to investigate the potential mechanisms of BHF in combating POI using corticosterone-induced rats and palmitic acid (PA)-challenged human ovarian granulosa cells (GCs). Initially, ultra performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry was employed to analyze the components of BHF. The pharmacodynamic parameters evaluated included body weight, ovaries index, and serum hormone in rats. Follicle numbers were observed using H&E staining. Additionally, PCNA and TUNEL staining were used to assess GCs proliferation and apoptosis, respectively. Lipid accumulation and ROS levels were examined using Oil Red O and ROS staining. Protein expressions were determined by western blot. To probe mechanisms, cell viability and E2 levels in BHF-treated, PA-stimulated GCs were determined using MTT and ELISA, respectively. Cell apoptosis and ROS levels were assessed using TUNEL and ROS staining. Proteins related to lipid metabolism and autophagy in PA-stimulated GCs were studied using agonists. Our results shown that BHF effectively normalized serum hormone levels, including follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), estradiol (E2), and luteinizing hormone (LH). Concurrently, BHF also significantly reduced follicular atresia and promoted cell proliferation while inhibiting apoptosis in POI rats. Furthermore, BHF mitigated ovarian lipid accumulation by modulating lipid metabolism, which included reducing lipid synthesis (expression of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ and CCAAT/enhancer binding protein α), increasing lipid catabolism (expression of adipose triglyceride lipase), and enhancing lipid oxidation (expression of carnitine palmitoyl transferase 1A). Mechanistically, the therapeutic effects of BHF on POI were linked with alleviation of lipid deposition-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and excessive autophagy, corroborating the results in PA-challenged GCs. After treatment with elesclomol (a ROS inducer) and rapamycin (an autophagy inducer) in GCs, the effects of BHF were almost counteracted under model conditions. These findings suggest that BHF alleviates the symptoms of POI by altering lipid metabolism and reducing lipid accumulation-induced ROS and autophagy, offering evidence for BHF's efficacy in treating POI clinically.

Clusterin-carrying extracellular vesicles derived from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells restore the ovarian function of premature ovarian failure mice through activating the PI3K/AKT pathway

BackgroundEmerging evidence has highlighted the therapeutic potential of human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells (UC-MSCs) in chemotherapy-induced premature ovarian failure (POF). This study was designed to investigate the appropriate timing and molecular mechanism of UC-MSCs treatment for chemotherapy-induced POF.MethodsOvarian structure and function of mice were assessed every 3 days after injections with cyclophosphamide (CTX) and busulfan (BUS). UC-MSCs and UC-MSCs-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) were infused into mice via the tail vein, respectively. Ovarian function was analyzed by follicle counts, the serum levels of hormones and ovarian morphology. The apoptosis and proliferation of ovarian granulosa cells were analyzed in vitro and in vivo. Label-free quantitative proteomics was used to detect the differentially expressed proteins in UC-MSC-derived EVs.ResultsAfter CTX/BUS injection, we observed that the ovarian function of POF mice was significantly deteriorated on day 9 after CTX/BUS infusion. TUNEL assay indicated that the number of apoptotic cells in the ovaries of POF mice was significantly higher than that in normal mice on day 3 after CTX/BUS injection. Transplantation of UC-MSCs on day 6 after CTX/BUS injection significantly improved ovarian function, enhanced proliferation and inhibited apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells, whereas the therapeutic effect of UC-MSCs transplantation decreased on day 9, or day 12 after CTX/BUS injection. Moreover, EVs derived from UC-MSCs exerted similar therapeutic effects on POF. UC-MSCs-derived EVs could activate the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway and reduce ovarian granulosa cell apoptosis. Quantitative proteomics analysis revealed that clusterin (CLU) was highly expressed in the EVs of UC-MSCs. The supplementation of CLU proteins prevented ovarian granulosa cells from chemotherapy-induced apoptosis. Further mechanistic analysis showed that CLU-knockdown blocked the PI3K/AKT signaling and reversed the protective effects of UC-MSCs-derived EVs.ConclusionsAdministration of UC-MSCs and UC-MSCs-derived EVs on day 6 of CTX/BUS injection could effectively improve the ovarian function of POF mice. UC-MSCs-derived EVs carrying CLU promoted proliferation and inhibited apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells through activating the PI3K/AKT pathway. This study identifies a previously unrecognized molecular mechanism of UC-MSCs-mediated protective effects on POF, which pave the way for the use of cell-free therapeutic approach for POF.Graphical

Ferrostatin-1 ameliorates Cis-dichlorodiammineplatinum(II)-induced ovarian toxicity by inhibiting ferroptosis

Cis-dichlorodiammineplatinum(II) (CDDP), while widely utilized in tumor therapy, results in toxic side effects that patients find intolerable. The specific mechanism by which CDDP inflicts ovarian damage remains unclear. This study aimed to explore the involvement of ferrostatin-1 (FER-1) and ferroptosis in CDDP-induced ovarian toxicity. This study established models of CDDP-induced injury in granulosa cells (GCs) and rat model of premature ovarian failure (POF). CCK-8 assessed the effects of CDDP and FER-1 on GC viability. FerroOrange and Mito-FerroGreen, DCFH-DA and MitoSox-Red, Rhodamine 123 and Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) measured Fe2+, reactive oxygen species (ROS), mitochondrial membrane potential and the mitochondrial morphology in GC cells, respectively. Serum hormone levels; organ indices; malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, and glutathione analyses; and western blotting were performed to examine ferroptosis's role in vitro. Molecular docking simulation was evaluated the interaction between FER-1 and GPX4 or FER-1 and NRF2. Molecular docking simulations were conducted to evaluate the interactions between FER-1 and GPX4, as well as FER-1 and NRF2. The findings revealed that CDDP-induced ovarian toxicity involved iron accumulation, increased ROS accumulation, and mitochondrial dysfunction, leading to endocrine disruption and tissue damage in rats. These changes correlated with NRF2, HO-1, and GPX4 levels. However, FER-1 decreased the extent of ferroptosis. Thus, ferroptosis appears to be a crucial mechanism of CDDP-induced ovarian injury, with GPX4 as potential protective targets.

Thyroid hormones and oxidative stress moderated the association between urinary phthalate metabolites and cardiovascular risk factors

While previous studies suggested that phthalate exposure poses a risk to cardiovascular health, the results are mixed and indicated variability based on population characteristics and health outcomes assessed. Research that simultaneously investigates the association between urinary phthalate metabolites and multiple cardiovascular risk factors within a single study is relatively scarce. This study assessed human exposure to phthalates by determining urinary metabolite concentrations, and applied multiple statistical techniques to systematically evaluate the individual dose-response relationships and joint effects of phthalate exposure on blood lipids, blood pressure, and fasting blood glucose. The results revealed significant negative associations between urinary phthalate metabolites and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides, total cholesterol, diastolic blood pressure, systolic blood pressure, and fasting blood glucose. Significant nonlinear associations were obtained between specific individual metabolites and diastolic blood pressure. The oxidative stress biomarker 8-hydroxydeoxyguanosine levels in urine and thyroid hormone levels in paired serum were measured simultaneously. Then, we examined the indirect roles of thyroid hormones and oxidative stress in the association between urinary phthalate metabolites and cardiovascular risk factors by mediation and moderation analysis. While the mediation effect was not statistically significant, the negative associations of urinary phthalate metabolites with fasting blood glucose, triglyceride, and lipoprotein cholesterol were statistically significant at lower levels of thyroid hormones by moderation analysis. The association was also significant under certain levels of oxidative stress. The results demonstrated that phthalate exposure is associated with several cardiovascular risk factors, and maintaining appropriate oxidative stress levels and ensuring sufficient thyroid hormone levels may attenuate these associations.

Alterations in serum levels of calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus, and parathyroid hormone in patients with clinically confirmed familial hypercholesterolemia: a cross-sectional study

Background: Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), an autosomal dominant disease, is associated with increased risk of premature cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study aimed to examine the variations in serum levels of calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus, and parathyroid hormone (PTH) among FH patients, as these factors have been associated with an increased susceptibility to CVD. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional study, we used data from Isfahan FH registry. The Dutch Lipid Clinic Network (DLCN) criteria was used for diagnoses of FH patients. Control group included participant with hyperlipidemia and were unlikely FH according to DLCN criteria. All biochemical parameters were measured using standard methods. Results: A total of 131 patients (mean age, 53.1 ± 12.2; male, 51.4%) were included in the analysis. Patients with FH had lower serum vitamin D level compared with control groups in unadjusted model (P= 0.028). The relationship between serum vitamin D and FH was not significant after adjustment for traditional risk factor (P= 0.184). No significant association was observed between FH and serum calcium (P= 0.886), phosphorus (P= 0.463), and PTH (P= 0.849). Besides, there was no significant association between LDL-C or total cholesterol and serum minerals in FH patients. Conclusion: This study found no significant changes in serum calcium, vitamin D, phosphorus, and PTH in patients with FH.

Exposure to environmental doses of DEHP causes phenotypes of polycystic ovary syndrome

Globally, approximately 6–20 % of women who are of reproductive age suffer from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), with environmental factors believed to be significant contributors. Di-2-ethylhexyl phthalate (DEHP) is known to be an endocrine disruptor, and is also suspected of being associated with the occurrence of PCOS, but in vivo studies to verify this association are lacking. In this study, female SD rats were exposed to DEHP at levels of 0.1, 1.0, and 10 mg/kg/d, which are comparable to daily human exposure, to explore its potential role in the development of PCOS. The findings indicated that DEHP exposure reduced ovarian and uterine coefficients, decreased accumulation of primordial follicles, increased the prevalence of atretic and cystic follicles and fibrosis in ovarian tissues, altered serum hormone levels, elevated blood glucose levels and insulin resistance, disrupted the endocrine system and resulted in significant oxidative damage in the ovarian tissues. These results imply that DEHP exposure may cause lesions resembling PCOS to develop. By analyzing the differential expression of the proteome, and using GO and KEGG enrichment analyses, we found they were mainly enriched in the metabolic pathway and in the PPAR signaling pathway. We confirmed that activation of the PPARγ signaling pathway caused by DEHP exposure, is related to the emergence of PCOS-like lesions. This research provides direct in vivo experimental evidence for the association between DEHP exposure and PCOS.

Intraovarian Platelet-Rich Plasma Administration for Anovulatory Infertility: Preliminary Findings of a Prospective Cohort Study.

Background/Objectives: Infertility constitutes a significant challenge for couples around the world. Ovarian dysfunction, a major cause of infertility, can manifest with anovulatory cycles, elevated follicle-stimulating hormone levels, and diminished ovarian reserve markers such as anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels or the Antral Follicle Count (AFC). Blood-derived therapies including platelet-rich plasma (PRP) have been used in fertility treatments in women with low ovarian reserve or premature ovarian insufficiency. This prospective clinical cohort study aims to assess the effects of intraovarian PRP therapy on ovarian function in women diagnosed with anovulatory cycles. Methods: The preliminary findings of this prospective cohort study are based on the first 32 patients enrolled. In this study, patients over 40 years old with anovulatory infertility were included. Venous blood samples were collected from each participant for the preparation of autologous platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Each participant received two courses of intraovarian PRP injections using a transvaginal ultrasound-guided approach. Serum levels of reproductive hormones before and after PRP intervention were measured. Results: This study's results demonstrate a significant improvement in ovarian physiology following transvaginal ultrasound-guided PRP infusion. A 75% increase in Antral Follicle Count (AFC) was observed, which was statistically significant. Furthermore, statistically significant reductions in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and prolactin levels were observed. Serum Vitamin D 1-25 levels were substantially increased after the injection. Conclusions: These findings highlight the beneficial impact of intraovarian PRP injection in optimizing ovarian function and other metabolic parameters. However, the published literature on this subject is limited and further clinical studies should be conducted to confirm the role of intraovarian PRP in fertility treatments.

Hesperidin Helps Improve the Intestinal Structure, Maintain Barrier Function, and Reduce Inflammation in Yellow-Feathered Broilers Exposed to High Temperatures.

To investigate the possible protective effect of hesperidin on intestinal damage caused by high-temperature heat stress in yellow-feathered broilers, 960 broilers aged 21 days were randomly divided into four groups: HT, HT300, HT450, and HT600, with each group receiving different amounts of hesperidin supplementation (0, 300, 450, and 600 mg/kg). The dietary supplementation of hesperidin could mitigate the elevation of corticosterone (CORT) and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ATCH) levels in serum from yellow-feathered broilers induced by heat stress. The supplementation of 300 mg/kg and 450 mg/kg of hesperidin reduced crypt depth and increased the V/C ratio in the small intestine compared to the HT group. The dietary supplementation of hesperidin decreased endotoxin and D-lactic acid levels in the blood, and dietary supplementation of 300 mg/kg of hesperidin increased the expression of claudin-1 and ZO-1 mRNA in the jejunum compared with the HT group. Furthermore, the dietary supplementation of 300 mg/kg of hesperidin decreased serum IL-1β and IL-6 levels. In comparison, supplementation with 300 mg/kg and 450 mg/kg of hesperidin decreased serum TNF-α levels in yellow-feathered broilers compared to the HT group. Moreover, the dietary supplementation of hesperidin decreased NF-κB mRNA levels. Overall, these data suggest that dietary supplementation with hesperidin potentially improves intestinal injury caused by heat stress in yellow-feathered broilers.

Association of Dietary Inflammatory Index and Thyroid Function in Patients with Hashimoto's Thyroiditis: An Observational Cross-Sectional Multicenter Study.

Background and Objectives: The available research suggests that dietary patterns with high inflammatory potential, as indicated by a high DII score, may exacerbate inflammation and potentially influence thyroid function. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the associations between the inflammatory potential of a diet and thyroid function in adults with Hashimoto's thyroiditis (HT). Materials and Methods: A total of 149 adults diagnosed with Hashimoto's thyroiditis were enrolled in this observational, cross-sectional, multicenter study. The Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII®) was calculated using a 141-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). The serum levels of the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), free thyroxine (fT4), thyroid peroxidase antibodies (TPO-Ab), and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) were determined. Results: The DII® scores ranged from -3.49 (most anti-inflammatory) to +4.68 (most pro-inflammatory), whereas three DII® tertile ranges were defined as <-1.4, -1.39 to +1.20, and >+1.21, respectively. Participants in tertile 1 (more anti-inflammatory diet) had significantly higher levels of fT4 than those adhering to a more pro-inflammatory diet (p = 0.007). The levels of hsCRP and TSH appeared to increase with increasing the DII® score, but without statistical significance. A significant association was found between the DII® and TSH (β = 0.42, p < 0.001) and between DII® and free thyroxine (β = 0.19, p < 0.001). After adjustment for age, gender, energy intake, and physical activity, a significant positive correlation remained between the DII® and TSH (β = 0.33, p = 0.002) and between the DII® and body mass index (BMI) (β = 0.14, p = 0.04). Conclusions: Adherence to an anti-inflammatory diet appears to be beneficial in patients with Hashimoto's thyroiditis, suggesting that dietary modification aimed at lowering DII® levels may be a valuable strategy to improve clinical outcomes in these patients.

The Aqueous Extract of Hemerocallis citrina Baroni Improves the Lactation-Promoting Effect in Bovine Mammary Epithelial Cells through the PI3K-AKT Signaling Pathway.

Insufficient milk supply is a widespread issue faced by women globally and associated with a higher risk of health problems in infants and mothers. Hemerocallis citrina Baron, commonly known as daylily, is a perennial edible plant often used in traditional Asian cuisine to promote lactation. However, the active compound(s) and mechanism of its lactation-promoting effect remain unclear. This study aimed to confirm the traditional use of daylily in promoting lactation and investigate its potential active components and underlying molecular mechanisms. Our results showed that the aqueous extracts of H. citrina Baroni (HAE) significantly enhanced milk production, and the serum levels of lactation-related hormones, and promoted mammary gland development in lactating rats, as well as increased the levels of milk components in bovine mammary epithelial cells (BMECs) (p < 0.05). UHPLC-Q-Exactive Orbitrap-MS analysis revealed that hexamethylquercetin (HQ) is the representative flavonoid component in HAE, accounting for 42.66% of the total flavonoids. An integrated network pharmacology and molecular docking analysis suggested that HQ may be the potential active flavonoid in HAE that promotes lactation, possibly supporting lactation by binding to key target proteins such as STAT5A, PIK3CA, IGF1R, TP53, CCND1, BCL2, INS, AR, and DLD. Cell experiments further demonstrated that HQ could promote cell proliferation and the synthesis of milk proteins, lactose, and milk fat in BMECs. Transcriptomic analysis combined with a quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR) revealed that both HAE and HQ exert a lactation-promoting function mainly through regulating the expression of key genes in the PI3K-Akt signaling pathway.

Eicosatrienoic acid inhibits estradiol synthesis through the CD36/FOXO1/CYP19A1 signaling pathway to improve PCOS in mice

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common metabolic and endocrine disorder characterized by abnormal elevation in hormone levels, with currently lacking effective treatment options. N-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) have broad pharmacological activity and play a beneficial role in the development of PCOS. In this study, we observed that n-3 PUFA-eicosatrienoic acid (ETA) improves the estrous cycle and ovarian morphology in dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)-induced PCOS mice, particularly serum hormone levels. Additionally, it suppresses the expression of CYP19A1 and E2 synthesis in human granulosa-like tumor cell line (KGN) cells. Further investigation revealed that ETA significantly upregulates the expression of CD36, cAMP, P-PKA, and FOXO1 in KGN cells and mouse ovaries to lower E2 levels. This conclusion was supported by inhibiting CD36 and FOXO1 at both the mouse and cellular levels. Additionally, ETA treatment decreased the expression of ESR1, Kiss1, Gnrh in the hypothalamus, and GnRHR, Lhβ, Egr1, Pitx1, Sf1 in the pituitary of PCOS mice. No differences were observed after ETA treatment in the CD36 and FOXO1 inhibitor groups, indicating that ETA improves PCOS mice by regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary axis through E2 synthesis inhibition. In summary, we have elucidated for the first time the mechanism by which CD36 regulates E2 synthesis in ovarian granulosa cells and demonstrated that ETA activates the CD36 receptor to inhibit E2 synthesis through the cAMP/PKA/FOXO1/CYP19A1 signaling pathway, thereby improving hormonal imbalance and treating PCOS. This provides a new strategy for the effective prevention and treatment of PCOS.

Exposure to Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances and Timing of Puberty in Norwegian Boys: Data from the Bergen Growth Study 2.

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are widespread environmental contaminants with endocrine-disruptive properties. Their impact on puberty in boys is unclear. In this cross-sectional study, we investigated the association between PFAS exposure and pubertal timing in 300 Norwegian boys (9-16 years), enrolled in the Bergen Growth Study 2 during 2016. We measured 19 PFAS in serum samples and used objective pubertal markers, including ultrasound-measured testicular volume (USTV), Tanner staging of pubic hair development, and serum levels of testosterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone. In addition to logistic regression of single pollutants and the sum of PFAS, Bayesian and elastic net regression were used to estimate the contribution of the individual PFAS. Higher levels of the sum of perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA), perfluorononanoic acid (PFNA), and perfluorohexanesulfonic acid (PFHxS) were associated with later pubertal onset according to USTV (age-adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 2.20, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.29, 3.93) and testosterone level (AOR: 2.35, 95% CI: 1.34, 4.36). Bayesian modeling showed that higher levels of PFNA and PFHxS were associated with later pubertal onset by USTV, while higher levels of PFNA and perfluoroundecanoic acid (PFUnDA) were associated with later pubertal onset by testosterone level. Our findings indicate that certain PFAS were associated with delay in male pubertal onset.