Serum Luteinizing Hormone Levels Research Articles

Phytochemical-Based Study of Ethanolic Extract of Saraca asoca in Letrozole-Induced Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome in Female Adult Rats.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a complex metabolic and endocrine disorder which affects women of reproductive age. It is a condition in which ovaries produce an excessive amount of androgen (the male sex hormone). Saraca asoca (Roxb.) Willd. is a plant of the Fabaceae family. This plant has been traditionally used as a uterine tonic in leucorrhea and dysmenorrhea due to its various pharmacological activities. In this study, the ethanolic extract of S. asoca (EESA) was evaluated for its potential to be used for the management of PCOS. HPLC analysis revealed the presence of various phytoconstituents: kaempferol, rutin, (-)-epicatechin, salicylic acid, and gallic acid. For PCOS induction, 30 adult female rats were randomly divided into two groups: the control group (n = 5) and the PCOS group (n = 25). Letrozole (1 mg/kg/day) was administered per orally (p.o.) for a period of 7 weeks for the induction of disease. Weekly body weight measurements and daily vaginal cytology examinations were performed for disease confirmation. After disease induction, the PCOS group was further divided into five groups (n = 5), that is, disease control, metformin, and EESA (200, 400, and 600 mg/kg) groups, respectively, and given treatment doses for next 5 weeks. After the treatment period, all animals were weighed and euthanized humanly. Blood samples were collected for hormonal assays, lipid profiles, and liver function tests. For histological assessment of ovarian cysts, ovaries were dissected. Livers were preserved to evaluate EESA's antioxidant properties. Histopathology analysis revealed that EESA reduced body weight and the number of cystic follicles. Furthermore, it also lowered the elevated levels of serum testosterone, luteinizing hormone, insulin, and malonaldehyde in PCOS rats while increasing the levels of follicle-stimulating hormone, estradiol, progesterone, prolactin, and other antioxidant enzymes such as superoxide dismutase, glutathione, and catalase. It can be concluded that EESA exhibited beneficial effects in normalizing the perturbed hormonal profile and improved the ovary status by decreasing the cystic follicle and improving the ovulation status in a dose-dependent manner.

Mechanism of protective effect of resveratrol on poor ovarian response in mice

This study aims to investigate the therapeutic effects and potential mechanisms of resveratrol(Res) on poor ovarian response(POR) in mice. The common target genes shared by Res and POR were predicted by network pharmacology, used for Gene Ontology(GO) annotation and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes(KEGG) pathway enrichment, and then validated by animal experiments. The mice with regular estrous cycle after screening were randomized into normal, POR, and low-and high-dose(20 and 40 mg·kg~(-1), respectively) Res groups. The normal group was administrated with an equal volume of 0.9% sodium chloride solution by gavage, and the mice in other groups with tripterygium glycosides suspension(50 mg·kg~(-1)) by gavage for 2 weeks. After the modeling, the mice in low-and high-dose Res groups were treated with Res by gavage for 2 weeks, and the mice in normal and POR groups with an equal volume of 0.9% sodium chloride solution by gavage. Ovulation induction and sample collection were carried out on the day following the end of treatment. Vaginal smears were collected for observation of the changes in the estrous cycle, the counting of retrieved oocytes, and the measurement of ovarian wet weight and ovarian index. The enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay(ELISA) was employed to measure the levels of anti-mullerian hormone(AMH), follicle-stimulating hormone(FSH), estradiol(E_2), and luteinizing hormone(LH) in the serum. The ovarian tissue morphology and granulosa cell apoptosis were observed by hematoxylin-eosin(HE) staining and terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling(TUNEL), respectively. Western blot was employed to determine the protein levels of phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase(PI3K), protein kinase B(AKT), forkhead box O(FOXO) 3a, hypoxia-inducible factor(HIF)-1α, B-cell lymphoma-2(Bcl-2), and Bcl-2-associated X protein(Bax). A total of 222 common targets shared by Res and POR were collected. GO annotation indicated that these targets were mainly involved in oxidative stress response. KEGG enrichment analysis revealed that Res can intervene in POR via PI3K/AKT, HIF-1, and FOXO signaling pathways. Animal experiments showed that the model group had higher rate of estrous cycle disorders, lower number and poorer morphology of normally developed follicles at all levels, more atretic follicles, higher apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells, lower number of retrieved oocytes, lower ovarian wet weight and ovarian index, higher serum levels of FSH and LH, lower levels of AMH and E_2, higher expression levels of HIF-1α, FOXO3a and Bax, and lower expression levels of PI3K, AKT, and Bcl-2 in the ovarian tissue than the normal group. Compared with the POR group, low-and high-dose Res decreased the rate of estrous cycle disorders, improved the follicle number and morphology, reduced atretic follicles, promoted the apoptosis of ovarian granulosa cells, increased retrieved oocytes, ovarian wet weight and ovarian index, and lowered serum FSH and LH levels. Moreover, Res down-regulated the expression levels of HIF-1α, FOXO3a and Bax, and up-regulated the expression levels of PI3K, AKT and Bcl-2 in the ovarian tissue. In summary, Res can inhibit apoptosis and mitigate poor ovarian response in mice by regulating the PI3K/AKT/FOXO3a and HIF-1α pathways.

The impact of baseline serum luteinizing hormone levels on follicular output rate and follicle-to-oocyte index in ovarian stimulation cycles with gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist protocol

The impact of baseline serum luteinizing hormone levels on follicular output rate and follicle-to-oocyte index in ovarian stimulation cycles with gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonist protocol

Effects of Low Luteinizing Hormone Serum Levels on Oocyte Retrieval, Fertilization Rate, and Embryo Quality during Controlled Ovarian Stimulation: Results from a Prospective Cohort Analysis

Objectives: Luteinizing hormone (LH) plays a key role in normal follicular development and oocyte maturation in controlled ovarian stimulation. LH stimulates the proliferation and differentiation of theca cells for the secretion of androgens, synergistically increasing estrogen production. This study aimed to investigate the effects of low LH concentrations on oocyte retrieval, fertilization, and embryo development in patients undergoing in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Design: We prospectively (ClinicalTrials ID: NCT05755529) analyzed patients undergoing in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection, subdividing them into three groups according to their age. Serum LH levels were evaluated on day 3, during stimulation (day 10) and before ovulation induction (day 12). Participants/Materials, Setting, Methods: Forty-three consecutive women were scheduled for IVF and received ovarian stimulation with follitropin alfa (Gonal F, Merck Serono, Germany) and ganirelix (Fyremaldel, Sun Pharma, Italy). Statistical analysis was performed with InStat 3.10, GraphPad software, San Diego, CA, USA. Normal distribution was tested by the Shapiro-Wilk test. Continuous variables were expressed as the mean and standard deviation. Categorical variables are expressed as frequencies and percentages. Results: Our data analysis suggests that serum LH levels progressively decrease during controlled ovarian stimulation, and this effect is more evident in the early phase of this procedure. From this perspective, circulating LH levels may significantly decrease during the late follicular phase due to the negative feedback of ovarian hormones from multiple follicular developments or after the suppressive effects of gonadotropin-releasing hormone antagonists. Limitations: Although our study confirms that exogenous LH can be considered a strategy in women with reduced LH levels during ovarian stimulation to improve oocyte quality and reproductive outcome, the generalizability of the results is limited by the low number of participants enrolled. Conclusions: Exogenous LH may be considered a strategy in women with a decrease in LH levels during ovarian stimulation to improve oocyte quality and reproductive outcome.

Comparison of testosterone, FSH, LH and E2 hormone levels in infertility suspected males with COVID-19 infection.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is an infectious disease that has many adverse impacts on many systems including reproduction. The direct effects of COVID-19 on urogenital system are still open to argue. This study aimed to compare testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH) and estradiol (E2) hormone levels in COVID-19 infected male individuals with infertility suspicion. One hundred five control (healthy) and 105 COVID-19 infected males aged between 20 to 54 years old were enrolled in the study. All patients were either diagnosed with primary or secondary infertility suspicion. The COVID-19 infection was diagnosed via reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction test. Blood samples from patients were analyzed from the control and COVID-19 group to measure serum testosterone, FSH, LH, and E2 levels. Hormone levels were statistically compared between groups with the Independent T test. In control and COVID-19 patients, no significance was determined for FSH and LH hormone values. Testosterone hormone were significantly decreased and E2 level was statistically increased in COVID-19 patients compared to that in the control group (P < .001). COVID-19 is a viral disease that affects organ including gonads. COVID-19 infection decreased testosterone levels and increased E2 levels, which leading to disorders in male and female reproductivity.

Pinostrobin, a dietary bioflavonoid exerts antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-apoptotic protective effects against methotrexate-induced ovarian toxicity in rats

This study investigated the protective activities of pinostrobin (PIN) against methotrexate (MTX)-induced ovarian toxicity. Female rats were administered with PIN (50 mg/kg) for 4 weeks, while MTX was administered from weeks 2–4 of PIN treatment. Serum hormonal profiles, ovarian oxidative stress, inflammatory and apoptotic biomarkers as well as ovarian histomorphometry were evaluated. MTX administration elicited profound deficit in serum progesterone and estrogen (E2) levels, while luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) were significantly increased. Additionally, MTX administration was associated with significant increases in ovarian malondialdehyde, nitric oxide, NF-кB, TNF-α, IL-6, IL-1β, iNOS and caspase-3 activity, as well as notable reduction in the activities of glutathione peroxidase, catalase and superoxide dismutase as well as the level of glutathione. Whereas, treatment with PIN significantly decreased serum levels of FSH and LH, as well as ovarian levels of NO, MDA, caspase 3, NF-κB, IL-1β, IL-6, TNF-α and iNOS. PIN also significantly upregulated GSH, GPx, CAT and SOD in the ovarian tissues as well as increased serum E2 and progesterone levels compared to the MTX group. Furthermore, PIN significantly restored altered ovarian histoarchitecture in the treated group. These findings suggests that PIN exerts protective effects against MTX-triggered ovarian damages.

Clinical significance of vit D and AMH and its correlation with polycystic ovarian parameters in obese and non-obese Egyptian women

Women of reproductive age are frequently affected by the heterogeneous endocrine-metabolic conditions recognized as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Moreover, FSH (Follicle-stimulating hormone), steroidogenesis, and LH (Luteinizing Hormone) are suppressed by the anti-Mullerian hormone, a good indicator of ovarian reserve, that is generated from granulosa cells. In the past ten years, vitamin D (VD) has attracted and maintained great interest in human health and biomedical research, particularly those about female reproductive-metabolic problems. Therefore, this study was designed to evaluate the correlation of VD and AMH with PCOS parameters in Egyptian women. Assessments were done on 35 control women and 45 PCOS sufferers. Utilizing the updated Rotterdam criteria, PCOS was identified. After recording anthropometric data, fasting serum levels of VD, follistatin (FST), insulin, FSH, LH, total testosterone (TT), sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), as well as fasting plasma glucose (FPG), and the free androgen index (FAI) were measured in both groups. Compared to the control group, the PCOS group had a greater prevalence of hypovitaminosis D but serum levels of follistatin, LH, TT, AMH, insulin, and FPG, were considerably higher. Besides, there was a substantial inverse relationship between VD and the levels of follistatin, FPG, LH, TT, and AMH and a positive correlation with FSH in PCOS women's blood. This study revealed that hypovitaminosis D, elevated AMH, and FST may be regarded as alarming risk factors for PCOS in Egyptian women.

COMPARATIVE EFFECTS OF FRESH AND FERMENTED FRUIT JUICE OF Morinda citrifolia (RUBIACEAE) ON REPRODUCTIVE PARAMETERS IN ADULT MALE RATS

Fresh and fermented fruit juices of Morinda citrifolia are used in ethnomedicine to improve male fertility. The comparative effects of the fresh and fermented fruit juice of M. citrifolia on semen parameters and hormonal profile in adult male rats were evaluated in this study. Thirty-five matured male rats (185-220 g) were divided into seven groups of five animals each. Group 1 served as the normal control. Groups 2 - 7 were further subdivided into two sub-groups 2-4 and 5-7. Animals in groups 2 - 4 were treated orally with 2.5, 5 and 10 ml/kg of the fresh juice of M. citrifolia respectively while animals in groups 5- 7 received 2.5, 5 and 10 ml/kg of the fermented fruit juice respectively for 60 days. Normal control animals (group 1) received 10 ml/kg of distilled water. Serum samples obtained from animals were used to assess for levels of testosterone, progesterone, luteinizing and follicle-stimulating hormones. Sperm count, morphology and motility were equally analysed. Histological evaluation of the testis was also carried out. The Fresh juice significantly (p&lt;0.05) increased serum levels of testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone, while the fermented juice produced a significant increase in serum level of testosterone only. The serum levels of luteinizing hormone and progesterone were unaffected by both juices. The sampled juices produced varied effects on other measured parameters. The ability to enhance the production of testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone production was exhibited by both juices. However, the fresh juice showed a higher possibility of increasing hormone production.

Histamine H2 receptor agonist dimaprit dihydrochloride stimulates the hypothalamo-hypophysial-testicular axis in the cichlid fish Oreochromis mossambicus

Histamine is a naturally occurring biogenic monoamine that acts at both central and peripheral levels, serving a crucial role in regulating a range of physiological processes in vertebrates, including immune function and reproduction. This research aims to understand whether the histamine H2 receptor agonist dimaprit dihydrochloride (DIMP) affects the hypothalamo-hypophysial-testis (HPT) axis of the Mozambique tilapia. Treatment with 5 μg DIMP did not alter the numbers of spermatogonia-B and secondary spermatocytes, but caused a significant increase in the numbers of other germ cells. However, treatment with 20 μg DIMP resulted in significantly higher numbers of all germ cells, including spermatogonia-A and B, primary and secondary spermatocytes, and early and late spermatids, compared to those of controls or 5 μg DIMP-treated fish. There was a dose-dependent increase in the diameters of seminiferous lobules and lumens, but the diameter of the interstitium was significantly decreased in DIMP-treated fish. Furthermore, there was also a dose-dependent, significant increase in the density of gonadotropin-releasing hormone-immunoreactive fibres and intensity of androgen receptor immunoreactivity in 5 and 20 μg DIMP-treated fish, concomitant with a significant increase in serum levels of luteinizing hormone in 5 or 20 μg DIMP-treated fish compared to those of controls. Collectively, these results, for the first time, suggest that treatment with DIMP exerts a stimulatory effect on the HPT axis in the teleosts.

Effects of Varicocele Surgical Repair on Serum Hormone and Inhibin B Levels for Patients With Varicocele: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Varicocele surgical repair can improve the function of the testis for patients with varicocele. We carried out a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the effects of varicocele surgical repair on serum hormones and inhibin B levels in patients with varicocele. A literature search was performed in August 2022, and no language or geographic region restrictions were applied. The search included the following databases: PubMed, Embase, and Medline. A literature review was performed to identify all published clinical trials assessing serum hormone and inhibin B levels before and after varicocele surgical repair. The reference lists of retrieved studies were also investigated. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted. Eight articles were selected from 162 articles, including 452 patients. The combined analysis showed that after surgical treatment, mean serum testosterone, inhibin B, and sperm concentration levels increased compared with preoperative levels (p < .05). After surgical treatment, mean serum follicle-stimulating hormon (FSH), and Luteinizing hormone (LH) levels decreased compared with preoperative levels (p < .05). This meta-analysis demonstrates that varicocele surgical repair can improve testicular function, increase serum testosterone, and inhibin B levels and decrease serum FSH and LH levels in patients with varicocele. This might be related to the improvement of infertility. A large-scale multicenter randomized controlled study is needed for further confirmation.

Ovarian reserve in children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis using biologic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs.

The aim of the study is to assess the effect of juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) and biologic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) on ovarian reserve in children. A cross-sectional study was performed from March 2021 to March 2022 and included 81 patients with JIA and 49 healthy children. Serum anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and estradiol levels were analyzed using electrochemiluminescence methods. The mean of current age (13.5 ± 3.2 vs. 14.4 ± 2.4years), height standard deviation score (SDS) (- 0.35 ± 1.18 vs. - 0.44 ± 0.94), body mass index SDS (0.12 ± 1.33 vs. 0.25 ± 1.28), and the median weight SDS (- 0.13 (- 2.27-3.23) vs. - 0.52 (- 3.4-3.3)) were similar in JIA patients and controls (p > 0.05). Patients with JIA were divided into two groups according to their treatment regimens: treated with methotrexate (MTX) (biologic naive) (n = 32) and treated with MTX plus bDMARDs (n = 49). No significant differences were detected between the 3 groups regarding menarche age, menstrual cycle length, and flow duration (for all p > 0.05). The median serum concentration of AMH was 2.94 (1.12-7.88) ng/ml in the control group, 3.02 (0.36-8.54) ng/ml in the biologic naïve group, and 3.01 (0.99-8.26) ng/ml in the MTX plus bDMARD group. There were no significant differences between 3 groups according to serum AMH, FSH, LH, and estradiol levels (p > 0.05). Biologic DMARDs are reassuring in terms of ovarian reserve in girls with JIA and demonstrate that AMH is unaffected by treatment. Prospective studies with larger sample sizes are needed to confirm our findings and to evaluate the impact on the future fertility of patients. Key Points • Although biologic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) are being game-changing treatment options in juvenile idiopathic arthritis, their effect on fertility and ovarian reserve is one of the most discussed issues. • In addition to treatment used, autoimmune diseases might also have a negative effect on fertility. • In this cross-sectional study, we found that anti-Mullerian hormone level of patients who were on bDMARDs, patients who were on methotrexate, and healthy controls were similar. • Our results suggest that bDMARDs are reassuring in terms of ovarian reserve in girls with JIA and demonstrate that AMH is unaffected by treatment.

Suppression of hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal function by linzagolix in benign prostatic hyperplasia and polycystic ovary syndrome animal models.

The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis is an important regulatory mechanism involved primarily in the development and regulation of the reproductive systems. The suppression of the HPG axis by gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) analogues is expected to be effective for the treatment of sex hormone-dependent diseases, such as endometriosis, uterine fibroid, prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Despite the established involvement of GnRH signalling in these disorders, the therapeutic efficacy of small molecular GnRH antagonists for BPH and PCOS has not been adequately evaluated in non-clinical studies. Therefore, the purpose of the present study was to evaluate the potential of linzagolix, a small molecular GnRH antagonist, as a potential new treatment option for BPH and PCOS. Dogs and rats exhibiting normal prostates and dogs diagnosed with prostatic hyperplasia were used to evaluate the effects of linzagolix in BPH. The effects of linzagolix were also examined in a rat model of PCOS induced by repeated administration of letrozole, an aromatase inhibitor. Linzagolix reduced serum luteinizing hormone and testosterone levels in male rats and normal or BPH model dogs and suppressed prostate weight without testosterone depletion, suggesting the existence of an optimal therapeutic testosterone level for BPH treatment. In a PCOS rat model, linzagolix improved both insulin resistance and ovarian dysfunction. Treatment with linzagolix decreased follicle-stimulating hormone levels, but did not alter serum luteinizing hormone and testosterone levels. These results indicate that linzagolix may provide a new treatment option for GnRH-related disorders, such as BPH and PCOS.

Diagnostic Role of Anti-Mullerian hormone in Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Objective: To evaluate if the elevated levels of Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) could serve as an indicator of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) in patients presenting with infertility. Method: The present study was conducted at Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, The University ofLahore andAustralianConceptInfertilityMedicalCenter(ACIMC),Lahore. It was a case control study. Atotal of 101 females aged between 20-40 years presenting with infertility were included in this study. Among study participants, 51 infertile females had PCOS and 50 were non-PCOS infertile subjects. After taking informed consent, medical history and anthropometric indices were recorded on standardized proforma.Transvaginal ultrasound was done to assess ovarian morphology. Serum AMH, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and prolactin levels were measured by commercially available ELISAkits. Serum AMH levels were measured in 10 healthy, fertile females having normal menstrual cycle as normal reference values in our population. Results: Mean AMH levels were significantly higher (9.9±1.1ng/ml) in females with polycystic ovarian syndrome as compared to subjects without this syndrome (1.0± 0.3ng/ml). Mean FSH levels were significantly lower in females with PCOS (p value 0.001) but LH: FSH ratio, serum luteinizing hormone and prolactin level were not significantly different in two groups. Conclusion: The study provides evidence that raised serum levels of AMH are associated with the presence of PCOS and therefore can serve as useful marker in diagnosis of PCOS

Relationship between Ovarian Reserve Markers and Body Mass Index in Infertile Women with and without Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Retrospective Case–Control Study

This study, carried out on 94 women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and 176 controls without it, investigated the influence of body mass index (BMI) on serum levels of antimüllerian hormone (AMH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and 17ß-estradiol (E2) in infertile patients. Patients were assigned to four subgroups according to age (&lt;35 or ≥35 years) and BMI (&lt;25 kg/m2 or ≥25 kg/m2). Significant differences between PCOS-affected and control women were observed with respect to most of the parameters of interest. In both PCOS-affected and control women, age was inversely correlated with AMH. In the control patients, age was directly correlated with FSH and LH. In women affected by PCOS, no correlation was found between BMI and serum levels of AMH, E2, and LH, except FSH. No correlation was found between BMI and markers of ovarian reserve in control women. BMI was not correlated with AMH in any of the four subgroups considered regardless of the presence of PCOS. An inverse correlation was found only in PCOS-affected women aged ≥35 years between a BMI &lt; 25/FSH and a BMI ≥ 25/LH. The possible association between BMI and ovulation disorder (OD) was investigated in 96 control women aged ≤37 years. In women with OD, the BMI values were significantly higher and FSH and E2 levels were lower than those of patients without OD. Taken together, our data suggest that BMI is not related to hormonal parameters of ovarian reserve, irrespective of the presence of PCOS, and could influence ovulation disorder rather than cause a decrease in ovarian reserve.

The effects of low-level laser therapy on polycystic ovarian syndrome in rats: three different dosages.

The main objective of this in vivo study was to investigate the effect of different low-level laser therapy (LLLT) doses on polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In the present experimental study, a single dosage of estradiol valerate (EV) was administered to induce PCOS in female rats. After administration of the EV for induction of PCOS, rats were divided into 5 groups (n = 8/group): C group (animals that were not exposed to any form of procedure), PC group (no treatment following EV induction), L1 group (1 J/cm2 LLLT treatment following EV induction), L2 group (2 J/cm2 LLLT treatment following EV induction), L3 group (6 J/cm2 LLLT treatment following EV induction). The results indicated that no significant difference was found in the serum levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and progesterone (P4) between the C and L2 groups (p < 0.05). Although the serum levels of testosterone (T) were significantly higher in the C group compared with other groups (p < 0.05), the L2 group was determined to be the closest to the C group. Additionally, the LH, FSH, and T receptor level of the L2 group was closest to the C group. In conclusion, a 2 J/cm2 dosage of LLLT (L2 group) can be considered the most potentially effective treatment of PCOS in the rat. However, more studies are needed to determine the optimal dose of LLLT for the treatment of PCOS.

The effects of human amnion membrane-derived mesenchymal stem cells conditioned medium on ionizing radiation-induced premature ovarian failure and endoplasmic reticulum stress-related apoptosis mechanism

ObjectivesPremature ovarian failure (POF) is defined as the cessation of menstrual periods for at least 4–6 months before the age of 40 years, accompanied by FSH values measuring over 40 IU/L for a month. Radiation therapy, one of the cancer treatment methods, is known to accelerate ovarian aging by reducing and eliminating the number of primordial follicles in the ovarian follicle pool. Ionizing radiation has been reported to cause POF. The objective of this study is to investigate the impact of mesenchymal stem cell conditioned medium (hAMSCs-CM), which is isolated from the amniotic membrane of human placenta, on premature ovarian failure (POF) caused by whole-body irradiation. The study will focus on the ER stress and apoptosis mechanisms in the process. Study DisaynA POF model was created by exposing rats to 7 Gy of whole-body irradiation. Serum-free hAMSCs-CM were then administered via the tail vein. Follicle count was performed on the ovaries, and immunohistochemistry was used to determine the expressions of GRP78, CHOP, IRE-1, caspase-12, caspase-9, caspase-3. TUNEL was also carried out, and levels of serum FSH, LH, E2, AMH, and oxidative stress marker 8-OHdG were measured. Results and ConclusionThe application of hAMSCs-CM has been found to have a positive impact on follicles affected by radiation. After treatment, the number of primordial, primary, secondary, and graafian follicles, which had previously decreased due to radiation, showed an increase. Furthermore, the number of atretic follicles, which had been increasing due to radiation, showed a decrease. ER is one of the targets affected by ionizing radiation. After ionizing radiation, the expressions of ER stress-related markers and apoptosis markers increased in the ovary. After hAMSCs-CM administration, the expressions of these markers and number of TUNEL-positive cells decreased. Following irradiation, anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) and estradiol (E2) levels decreased, while follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels increased. After administration of hAMSCs-CM, AMH and E2 levels increased, while FSH and LH levels decreased.Amnion membrane-derived mesenchymal stem cell conditioned medium can play a therapeutic role in ionizing radiation-induced premature ovarian failure by reducing endoplasmic reticulum stress and apoptosis.

Co-administration of thymol and sulfoxaflor impedes the expression of reproductive toxicity in male rats

This study investigated the capability of a co-delivery system of thymol (THY) and sulfoxaflor that can serve to minimize the development of epididymal and testicular injury arise from SFX exposures alone. Forty-eight adult male rats were orally treated by gavage for 28 consecutive days. The rats were divided into six groups comprising control, THY alone (30 mg/kg), low SFX alone (79.4 mg/kg), high SFX alone (205 mg/kg) and co-exposure groups. After euthanasia, the rats epididymal and testicular damage and antioxidant status markers, myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity, levels of nitric oxide, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), total oxidative stress (TOS) and lipid peroxidation (LPO) were analyzed. Levels of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), interleukin-1 b (IL-1β) and caspase-3 activity were assessed using ELISA kits. The results revealed that SFX exposure caused a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in the body weight, sperm functional parameters, serum testosterone level with widespread histological abnormalities in a dose-dependent manner. Increased relative organ weights, serum levels of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) were observed in low SFX-treated rats. Similarly, the epididymal and testicular myeloperoxidase activity, malondialdehyde (MDA), reactive oxygen species (RONS), tumor necrosis-α, interleukin-1β levels and caspase-3 activity were significant (p < 0.05) increased and a significant (p < 0.05) reduction in antioxidant enzyme activities and reduced glutathione (GSH) were revealed in SFX-treated rats. However, co-treatment of THY with SFX prevented SFX-induced epididymal and testicular toxicities. Thus, thymol protected against potential epididymis and testes alterations elicited by oxido-inflammatory mediators and up regulated antioxidant status.

The effect of laparoscopic ovarian drilling in patients with anovulatory polycystic ovary syndrome and high serum levels of anti-Müllerian hormone.

Female infertility is often associated with anovulatory polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), characterized by high serum levels of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH). Laparoscopic ovarian drilling (LOD) is commonly used to treat PCOS, especially when drug interventions have failed. This study aimed to evaluate the response to LOD intervention in women with PCOS by assessing AMH serum levels and their ability to restore normal physiological menstrual cycle and achieve conception. Seventy-five infertile women (24-41 years old) with body mass index (BMI) ranging from 19.6-35kg/m2 were included in the study. Among them, 57 had primary infertility, and 18 from secondary infertility, with an average duration of 8.6±4.4 years. Baseline levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and AMH were measured, and post-LOD levels of LH and AMH were evaluated. Menstrual cycle regularity was evaluated before and after LOD. Baseline FSH serum level before LOD was 5.2-1.6IU/L. Following LOD, the serum levels of LH and AMH significantly decreased from 14.3±4.1 to 7.8±2.8 IU/L and from 13.7±5.9 to 7.7±3.9 IU/L, respectively (p<0.05). LOD significantly (p<0.05) decreased the menstrual cycles irregularity, such as oligomenorrhea and amenorrhea, from 55 (73.3%) to 22 (29.3%) women and from 2 (2.7%) to 0 (0%) women respectively. Moreover, regular menstrual cycles significantly (p<0.05) increased from 18 (24%) to 53 (70.7%) women. Importantly, 68% of LOD-treated women showed a significant increase in pregnancy rates, with 52.9%, 35.3%, and 11.8% achieving pregnancy within 3, 6, and 9 months after LOD, respectively (p<0.05). Moreover, spontaneous ovulation was observed in 7/75 (9.3%) women within 90 days after LOD, and 71.4% achieved pregnancy. These findings highlight the success of laparoscopic ovarian drilling as an intervention for PCOS, with AMH serving as a reliable test to assess the response to LOD treatment.

Detrimental Effects of Saccharum officinarum Juice on Reproductive Functions of Female Wistar Rats.

Changing dietary compositions have contributed to the growing epidemic of metabolic diseases with serious impacts on several aspects of health, including reproductive health. Saccharum officinarum juice has a natural sweetness that makes the general populace relinquish its use as a sweet course and well-known raw material for the production of refined sugar. Studies have reported adverse effects of this juice on male reproductive functions, but there is a paucity of information on females. This study investigated the effects of fresh Saccharum officinarum juice on the reproductive functions of female Wistar rats. A sugarcane press juicer was used to extract Saccharum officinarum juice. Twenty female Wistar rats (180-200 g) grouped into four (n = 5) received 1.0 mL/kg/day distilled water (control), and 1.0, 3.2, and 10.0 mL/kg/day of fresh Saccharumofficinarum juice once daily for 21 days by gavage. Serum follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and estrogen levels were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELIZA). The estrous cycle was assessed using the Marcondes principle and histology of the ovary and uterus were assessed by microscopy. Data were analyzed using the Analysis of variance at a significance of p < 0.05. Saccharum officinarum juice caused an increase in the body weight and serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone. It altered the estrous cycle by increasing the frequency of occurrence of the proestrus phase but reduced that of the metestrus phase. The juice altered the cytoarchitecture of the ovaries via vacuolations and cysts within the ovarian stroma, while the uterine section showed distorted endometrial lining and glands. Saccharum officinarum juice inflamed the ovaries and distorted the estrous cycle and uterine endometrial lining. Saccharum officinarum juice consumption may possess deleterious effects on the reproductive functions of female Wistar rats. Keywords: Saccharum officinarum juice, Ovary, Uterus, Estrous cycle, Infertility.

Short term effects of intraarticular triamcinolone acetonide injection on serum testosterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle stimulating hormone levels in male veterans: A prospective pilot study.

Despite the common practice of intraarticular corticosteroid injections (ICSIs) for peripheral joint disease, little is known about their systemic effects on the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. To assess the short-term effects of ICSIs on serum testosterone (T), luteinizing hormone (LH), and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) levels together with changes in Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI) scores in a veteran population. Prospective pilot study. Outpatient musculoskeletal clinic. Thirty male veterans, median age 50 (range 30-69) years. Ultrasound-guided glenohumeral joint injection using 3 mL of 1% lidocaine HCl and 1 mL of 40 mg triamcinolone acetonide (Kenalog). Serum T, FSH, and LH levels, Quantitative Androgen Deficiency in the Aging Male (qADAM), and SPADI questionnaires at baseline, 1, and 4 week(s) post procedure. At 1 week post injection, serum T levels decreased by 56.8 ng/dL (95% confidence interval (CI): 91.8, 21.7, p = .002) compared with baseline. Between 1 and 4 weeks post injection, serum T levels increased by 63.9 ng/dL (95% CI: 26.5, 101.2, p = .001), recovering to near baseline levels. SPADI scores were reduced at 1 week (-18.3, 95% CI: -24.4, -12.1, p < .001) and 4 weeks (-14.5, 95% CI -21.1, -7.9, p < .001). A single ICSI can temporarily suppress the male gonadal axis. Future studies are needed to evaluate for long-term effects of multiple injections at a single setting and/or higher corticosteroid doses on male reproductive axis function.