Serum Prolactin Levels Research Articles

Lactobacillus helveticus HY7801 Improves Premenstrual Syndrome Symptoms by Regulating Sex Hormones and Inflammatory Cytokines in a Mouse Model of Metoclopramide-Induced Hyperprolactinemia

Background/Objectives: Premenstrual syndrome (PMS), a clinical condition that manifests in the form of various physical and psychological symptoms, occurs periodically during the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle and reduces quality of life. Methods: Here, we conducted in vitro and in vivo experiments to investigate the effects of Lactobacillus helveticus HY7801 (HY7801) on PMS symptoms. Results: Data from the in vitro experiments showed that HY7801 inhibits prolactin secretion by estradiol-induced GH3 cells, as well as the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines by LPS-induced Raw 264.7 cells. Additionally, the oral administration of HY7801 (109 colony-forming units/kg/day) to mice with metoclopramide-induced hyperprolactinemia reduced uterine tissue mass and endometrial thickness, both of which were increased excessively in the presence of prolactin. HY7801 also regulated the serum levels of follicle-stimulating hormone and prostaglandin E1/E2, as well as recovering the progesterone/estradiol ratio. HY7801 also downregulated the serum levels of prolactin and pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin (Il)-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha (Tnf), and IL-1β. Finally, HY7801 reduced the expression of genes encoding inflammatory cytokines (i.e., Tnf and Il-6), cyclooxygenase-2 (Cox-2), and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in mice with hyperprolactinemia. Conclusion: In summary, HY7801 may be a functional bacterium that alleviates PMS symptoms by modulating hormones and inflammatory markers.

Fermented soybean meal modified the rumen microbiota and increased the serum prolactin level in lactating Holstein cows

This study aimed to investigate the effects of fermented soybean meal (FSM) on milk production, blood parameters, and rumen fermentation and microbial community in dairy cows. In this study, 48 healthy Holstein cows (parity, 3.0 ± 0.6; days in milk, 86.0 ± 6.7) were used. Cows were randomly assigned into four groups (CON, T-200, T-400, and T-600) with 12 cows per group. Cows in CON were not supplemented with FSM. Cows in T-200, T-400, and T-600 were supplemented with 200, 400, and 600 g/head/day FSM, respectively. This study lasted 5 weeks (1-week adaptation and 4-week treatment). The results showed that FSM did not affect milk yield and milk components (p > 0.05). In the serum, FSM greatly increased prolactin (p < 0.01), and a dosage effect was observed. Aspartate aminotransferase and total protein were the highest in the T-400 (p < 0.05), and triglycerides was the lowest in T-200 (p < 0.05), and there was no difference for the 3 measurements between the other 3 groups (p > 0.05). In the rumen, FSM did not affect pH, microbial crude protein, acetate, propionate, butyrate, valerate, total volatile fatty acids and the ratio of acetate:propionate (p > 0.05), only changed NH3-N, isobutyrate and isovalerate (p < 0.05). The results of the rumen bacterial 16S rRNA genes sequencing showed that FSM decreased the richness (p < 0.05) and evenness (p < 0.05) of the bacterial communities. PCoA analysis showed that FSH altered the rumen bacterial community (ANOSIM, R = 0.108, p = 0.002). In the relative abundance of phyla, FSM increased Firmicutes (p = 0.015) and Actinobacteriota (p < 0.01) and Patescibacteria (p = 0.012), decreased Bacteroidota (p = 0.024). In the relative abundance of genera, FSM increased Christensenellaceae R-7 group (p = 0.011), Lactococcus (p < 0.01), Candidatus Saccharimonas (p < 0.01), Olsenella (p < 0.01), decreased Muribaculaceae_norank (p < 0.01). Conclusively, supplemented FSM altered the rumen fermentation parameters and bacterial community, and increased serum prolactin level in lactating Holstein cows. These findings may provide an approach to keep the peak of lactation in dairy cows.

Effect of dietary supplementation of yeast culture Saccharomyces cerevisiae in lactating female goats

This study was designed to investigate the effects of adding a novel yeast culture, Saccharomyces cerevisiae refermented sorghum distiller's dried grains with solubles (SSDDGS), to the diets of lactating female goats on lactation performance and lamb growth performance. We divided 10 lactating Dazu black goats of similar age, weight, and offspring into two groups: one fed a pelleted diet with 50 g/day SSDDGS (ET), and the other without SSDDGS as a control (EC) for 7 weeks. We monitor the weight changes of each goat and collect blood and milk samples from experimental ewes at specific times for hormone and milk composition determination. We use ultra-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS/MS) to detect metabolites in the serum of lactating ewes. Our results showed that SSDDGS supplementation significantly reduced female goats' average daily weight loss during weeks 2–4 of lactation and increased serum IGF-1 and prolactin levels at week 4 (p < 0.05). SSDDGS supplementation in early lactation significantly increased milk protein, lactose, and ash content (p < 0.05). UPLC-MS/MS analysis showed that SSDDGS changed the levels of 58 metabolites in the serum of lactating goats. These metabolites were mainly involved in the sohingolipid signaling pathway, and cysteine, methionine, and sphingolipid metabolism. In summary, Yeast culture SSDDGS reduced weight loss, enhanced milk quality, and modified metabolic profiles in early lactation goats, providing insight into the potential regulatory role and mechanism of yeast culture in lactation female goats.

Mildly elevated serum prolactin level may be a protective factor for preventing thickening of the carotid intima-media in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

To evaluate the correlation between the serum prolactin (PRL) level and carotid intimate-media thickness (CIMT) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). In this study, 1500 participants were divided into three groups based on the serum PRL levels: hypoprolactinemia group (PRL ≤ 7 μg/L); normal PRL level group (7 μg/L < PRL ≤ 25 μg/L); and homeostatic functionally increased transient PRL group (25 μg/L < PRL ≤ 100 μg/L). The independent-sample Kruskal-Wallis test was used to compare the CIMT among the three groups. The Spearman correlation test was used to examine the relationship between the CIMT, serum PRL level, and clinical data. Multivariate linear regression analysis was used to determine the independent factors that influence the CIMT. Individuals in the homeostatic functionally increased transient PRL group had a significantly lower CIMT compared to the hypoprolactinemia and normal PRL level groups (P < 0.001). The CIMT was positively correlated with age, systolic blood pressure, body mass index, duration of T2DM, luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone levels, and negatively correlated with alanine transaminase and aspartate transaminase activities, the estimated glomerular filtration rate, and PRL. Multivariate linear regression analysis revealed that only PRL was negatively associated with the CIMT, while age and the systolic blood pressure were positively associated with the CIMT. In patients with T2DM, a PRL level within the mildly elevated range is negatively correlated with the CIMT. A mildly elevated serum PRL level may be a protective factor for preventing thickening of the CIMT.

Microscopic Testicular Sperm Extraction in Patients with Klinefelter Syndrome: Long-Term Outcomes from a Single Center

Objective: Klinefelter syndrome (KS) represents a sex chromosome anomaly observed in approximately 1 in 500–600 phenotypic males. It is observed in 3% of infertile males and up to 11.9% of azoospermic males. KS manifests in either non-mosaic (47, XXY) or mosaic (47, XXY/46, XY) forms, with 85% of cases presenting as the non-mosaic 47, XXY karyotype. The average rate of surgical sperm retrieval in patients with KS is around 50%, ranging from 28% to 69%. In this study, we aimed to present the outcomes of microscopic testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE) in patients with non-mosaic KS. Materials and Methods: The results of 61 patients diagnosed with KS, who presented to the Harran University Urology Clinic with azoospermia between 2017 and 2024, were retrospectively reviewed. Hormonal assessments, including follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), estradiol, and total testosterone (TT), were conducted for all patients, and their partners underwent gynecological evaluations for infertility. Testicular dimensions were recorded via scrotal ultrasonography. Patients were categorized into TESE-positive and TESE-negative groups, and parameters were compared between these groups. Results: The mean age of the patients was 29.0±5.1 years, and their mean infertility duration was 5.9±4.1 years. The sperm retrieval rate was 29.5% (n=18). Mean levels of FSH, LH, prolactin, estradiol, and TT were 44.9 IU/L, 23.3 IU/L, 10 nmol/L, 31.4 pmol/dL, and 219 ng/dL, respectively. Sperm was retrieved in 18 patients (29.5%), while no sperm was obtained in 43 (70.5%). No significant correlation was observed between patient age, testicular size, serum levels of FSH, LH, prolactin, estradiol, and TT, and sperm retrieval rates when comparing the TESE-positive and TESE-negative groups (P&gt;0.005). Conclusion: In patients with non-mosaic KS, hormonal parameters, age, and infertility duration were not found to be significant predictors of the success of micro-TESE in sperm retrieval.

Comparative Study of Prolactin Levels in Acne and Non-Acne Individuals among Adolescent

Background: One of the most prevalent dermatological conditions affecting adolescents is acne vulgaris. The production of acne vulgaris lesions is a result of hormonal imbalances that impact skin conditions. Prolactin (PRL) is widely known for its involvement in the formation and operation of the mammary glands in addition to its more than three hundred non-lactational activities. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate and compare prolactin levels in serum hormone between persons with acne vulgaris and those without acne. Materials and Methods: In this cross-sectional case control study, serum levels of prolactin were collected and estimated in 80 subjects consisting of 40 males and 40 females each; of which 20 were the control group and 20, the test group in each category respectively. Also, certain criteria’s were looked into such as subject’s age, state of health, menstrual patterns (for females) and much more. Data collected was analyzed using the Software Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). At the end of the experiment, the result showed no significant change (p&lt;0.05). Result: In both male and female adolescents, the mean serum prolactin level of those with acne was higher than that of those without the condition. In adolescents with acne, the mean serum prolactin level was higher (19.48 ± 11.04) than in those without acne (13.48 ± 5.22). P less than 0.05 indicated statistical significance. Conclusion: An increase in the mean serum prolactin levels of acne subjects in both categories when compared to non-acne subjects indicates the contribution of prolactin in the pathogenesis of acne.

Evaluation of anterior pituitary hormone levels in patients with atrial fibrillation

Aim: The risk of ischemic stroke is increased 5-fold in patients with atrial fibrillation (the most common reason for cardiac arrhythmia). The aim is to investigate whether insufficiency in anterior pituitary hormones develops in patients diagnosed with atrial fibrillation and no history of cerebrovascular accident. Method: A group of 65 patients with chronic /paroxysmal atrial fibrillation without a history of cerebrovascular accident and a group of 65 healthy controls without arrhythmia were included in this study. Atrial fibrillation was diagnosed by electrocardiography or 24-hour rhythm holter. Demographic data, biochemical tests, echocardiography findings were compared between the groups. P&lt;0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: There was no statistical difference in gender and age distribution between groups (p&lt;0.05). (Patient group: Mean age 68 ± 7 years (16 (24.6%) male and 49 (75.4%) female) / Control group: Mean age 67 ± 6 years (18 (27.7%) male and 47 (72.3%) female). Serum insulin-like growth factor-1, adrenocorticotropic hormone and cortisol levels were significantly lower in the patient group compared to the control group (p=0.048, p=0.005, p=0.023). There was no significant difference in serum thyroid-stimulating hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and prolactin levels between groups. Left atrial diameter and left ventricular end-diastolic diameter were higher in the patient group (p&lt;0.0001). The left ventricular ejection fraction value was lower in the patient group (p&lt;0.0001). Conclusion: It was thought that the reason for the low level of insulin-like growth factor-1 in the setting of normal liver and kidney functions and simultaneous cortisol and adrenocorticotropic hormone deficiency, in patients with atrial fibrillation with no history of cerebrovascular accident might be due to silent cerebral ischemia leading to pituitary dysfunction.

7883 Atypical Presentation of Macroprolactinoma: Discordantly Low Serum Prolactin and Therapeutic Challenges

Abstract Disclosure: S. Hossain: None. M.S. Hossain: None. B. Gautam: None. S.C. Kumar: None. H. Liao: None. D.S. Rosenthal: None. Introduction: Pituitary tumors are categorized as microadenomas (&amp;lt;1 cm) and macroadenomas (&amp;gt;1 cm) with prolactinomas being one of the most common causes. The mean prevalence of prolactinomas is 10 per 100,000 in men and 30 per 100,000 in women. Serum prolactin levels corresponds to the size of the prolactinoma and any discrepancy should be treated with caution as that may indicate co-existence of pluripotent cells. We present a patient who presented with visual field defect and headaches, found to have a pituitary macroadenoma with discordantly low serum prolactin level compared to the size of adenoma, prompting a change in the treatment course. Case Presentation: A 42 year old male with no past medical history was seen as an endocrinology consult requested by neurosurgery for frequent headaches and visual problems for 1 year. Vital signs were normal, with negative orthostatic drop of blood pressure. He had prominent bitemporal hemianopsia confirmed by formal visual field testing by Ophthalmology. No galactorrhea or features suggestive of acromegaly or hyperthyroidism. He complained of erectile dysfunction but appeared to have normal male secondary sexual characteristics. MRI of brain showed a suprasellar mass measuring 3.8 x 2.6 x 2.2 cm with mass effect on the optic chiasm, hypothalamus with extension and infiltration into the right cavernous sinus. Lab results showed elevated prolactin of 1343.5 ng/ml confirmed by serial dilution, low serum testosterone level of 134 ng/dl and inappropriately normal FSH and LH. Complete blood counts, comprehensive metabolic panel, TFT, ACTH, cortisol and IGF-1 were normal. Patient was started on bromocriptine and he noticed improvement in his field of vision and acuity within one week of starting therapy. He continued to show sustained improvement in vision and resolution of his headaches at the one-month mark. MRI 2 months from starting bromocriptine showed modest reduction in size of the tumor to 2.1 x 2.3 x 2.4 cm with continued mass effect on the optic chiasm. Prolactin level decreased to 69.3 ng/ml. Therefore, although there was some improvement in visual fields, surgical resection was recommended to alleviate the mass effect on the optic chiasm. Conclusion: Our case highlights the significance of identifying discrepancies between the size of a prolactinoma and serum prolactin levels. Expected prolactin level from a prolactinoma similar in size to our case would be &amp;gt;3000 ng/ml when ours was 1343.5ng/ml. Despite undergoing treatment and lowering of prolactin levels our patient's pituitary adenoma did not significantly reduce in size after two months of treatment with bromocriptine and the mass continued to exert pressure on the optic chiasm. This suggests possible presence of pluripotent cells in addition to prolactin-producing cells within the tumor. The recommended course of action was surgical resection of the mass. Presentation: 6/1/2024

8319 Pituitary Apoplexy Leads to the Spontaneous Resolution of Hypercortisolism Secondary to Cushing Disease: A Clinical Case

Abstract Disclosure: N. Sweis: None. J. Sanchez Perez: None. M. Fariduddin: None. R.M. Sargis: None. D.J. Toft: None. S. Reutrakul: None. Background: Pituitary apoplexy is a potentially fatal condition involving the infarction or hemorrhage of the pituitary gland. Rarely, it can occur in the setting of an ACTH-secreting pituitary adenoma. Clinical Case: A 27-year-old female with a past medical history of obesity, spontaneous miscarriages, and amenorrhea presented to the ER with an acute onset frontal headache of throbbing quality, associated with nausea and vomiting. The headache began two days prior, rapidly intensified, and did not improve with oral acetaminophen. CT of the head revealed an enlarged pituitary gland, while neurovascular imaging showed no abnormalities. Her neurologic examination was normal. She denied visual changes, photophobia, neck rigidity, fevers, chills, or recent infections. Furthermore, she endorsed a weight gain of about 40 pounds over the past year despite no change in dietary habits. This was accompanied by amenorrhea, hair thinning, itchy comedonal acne, hirsutism, and a loss of libido. Her physical examination was remarkable for the presence of cushingoid features including violaceous abdominal striae, facial acne, moon facies, a dorsal fat pad, and acanthosis nigricans around the neck and axillae. Pituitary MRI with and without contrast showed an enlarged sellar and suprasellar macroadenoma measuring approximately 2.1x1.4x1.2 cm abutting the optic chiasm. The visualized lesion contained hemorrhagic products, suggesting pituitary apoplexy. Biochemical testing on admission included a low morning plasma cortisol of 6.5 ug/dL (ref. range: 6.7-22.6 ug/dL), a 24-hour urine free cortisol of 12.0 (&amp;lt;=45.0 ug/24 hour), and an elevated ACTH of 145.0 pg/mL (7.2 - 63.3 pg/mL). A1c was 5.8% (&amp;lt;5.7%). Serum levels of prolactin, IGF1, GH, LH, FSH, TSH, Free T4, estradiol, total and bioavailable testosterone were within normal limits. She was evaluated with an ACTH stimulation test, which showed a morning cortisol level of 1.2 ug/dL at baseline, lower from prior. Cortisol levels were adequately increased at 19.6 ug/dL and 22.6 ug/dL, 30 and 60 minutes after the administration of Cosyntropin 250 mcg, respectively (&amp;gt;=18 ug/dL after 30-60 mins). The level of ACTH at the time was also decreased to 76.6 pg/mL. The patient was therefore started on steroid replacement therapy with hydrocortisone and later underwent transsphenoidal resection of the pituitary mass without complications. Histopathological examination of the resected mass showed pituitary adenoma cells with diffuse weak to moderate ACTH staining, most consistent with a sparsely granulated corticotroph pituitary adenoma. Conclusion: We report an interesting case of Cushing disease that spontaneously resolved after pituitary apoplexy. Our case underlines the importance of close monitoring of such patients who may rapidly undergo a period of adrenal insufficiency after hypercortisolism. Presentation: 6/3/2024

8686 scRNA-seq of pituitary from letrozole-induced PCOS mouse model reveals abnormal prolactin secretion

Abstract Disclosure: G. De Robles: None. N. Ujagar: None. Z. Del Mundo: None. D. Nicholas: None. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has a complex pathophysiology and is the most common endocrine disorder among reproductive-aged women. Ovarian hormonal dynamics are regulated via the secretion of the gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH), which stimulates the release of luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the anterior pituitary gland. High serum levels of LH in PCOS patients indicate an increase in GnRH levels, but the mechanisms within the anterior pituitary at a cellular level are unclear. We performed single-cell mRNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) on the pituitaries of the letrozole-induced (LET) mouse model of PCOS to profile the functional genomics of endocrine cell populations relative to serum hormone levels. The population percentage of lactotropes significantly decreased; in contrast, two gonadotrope populations significantly increased in the LET mice compared to the placebo-treated mice. Consistent with these changes, an increasing trend of serum LH levels and a decreasing trend of serum prolactin (PRL) levels were observed in the LET mice, while no change occurred in serum growth hormone levels. A gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) on the differentially expressed genes (DEGs) from the lactotropes revealed an association with negative regulation of protein kinase activity. These DEGs included Hspb1, Park7, Pcp4, and Ppia, which all share the function of mediating stress-induced apoptosis. A GSEA on the DEGs between the two gonadotrope clusters in the LET mice also confirmed a variation in biological pathways linked to ribosomal subunits, transcription regulation, and the regulation of steroid metabolic processes. Based on the scRNA-seq results of the anterior pituitaries of LET mice, alterations in the proportions of hormone-secreting cells may be a response to hyperandrogenism, in which functionally diverse gonadotropes could contribute to heterogeneity in reproductive phenotypes. Changes in the lactotrope population and PRL serum levels also support further research on the lactation hormone and its role in PCOS. PRL is involved in metabolic homeostasis and reproduction, and understanding its dysregulations may provide additional insight into the pathophysiology of PCOS. Presentation: 6/3/2024

8386 The Evolving Face of The Great Masquerader - Panhypopituitarism Associated with Neurosyphilis

Abstract Disclosure: M. Yabe: None. Z. Lin: None. F. Joseph: None. G. Philip: None. R. Silver: None. L. Callejas: None. J. Giunta: None. Untreated syphilis is on the rise in the United States. The CDC reported syphilis cases in newborns have increased 10-fold over a decade in November 2023, signifying the emergence of untreated infections. Pituitary involvement in syphilis is a very rare phenomenon, and endocrinological investigation is often overlooked. This will be the second reported case of neurosyphilis with pituitary involvement in a non-HIV infected patient. A 45-year-old female with no significant past medical history was admitted to the hospital with progressive neurological symptoms of intermittent left-side headache, hearing loss with tinnitus, and gait instability. Postcontrast MRI Brain revealed multifocal leptomeningeal enhancement involving supratentorial and infratentorial regions. Thickening of the enhanced pituitary infundibulum was also noted. Subsequent RPR titer showed 1:16 and lumbar puncture revealed CSF-VDRL titer 1:32, with pleocytosis 83 cells/uL, CSF-glucose 19 mg/dL, and CSF-protein 370 mg/dL. The patient completed Penicillin G 4 million/units intravenous every 4 hours for 14 days, with repeat MRI showing significant interval decrease in previously described extensive supratentorial and infratentorial leptomeningeal enhancement. However, there is no record of her sexual partner receiving treatment. The patient was readmitted one year later after a fall while displaying dysmetria. MRI Brain with contrast revealed a small subacute infarct along the right frontal corona radiata and pituitary gland measuring up to 1.2 cm in craniocaudal dimension compared to 0.4 cm on the prior exam. This prompted evaluation of pituitary hormones: FSH 0.8 IU/L, LH &amp;lt;0.3 IU/L, and ACTH 6.3 pg/mL, with normal serum growth hormone and prolactin levels. Further investigation revealed morning cortisol 2.5 ug/dL, thyrotropin &amp;lt; 0.2 uIU/mL, and free thyroxine 0.63 ng/dL. Radiological evidence is suspicious of inflammatory etiology of the pituitary gland. The patient was discharged with endocrinology follow-up and plan to perform a pituitary gland biopsy as an outpatient for confirmatory result. The association of neurosyphilis and hypophysitis leading to panhypopituitarism in a non-HIV infected patient was first reported in 2015. Since then, there remains limited research regarding their association due to rarity of pituitary involvement in neurosyphilis. With untreated syphilis on the rise and increased availability of MRI, clinicians should expect to encounter more cases of neurosyphilis with pituitary involvement in the future. Early detection of panhypopituitarism in those with positive CSF-VDRL titer could lead to better clinical outcomes. It is paramount that these cases are documented to emphasize pituitary involvement in neurosyphilis and encourage a low threshold to initiate endocrinological testing in the future. Presentation: 6/3/2024

Confusion in the interpretation of prolactin levels caused by inappropriately low reference intervals.

Serum prolactin measurements are important in the differential diagnosis of pituitary masses and subfertility. We observed discrepancies in serum prolactin levels in several patients measured with different immunoassays. Despite differences in assay results, the reference intervals derived by the manufacturers were similar. In this study we aimed to investigate prolactin assay differences and to re-establish RIs for different prolactin immunoassays. For the assay comparison, serum samples were collected from men and women visiting our the Amsterdam UMC hospital. Prolactin levels were measured using the AtellicaTM IM analyzer (Siemens Healthineers) and the Cobas (Roche Diagnostics) immunoassay. Reference intervals for prolactin were re-established for men, premenopausal women and postmenopausal women for both the Atellica and Cobas immunoassay. Prolactin levels measured using the Cobas immunoassay were 1.75 times higher than those measured using the Atellica immunoassay. The re-established reference intervals for Atellica and Cobas confirmed these findings and were <0.32 U/L; <0.55 U/L for men; <0.64 U/L; <0.86 U/L for premenopausal women and <0.31 U/L; <0.59 U/L for postmenopausal women, respectively for Atellica and Cobas assays. The re-established RIs of the Atellica assay matched the current and manufacturer RIs whereas those for Cobas differed substantially. Prolactin levels are assay dependent and the re-established reference intervals are different for the Atellica and Cobas assays. We recommend that laboratory specialists and manufacturers periodically review prolactin assay RIs as incorrect reference intervals can lead to misinterpretation of prolactin levels and unnecessary referrals and further laboratory testing, as we have experienced.

Comparison of different processed products of Allium tuberosum Rottler for the treatment of mice asthenozoospermia.

Allium tuberosum Rottler improves sexual function and is used in the treatment of impotence and spermatorrhea. However, its chemical composition and mechanism of action remain unclear. This study investigates the chemical composition and mechanism of action of Allium tuberosum Rottler co-processed with salt and wine (GZP) in modulating testicular mitochondrial autophagy for the treatment of asthenozoospermia in mice. Adenine gavage + cyclophosphamide intraperitoneal injection was used to establish the model of asthenozoospermia, and six Allium tuberosum Rottler processed products were compared in the pharmacological efficacy for the treatment of asthenozoospermia in mice. The liquid chromatograph mass spectrometer (LC-MS) assay was performed to analyse the compositional changes in the GZP. The mechanism of GZP in the treatment of asthenozoospermia in mice was further investigated. The mitophagy was detected by transmission electron microscope (TEM) and immunofluorescence, respectively. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) were detected by probe. Protein expression was determined by Western blotting. GZP exhibited optimal therapeutic effects on asthenozoospermia in mice. It showed the best therapeutic effect in improving the total number of spermatozoa, sperm survival rate, improving sperm viability and reducing sperm deformity rate, alleviating the abnormal pathological morphology of mice testis, and increasing the serum testosterone (T), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and prolactin (PRL) levels in mice. The LC-MS detection found that Allicin showed the most significant increase in GZP. Besides, GZP reduced ROS level and inhibited mitophagy in mice testicular tissues. Meanwhile, it restrained the expression of PINK1, Parkin, Light chain 3II (LC3-II)/Light chain 3I (LC3-I) and Caspase-3 proteins. GZP improves asthenozoospermia via inhibiting excessive mitophagy and protects the integrity of mitochondria by blocking the PINK1/Parkin signaling pathway. During which, the Allicin may play an important role.

Evaluation of the Contraceptive Effect of Aqueous Extract of Unripe Fruit of Musa paradisiaca Linn. (Musaceae) in Female Rats.

Musa paradisiaca (plantain) is a tropical staple food known for its rich nutrient content and bioactive compounds. Traditionally, the unripe plantain has been utilized in folk medicine to treat various conditions, such as digestive disorders, inflammation, and infections. This study aimed to evaluate the potential contraceptive effects of the aqueous extract of unripe Musa paradisiaca (Musaceae) in female rats. The aqueous extract was obtained through maceration of the plant material in distilled water. Experimental animals were divided into four groups (n=6 per group): Groups A, B, and C received 100, 200, and 400 mg/kg of the extract, respectively, while Group D served as the control. A 21-day oral administration of the extract was conducted to assess its impact on reproductive hormones, with weekly blood samples collected to measure serum estrogen, prolactin, and progesterone levels via enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The results demonstrated a significant (p &lt; 0.05) alteration in estrogen levels across all extract-treated groups. There was a dose-dependent significant reduction (p &lt; 0.05) in prolactin and progesterone levels in the groups treated with 200 and 400 mg/kg at week 2 and week 3. These findings indicate that while lower doses of the aqueous extract had no discernible effect on reproductive hormone levels, higher doses significantly reduced prolactin and progesterone, suggesting the extract's potential as a contraceptive agent.

No association between serum prolactin and IL-17 levels in patients with hyperprolactinemia, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic lupus erythematosus

Prolactin is a female hormone contributing to the production of milk in women with the immunologic functions. Moreover, it contributes to the pathogenesis of some diseases such as autoimmune diseases, and hyperprolactinemia. Previous studies showed interleukin 17 (IL-17) contributes to the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. Given the prolactin may exert its pathologic effects through increasing IL-17 level, the levels of prolactin, and IL-17 were quantified, and their association was evaluated in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and hyperprolactinemia patients. Therefore, the association between prolactin, and IL-17 levels in hyperprolactinemia, RA, and SLE patients was evaluated in this study. Four groups, including healthy individuals (n = 50), RA (n = 50), hyperprolactinemia (n = 50) and SLE (n = 35) were entered into the study. Patients were diagnosed according to the internationals criteria for recognition of RA, hyperprolactinemia and SLE. To measure the serum levels of prolactin, and IL-17, the ELISA method was used. Correlation analysis of prolactin, and IL-17 levels in each group showed that no association exists between the levels of the prolactin, and IL-17 in each group (p value &gt; 0.05). Unexpectedly, patients in two autoimmune groups, RA and SLE, did not demonstrate significantly elevated level of prolactin (P-value &gt; 0.05). In another unexpected finding, IL-17 level was not significantly higher in SLE patients (P-value &gt; 0.05). Altogether, our results suggest that there was no association between prolactin, and IL-17 levels in hyperprolactinemia, RA, and SLE.

Correlation Between Sex Hormones (Testosterone and Prolactin) and Anti-ds-DNA Antibody Levels in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Patients: A Gender-Specific Analysis of the Hormonal Influence on Immune Responses.

Background Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease that mostly affects women and has a noteworthy gender gap. Although the precise effects of sex hormones on SLE are yet unknown, they may modulate the immune response and affect the severity of the illness. Two important sex hormones that have apossible influence on autoimmune processes are prolactin and testosterone. The objective of this study was to assess the correlation between the levels of different sex hormones (testosterone and prolactin) and anti-double-stranded DNA (anti-ds-DNA) antibody levels in Sudanese anti-ds-DNA-positive SLE patients. Methodology A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted from February to July 2017 at Al-Rayan Specialized Medical Laboratory Complex and Omdurman Military Hospital, Sudan. There were 90 SLE patients who tested positive for anti-ds-DNA. Using commercial kits, serum levels of prolactin, testosterone, and anti-ds-DNA antibodies were tested from blood samples. SPSS version 21 was used for statistical analysis to find relationships between hormone levels and antibody levels. Results In this study of 90 patients with SLE, gender distribution was 14 males (16%) and 76 females (84%). The mean prolactin levels were significantly higher in males (17.99 ng/ml) compared to females (15.73 ng/ml, P < 0.001), and testosterone levels were also significantly higher in males (1.43 ng/ml) than females (0.37 ng/ml, P = 0.001). Although males had slightly higher mean levels of anti-ds-DNA antibodies (4.51) compared to females (4.08), this difference was not statistically significant. The results of correlation analyses indicated a weak and non-significant link between anti-ds-DNA antibody levels and hormone levels, with prolactin's Spearman's rho value of -0.054 (P = 0.616) and testosterone's Spearman's rho value of 0.080 (P = 0.456). Conclusion It was found that prolactin and testosterone levels differ by gender in SLE patients and that these hormones may have an impact on how the condition is managed. But the poor associations with anti-ds-DNA antibody levels suggest that further investigation is required to fully comprehend these intricate interactions.

Hydro-Ethanol Extracts of Xylopia aethiopica Enhanced Serum Testosterone Levels in Male Adult Wistar Rats

Objectives To investigate the effects of hydro-ethanolic extracts of leaves and fruit with or without seeds on male sex hormones. Material and Methods Hydro-ethanolic extracts of the leaves, fruits with seeds, and fruits without seeds were processed using the Soxhlet extraction technique. Wistar rats were administered 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg of the extracts by oral gavage for 30, 60, and 90 days while the control group received feeds and water ad libitum. After the treatment periods, rats were sacrificed by cervical dislocation, and blood was collected by cardiac puncture. Serum follicle-stimulating hormones (FSHs), luteinising hormone (LH), progesterone, prolactin, and testosterone levels were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay technique. Data were compared using analysis of variance (ANOVA), and a p-value of 0.05 was considered significant. Results Serum testosterone, FSH, and LH levels in rats treated with 125, 250, and 500 mg/kg were significantly increased (p &lt; 0.05) in a dose-dependent manner compared with controls. Conclusion The consumption of this commonly used food spice appears to have beneficial effects on the male sex hormones.

Isolated hypoprolactinemia: The rarest of the rare?

Isolated hypoprolactinemia (IHP) can be defined as the presence of consistently low serum levels of prolactin in the absence of other anterior pituitary hormone abnormalities. It is an extremely rare condition, and consequently incompletely understood and unrecognized. A recent study has reported the first cases of IHP caused by mutation in the PRL gene. There are also cases where the pathogenesis of IHP is likely secondary to an autoimmune response against the PRL-secreting cells. But most published cases are acquired and idiopathic. The best characterized function of PRL is to facilitate milk production in the puerperium. Analysis of the GTEX data repository, however, shows that PRL is the most abundantly expressed gene in the human pituitary, independently of gender and age, suggesting the presence of additional roles for PRL. Newer studies have indeed revealed a much larger spectrum of PRL functions and will likely uncover novel clinical phenotypes associated with severe PRL deficiency.

Traumatic brain injury and prolactin.

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a well-known etiologic factor for pituitary dysfunctions, with a prevalence of 15% during long-term follow-up. The most common hormonal disruption is growth hormone deficiency, followed by central adrenal insufficiency, central hypogonadism, and central hypothyroidism in varying order across studies. The prevalence of serum prolactin disturbances ranged widely from 0 to 85%. Prolactin release is mainly regulated by hypothalamic dopamine inhibition, and mediators such as TRH, serotonin, cytokines, and neurotransmitters have modulatory effects. Many factors, such as hypothalamic and/or pituitary gland injuries, as well as fluctuations in dopaminergic activity and other mediators and stress response, may cause derangements in serum prolactin levels after TBI. Although it is challenging to investigate the direct effects of TBI on serum prolactin levels due to many confounders, basal prolactin measurements and stimulation tests provide insight into the functionality of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland after TBI. Moreover, during the acute phase of TBI, prolactin levels appear to correlate with TBI severity. In contrast, in the chronic phase, hypoprolactinemia may function as an indirect indicator of pituitary dysfunction and reduced pituitary volume. Further investigations are needed to elucidate the pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying the prolactin trend following TBI, its significance, and its associations with other pituitary hormone dysfunctions. In this article, we re-evaluated our patients' TBI data regarding prolactin levels during prospective long-term follow-up, and reviewed the literature regarding the prevalence, pathophysiology, and clinical implications of serum prolactin disturbances during acute and chronic phases following TBI.

Wheel Running During Pregnancy Alleviates Anxiety-and Depression-Like Behaviors During the Postpartum Period in Mice: The Roles of NLRP3 Neuroinflammasome Activation, Prolactin, and the Prolactin Receptor in the Hippocampus.

Despite the increase in the prevalence of postpartum depression among maternal disorder, its treatment outcomes remain suboptimal. Studies have shown that exercise can reduce postpartum depressive episodes in the mother, but the effects of exercise during pregnancy on maternal behavior and the potential mechanisms involved remain poorly understood. From the second day of pregnancy to the day of birth, dams exercised for 1h a day by running on a controlled wheel. The maternal behaviors of the dams were assessed on postpartum day 2 to postpartum day 8. Chronic restraint stress was applied from postpartum day 2 to day 12. Blood was collected on postpartum days 3 and 8, then subjected to ELISA to determine the serum concentration of prolactin. The weight of each dam and the food intake were recorded. Anxiety- and depression-like behavioral tests were conducted, and hippocampal neuroinflammation and prolactin receptor levels were measured. The dams exhibited elevated levels of anxiety and depression, decreased serum prolactin levels, decreased prolactin receptor expression, and activation of NLRP3-mediated neuroinflammation in the hippocampus following the induction of postpartum chronic restraint stress, which were reversed with controlled wheel running during pregnancy. Overall, the findings of this study revealed that the preventive effects of exercise during pregnancy on postpartum anxiety-and depression-like behaviors were accompanied by increased serum prolactin levels, hippocampal prolactin receptor expression and hippocampal NLRP3-mediated neuroinflammation.