Serum Testosterone Levels Research Articles

Diallyl disulfide prevents cadmium-induced testicular injury by attenuating oxidative stress, apoptosis, and TLR4/NF-κB and JAK1/STAT3 signaling and upregulating SIRT1 in rats

BackgroundCadmium (Cd) is a heavy metal environmental pollutant that can cause serious health problems. Cd can cause structural changes in the testes and exposure to this heavy metal is associated with the loss of sperms and male infertility. The role of oxidative stress and inflammation in Cd toxicity has been acknowledged. Diallyl disulfide (DADS), an organo-sulfur compound found in garlic, possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and cytoprotective effects. This study evaluated the protective effect of DADS against Cd reproductive toxicity in male rats, emphasizing the involvement of redox imbalance, TLR-4/NF-κB and JAK1/STAT3 signaling, and SIRT1. MethodsDADS (10mg/kg body weight) was administered orally to rats for 14 days and a single dose of Cd (1.2mg/kg) was injected intraperitoneally on day 7. Blood and samples from the testes were collected for analysis. ResultsCd caused testicular injury manifested by multiple histopathological changes and loss of sperms from seminiferous tubules. Circulating levels of gonadotropins and testosterone were decreased in Cd-administered rats. DADS prevented Cd-induced testicular injury and ameliorated serum levels of gonadotropins and testosterone. Cd increased testicular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) and upregulated TLR-4, NF-κB, pro-inflammatory cytokines, JAK1 and STAT3 phosphorylation, Bax and caspase-3, while decreased antioxidants and Bcl-2. DADS effectively decreased ROS and MDA, downregulated TLR-4, NF-κB, JAK1, STAT3, pro-inflammatory cytokines and pro-apoptosis markers in Cd-administered rats. In addition, DADS enhanced antioxidants, Bcl-2, SIRT1 and cytoglobin in the testis of Cd-administered rats. ConclusionDADS prevents Cd-induced testicular injury by attenuating oxidative stress, apoptosis, and TLR-4/NF-κB and JAK1/STAT3 signaling, and upregulating SIRT1 and antioxidants.

Therapeutic potential of diosgenin against methotrexate-induced testicular damage in the rat.

This study evaluated diosgenin effects on methotrexate-induced testicular injury in the rats. A single dose of methotrexate (MTX) (20mg/kg, i.p) was administered, followed by two weeks of diosgenin treatment via gavage starting one day before methotrexate injection. Testicular damage was evaluated through histological examination of seminiferous tubules, as well as analysis of serum testosterone level, oxidative stress and inflammation biomarkers, and antioxidant levels. The results of this study showed that in the MTX-exposed group, oxidative stress indices of malondialdehyde (MDA), reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitrite and indices of inflammation consisting of tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα), and interleukin 6 (IL-6) have a significant increase compared to the control group. Additionally, reductions were observed in antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione (GSH). In addition, testosterone level decreased and signs of testicular damage were observed in the MTX group. Conversely, in the group treated with diosgenin alongside MTX at a dosage of 50mg/kg, there was a significant decrease in oxidative stress markers (MDA, ROS, nitrite) and inflammatory markers (TNFα and IL-6). Moreover, there was a significant increase in the levels of antioxidant enzymes (SOD, CAT, and GSH). Diosgenin appears to have the potential to protect testicular tissue from damage caused by the toxic effects of MTX through the reduction of oxidative stress and inflammation.

Long-term effects of sub-chronic exposure to L-NAME on reproductive system of male rats.

Nω-nitro-l-arginine methyl ester (L-NAME) has been utilized as a nitric oxide synthase antagonist for many years in both basic and clinical research settings to assess its therapeutic potential. Though a number of studies have shown the effect of L-NAME on testicular function, the information regarding the reversibility of these effects upon L-NAME withdrawal is limited. In the present study, male rats (68-80days old) divided randomly into three groups received different doses of L-NAME, i.e. 20mg/kg bw (L20) and 10mg/kg bw (L10) in drinking water, and drinking water only (control) through oral gavage daily for three weeks. The rats were monitored for and sacrificed after 60days of L-NAME treatment termination. The animals had a significantly higher (p < 0.01) mean blood pressure compared to control. Aberrant histological changes were observed in the testes of L-NAME-treated rats. A significant reduction (p < 0.05) in the sperm count and an increase in abnormal sperm morphology (p < 0.05) was observed in L-NAME treated rats. Moreover, the spermatogenic cycle was found to be altered in L-NAME treated rats. No change was observed in serum estradiol levels, while serum testosterone levels were significantly increased (p < 0.05) in L10 and L20 animals. The intra-testicular testosterone was increased significantly (p < 0.01) in L20 animals. A significant decrease (p < 0.05) in superoxide dismutase activity was observed in L20 animals. The sub-chronic exposure to L-NAME resulted in higher mean arterial blood pressure and long-term testicular tissue damage, affecting sperm quality and spermatogenesis.

Resveratrol improves follicular development in PCOS rats by inhibiting the inflammatory response and pyroptosis of granulosa cells.

Chronic inflammation is a key characteristic of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and is associated with follicular dysplasia in PCOS. PCOS patients treated with 1000mg resveratrol (RES) daily for 3months showed significant improvement in menstrual cycle regularity compared to the placebo group. This investigation explores potential impact of RES on a rat model of PCOS. Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were subjected to a 30-day letrozole/high-fat diet interventions for PCOS model establishment, followed by RES intervention (20mg/kg/d) for an additional 30days. RES intervention mitigated obesity, estrous cycle irregularities, and ovulation disorders while decreasing serum testosterone and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) levels in PCOS rats. Concurrently, inflammatory markers (TNF-α, NLPR3, IL-6,) and pyroptosis-related markers (GSDMD, cleaved-Caspase-1, IL-1β, IL-18) were downregulated. Additionally, KGN cells (a human granulosa-like cell line) were treated with LPS and RES for in vitro assays. It was observed that RES (15μM) significantly reduced ROS production and downregulated inflammatory cytokine expression in LPS-intervened KGN cells. Additionally, RES downregulated the expression levels of pyroptosis-related factors (GSDMD and cleaved-Caspase-1) and attenuated IL-18 and IL-1β secretion in LPS-induced KGN cells. Furthermore, RES intervention improved the pyroptosis-associated morphology of KGN cells after LPS treatment. In conclusion, RES may restore follicular development in PCOS rats by inhibiting inflammation and NLRP3/GSDMD/Caspase-1-mediated pyroptosis of ovarian granulosa cells, providing new insights into potential therapeutic approaches for PCOS.

Precocious Puberty in Boys with NR0B1 Variants

Precocious puberty (PP) requires appropriate management to prevent short adult height, psychosocial issues, and other adverse outcomes. Genetic diagnosis potentially improves the management of PP. Pathogenic NR0B1 variants, which typically cause X-linked adrenal hypoplasia congenita, can also affect gonadal function. While boys with NR0B1 variants usually exhibit hypogonadotropic hypogonadism during adolescence, previous reports have suggested that minipuberty, a physiological transient activation of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis during infancy, occurs in these patients and can persist beyond a typical duration. In rare cases, NR0B1 variants cause PP. PP associated with NR0B1 variants has unique features such as early onset and high serum testosterone levels that are often disproportionate to testicular size. Three underlying mechanisms have been proposed for the association between PP and NR0B1 variants: (1) adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-dependent, (2) gonadotropin-dependent, and (3) ACTH- and gonadotropin-independent mechanisms. The factors contributing to PP vary among cases. Determining the underlying mechanisms is crucial for adopting appropriate therapeutic strategies to control PP. However, as the detailed molecular networks mediating these mechanisms are largely unclear, further research is needed to pave the way for a more effective and personalized management of patients with PP associated with NR0B1 variants.

Post-pubertal management of undescended testes from the malignancy risk point of view: a systematic review

Background Undescended testes (UDT) is a condition where one or both testes is absent in the scrotum. The general age recommendation in which the treatment should be performed is before 18 months old due to the infertility risk and malignancy in later life. In post-pubertal UDT, the current guideline recommends orchiectomy; however, the strength rating of this recommendation is weak. Therefore, this study aimed to provide a systematic review of post-pubertal UDT treatment, focusing on the malignancy risk point of view. Methods A systematic search was performed using PubMed, Wiley Online Library and the Cochrane Library up to 5 March 2023. Any study with either post-pubertal orchiectomy or orchidopexy in patients with UDT and reporting the testicular malignancy was included. The exclusion criteria were studies with lack of information of UDT correction time, no history of correction and the full text wasn’t available. The data collected were the occurrence of testicular malignancy in post-pubertal UDT patients corrected with any method. Quality and bias assessment was assessed with Newcastle-Ottawa scale and Joanna Briggs Institute tools. Results Seven articles (three case reports and four observational studies) were reviewed with a total of 42 patients who underwent post-pubertal correction of either unilateral or bilateral UDT. The correction age ranged from 13 to 34 years old, with follow-up of 48.7–252 months. Among those who developed malignancies, the most common were seminoma, teratoma and carcinoma in situ of the testes. In addition, this study was able to propose an algorithm for post-pubertal UDT treatment strategy. Conclusions The scarce resource was the main limitation of this study. Nevertheless, this review showed that post-pubertal UDT management should be tailored individually. Several factors that should be considered include the condition of the contralateral descended testis, UDT location, serum testosterone level, patient’s age, comorbidities, and interest in fertility.

Hyperandrogenism after menopause: diagnostic evaluation

Excessive androgen levels in women after menopause often result from an imbalance in ovarian steroid secretion: a rapid decline in estrogen secretion associated with a slow decrease in androgen secretion, compounded by a physiological decrease in sex hormone-binding globulin. Hyperandrogenism is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular events and gynecological neoplasms, also impacting the emotional well-being of affected women. Therefore, the aim of these guidelines is to guide the clinical physician in the appropriate clinical and biochemical evaluation of hyperandrogenism after menopause, thus optimizing therapeutic outcomes. The most frequent consultation in this stage of life is facial hirsutism associated with hair loss. If the onset of signs is abrupt, severe, associated with virilization and accompanied by serum testosterone levels in the male range, it is necessary to rule out a tumoral origin. A thorough medical history guides the diagnosis. Determination of total testosterone using reliable methods and imaging studies are valid tools to assist when doubts arise in the differential diagnosis.

Clinical and Biochemical Outcomes in Transgender Individuals Undergoing Hormone Therapy: Protocol for a Systematic Review.

Monitoring of various clinical outcomes and parameters, such as lipid levels, is recommended in transgender individuals undergoing hormone therapies. However, comprehensive data to inform these recommendations is scarce. This study aims to conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to synthesize evidence from existing literature on the effect of exogenous hormone therapy on clinical and biochemical outcomes for transgender adolescents and adults. We will search multiple electronic databases and will include prospective and retrospective observational studies with and without a control group. The study population will include transgender individuals undergoing hormone therapy with testosterone or estrogen. Comparisons will include age-matched, cisgender individuals and changes from baseline. Primary outcomes include changes in or the development of abnormal lipid parameters. Secondary outcomes include BMI, weight, height, and blood pressure for age, serum testosterone or estrogen levels, and development of disease including hypertension, diabetes, fatty liver disease, obesity, adverse cardiac events, as well as all-cause mortality. The meta-analysis will pool the studies where applicable, and meta-regressions will be conducted to evaluate effect modifiers. The GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) approach will be used to evaluate the overall certainty of evidence. We will summarize the selection of the eligible studies using a PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) flowchart. The results will be presented in a table summarizing the evidence. Data collection is ongoing, and the paper is expected to be published in Spring 2025. This systematic review will summarize and evaluate the evidence of the clinical and biochemical outcomes associated with hormone therapies for transgender individuals. PROSPERO CRD42024483138; https://tinyurl.com/yc4sfvnb. PRR1-10.2196/57931.

Chemical castration in dogs using calcium chloride: effects on testicular hemodynamics and semen characteristic and serum levels of testosterone.

Dog overpopulation and stray dogs are global issues that are detrimental to public health and animal welfare. Thus, the goal of the current study was to provide alternatives for surgical castration. Therefore, calcium chloride was employed in this study, which might be an option for castration. Ten dogs were divided into two groups of five: a calcium chloride-treated group and a control group. The treated group received a single bilateral intratesticular injection of 1ml of sterile saline containing calcium chloride dihydrate (CaCl2•2 H2O) at a dose of 20mg/kg per testicle. While the control group was treated with 1ml of sterile saline solution, Semen and blood collection, as well as Doppler ultrasonography, were routinely carried out every week on days 0, 7, 14, 21, and 28 in order to evaluate the impact of the injection on semen parameters and testicular blood flow. The testicular volume and echogenicity in the CaCl2-treated group were significantly (P < 0.001) lower in weeks 2 through 4 than in the control group. Furthermore, in canine semen, CaCl2 dramatically decreased the amount, motility, and viability of sperm. When compared to vehicle-control animals, azoospermia was seen 2 weeks after the injection and persisted for the end of the study. The testes of all dogs were surgically removed at 30 days post-injection, and testes were put in 10% neutral buffered formalin for tissue processing. When compared to the control group, the average weight of testes in the chemical groups was dramatically reduced. Significant decreases in spermatogenic processes, necrosis, and degeneration of seminiferous tubules packed with necrotic debris, and fibrosed interstitial tissue, necrosed and calcified Sertoli, and Leydig cells were seen 30 days after CaCl2 injection. There was a significant decrease in testosterone levels compared to day 0 before CaCl2 injection and the control group. From weeks 1 through 4, there was a substantial decrease in both peak systolic velocity (PSV) and end-diastolic velocity (EDV) values (P < 0.001) following a single intratesticular injection of CaCl2. The resistance index (RI) and pulsatility index (PI) showed the opposite tendency. Based on the histopathological and semen evaluations in this investigation, the study concludes that a single intratesticular injection of CaCl2 appears to be a practical and generally applicable approach for chemical sterilization of dogs.

Responses in organs, sperm, steroid hormones and CYP450 enzyme in male mice treated by quinestrol only or in conjunction with clarithromycin

Pest rodents persistently undermine crop yields and food security. Fertility control could be a viable alternative for managing rodent populations. This study investigates the antifertility effects of various concentrations of clarithromycin combined with 1.0 mg/kg quinestrol on male rodents to determine an effective contraceptive dose that minimizes quinestrol usage, addressing key concerns such as potential environmental residue, which may impact ecological balance, and poor palatability, which could reduce ingestion and limit the sterilant’s effectiveness. Male mice were divided into five groups and administered different doses of clarithromycin or clarithromycin and quinestrol for three consecutive days, while the control group received sunflower seed oil only. After seven days, organ weights, reproductive organ weights, sperm density, serum hormone levels, and CYP3A4 content in small intestinal and liver tissues were measured to assess persistent effects. Compared with the control group, all treatment groups had significant reductions in epididymal weight, seminal vesicle weight, and serum T and LH levels. Higher concentrations of clarithromycin (2 mg/kg and 10 mg/kg) significantly impacted reproductive metrics, including sperm density, organ weights, and serum LH and testosterone levels, though complete sterilization was not achieved, with more than 60 million cauda epididymal spermatozoa remaining. However, the combination demonstrated potential as an effective strategy for male fertility control. The combination of 2.0 mg/kg clarithromycin and quinestrol can mitigate organ enlargement seen with quinestrol alone. This combination also decreased total enzyme content, thereby diminishing quinestrol’s induction of CYP3A4, which may increase the sterilization effectiveness of the treatment.

Supplementing With Which Form of Creatine (Hydrochloride or Monohydrate) Alongside Resistance Training Can Have More Impacts on Anabolic/Catabolic Hormones, Strength and Body Composition?

The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of resistance training (RT) alongside creatine-hydrochloride (Cr-HCl) or creatine monohydrate (CrM) supplementation on anabolic/catabolic hormones, strength, and body composition. Forty participants with an age range of 18-25 years were randomly divided into four groups (n=10): RT+Cr-HCl (0.03 g.kg-1 of body mass), RT+CrM-loading phase (CrM-LP) (0.3 g.kg-1 of body mass for five days (loading) and 0.03 g.kg-1 body mass for 51 days (maintenance)), RT+CrM-without loading phase (CrM-WLP) (0.03 g.kg-1 body mass), and RT+placebo (PL). The participants consumed supplements and performed RT with an intensity of 70-85 % 1RM for eight weeks. Before and after the training and supplementation period, strength (1RM), body composition (percent body fat (PBF), skeletal muscle mass (SMM), muscular cross-sectional area (MCSA)) and serum levels of testosterone, growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), cortisol, adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), follistatin and myostatin were measured. The results showed that in the supplementation groups, strength, arm and thigh MCSA, and SMM significantly increased, and PBF significantly decreased (P≤0.05); this change was significant compared to the PL group (P≤0.05). In addition, the results showed a significant increase in GH, IGF-1 levels, the ratio of follistatin/myostatin, testosterone/cortisol (P≤0.05), and a significant decrease in cortisol and ACTH levels (P≤0.05) in the supplementation groups. Hormonal changes in GH, IGF-1, testosterone/cortisol, cortisol, and ACTH levels in the supplementation groups were significant compared to the PL group (P≤0.05). The results showed that CrM and Cr-HCl significantly enhanced the beneficial effects of RT on strength, hypertrophy, and hormonal responses, with Cr-HCl showing no benefit over CrM.

Glycyrrhizin alleviated cisplatin-induced testicular injury by inhibiting the oxidative, apoptotic, hormonal, and histological alterations.

To evaluate the potential contribution of glycyrrhizin (GLZ) to mitigate the testicular toxicity linked to cisplatin (CIS) intoxication. 40 mature male Wistar albino rats (Rattus norvegicus albinus) were randomly divided into 4 equal groups (n = 10) for 60 days: the control group, CIS-treated group (single dose of 7 mg/kg, IP), GLZ-treated group (25 mg/kg, PO), and GLZ plus CIS-treated group. Blood and testis samples were examined using biochemical, histological, and immunohistochemical techniques. Semen samples were also obtained, and any abnormalities were reported. Serum follicle-stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and testosterone levels were all markedly reduced by CIS. Oxidative stress and a significant reduction in levels of the antioxidant enzymes glutathione peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase were linked to CIS. Immunohistochemically, CIS showed diffuse, significantly positive immunolocalizations against the anti-caspase 3 antibody, indicating widespread apoptosis within the testicular parenchyma. Histopathologically, CIS showed diffuse coagulative necrosis of spermatogenic cells, necrotic Sertoli cells, intertubular edema, and Leydig cell hyperplasia. Moreover, CIS revealed a noteworthy increase in sperm abnormalities. Pre-coadministration and posttreatment with GLZ mitigated the majority of these detrimental consequences, and serum levels of antioxidant enzymes, luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone, and testosterone were significantly elevated. Glycyrrhizin has been proven to be a strong antioxidant as well as antiapoptotic and cytoprotective against CIS testicular damage. The described model is a tool to evaluate the testicular protective impact of GLZ.

Acrylamide-induced hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis disruption in rats: Androgenic protective roles of apigenin by restoring testicular steroidogenesis through upregulation of 17β-HSD, CYP11A1 and CYP17A1

Acrylamide (ARL) exposure induces significant toxicity to the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis, leading to detrimental effects on behavior, neuroendocrine functions, steroidogensis, oxidative stress, inflammation, hormonal balance, sperm quality, and histopathological integrity in rats. This study investigates the protective role of oral apigenin (API; 10 or 20 mg/kg/day for 28 days) against ARL-induced toxicity in the HPG axis of male Wistar rats. Behavioral assessments revealed that ARL exposure impaired motor coordination and balance, as evidenced by increased landing foot splay distance and gait score. ARL-induced toxicity elevated brain Tau protein levels and disrupted hypothalamic GnRH levels, both mitigated by API. ARL triggered oxidative/nitrosative stress, reducing GSH contents and increasing MDA and NO levels in brain and testicular tissues, which were reversed by API. Hormonal imbalance, marked by decreased serum testosterone, FSH, and LH levels, was corrected by API. API enhanced semen quality parameters, with elevation in sperm count concentration and the percentages of both progressive motility and individual motility. It also normalized testicular PS and PC content, enhanced testicular cellular energy and restored seminal amino acid. The repression of testicular steroidogenesis-related enzymes CYP11A1, CYP17A1, and 17β-HSD following ARL exposure was alleviated by API administration. API also mitigated the inflammatory effects of ARL by reducing the expression of p–NF–κB p65 and TNF-α in testicular tissue. Histopathological examinations showed that API reduced neuronal and testicular degeneration, improving spermatogenesis. These findings suggest that API confers significant protective effects against ARL-induced HPG axis toxicity by restoring testicular steroidogenesis through the upregulation of 17β-HSD, CYP11A1, and CYP17A1, potentially due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties.

Assessment of reproductive, genotoxic, and cytotoxic effects of leachate-contaminated water in male mice

Leachate-contaminated water (LCS) poses significant health risks due to its heavy metal content and altered physicochemical properties. This study examined the physicochemical parameters and heavy metal levels in LCS and assessed its reproductive toxicity, genotoxicity, and cytotoxic effects in exposed mice. Groups of mice (n = 5) were orally administered 100 μL of 30 % and 70 % LCS (v/v) twice daily for 35 days. Drinking water served as a negative control, and cyclophosphamide (Cyp) (20 mg/kg bw) as a positive control. On day 36, the mice were weighed, sacrificed, and their testicular weight, sperm count, sperm morphology, viability, acrosome integrity, and serum testosterone were examined. Oxidative stress in the testes, histopathological changes, and serum markers for liver and kidney function (SGOT, SGPT, and creatinine) were also assessed. Genotoxic effects were evaluated using a micronuclei (MN) assay. Analysis of the leachate showed altered physicochemical parameters and elevated heavy metal levels. Exposure to LCS led to a significant decrease in relative testis weight, sperm count, normal sperm morphology, viability, acrosome integrity, and serum testosterone levels. It also caused a notable increase in MDA levels and a decrease in catalase (CAT), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and glutathione (GSH) levels, along with histological changes in the testes of LCS-treated mice compared to controls. Additionally, there was a significant rise in MN formation in RBCs and elevated levels of liver enzymes and creatinine, indicating liver and renal toxicity. Histological alterations in the liver and kidneys were also observed in LCS-exposed mice. These findings suggest that LCS induces reproductive toxicity, genotoxicity, and cytotoxicity in male subjects.

Does the hemodialysis program affect the testosterone serum level in patients with end-stage renal disease?

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of high flux membrane hemodialysis on total serum testosterone (TST) levels in male patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The study included 60 male ESRD patients with a mean age of 54.02 ± 13.40years, undergoing a standard hemodialysis program et al. Najah National University Hospital. All patients underwent three weekly sessions of four hours each using high flux membrane hemodialysis. TST and hematocrit (Hct) levels were measured before and after hemodialysis. Patients with prostate cancer, liver insufficiency, prior prostate surgery, or those on androgen therapy were excluded. The study assessed changes in TST and Hct levels and their correlation. Post-dialysis, there was a significant increase in serum testosterone levels from 3.13 ± 1.44ng/ml to 4.17 ± 2.04ng/ml (r = 0.78, p = 0.001). Hematocrit levels also rose significantly from 32.31% ± 3.90% to 35.27% ± 4.89% (r = 0.754, p = 0.001). The percentage change in TST and Hct levels was 35 ± 0.33% and 9 ± 0.1%, respectively, with a correlation between these changes (r = 0.277, p = 0.032). High flux membrane dialysis did not filter testosterone molecules, and the significant increase in TST levels post-dialysis is likely due to hemoconcentration. Since many patients had low or borderline TST levels before dialysis, androgen supplementation may offer clinical benefits.

Comparison of Serum Testosterone Levels in Male Wild Boars and Domestic Pigs in Japan

(1) Background: The numbers of wild animals in Japan are increasing due to changes in the industrial structure and a decline in the population. Various extermination approaches have been used against animals that are classified as harmful, such as boars. Making effective use of exterminated wild animals will revitalize extermination activities by developing markets as the number of hunters declines. We measured serum testosterone levels to examine the potential value of male wild boars as a meat source and compared them with the testosterone levels in domestic male pigs. Testosterone has an analeptic effect even in small amounts. (2) Methods: Blood testosterone levels were measured by electrochemiluminescence in wild boars and domestic pigs, collected using box traps in Sasebo City. (3) Results: Almost no testosterone was detected in the sera of castrated domestic male pigs, and more testosterone was detected in wild male boars than in pigs. (4) Conclusions: The analysis demonstrated that male wild boars have unique nutritional value compared with domestic pigs.

The Impact of Chemokine-Like Receptor 1 Gene Knockout on Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Epididymo-Orchitis in Mice.

This comprehensive study delved into the pivotal function of chemokine-like receptor 1 (CMKLR1) in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-triggered epididymo-orchitis in mice. Upon LPS exposure, wild-type (WT) mice exhibited marked elevations in serum pro-inflammatory markers, including G-CSF, IL-6, and RANTES, along with heightened levels of TNF-α and IL-6 in testicular and epididymal tissues, which accompanied by pronounced structural damage within the testicular tissue and a concurrent decline in serum testosterone, estradiol (E2) levels, and testicular steroid synthetase expression. Remarkably, Cmklr1 gene ablation intensified the pro-inflammatory response in the serum (especially IFN-γ), testes, and epididymis of epididymo-orchitis models. Furthermore, Cmklr1 deficiency uniquely induced structural alterations within the epididymis, which is absent in the WT model. This genetic manipulation also exacerbated the decline in serum testosterone and E2 levels and testicular steroid synthase activity. While chemerin levels were significantly diminished in WT epididymo-orchitis models, Cmklr1 knockout had no discernible effect on chemerin expression in the model. In addition, a noteworthy observation was the elevation of the serum low density lipoprotein/high density lipoprotein (LDL/HDL) ratio in Cmklr1-deficient mice. Collectively, these findings underscore that the lack of chemerin/CMKLR1 signaling axis could potentially worsen the symptoms during LPS-induced epididymo-orchitis, highlighting its potential as a therapeutic target in related pathologies.

Association of serum testosterone levels with left atrial size, function, and risk of atrial fibrillation in adult men: observational and mendelian randomization analyses

Abstract Background Numerous studies have investigated the association between serum testosterone levels, testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), and cardiovascular risk. However, research examining the relationship between testosterone levels and atrial fibrillation (AF) risk remains limited. We comprehensively analyzed the association between total testosterone (TT) levels, intermediary phenotypes such as left atrium (LA) size and function, and the risk of AF in middle-aged and older men. Methods We utilized data from the UK Biobank, a population-based prospective cohort, focusing on 179,988 White men who had complete serum TT level data and no AF history. Observational associations between TT levels and LA imaging traits, as well as AF risk, were estimated using multivariable regression and time-dependent Cox regression models, treating TT levels as a time-varying variable. Genetic associations were examined by Mendelian randomization (MR), using both UK Biobank and external large consortia genome-wide association study data. Results During the median follow-up of 11.8 years (IQR 10.9–12.5), we observed 13,847 incident AF cases (7.7%). Participants with normal TT levels (≥ 300 ng/dL) showed a 15% reduced risk of AF (HR of 0.85 [95% CI, 0.82–0.89]) compared to those with low TT (&amp;lt; 300 ng/dL). Interestingly, participants undergoing TRT experienced a 51% higher risk of AF (1.51 [1.09–2.07]). Furthermore, each 1-standard deviation increase in TT levels was associated with a reduced AF risk (OR of 0.91 [0.89–0.93]) and an improved LA emptying fraction (1.29 [1.06–1.58]). Applying age-specific cutoff values for low TT levels highlighted a more pronounced AF risk reduction in participants with normal TT. MR analyses supported these observations, suggesting potential causal relationships between TT levels and both LA function and AF risk. Conclusions Our findings suggest that low TT levels are associated with reduced LA function and increased risk of AF, both observationally and genetically, indicating that serum TT could serve as a surrogate marker or even a potential causal mediator in the development of AF.Abstract tableAbstract figure

Clinical trials of intratesticular administration of nanostructured lipid carriers encapsulated alpha-mangostin: Safety and efficacy on feline reproductive health

Surgical castration is a primary method for controlling male fertility, but it is impractical for large-scale population control of stray animals. Developing nanoparticle-mediated sterilants that induce cell apoptosis rather than necrosis is a complex and promising area of research. This study aimed to investigate the impact of intratesticular administration of alpha-mangostin encapsulated in nanostructured lipid carriers (AM-NLC) on testicular changes and any associated adverse effects over a 168-day observation period. Thirty-two healthy mature tomcats were enrolled. None of the cats treated with either AM-NLC (n = 28) or blank NLC (n = 4) exhibited noticeable complications related to pain or stress throughout the study, as assessed by clinical examination, blood profiles, and serum amyloid A levels. Histopathological analysis of AM-NLC treated cats revealed seminiferous epithelium degeneration, leading to defective tubules. Key findings included germ cell depletion, disorganized spermatogenic cells without spermatids in certain areas, apoptotic bodies, and intracytoplasmic vacuolization. The intertubular compartment showed no signs of inflammation, hyalinization, fibrosis, or necrosis. Despite widespread degeneration, some normal tubules were present in focal areas. The severity score of seminiferous tubule degeneration significantly increased from day 56 onwards (P < 0.05), suggesting a gradual and progressive compromise of the seminiferous epithelium. In contrast, testes from the blank-NLC group exhibited normal spermatogenesis. Overall, there were no significant changes in the volume of dissected testes, serum testosterone levels, or apoptotic index in AM-NLC-treated cats (P > 0.05). In conclusion, this study represents the first in vivo investigation of apoptotic-inducing agents as a novel nanomedicine-based antifertility compound for non-surgical castration in male animals. While the AM-NLC formulation proved safe for intratesticular administration, it failed to induce infertility in cats, as epididymal spermatozoa persisted throughout the study. Further research into alternative apoptosis-inducing nanomedicine sterilants remains both essential and challenging.

Evaluating the Serum Zinc and Testosterone Levels of Carpenters in Enugu Metropolis, South East Nigeria: A Cross-sectional Study

Background: Exposure to wood dust remains a pervasive occupational hazard with significant health implications Aim: This study aims to investigate the impact of occupational exposure to wood dust on the zinc and testosterone levels of carpenters and to explore its potential implications for their fertility. Materials and Methods: This cross sectional study employed simple random sampling to recruit forty carpenters and forty administrative staff after obtaining informed consent. The ethics committee of the University of Nigeria Teaching Hospital approved of the study. Serum zinc was analyzed with atomic absorption spectroscopy while testosterone was analyzed with the Fluorescence Immunchromatogarphy. Graph pad prism version 7 was used to analyze the data obtained from the study and a p value of 0.05 was used to ascertain statistical significance. Results: The mean zinc level of the test group (48.80 ± 0.83) µg/dl is statistically significantly lower than the reference group (52.40 ± 0.79) µg/dl, (p=0.003). The mean serum testosterone level of the test group (4.11± 0.10) ng/ml is statistically significantly lower than the reference group (4.51 ± 0.11) ng/ml, (p=0.010). Conclusion: These findings may suggest that occupational exposure to wood dust could potentially influence the serum levels of Zinc and testosterone levels.