Serum Testosterone Levels Research Articles

Sex hormones and the total testosterone:estradiol ratio as predictors of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection in hospitalized men.

The predictive ability of the early determination of sex steroids and the total testosterone:estradiol ratio for the risk of severe coronavirus disease 2019 or the potential existence of a biological gradient in this relationship has not been evaluated. To assess the relationship of sex steroid levels and the total testosterone:estradiol ratio with the risk of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection in men, defined as the need for intensive care unit admission or death, and the predictive ability of each biomarker. This was a prospective observational study. We included all consecutive adult men with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infections in a single center admitted to a general hospital ward or to the intensive care unit. Sex steroids were evaluated at the centralized laboratory of our hospital. We recruited 98 patients, 54 (55.1%) of whom developed severe coronavirus disease in 2019. Compared to patients with nonsevere coronavirus disease 2019, patients with severe coronavirus disease 2019 had significantly lower serum levels of total testosterone (111±89vs. 191±143ng/dL; p<0.001), dehydroepiandrosterone (1.69±1.26vs. 2.96±2.64ng/mL; p<0.001), and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (91.72±76.20vs. 134.28±98.261μg/dL; p=0.009), significantly higher levels of estradiol (64.61±59.35vs. 33.78±13.78 pg/mL; p=0.001), and significantly lower total testosterone:estradiol ratio (0.28±0.31vs. 0.70±0.75; p<0.001). The lower the serum level of androgen and the lower the total testosterone:estradiol ratio values, the higher the likelihood of developing severe coronavirus disease 2019, with the linear trend in the adjusted analyses being statistically significant for all parameters except for androstenedione (p=0.064). In the receiver operating characteristic analysis, better predictive performance was shown by the total testosterone:estradiol ratio, with an area under the curve of 0.77 (95% confidence interval 0.68-0.87; p<0.001). Our results suggest that men with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection, decreased androgen levels and increased estradiol levels have a higher likelihood of developing an unfavorable outcome. The total testosterone:estradiol ratio showed the best predictive ability.

Erectile function in men with COVID-19 six months after recovery

Background. Based on the results of epidemiological studies, it was found that coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) affects men more often than women. Among COVID-19 complications, erectile dysfunction is considered a marker of endothelial dysfunction and one of the main factors for the development of cardiovascular diseases. Lower total and free testosterone levels are predictors of adverse prognosis in males with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). Testosterone deficiency syndrome is considered an independent risk factor of cardiometabolic disorders. The purpose of the study is to investigate the state of erectile function in men who suffered from COVID-19 six months after recovery. Materials and methods. Seventy-two men suffering from COVID-19 and being treated in an infectious disease hospital were examined 6.90 ± 0.29 months after recovery. Their average age was 45.23 ± 3.01 years. The control group included 18 conditionally healthy men aged 43.18 ± 2.90 years. The state of erectile function was assessed using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF). The concentration of testosterone was determined by the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay with DRG (Germany) and DiaMetra (Italy) kits. All measurements were performed on the Stat Fax 3200 analyzer. Statistical comparison of the obtained results between groups was performed according to the Student’s test. A value of p &lt; 0.05 was considered to be signifi­cant. Results. In addition to erectile dysfunction, as evidenced by a reduced corresponding integrative indicator “erectile function” of IIEF-15 in men with COVID-19, a decrease in sexual desire was found, as well as a deterioration of sensations in the form of a decrease in ejaculation frequency and orgasmic sensations during sex contacts. The average serum level of total testosterone was 10.9 nmol/l and was significantly reduced compared to that in the control group. Analysis of individual indicators showed that testosterone level was decreased in 10 patients and was within the normal range in 13 men with COVID-19. The average serum concentration of total testosterone in the examined men after the disease was 10.73 ± 1.07 nmol/l and was significantly reduced compared to that of the control group. Conclusions. There was an erectile dysfunction in men who suffered COVID-19, it was confirmed by a probable decrease in IIEF-15 score and integrative indicators of erectile function. A significant decrease in the blood concentration of total testosterone was detected in the examined men, which may be one of the causes of erectile dysfunction. Large-scale prospective, randomized, controlled trials in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2 are needed to provide an understanding of the molecular mechanisms that cause erectile dysfunction.

Insulin improves spermatogenesis in a mouse model of aging

Aging can have adverse effects on the chance of fertility in men. In fact, men over 40 years old usually suffer from low sperm quality, sperm motility, and low level of serum testosterone that leads to infertility. In addition, the structure of DNA is more vulnerable in aged testes due to the high level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide. However, it has been showed that insulin is able to decrease oxidative stress and apoptosis. Moreover, some studies showed that insulin can enhance both spermatogenesis and fertility. In this regard, we investigate the impacts of insulin on spermatogenesis, the number of sperm, and the level of gonadal hormones in aged testes of mice. Thirty-six adult male NMRI mice were used. They were kept under standard conditions. The animals were divided into two groups control and insulin. The insulin group received 100 µL insulin with a 72-hour interval by intraperitoneal (IP) injection for 33 weeks and the control group received water. At the 8, 12, and 33 weeks of treatment, the testes of mice were removed for histological, cellular (ROS and glutathione [GSH]) and molecular (Bcal2, caspase-3, and Bax) analysis. For measurement of the level of hormones (testosterone, LH, and FSH), the blood samples were collected from the heart. According to our findings, insulin could significantly increase the volume of the testes and the total number of spermatogonial stem cells, primary spermatocytes, round spermatids as well as leydig cells. In addition, activity of GPX was considerably high in the insulin group. Furthermore, in the insulin group, the level of ROS was reduced. In conclusion, insulin may be effective in enhancing the function of the testes in aged male mice.

Testosterone and soluble ST2 as mortality predictive biomarkers in male patients with sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy.

Sepsis-induced cardiomyopathy (SIC) is characterized by high mortality and poor outcomes. This study aimed to explore the relationship between testosterone and soluble ST2 (sST2) and all-cause mortality in patients with SIC. Clinical data from SIC patients at Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University from January 2021 and March 2023 were reviewed. Serum testosterone and sST2 were measured at admission. Kaplan-Meier analysis and receiver operative characteristic curve (ROC) were used to estimate the predictive values of testosterone and sST2 on 28 days and 90 days mortality of SIC. A total of 327 male subjects with SIC were enrolled in this study. During the 28 days and 90 days follow-up, 87 (26.6%) and 103 deaths (31.5%) occurred, respectively. Kaplan-Meier analysis showed significantly higher 28 days and 90 days survival in patients with higher testosterone and decreased sST2 levels (p < 0.001). Testosterone, sST2, and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) were significantly associated with 28 days and 90 days mortality (p < 0.05). Partial correlation analysis showed strong positive correlation between testosterone and left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) (p < 0.001), and negative correlation between testosterone and sST2 (p < 0.001), high-sensitivity troponin I (hs-TnI) levels (p < 0.001) and smoke history (p < 0.01). The concentrations of sST2 were positively related with E/e' ratio (p < 0.001), and negatively correlated with TAPSE (p < 0.001). The combination of testosterone and sST2 enhanced the prediction of both 28 days [area under the ROC curve (AUC), 0.805] and 90 days mortality (AUC, 0.833). Early serum testosterone and sST2 levels could predict mortality of SIC independently and jointly. Further research is needed to determine the utility of biochemical markers in identifying high-risk patients with SIC.

Effect of running exercise training on inflammatory mediators and cytokines expression in testicular tissue; effect of exercise intensity

The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of running exercise training protocols (ETPs) with varying intensities on inflammatory responses, with a specific focus on the interactions between inflammatory mediators, cytokines, and Leydig cell steroidogenic activity, as well as testosterone secretion. To this end, 24 Wistar rats were subdivided into sedentary control, low (LICT), moderate (MICT), and high (HICT) intensity continuous running ETP groups. After 8 weeks, the expression levels of Toll-like receptor-4 (TLR-4), nuclear factor-kappa-B (NF-KB), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-10 (IL-10), Tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and the testicular nitric oxide (NO) content were assessed and compared between groups. Moreover, the mean distributions of Leydig cells/mm2 of interstitial connective tissue, their steroidogenic activity, and serum level of testosterone were assessed. The LICT did not show any significant (p > 0.05) change in the expression levels of all aforementioned biomarkers. In contrast, both the MICT and HICT groups demonstrated a significant (p < 0.05) increase in the expression levels of TLR-4, NFK-B, IL-6, TNF-α, iNOS, and COX-2 at both the mRNA and protein levels. The testicular NO has increased in HICT and MICT groups. Despite a decrease in the distribution of Leydig cells in both the MICT and HICT groups, the HICT group exhibited a significant (p < 0.05) reduction in Leydig cell steroidogenic activity and serum testosterone levels. In conclusion, our findings revealed that ETPs can influence Leydig cell steroidogenic activity and testosterone secretion, contingent on their intensity. These effects are attributed to alterations in the expression levels of pro-inflammatory mediators and cytokines.

Fabrication of silastic testosterone enanthate implants to achieve virilizing levels of serum testosterone in swine

The aim of this study was to create a continuous drug delivery system that would yield serum testosterone levels in sexually mature, female pigs consistent with serum testosterone levels of human transgender men. Testosterone enanthate was mixed with medical grade silicone at a ratio of 20 % by weight, placed in silastic tubing to cure at room temperature for 24 h, then removed from the tubing mold and stored at 4 °C until surgical implantation. Testosterone enanthate oxidizes at high temperatures which is why the implants had to be stored cold. Each implant was 9 cm long and contained 0.56 g of testosterone enanthate. A minimum of one implant (0.56 g testosterone enanthate) and a maximum of four implants (2.24 g testosterone enanthate) were placed in the cervical subcutaneous fat of each pig. After implantation, serum testosterone was assessed over 40 days. Silastic testosterone enanthate implants increase serum testosterone and maintain it in a relatively constant state in a dose-dependent manner for ∼ 21–25 days post-implantation.•Effective method for subcutaneous delivery of large quantities of testosterone or testosterone metabolites in compact implants to large animal biomedical model species.•Maintains increased circulating testosterone levels for up to 3, 4 weeks post-implantation in pigs.

Incidence of breakthrough bleeding in transgender and gender-diverse individuals on long-term testosterone

BackgroundLittle is known about maintenance of amenorrhea in transgender and gender diverse individuals with uteri using long-term testosterone gender-affirming hormone therapy. Emerging data describes breakthrough bleeding in adolescents on long-term testosterone, as well as in adults seeking gender affirming hysterectomy. More studies are needed to better understand breakthrough bleeding patterns in transgender and gender diverse individuals on testosterone with uteri, including the frequency, timing, and etiology, and how these may differ in adults compared to younger populations. ObjectivesThe primary aim of this study was to characterize the incidence and patterns of breakthrough bleeding in a cohort of transgender and gender diverse individuals who had been on testosterone for greater than 12 months and had uteri in situ. Secondary aims included identifying the time to first bleed for those who experienced breakthrough bleeding as well as risk factors associated with breakthrough bleeding on testosterone. Study DesignThis was an IRB approved, single tertiary center, retrospective chart review of transgender and gender diverse individuals who had been on testosterone for at least one year. A primary survival analysis looking at the incidence of bleeding was combined with descriptive analyses and evaluation of factors associated with bleeding. ResultsOf the 279 patients included in the analysis, the median age of testosterone initiation was 22 years (IQR 19-41), with the median follow-up time 34 months (range 12-278). The absolute proportion of individuals who ever experienced breakthrough bleeding on testosterone was 34% (n=96, 95% CI [29, 40]). Patients who experienced breakthrough bleeding initiated testosterone at a younger age (20.5 vs 22.0 years, p=0.04), had lower mean serum testosterone levels (389.14 vs 512.7 ng/dL, p=0.001), were more likely to have a mean testosterone level <320ng/dL (52% vs 48% , p=.001), and had higher mean estradiol levels (62% vs 49%, p=0.003). Survival analyses estimated a breakthrough bleeding incidence rate of 0.09 per year (95% CI [.07-1.0]). While 58 people underwent a hysterectomy during the follow-up period, 64% of the cohort who maintained a uterus eventually experienced breakthrough bleeding. The median time to the initial bleeding episode was 22 (IQR 12-201) months after testosterone initiation. Conclusion(s)These results suggest a substantial fraction of transgender and gender diverse individuals using testosterone will experience at least one episode of breakthrough bleeding, even after their initial year using testosterone. We recommend that clinicians counsel all patients that breakthrough bleeding is a common occurrence, even after the first year on testosterone.

Camel filariasis (Dipetalonema evansi) and its association with clinical balanoposthitis with reference to prominent changes in clinical findings, serum testosterone, semen analysis, and testicular histopathology

BackgroundCamel filariasis induced variable clinical syndromes characterized by fever, lethargy, localized dermal lesions, loss of condition, and testicular and scrotal swelling. The objective of the present work focused on clarifying the diagnostic importance of clinical findings, serum testosterone, and semen analysis as well as blood smear and testicular histopathology as a differential tool between only balanoposthitis without filariasis male camels group (OnlyBpgr) and balanoposthitis-filariasis infected male camels group (BpFlgr). The study also monitored the associations between the severity of ticks’ infestations in investigated male camels and the occurrence of balanoposthitis only or balanoposthitis with filariasis.Results and conclusionsThe study reported significant correlation between serum testosterone, serum cortisol, and sperm vitality and abnormalities percentages. The study included male camels (n = 250) classified into three groups: healthy control group (Contgr; n = 30), OnlyBpgr (n = 210), and BpFlgr (n = 10). These male camels were clinically and laboratory examined, and skin scraping tests and testicular histopathology were conducted. The study confirmed the association of the changes in clinical findings, whole blood picture, serum testosterone, serum cortisol, and semen analysis, with OnlyBpgr and BpFlgr. These changes were more prominent in BpFlgr than in OnlyBpgr. Skin scraping test results revealed a higher severity of live ticks’ infestation in BpFlgr than in OnlyBpgr because, unlike OnlyBpgr, all camels in BpFlgr (n = 10) were suffering from live ticks’ infestation. It also concluded the higher efficacy of histopathology of testicular tissues in male camels as a diagnostic tool for adult filaria in balanoposthitis-affected male camels than blood smear because all cases of camel filariasis in the current work were negative for microfilaria on microscopic examination of diurnal blood smear as well as testicular histopathology revealed detection of adult filaria in all camel filariasis associated with balanoposthitis. Strong correlation relationships were demonstrated between serum testosterone, serum cortisol, and semen analysis results. Positive correlations were reported between serum testosterone levels and sperm vitality percentages. However, negative correlations were stated between serum testosterone and each of serum cortisol and sperm abnormalities either in Contgr, OnlyBpgr, or BpFlgr.

The association between serum testosterone level and congestive heart failure in US male adults: data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011-2016.

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between serum testosterone levels and the risk of congestive heart failure (CHF) in adult males. Previous research has suggested a potential link between serum testosterone and cardiovascular health, but the findings have been inconclusive. This study was cross-sectional, and the data were obtained from the 2011-2016 cycle of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), which included a sample of 6,841 male participants. Serum testosterone levels were measured using a standardized assay, and CHF status was assessed through self-reporting. Covariates such as age, ethnicity, lifestyle factors, and health conditions were considered in the analysis. Among the participants, 242 individuals had a documented history of CHF. We observed a linear correlation between serum testosterone levels and CHF occurrence, with higher serum testosterone levels associated with a decreased risk of CHF (Q4 vs. Q1, OR = 0.29, 95% CI: 0.19-0.47, P < 0.001). After adjusting for confounding variables, multivariate analysis revealed that high serum testosterone levels remained significantly associated with a lower risk of CHF (OR: 0.47, 95% CI: 0.27-0.80, P = 0.01). Subgroup analysis indicated a significant association between high serum testosterone levels and reduced CHF risk in individuals over 50 years old. Our findings suggest that the serum testosterone level was positively associated with CHF in adult males. This study highlights the potential role of serum testosterone in cardiovascular health, particularly in older individuals. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and explore the clinical implications of these findings.

Intracerebroventricular injection of kisspeptin in male rats activates hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal axis, but not hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis

Kisspeptin is an important hormone involved in the stimulation of the hypothalamo-pituitary gonadal (HPG) axis. The HPG axis can be suppressed in certain conditions such as stress, which gives rise to the activation of the hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. However, the physiological role of kisspeptin in the interaction of HPG and HPA axis is not fully understood yet. This study was conducted to investigate the possible effects of central kisspeptin injection on HPG axis as well as HPA axis activity. Adult male Wistar rats were randomly divided into seven groups as followed: sham (control), kisspeptin (50 pmol), P234 (1 nmol), kisspeptin + p234, kisspeptin + antalarmin (0.1 μg), kisspeptin + astressin 2B (1 μg), and kisspeptin + atosiban (300 ng/rat) (n = 10 each group). At the end of the experiments, the hypothalamus, pituitary, and serum samples of the rats were collected. There was no significant difference in corticotropic-releasing hormone immunoreactivity in the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, serum adrenocorticotropic hormone, and corticosterone levels among all groups. Moreover, no significant difference was detected in pituitary oxytocin level. Serum follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone levels of the kisspeptin, kisspeptin + antalarmin, and kisspeptin + astressin 2B groups were significantly higher than the control group. Serum testosterone levels were significantly higher in the kisspeptin kisspeptin + antalarmin, kisspeptin + astressin 2B, and kisspeptin + atosiban groups compared to the control group. Our findings suggest that central kisspeptin injection causes activation in the HPG axis, but not the HPA axis in male rats.

Risk assessment of transgender people: implementation of a demasculinizing–feminizing rodent model including the evaluation of thyroid homeostasis

BackgroundIndividuals whose gender identity differs from the biological sex and the social norms are defined as transgender. Sometimes transgender undergo gender affirming hormone therapy, which lasts for the entire life making essential to evaluate its potential long-term effects. Moreover, transgender can represent a susceptible sub-group of population and specific attention is needed in risk assessment, including the development of targeted animal models. Aim of the study is the implementation of a rodent demasculinizing–feminizing model through the setting of appropriate dose of hormone therapy and the selection of specific biomarkers to evaluate the sex transition. Specific attention is paid to thyroid homeostasis due to the close link with reproductive functions. Four male adult rats/group were subcutaneously exposed to three doses plus control of β-estradiol valerate plus cyproterone acetate at: 0.045 + 0.2 (low), 0.09 + 0.2 (medium) and 0.18 + 0.2 (high) mg/dose, five times/week. The doses were selected considering the most recent recommendations for transgender woman. Sperm count, histopathological analysis (testis, liver, thyroid), testosterone, estradiol, triiodothyronine and thyroid-stimulating hormone serum levels and gene expression of sex dimorphic CYP450 were evaluated.ResultsThe doses induced feminizing–demasculinizing effects: decreased testosterone serum levels at the corresponding cisgender, increased estradiol, impairment of male reproductive function and reversal of sex-specific CYP liver expression. However, the medium and high doses induced marked liver toxicity and the low dose is considered the best choice, also for long-term studies in risk assessment. The alterations of thyroid indicated follicular cell hypertrophy supported by increased thyroid-stimulating hormone serum levels at the higher doses.ConclusionsThe implementation of animal models that mimic the effects of gender affirming hormone therapy is essential for supporting clinical studies in transgender people and filling data gap in order to ensure an appropriate risk assessment and a more accurate, personalized care for transgender people.

Do Strength and Anthropometric Size of the Lower Body Correlate with Serum Testosterone Levels?

Although lower body strength and size are often regarded as symbols of masculinity, their relationship to testosterone is unclear. This study aimed to determine the correlation between lower body strength, size, and testosterone levels. Serum testosterone levels, waist circumference, and body mass index (BMI) were measured in 69 men with erectile dysfunction (age >40 years). The circumferences of the thigh and calf were measured, and the muscle strength of the knee joints was evaluated using an isokinetic dynamometer. Patients were classified into three groups according to testosterone levels (group 1, <230 ng/dL; group 2, 230 to 350 ng/dL; group 3, >350 ng/dL). Differences in calf and thigh circumference, bilateral knee extension, and flexion strength between the three groups were investigated using a one-way analysis of variance. Pearson's chi-square test was used to assess differences in lifestyle habits and underlying diseases. A partial correlation analysis was conducted to determine the association between testosterone levels and lower body size and strength. There was no difference in BMI among the three groups, but waist circumference was significantly larger in group 1 than in groups 2 and 3. When comparing weight-adjusted values, bilateral thigh circumference showed a significant difference among the three groups. There was also a significant difference between the three groups in the weight-adjusted left calf circumference and in the weight-adjusted right knee extension strength. The partial correlation test showed a significant positive correlation between thigh and calf circumference values adjusted for weight and serum testosterone levels. Weight-adjusted knee extension strength demonstrated a significant positive correlation with serum testosterone levels. Weight-adjusted thigh and calf circumferences, along with the thigh-to-waist ratio, showed a positive correlation with testosterone levels. Weight-adjusted knee extension strength was positively correlated with testosterone levels. Therefore, a robust thigh and strong lower body are related to testosterone.

Anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant action of tadalafil in testicular regeneration process after heat stress.

Tadalafil, a potent phosphodiesterase inhibitor 5 (PDE-5), is commonly used for the management of erectile dysfunction. However, its therapeutic potential extends beyond this indication. This study aimed to investigate the impact of tadalafil on the recovery of testicular parenchyma in male Wistar rats exposed to testicular thermal stress. Fifty-four Wistar rats were subjected to testicular thermal stress and randomly assigned to receive either tadalafil treatment (TAD) or no treatment (control). TAD was administered intraperitoneally at a dose of either 0.9 mg/kg or 1.8 mg/kg. Biometric parameters, histopathological assessment of the testis, serum testosterone levels, oxidative stress, and interleukin levels were evaluated on days 7, 15, and 30 after thermal shock. The animals were euthanized at the end of each experimental period, and samples were collected. TAD treatment maintained testicular weight and reduced the testicular degenerative process up to day 7 post-injury. However, despite TAD therapy, serum testosterone levels were decreased in the treated groups at days 7 and 15 post-thermal stress. TAD also decreased TNF-α and NO levels at different doses but had no effect on IL-6. The treatment with TAD after heat shock demonstrated anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties but did not prevent the aggravation of testicular lesions in subsequent periods, even with the systematic reduction in TNF-α and NO levels. Therefore, this selective PDE-5 inhibitor, at the dosages used, did not have a positive impact on testosterone levels during the post-thermal stress period, which could compromise the resumption of the spermatogenic process.

Associations between Waist Circumference and Sex Steroid Hormones in US Adult Men: Cross‐Sectional Findings from the NHANES 2013–2016

Background. Obesity is recognized as a major public health issue worldwide, characterized by a growing prevalence among adult males. Several studies have identified an association between obesity and sex steroid hormone levels but only a few have considered the relationship between waist circumference (WC) and sex hormone levels in adult males. This study therefore aimed to evaluate the relationships between waist circumference (WC) and various sex steroid hormone levels in adult males in the United States. Methods. This study analyzed data from 3,359 adult males aged 20 years and above, who participated in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2013–2016 in the United States. We collected demographic data, including WC, and serum levels of testosterone, estradiol, SHBG, FAI, and T/E2 ratio. We adjusted the variables using multiple linear regression models with R 4.2.2 and EmpowerStats. Results. After adjusting for confounders, WC was found to be negatively associated with testosterone (β = −0.117, P &lt; 0.001) but positively correlated with estradiol (β = 0.002, P = 0.002), especially beyond a WC of 104.5 cm (β = 0.004, P &lt; 0.001). Underweight individuals showed a contrasting positive correlation between WC and testosterone (β = 0.351, P = 0.016). WC was inversely related to SHBG, particularly when WC was ≤99.1 cm (β = −0.036, P &lt; 0.001). The FAI initially increased and then decreased with WC, peaking at 98.6 cm. The T/E2 ratio negatively correlated with WC (β = −0.074, P &lt; 0.001). These relationships varied among subgroups but remained unaffected by age or physical activity time. Conclusions. Waist circumference is inversely correlated with testosterone, SHBG, and T/E2 ratio but positively correlated with estradiol, except for a positive correlation with testosterone in underweight males. Waist circumference serves as a crucial anthropometric measurement indicator for predicting sex steroid hormone levels in adult males.

Breed Differences in Serum Testosterone Levels of Male Pigs Are Highly Correlated with Differences in Testicular mRNA Levels of Enzymes and Proteins Involved in Testosterone Biosynthesis Process.

To clarify the causes of breed differences in serum testosterone levels of male pigs, which affect the mRNA expression of drug metabolizing enzymes and drug transporters in the liver and kidney, we focused on testicular enzymes and proteins involved in testosterone biosynthesis process and comparatively examined their mRNA levels by real time RT-PCR among low serum testosterone-type Landrace pigs and high serum testosterone-type Meishan and Landrace/Meishan-crossbreed (LM and ML) pigs. Testicular mRNA levels of the enzymes (3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA synthase 1 and 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase) and proteins (low density lipoprotein receptor and scavenger receptor class B member 1) affecting intracellular levels of cholesterol, a precursor of testosterone, were 2-5-fold higher in Meishan, LM and ML pigs than in Landrace pigs. Likewise, the mRNA levels of steroidogenic acute regulatory protein, which imports cholesterol to the inner mitochondrial membrane, and of testosterone biosynthesis enzymes (CYP11A1 and CYP17A1) were over 10-fold and approximately 3-fold higher, respectively, in Meishan, LM and ML pigs than in Landrace pigs. Furthermore, positive correlations between those mRNA levels and serum testosterone levels were observed. Despite large breed differences in testicular mRNA levels described above, no significant breed differences in intratesticular testosterone levels were observed. The present findings strongly suggest that breed differences in serum testosterone levels of male pigs are probably, at least in part, caused by differences in testicular mRNA levels of enzymes and proteins involved in testosterone biosynthesis process and by differences in the levels of testosterone released from testes.

Fluctuations of testosterone and cortisol levels in male dromedary camels in response to behavioral and management situations.

Biostimulation is a management practice that improves the reproductive parameters, potentiates the desire, and improves the reproductive efficiency during the short breeding season in camels. This study aims to investigate the concurrent changes in hormonal profiles in response to management and behavioral situations on camel farms in the Eastern region of Saudi Arabia. A total of 10 male and 50 female camels were used in this study. The hormonal profile of male camels was evaluated weekly starting from December to August. The results show that both serum testosterone and cortisol levels increased (p < 0.01) from December to March compared to April to August. A strong negative correlation was observed between testosterone levels and temperature (r = -0.81, p < 0.05), and a similarly robust negative correlation was found between cortisol levels and temperature (r = -0.83, p < 0.05). The dominant rutting males showed higher levels of testosterone than the submissive males. Serum testosterone levels increased (p < 0.01) in males out of rutting after hearing the sounds of other couples before and during mating. Hearing sounds emitted during mating increases the testosterone output, and improves the libido of male camels during the nonrutting period. It is important to keep two individually housed males for mating purposes. One male joins the herd alone in winter (winter rutter), and the other joins in spring (spring rutter), this could keep the libido extended rutting and improve the reproductive performance in camel herds.

The impact of serum testosterone level to reflect age-related multi-organ functions.

The aim of this study is to examine the correlation between aging, serum total testosterone and biomarkers of multiple organ functions in men. The participants consisted of 12,547 outpatients, whose serum testosterone level was measured. A multiple regression analysis was conducted to determine whether biomarkers including hemoglobin (Hb), hematocrit (Hct), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), albumin (ALB), creatinine (Cre), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), glucose (Glu), C-reactive protein (CRP), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) values were associated with serum total testosterone concentration. Significant correlations (p < 0.05) were found between total testosterone and Hb, Hct, LH, FSH, ALP, ALB, TG, HDL-C, AST, ALT, Glu, and CRP. In addition, significant correlations (p < 0.05) were found between Hb, Hct, LH, FSH, ALP, ALB, TG and HDL-C associated with [age × testosterone]. This large-scale study provided new insights into correlations between serum testosterone and biomarkers associated with age-related diseases, suggesting that testosterone is especially important for maintaining homeostasis in aging males. Thus, hypogonadism in elderly patients may be associated with multiple organ dysfunctions.

The Effect of Exercise Volume on Depressive-Related Behaviors and Levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor and Serum Testosterone Levels

Objective: The aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of training volume on depression-related behaviors and serum levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and testosterone in mice. Male NMRI mice, approximately 80 days old and weighing 20 to 23 grams, were used in this study. Methods and Materials: They were kept under a 12-hour light/12-hour dark cycle at a temperature of 23±1°C, with adequate food and water provided. The male NMRI mice, approximately 80 days old and weighing 20 to 23 grams, were kept under a 12-hour light/12-hour dark cycle at a temperature of 23±1°C, with adequate food and water provided. From 90 days old to 118 days old, the animals underwent swimming exercise for 4 weeks. They were divided into two groups: long-term training volume and short-term training volume. The short-term swimming group included one session of short-term training, while the long-term group included three sessions of long-term training with 10-minute swimming periods and 15-minute rest intervals between each session. The water depth and swimming duration gradually increased from 5 to 15 centimeters (second to fourth week) and from 20 (second to third week) to 30 (fourth week) minutes per day. The non-exercised animals were placed in a round tank without water for a duration similar to that of the exercised animals. Results: The results showed a significant difference in immobility duration between the control group and the two training groups, as well as between the two training groups (P ≤ 0.05). There was also a significant difference in depression levels between the two training groups and between the long-term training group and the control group (P ≤ 0.05). However, there was no significant difference between the short-term training group and the control group (P ≥ 0.05). Post hoc test results indicated a significant difference in BDNF levels between the control group and the long-term training group (P ≤ 0.05). Furthermore, there was a significant difference in testosterone levels between the control group and both the short-term and long-term training groups (P ≤ 0.05), but no difference between the two training groups (P ≥ 0.05). Conclusion: Based on the overall results of the study, different training volumes have varying effects on depression and BDNF levels, with long-term training producing greater effects.

Pro-fertility effect of Ficus carica fruit extract in streptozotocin-induced male rats

Objective: To explore the impact of Ficus carica fruit aqueous extract on fertility parameters in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced male rats. Methods: Twenty-four male Sprague-Dawley rats were divided into four different groups. All groups except a normal control group were induced with 50 mg/kg of streptozotocin (STZ) intravenously to induce diabetes. A positive control group was treated with an antidiabetic drug, metformin (500 mg/kg) whereas a negative control group remained untreated throughout the experiment. Meanwhile, another diabetic rat group received treatment with 400 mg/kg of aqueous Ficus carica fruit extract. Rats in the treatment group were administered Ficus carica fruit aqueous extract daily through force-feeding via oral gavage for a 21-day period. Assessments included the sperm quality (count, motility and morphology), histology of the testes, serum testosterone and fasting blood glucose (FBG) level. Results: The FBG level of the Ficus carica-treated rats exhibited a significant decrease compared to the negative control group (P&lt;0.05). Sperm quality analysis also indicated that the aqueous Ficus carica extract had significant positive effects on sperm count and motility (P&lt;0.05). The histology of the testes in Ficus carica- treated rats revealed an improved cell arrangement in the germinal cell layer. Furthermore, serum testosterone level showed an increment in the Ficus carica treatment group in comparison to the negative control group. Conclusions: Our findings provide compelling evidence for the pro-fertility and anti-hyperglycemic properties of aqueous Ficus carica fruit extract in diabetic-induced male rats.

Use of testosterone replacement therapy to treat long-COVID-related hypogonadism.

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) can impair pituitary-gonadal axis and a higher prevalence of hypogonadism in post-coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients compared with the general population has been highlighted. Here we report the first case of a patient affected with a long-COVID syndrome leading to hypogonadism and treated with testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) and its effects on clinical and quality of life (QoL) outcomes. We encountered a 62-year-old man who had been diagnosed with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism about 2 months after recovery from COVID-19 underwent a complete physical examination, general and hormonal blood tests, and self-reported questionnaires administration before and after starting TRT. Following the TRT, both serum testosterone level and hypogonadism-related symptoms were improved, but poor effects occurred on general and neuropsychiatric symptoms and QoL. Therefore, hypogonadism does not appear to be the cause of neurocognitive symptoms, but rather a part of the long-COVID syndrome; as a consequence, starting TRT can improve the hypogonadism-related symptoms without clear benefits on general clinical condition and QoL, which are probably related to the long-COVID itself. Longer follow-up might clarify whether post-COVID hypogonadism is a transient condition that can revert as the patient recovers from long-COVID syndrome. Hypogonadism is more prevalent in post-COVID-19 patients compared with the general population. In these patients, hypogonadism may be part of long-COVID syndrome, and it is still unclear whether it is a transient condition or a permanent impairment of gonadal function. Testosterone replacement therapy has positive effects on hypogonadism-related clinic without clear benefits on general symptomatology and quality of life, which are more likely related to the long-COVID itself.