Significant Differences In Follicle-stimulating Hormone Research Articles

AZF microdeletion affects semen parameters, sex hormone levels, and chromosome karyotypes in infertile men in Xinjiang.

This study aimed to analyze the correlation between the microdeletion of different regions of the azoospermia factor (AZF) gene and semen parameters, sex hormone levels, and karyotypes in infertile males by retrospective study. This was performed to obtain a comprehensive understanding of the clinical data of AZF microdeletion in infertile males, to guide clinical diagnoses and treatments, and to improve the efficacy and safety of assisted reproductive technology. For this purpose, Fifty-seven patients with AZF microdeletions and complete data were selected from 1916 patients with AZF microdeletions in our hospital from January 2020 to August 2022. The correlation between semen parameters, sex hormone levels, and chromosome karyotypes of these 57 patients was analyzed. Results showed that among the 57 patients with AZF microdeletions, the region with the highest microdeletion rate was AZFc with 57.89%; single or combined deletions in AZFa and AZFb regions resulted in azoospermia. The deletion frequency of AZFc in the oligospermia group was significantly higher than that in the azoospermia group, and the deletion frequencies of AZFb and AZFb + c in the azoospermia group were significantly higher than those in the oligospermia group (P<0.05). There were statistically significant differences in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels, and chromosome karyotypes between patients with azoospermia and oligospermia (P<0.05). Statistically significant differences were observed in prolactin (PRL), FSH, testosterone (T), LH levels, and chromosome karyotypes of patients in different AZF microdeletion regions (P<0.05). In conclusion, AZF microdeletions can lead to a decline in semen quality in men, and different types of deletions have different effects on semen parameters, sex hormone levels, and karyotype analysis. Further treatments should be selected based on the AZF microdeletion area.

P-684 Subclinical hypothyroidism and ovarian reserve indices in women with normogonadotropic anovulation

Abstract Study question Does subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) affect ovarian reserve indices in women with Polycystic Ovary syndrome (PCOS) or other forms of Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Ovarian Axis Dysfunction (HPOD)? Summary answer SCH increases Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) concentration, but has no influence on Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). What is known already In PCOS, anovulation is caused by the arrest of growing follicles due to increased frequency and amplitude of luteinizing hormone (LH) pulses, resulting in increased number of pre-antral and antral follicles, and concentration of AMH. In other cases of HPOD, the causes of anovulation are more diverse and have not yet been clearly identified. Thyroid hormones can modify the function of the HPO axis, affecting the maturation of follicles. While overt hypothyroidism is treated to improve ovulation and fertility, the effect of subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) and the presence of circulating antithyroid antibodies (ATA) on ovarian function is uncertain. Study design, size, duration A prospective cohort tertiary single-center study (consent no. 1072.6120.172.2022) included women aged 18-45, examined due to menstrual disorders and/or infertility, from July to August 2022. Only women without previously diagnosed thyroid dysfunction were included. All enrolled women gave informed written consent to participate in the study. Participants/materials, setting, methods Women underwent routine gynecological examination and pelvic ultrasound. Blood sample was tested for AMH, FSH, Luteinizing hormone (LH), Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) and anti-thyroglobulin (anti-TG) antibodies concentrations. The Rotterdam-ESHRE-ASRM criteria were used to diagnose PCOS and its phenotypes. HPOD was diagnosed according to WHO classification. SCH was defined as TSH &amp;gt; 2.5 uIU/ml with normal thyroid function. The above parameters within subpopulations were calculated using regression analysis, Kruskal-Wallis and post-hoc tests. Main results and the role of chance The study included 51 euthyroid women aged 18-40. PCOS was diagnosed in 42/51 (82.35%) women, including PCOS-A phenotype in 31/51 (60.78%), PCOS-B in 5/51 (9.8%), PCOS-D in 6/51 (11.76%) women, and HPOD in 9/51 (17.65%) women. There was a significant positive correlation between the concentration of TSH and AMH in the studied population - with the increase of TSH value, the concentration of AMH increased (r = 0.4, p = 0.0035). The mean AMH concentration significantly differed between the groups and equaled to 55.4, 39.4, 31.1, 24.0 pmol/l in PCOS-A, PCOS-B, PCOS-D and HPOD (p = 0.05), respectively. The mean anti-TPO concentration was significantly different between the groups and was equal to 18.2, 19.0, 14.6, 10.9 U/ml in PCOS-A, PCOS-B, PCOS-D and HPOD (p = 0.05), respectively. There was no significant difference in FSH, LH, TSH, anti-TG concentrations between the groups. Limitations, reasons for caution The limitations of the study are small study group and single-center nature. Wider implications of the findings SCH increases the concentration of AMH, which in PCOS may exacerbate the symptoms of anovulation. Whether treatment of subclinical hypothyroidism affects ovarian reserve indices and improves ovarian function remain a subject of further research. Trial registration number 1072.6120.172.2022

MP30-11 DISTRIBUTION OF FOLLICLE STIMULATING HORMONE (FSH) LEVELS AMONG FERTILE AND SUBFERTILE NON-AZOOSPERMIC MEN

You have accessJournal of UrologyCME1 Apr 2023MP30-11 DISTRIBUTION OF FOLLICLE STIMULATING HORMONE (FSH) LEVELS AMONG FERTILE AND SUBFERTILE NON-AZOOSPERMIC MEN Solomon Hayon, Sai Kaushik S.R. Kumar, Xinlei Mi, Anthony Kang, Jasmine Lin, Daniel Greenberg, Robert Brannigan, and Joshua Halpern Solomon HayonSolomon Hayon More articles by this author , Sai Kaushik S.R. KumarSai Kaushik S.R. Kumar More articles by this author , Xinlei MiXinlei Mi More articles by this author , Anthony KangAnthony Kang More articles by this author , Jasmine LinJasmine Lin More articles by this author , Daniel GreenbergDaniel Greenberg More articles by this author , Robert BranniganRobert Brannigan More articles by this author , and Joshua HalpernJoshua Halpern More articles by this author View All Author Informationhttps://doi.org/10.1097/JU.0000000000003258.11AboutPDF ToolsAdd to favoritesDownload CitationsTrack CitationsPermissionsReprints ShareFacebookLinked InTwitterEmail Abstract INTRODUCTION AND OBJECTIVE: While the clinical utility of FSH is well-established in the diagnosis and management of azoospermic men, the utility of FSH in non-azoospermic men is unclear. First, we characterized the distribution of FSH in fertile and subfertile non-azoospermic men. Second, we sought to determine an optimal FSH threshold that would distinguish between these groups. METHODS: We performed a retrospective analysis of men presenting for fertility evaluation between 2002 and 2020. Men with at least two semen analyses (SA) over a one-month period and one FSH level within 6 months of their index SA were included. Men with semen volume < 1.0cc, azoospermia, or men on hormonal medications were excluded. Men with at least one SA with total motile sperm count (TMSC) ≥ 20 million were classified as fertile, while men who had <20 million TMSC on both SAs were classified as subfertile. FSH was evaluated as an independent variable to determine a threshold that would predict fertility status. A multivariable logistic regression using dichotomized FSH with a broad range of FSH thresholds and other clinical variables was used to predict fertility status. We determined the area under the curve (AUC) for each FSH threshold via 5-fold cross-validation, repeated 1000 times. The optimal FSH threshold was selected according to the mean AUC. RESULTS: Among 1876 men, 1115 (59.4%) were fertile and 275 (14.7%) were subfertile. Age, varicocele, and testosterone were similar between groups. Median FSH was 4.00 vs 5.96 (p<0.001) among fertile vs subfertile men. AUC analysis was performed for FSH thresholds corresponding to the 5th, 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, 90th, and 95th percentile FSH level for each cohort. While the FSH threshold of 5.6 had the highest AUC for prediction of fertility status (0.663), multiple additional thresholds ranging from 4.0 to 9.4 had very similar AUCs. Positive predictive value of FSH increased with higher FSH thresholds. CONCLUSIONS: This is the first large-scale study to characterize FSH values in non-azoospermic men. While there are significant differences in FSH among fertile and subfertile non-azoospermic men, no single FSH cutoff had high accuracy for prediction of fertility status. These findings suggest that the utility of FSH in non-azoospermic men may be greatest in identifying men with extreme FSH values, which may guide further clinical management. Source of Funding: None © 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.FiguresReferencesRelatedDetails Volume 209Issue Supplement 4April 2023Page: e394 Advertisement Copyright & Permissions© 2023 by American Urological Association Education and Research, Inc.MetricsAuthor Information Solomon Hayon More articles by this author Sai Kaushik S.R. Kumar More articles by this author Xinlei Mi More articles by this author Anthony Kang More articles by this author Jasmine Lin More articles by this author Daniel Greenberg More articles by this author Robert Brannigan More articles by this author Joshua Halpern More articles by this author Expand All Advertisement PDF downloadLoading ...

Effect of atorvastatin on spermatogenesis in rats: A stereological study

Purpose: To investigate the effects of oral atorvastatin on spermatogenesis in a rat model.Methods: Rats were equally assigned into control and study groups, the latter receiving atorvastatin (20 mg/kg/day). At the end of 12 weeks, spermatogenetic activity was evaluated using stereological and optical fractionator methods. Serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), total testosterone (TT), and luteinizing hormone (LH) levels were measured using micro–ELISA kits. Total cholesterol, triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL - C), and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels were also measured by enzymatic colorimetric assays.Results: Testicular stereological analysis revealed that atorvastatin reduced Sertoli cell numbers (p &lt; 0.001), spermatogonia (p &lt; 0.001), spermatocytes (p &lt; 0.001), and seminiferous tubule diameters (p &lt; 0.001). LDL – C (p = 0.01) and TG (p = 0.01) values were significantly lower in the study group compared with the control group. There was no significant difference in FSH (p = 0.44), LH (p = 0.48),and TT (p = 0.06) levels between the groups.Conclusion: The findings show that atorvastatin causes deleterious effects on rat spermatogenesis. It should therefore be used with caution in clinical practice owing to its potential adverse effects, especially on male fertility.&#x0D; Keywords: Statin, Atorvastatin, Spermatogenesis, Stereology, Testis

Efficacy of Vitamin D Combined with Metformin and Clomiphene in the Treatment of Patients with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Combined with Infertility

We aimed to explore the clinical efficacy of vitamin D combined with metformin and clomiphene in the treatment of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome combined with infertility. Overall, 396 cases of polycystic ovarian syndrome combined with infertility in Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital, Yantai, China were prospectively analyzed. Among them, 204 cases treated with vitamin D combined with metformin and clomiphene were set as the study group; 192 cases treated with only metformin and clomiphene were set as the control group. The ovarian volume and thickness of uterine wall before and after treatment were recorded. Levels of fasting insulin (FINS), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone (T), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and estradiol (E2) before and after treatment were recorded. There was no difference in body weight, BMI, ovarian volume, thickness of ovarian wall, FINS, LH, T, FSH and E2 between the study group and the control group; there was no significant difference in FSH, E2 and the thickness of uterine wall between the two groups. After treatment, the BMI, FINS, LH, and T in the study group were significantly lower than those in the control group (P<0.05); the incidence rates of oligomenorrhea, facial acne and hairy symptoms in the study group were significantly lower than those in the control group (P<0.05); after treatment, the ovulation rate and pregnancy rate in 36 cycles in the observation group were significantly higher than those of the control group (P<0.05). Our challenge could significantly improve clinical symptoms and endocrine conditions, and greatly enhance the ovulation rate and pregnancy rate.

Mung bean sprout extract suppresses Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) effect on the reproductive hormones (FSH and Estrogen) in female Wistar rats

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to analyze the effects of mung bean sprout extracts on Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and estrogen hormone in female Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) exposed to monosodium glutamate (MSG).Materials and Methods: This true experimental study was conducted by using post-test only control group design in the laboratory for animal experimentation of Faculty of Veterinary Medicine - Airlangga University in which Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus) aged 2 months weighing 150-200 grams were used in this experiment. The samples comprised of 5 rats distributed in each group, totaling 7 groups. I Control Group (P1) was provided with Aquades for 37 days; II (P2) was provided with Aquades for 7 days + MSG 0.03 mg/g of weight on day 8-37; III (P3) was provided with extract of mung bean sprouts 72mg/200g of weight on day 1-37 + MSG 0,03mg/g of weight; IV (P4) was provided with extract of mung bean sprouts 144mg/200g of weight on day 1-37 + MSG 0.03mg/g of weight; V (P5) was provided with Aquades for 7 days + MSG 0.7 mg/g of weight on day 8-37; VI (P6) was provided with extract of mung bean sprouts 72mg/200g of weight on day 1-37 + MSG 0.7mg/g of weight; VII (P7) was provided with extract of mung bean sprouts 144mg/200g of weight on day 1-37 + MSG 0.7mg/g of weight.Serum samples were taken for Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Estrogen with ELISA method. Data analysis to test the differences between groups was done by using one way Anova statistical test.Results: MSG dosage 0,03mg/gBB or 0,7mg/g BB was significant difference in FSH (p = 0,011) and estrogen (p = 0,008).Conclusion: obtained from this research that giving green bean sprout extract influence to the level of FSH and estrogen hormone.

Mung bean sprout extract suppresses Monosodium Glutamate (MSG) effect on the reproductive hormones (FSH and Estrogen) in female Wistar rats

Objectives: The purpose of this study was to analyze the effects of mung bean sprout extracts on Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and estrogen hormone in female Wistar rats ( Rattus norvegicus ) exposed to monosodium glutamate (MSG). Materials and Methods: This true experimental study was conducted by using post-test only control group design in the laboratory for animal experimentation of Faculty of Veterinary Medicine - Airlangga University in which Wistar rats ( Rattus norvegicus ) aged 2 months weighing 150-200 grams were used in this experiment. The samples comprised of 5 rats distributed in each group, totaling 7 groups. I Control Group (P1) was provided with Aquades for 37 days; II (P2) was provided with Aquades for 7 days + MSG 0.03 mg/g of weight on day 8-37; III (P3) was provided with extract of mung bean sprouts 72mg/200g of weight on day 1-37 + MSG 0,03mg/g of weight; IV (P4) was provided with extract of mung bean sprouts 144mg/200g of weight on day 1-37 + MSG 0.03mg/g of weight; V (P5) was provided with Aquades for 7 days + MSG 0.7 mg/g of weight on day 8-37; VI (P6) was provided with extract of mung bean sprouts 72mg/200g of weight on day 1-37 + MSG 0.7mg/g of weight; VII (P7) was provided with extract of mung bean sprouts 144mg/200g of weight on day 1-37 + MSG 0.7mg/g of weight.Serum samples were taken for Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Estrogen with ELISA method. Data analysis to test the differences between groups was done by using one way Anova statistical test. Results: MSG dosage 0,03mg/gBB or 0,7mg/g BB was significant difference in FSH (p = 0,011) and estrogen (p = 0,008). Conclusion: obtained from this research that giving green bean sprout extract influence to the level of FSH and estrogen hormone.

Microdissection testicular sperm extraction: Overall results and impact of preoperative testosterone level on sperm retrieval rate in patients with nonobstructive azoospermia

Objective:The main objective is to review the overall result and impact of preoperative testosterone level on sperm retrieval rate (SRR) by microdissection testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE) in patients with nonobstructive azoospermia (NOA).Materials and Methods:We retrospectively reviewed the files of patients who underwent micro-TESE for NOA from August 2013 to December 2014. All patients were evaluated with history, physical examination, and hormonal assessment. Patients who had previous micro-TESE, obstructive azoospermia, or who took hormone therapy were excluded from the study. Patients were classified into two groups. Group A included patients who had low testosterone (<10 nmol/L), and Group B included patients with normal testosterone (>10 nmol/L). The primary endpoint was to review the overall results of the procedure and the impact of preoperative testosterone level on sperm retrieval.Results:A total of 264 patients with NOA underwent micro-TESE. Group A included 133 patients with low testosterone (<10 nmol/l) with a median age of 36 ± 6.59 years, and Group B included 131 patients with normal testosterone (>10 nmol/L) with a median age of 33 ± 7.88 years (P = 0.1350). There was no significant difference in follicle-stimulating hormone (P = 0.2467), luteinizing hormone (P = 0.1078), prolactin (P = 0.5619), and testicular volume (P = 0.4052), whereas a significant difference was found in testosterone level (P = 0.0001) in both groups. Overall, sperm were successfully retrieved in 48.8% of men. SRR in Group B was significantly higher (57.25%) than that in Group A (40.60%) (P = 0.0068). SRR in patients with Sertoli-cell-only pathology was 30.35%, hypospermatogenesis was 89.74%, and maturation arrest was 32.43%.Conclusion:Micro-TESE is a successful and safe procedure in NOA patients with a poor prognosis. Preoperative testosterone level has a significant impact in the SRR by micro-TESE.

Aluminium-Induced Oxidative Stress, Apoptosis and Alterations in Testicular Tissue and Sperm Quality in Wistar Rats: Ameliorative Effects of Curcumin.

Reproductive toxicity is a major challenge associated with aluminum (Al) exposure. No studies have evaluated the possible effects of curcumin (CUR) on Al-induced reproductive dysfunction. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of CUR treatment on Al-induced reproductive damage. In this experimental study, 40 male Wistar rats were allocated to the five groups (n=8) based on the treatment they received: no treatment (control), solvent [dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) or distilled water], CUR 10 mg/kg body weight (BW), Al chloride 10 mg/kg BW, and CUR+Al chloride (10 mg/kg BW/each alone). Treatments were performed by intraperitoneal (IP) injections for 28 days. The left testis was assessed for histopathological analysis as well as the incidence of germ cell apoptosis. One-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by the Tukey's test was used. P<0.05 was considered significant. Significant reductions in body and testis weight; plasma testosterone and luteinizing hormone levels; sperm count, motility, morphology, and viability; germinal epithelium thickness; seminiferous tubules diameter; as well as, superoxide dismutase activity were observed in rats treated with Al. Moreover, Al exposure caused significant increments in the lumen diameter of tubules, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL)-positive cells and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels compared to the control group. However, in rats receiving CUR+Al, CUR significantly reversed the adverse effects of Al on testis and sperm quality. No significant differences in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels and nuclear diameter of spermatogonia were detected among all groups. It can be concluded that Al causes reproductive dysfunction by creating oxidative damage. CUR, on the other hand, reduces the toxic effects of Al and improves the antioxidant status and sperm quality in male rats.

Impact of light exposure on thyroid-stimulating hormone results using the Siemens Advia Centaur TSH-3Ultra assay.

Background Thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) is used as the first-line test of thyroid function. Siemens Healthcare Diagnostics recommend that Siemens Centaur reagents must be protected from light in the assay information and on reagent packaging. We have compared the effect of light exposure on results using Siemens TSH-3Ultra and follicle-stimulating hormone reagents. The thyroid-stimulating hormone reagent includes fluoroscein thiocyanate whereas the follicle-stimulating hormone reagent does not. Methods Three levels of quality controls were analysed using SiemensTSH-3Ultra and follicle-stimulating hormone reagent packs that had been kept protected from light or exposed to light at 6-h intervals for 48 h and then at 96 h. Results Thyroid-stimulating hormone results were significantly lower after exposure of TSH-3Ultra reagent packs to light. Results were >15% lower at all three levels of quality control following 18 h of light exposure and continued to decrease until 96 h. There was no significant difference in follicle-stimulating hormone results whether reagents had been exposed to or protected from light. Conclusions Thyroid-stimulating hormone results but not follicle-stimulating hormone results are lowered after exposure of reagent packs to light. Laboratories must ensure that TSH-3Ultra reagents are not exposed to light and analyse quality control samples on every reagent pack to check that there has not been light exposure prior to delivery. The labelling on TSH-3Ultra reagent packs should reflect the significant effect of light exposure compared with the follicle-stimulating hormone reagent. We propose that the effect of light exposure on binding of fluoroscein thiocyanate to the solid phase antibody causes the falsely low results.

Surgical impact on serum anti-Müllerian hormone in women with benign ovarian cyst: A prospective study

ObjectiveThe aim of this study was to evaluate the surgical impact of benign ovarian mass on ovarian reserve as measured by serum follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol (E2) and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels, antral follicle count (AFC) and ovarian volumes. In addition, the differences in ovarian reserve impairment between endometrioma cystectomy and non-endometrioma cystectomy were investigated.MethodsIn this prospective study, 22 patients of reproductive age (range, 18.35 years) with benign ovarian masses were enrolled to undergo laparoscopic cystectomy. Of whom 12 had endometriomas and 10 had non-endometriomas. On early follicular phase (day 3) of the cycle preceding the operation and three months after the laparoscopic cystectomy, serum levels of FSH, E2 and AMH, AFC and ovarian volumes were measured in all patients. Data were analyzed with Mann-Whitney U-test and Wilcoxon rank test using SPSS ver. 12.0 for statistic analysis.ResultsMedian level of serum AMH was significantly decreased from 5.48 ng/mL (interquartile range [IQR], 2.80-7.47) before cystectomy to 2.56 ng/mL (IQR, 1.74-4.32) 3 months postoperation (P<0.05). On the other hand, no significant differences in FSH, E2, AFC and ovarian volumes were found between the preoperative and three months postoperative levels. In a subgroup analysis of the pathologic type of the ovarian cyst, postoperative serum AMH levels were significantly decreased in the endometrioma group, but not in the non-endometrioma group.ConclusionSerum AMH levels were significantly decreased after laparoscopic cystectomy without any changes of other ovarian reserve tests.

Comparison of follicle-stimulating hormone, estradiol, ovarian volume, and antral follicle count, based on the Stages of Reproductive Aging Workshop system, among community-based women in China

This study aims to describe changes in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), estradiol (E2), ovarian volume (OV), and antral follicle count (AFC), and to examine their relationships at the same menopause stage, based on the Stages of Reproductive Aging Workshop (STRAW) system, among Chinese women in community settings. Prospective longitudinal study design was used to analyze the sex hormone levels, OV, and AFC of 327 community women aged 30 to 65 years. They were followed up at 1 year. Significant differences in FSH, E2, and OV were observed at baseline and on follow-up (all P<0.001). Significant differences in E2 were observed between baseline and follow-up for women in premenopause (-2.743, P=0.006) and late postmenopause (-5.213, P<0.001). There were significant differences in FSH between baseline and follow-up in early menopausal transition (MT) (-2.430, P=0.015) and late MT (-3.737, P<0.001). There were significant differences in OV between baseline and follow-up in late MT (-3.805, P<0.001) and early postmenopause (-4.341, P<0.001). There were significant differences in AFC between baseline and follow-up in premenopause (-2.046, P=0.041). These results suggest the existence of significant associations between FSH, E2, OV, AFC, and menopause status, supporting the use of the STRAW system among community-based women in China. Further study of the MT is recommended to confirm the appropriateness of the STRAW system for Chinese women.

Effect of agropesticides use on male reproductive function: A study on farmers in Djutitsa (Cameroon)

This study aimed at investigating the effect of agropesticides on male reproductive function in farmers in Djutitsa (West Cameroon). To this end, 47 farmers in Djutitsa were asked questions on their health status and pesticide use in agriculture. Thereafter, their blood samples were collected for assessment of sex hormones including serum luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), androstenedione, testosterone, as well as sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG). Their serum triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) levels were also measured. Thirty seven men not exposed to agropesticides were recruited as control group. Fifty six pesticides containing 25 active substances were currently used by farmers enrolled in our study, and most of their symptoms were related to spread/use of these chemicals. Compared to the control group, there was no significant difference in FSH, LH, SHBG, estradiol, and thyroid hormones (T3 and T4) levels. Farmers had significantly lower serum testosterone (20.93 ± 1.03 nM vs. 24.32 ± 1.32 nM; P < 0.05) and higher androstenedione level (3.83 ± 0.20 nM vs. 2.80 ± 0.15 nM; P < 0.001). Their serum free testosterone as well as bioavailable testosterone were unchanged, while estradiol/testosterone and androstenedione/testosterone ratios were significantly increased (0.45 ± 0.03% vs. 0.33 ± 0.02%; P < 0.01 and 12.26 ± 3.64 vs 19.31 ± 6.82; P < 0.001, respectively). Our results suggest that male farmers of Djutitsa (West Cameroon) are exposed to agropesticides due to improper protective tool, and this exposure may impair their reproductive function through inhibition of testosterone synthesis; probably by inhibition of testicular 17β- hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17HSD3) and induction of aromatase (CYP19).

The relationship between gonadotrophic hormones and progesterone in the mid-luteal phase

It is known that progesterone (PRG) exerts a negative feedback on gonadotrophic hormones in the mid-luteal phase. However, we are unaware of any data in the literature that states the nature of this relationship, for example, is it linear or not? To determine the relationship between gonadotrophic hormones and PRG in the mid-luteal phase using routine clinical assays and routine clinical patient data. Retrospective mid-luteal phase serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), leutinizing hormone (LH) and PRG data from 393 women were obtained from the laboratory computer system. Polynomial regression analysis was performed using this data to get the best fit curves. Using the best fit curve, the lowest PRG concentration on the linear phase of the best fit lines were determined with the corresponding gonadotrophic hormone concentrations. The expected inverse relationships were observed. However, polynomial regression curves provided better data fits than linear regression for both LH and FSH. A scatter about the best fit curves was noted for both FSH and LH with the data for LH having a grater scatter around the curve than FSH. The lowest PRG concentration on the linear phase of the best fit curves were 53 and 45 nmol/l for the LH and FSH curves respectively. The LH and FSH concentrations in the linear phase were 4.78 and 3.10 micro/l respectively. Our data shows that the relationships between LH or FSH and PRG are curvi-linear. Beyond PRG concentrations of 60 and 44 U/l, there is no further decrease in the LH and FSH concentrations respectively. These cut-offs could be physiologically significant. However, due to the large scatter around the curve, significant differences in FSH and LH concentrations may be found when such PRG concentrations are present and may include low concentrations.

Neonatal Estrogenic Effects upon the Male Rat Pituitary: Early Gonadotrophin Attenuation Precedes Long-term Recovery

Neonatal exposure to potent estrogenic compounds can affect multiple components of the male reproductive system causing impaired development of the epithelium and overgrowth of stromal tissue in the epididymis, vas deferens, seminal vesicles, and prostate. However, very little is known about the direct effects of estrogenic compounds on the anterior pituitary gland. In this study we have investigated the effects of neonatal estrogenic exposure upon the anterior pituitary. Both the early- and late-stage effects of exposure to a synthetic estrogenic agent, diethylstilbestrol (DES), upon pituitary gonadotroph cell function were assessed. We administered either a high dose (10 microg) or a low dose (0.1 microg) of DES to male rats during their neonatal period (P2-12). Gonadotroph function, cell number and morphology shortly after DES treatment (P18) and during adulthood (P90) were assessed. At P18 there was a significant decrease in follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) immunoreactivity in the pituitary gonadotroph cells in the high DES dose treated rats compared to control animals. No significant change in luteinizing hormone (LH) was observed at either DES dose. In adulthood (P90), there was no significant difference in FSH or LH gonadotroph immunoreactivity between control rats and any dose of DES-treated rats. Therefore, despite acute and selective ablation of FSH expression the gonadotrophs were able to recover in adulthood, suggesting that perinatal estrogenic exposure was only temporarily deleterious.

Ovarian Function after Uterine Fibroid Embolization

Purpose: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of uterine artery embolization (UFE) on ovarian function. Methods: Sixty (60) patients with ultrasonographic diagnosis of uterine leiomyomata were subjected to UFE with polyvinyl alcohol particles. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), and estradiol (E2) levels were determined directly before, and subsequently 3 and 12 months after, the procedure between days 2 and 5 of the menstrual cycle. Results: The mean age of the participants was 43.1 years (age range, 32–51). There was no statistically significant difference in FSH, LH, and E 2 levels before and 3 and 12 months after UFE in patients with an age range of 30–44 (Group 1). FSH and LH levels were significantly increased, and E2 levels were significantly decreased, at 3 and 12 months after UFE in patients older than 45 (Group 2). Ovarian failure occurred in 19 patients (31%). Among those 19 patients, 14 (74%) developed permanent ovarian failure, and these patients were wom...

Lighting regimens and plasma LH and FSH in broiler breeders

1. Egg production by meat-type fowl is markedly inferior to that from commercial laying hens, and so, to assess the degree to which photorefractoriness might be a contributing factor, male- and female-line broiler breeders were maintained on 8-, 11- or 16-h photoperiods. In addition, to determine the age-related rate of change in response to an increment in photoperiod, other birds were transferred from 8- to 16-h photoperiods at 67 or 124 d. 2. Blood samples were taken from all groups, except those on constant 11-h photoperiods, in both genotypes at 67, 69, 124 and 126 d, and from all lighting groups in the female line at 58 weeks (end of trial), and the plasma was assayed for plasma luteinising hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) concentration to investigate possible correlations with rate of sexual maturity, total egg numbers and terminal rates of lay. 3. Prepubertal LH was consistently higher for the female line than for the male line, and higher for 16-h birds than for 8-h birds. At 69 and 126 d, LH values were not significantly different from those 2 d earlier for 8-h birds, but significantly reduced for 16-h birds. There was an increase in LH following photostimulation at 67 d, but no significant change after the 124-d light increase. 4. There were no significant differences in FSH between the two genetic lines, nor any effect of photostimulation at 67 or 124 d. There was a tendency for FSH in 8-h birds to be higher than for 16-h birds, and this difference became significant for male-line birds at 67 d. 5. At 58 weeks, LH was higher for constant 11- and 16-h birds and for birds photostimulated at 67 d than for constant 8-h controls or birds transferred from 8 to 16 h at 124 d. 6. Neither baseline nor photoinduced prepubertal changes in plasma LH nor FSH were found to be of value for predicting age at sexual maturity or subsequent rates of egg production. At 58 weeks, LH was not generally correlated with sexual maturity, total eggs or terminal rates of lay, however, there was a negative correlation with age at first egg in birds photostimulated at 124 d. 7. It must be concluded that plasma LH and FSH concentrations are of minimal value to the broiler breeder industry for predicting the degree of photorefractoriness, the age at sexual maturity, or subsequent egg production.

The influence of exercise on the functioning of the pituitary–gonadal axis in physically active older and younger men

Age is a meaningful factor modulating the functioning of the human endocrine system. In our research, the factor stimulating the pituitary–gonadal axis was a 400 m race. In this type of effort, glycolyticand lactic acid transformations are dominant and a fundamental increase in lactic acid concentration is noted.The aim of the research was to compare the response of the pituitary–gonadal axisin physically active men of various ages after a 400 m race. Nine men aged 21.7 ± 0.7 years and nine men aged 60.0 ± 3.4 years took part in the study. Blood samples were taken from the elbowvein before the race at 08.00 and immediately after the effort. The levels of luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), total testosterone and free testosterone were determined in bloodsera. The concentration of lactic acid was measured in full blood at 5 min after the race.Before the effort, statistically significant differences in the concentration of FSH and free testosteronebetween the two age groups were observed (higher FSH in older men but lower free testosterone). No differences in the level of LH, total testosterone and lactic acid were observed. Immediately after theeffort, no changes in the level of FSH were found in both groups; a statistically significant decrease in LH concentration was noted only in the group of younger men. In both groups, statistically significantincreases in total testosterone, free testosterone and lactic acid concentrations were observed after the race. In the group of younger men, compared to the older, larger increases in free testosteroneand lactic acid concentrations, as well as shorter race time, were revealed after the effort test.Analysis of the two groups after the race showed statistically significant differences in FSH, freetestosterone and lactic acid concentrations. A positive correlation (r = 0.57) was demonstrated between the after-effort increase in the concentration of free testosterone and lactic acid, and negativecorrelation (r = –0.66) between the after-effort increase in the concentration of free testosterone and the time of the 400 m race.In older men, the concentration of free testosteronemay play an important function in lowering strength capacities. It must be stressed that the 400 m race was a more significant stimulus for changes in hormone concentrations of the pituitary–gonadalaxis in younger men (greater changes in the level of the investigated parameters) than in the older. The results obtained allow us to conclude that, in older men, as compared to the younger ones, the responseof the pituitary–gonadal axis to an effort stimulus is to some extent different.

Serum androgens and gonadotrophins in bronchial carcinoma

The concentrations of testosterone, free testosterone index derived by two independent techniques (FTI1, FTI2), dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHAS), androstenedione (AND), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) were measured in 38 healthy male controls aged between 40 and 60 years (Group 1) and in 52 male patients with bronchial carcinoma of whom 28 were aged between 40 and 60 years (Group 2) and 24 were aged over 60 years (Group 3). Compared with Group 1, testosterone, FTI1, FTI2, and DHAS were significantly lower ( P <0·001), AND and LH were significantly higher ( P <0·001) and there was no significant difference in FSH or SHBG, in Group 2. No significant difference between Groups 2 and 3 was found for any variable. Analysis of covariance for Groups 2 and 3 combined, showed testosterone, FTI1 and FTI2 were significantly lower in the presence of metastases. These results suggest a more widespread abnormality of androgen metabolism in male patients with bronchial carcinoma than a simple reduction in serum testosterone; DHAS is also significantly reduced while AND is significantly increased. The primary abnormality appears to be at testicular and/or adrenal level as pituitary function appears normal as witnessed by compensatory increases in LH.

Effects of a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist analog (ICI 118630) on endocrine functions of human testis in vivo and in vitro

Six prostatic cancer patients were treated with a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist analog (ICI 118630, ICI Pharmaceutical Division, Macclesfield, England) for 4 weeks, and serum testosterone (T) had fallen to the castration level in all patients. Subsequently, three of the patients were orchiectomized. There were no significant differences in follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) receptors between the testes treated with ICI 118630 and testes obtained from untreated prostatic cancer patients. In the other three patients, testicular responsiveness evaluated using hCG stimulation was similar before and after 4 weeks of treatment. In vitro studies testes removed from untreated prostatic cancer patients were cultured in a medium with or without ICI 118630 for 5 days. There were no significant differences in FSH and hCG receptors and T production between the two groups. In conclusion, ICI 118630 had no direct inhibitory effect on human testes.