Testosterone Research Articles

Correlation between estradiol-to-testosterone ratio and thyroid peroxidase antibody positivity in men with treatment-naïve primary hypothyroidism or euthyroidism.

Thyroid diseases pose a substantial socioeconomic burden globally. The aim of this study was to evaluate the correlation between estradiol-to-testosterone (E2/T) ratio and thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAb) positivity in male patients with hypothyroidism or euthyroidism. Cross-sectional observational study including 115 male patients with hypothyroidism or euthyroidism. The patients were divided into two groups based on positive or negative TPOAb results, with TPOAb positivity defined by a serum TPOAb value ≥ 35 IU/mL. Patients with positive TPOAbs, compared with those with negative TPOAbs, had a higher prevalence of goiter and obesity and higher levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. The median estradiol level was higher, and the median total testosterone and sex-hormone binding globulin (SHBG) levels were lower in the TPOAb-positive versus the TPOAb-negative group (p < 0.001). In subgroup analysis including only patients with hypothyroidism (n = 80), the median E2/T ratio was higher in the TPOAb-positive group (p = 0.016). The prevalence of TPOAb positivity increased with the increase in E2/T ratio quartiles, from 37.9% in the lowest quartile to 96.2% in the highest quartile (p value for trend across all quartiles < 0.001). On adjusted multivariate analysis, the E2/T ratio emerged as an independent predictor of TPOAb positivity. An E2/T ratio cutoff value of 6.565 x10-3 demonstrated the best diagnostic accuracy, with a sensitivity of 78.2% and specificity of 67.6%. The present study provides insights into the role of the E2/T ratio as a predictor of thyroid disorders.

Testosterone concentrations and associated predictors in men with cystic fibrosis: A retrospective, single-center study

BackgroundMen with cystic fibrosis (CF) have sexual health concerns such as delayed puberty, infertility, and hypogonadism. The causes and prevalence of hypogonadism have not been well studied. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of a low testosterone concentration in men with CF. MethodsThis retrospective study was approved by the Emory University Institutional Review Board (IRB). Data were extracted from the electronic medical records of adult men with CF receiving care at the Emory Cystic Fibrosis Center. A total of 129 men with CF were followed at our center from 2016 to 2023. Of these individuals, 76 men with CF (58.9%) had at least one serum total testosterone measurement. Seven individuals were excluded from this study since they were currently receiving testosterone therapy, leaving a final sample size of 69 individuals for the analysis. Demographic data, serum testosterone concentrations, and other factors associated with low testosterone concentrations were collected. Low testosterone was defined as a value below 300 ng/dL. Regression analyses were used to determine factors associated with low testosterone levels. ResultsThe mean (± SD) age of the 69 eligible participants was 33.34 ± 10.98 years. The mean testosterone concentration was 421 ± 158.5 ng/dL with 27.54 percent of men with a testosterone value below 300 ng/dL. The mean hemoglobin level was 14.23 ± 2.18 g/dL. Testosterone levels were positively related to hemoglobin levels. Time of day of measurement and age were not associated with testosterone levels. ConclusionRoughly a quarter of men with CF demonstrated low testosterone in our sample. Low hemoglobin was associated with low testosterone levels in men with CF. Neither time of day nor age influenced testosterone concentrations in this sample.

Anabolic/Catabolic Hormone Imbalance but Still Jumping Further? Negative Association of Free Testosterone With Jumping Performance in Elite Handball Players Following a Preparatory Period

ABSTRACT Purpose: The present study investigated the effects of a 10-week preparatory training period on biomarkers and jumping performance and associations of changes in biomarkers, load, and jumping performance from the beginning (PRE) to the end of the preparatory period (POST) in elite handball players. Methods: Seventeen elite handball players competing in the first Slovenian men’s League were recruited. Training, competition and academic loads were reported weekly, while biomarkers and jumping performance were assessed at PRE and POST. Results: At POST, decreased levels of free testosterone (large effect size [ES] = -1.69, p < .001) and free testosterone to cortisol ratio [FTCR] (large ES = −.95, p = .004) were observed; whereas, better performance on the single leg lateral hop test [SLLH] (large ES = .85, p = .007) and single leg triple hop test [SLTH] (large ES = 1.05, p = .002) were observed compared to PRE. Furthermore, changes in FTCR correlated with changes in cortisol (high r = -.751, p = .001), SLLH (moderate r = -.603, p = .022), and SLTH (moderate r = -.643, p = .013), while changes in free testosterone correlated with SLTH (moderate r = -.645, p = .013). Conclusions: High intensity trainings with a saturated competition schedule can result in disturbed anabolic/catabolic hormone ratio observed through FTCR decrease, which could indicate either an optimal state or early exhaustiveness. It seems that SLLH and SLTH are more sensitive to changes in biomarkers than a single leg hop test. Sport professionals may use the results for individualized monitoring of an athlete’s health and performance, specifically, as an aid for adjusting training loads accordingly to prevent performance declines and potential injury/illness events.

PLASMA PROLIDASE ACTIVITY AND ITS RELATION WITH NUMBER OF CYSTS IN POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME

Background: Plasma prolidase, a Matrix Metalloproteinase (MMP), has a role in maintaining extracellular matrix remodelling in ovary. The aim of this study was to find out the activity and association with the clinical and biochemical parameters of plasma prolidase in different phenotypes of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Methods: Total 90 women (16-22 years) with PCOS were enrolled in the study. Data regarding anthropometric measurements (weight, height, BMI and WHR) were taken. Transabdominal ultrasonography was done by trained sonographer. Hormonal tests (free testosterone, FSH, LH), and metabolic tests (including FBS) were done by chemiluminescence analyzer. Participants were divided into four groups. Group 1 (n=25), hyperandrogenism with oligo-anovulation (HO), Group 2 (n=26), polycystic ovary with oligo-anovulation (PO), Group 3 (n=20), hyperandrogenism with polycystic ovary (HP), Group 4 (n=19), with presence of all these three features (PHO). Five ml blood sample was taken for plasma Prolidase by Spectrophotometry. Kruskal Wallis test and spearman correlation were used for statistical analysis. Results: Among 90 women 52.2% had both polycystic ovaries, 13.3% has one polycystic ovary and 34.4% had normal ovaries on ultrasound. Median difference of plasma Prolidase, LH, FSH, free testosterone and HOMA-IR between groups were found statistically significant (p&lt;0.05). Plasma Prolidase had a direct relation (r=0.374) with number of cysts on ultrasound. Conclusion: Plasma Prolidase activity was high in PCOS phenotypes and positive correlation was found between Prolidase levels and number of cysts. Prolidase can be used as diagnostic and prognostic marker in PCOS. Pak J Physiol 2024;20(2):14-8

Estimation of BMP-15 gene expression and its Association to Hormonal Profile in Iraq Patient with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrinopathy affecting reproductive aged women. The objective of this study was determine the gene expression levels in patients with PCOS and its reflects in hormonal reproductive : Luteinizing hormone(LH), Prolactin hormone(PRL) , Testosterone hormone (T), Follicle Stimulating hormone (FHS) , estradiol (E2). Fifty patient with PCOS and twenty healthy control group recruited from the Al-Zahra Teaching Hospital and AL-karama Teaching Hospital, in Wasit provinces/Iraq ,based on criteria of Rotterdam.The hormonal profile was carried out by Addendum-Mini VIDAS apparatus. BMP-15 gene expression was estimated by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). The mean of Testosterone(1.58±0.17), prolactin (18.42± 1.12), Luteinizing hormone (10.98 ± 0.89 ) was a significant (P&lt;0.05) and follicle-stimulating hormone (8.35± 0.42) was high significant (P≤0.01) but the Estradiol hormone decrease in patient with PCOS (39.73± 2.76) was a significant (P&lt;0.05) when compared to healthy control group (0.412±0.04),(13.12±1.13), (5.06±0.40), (6.83±0.34), (49.73±3.43) respectively. The result of BMP-15 gene expression in patient with PCOS that were a significant (P&lt;0.05) . The result showed there were non-significant correlation between PMP-15gene expression and hormonal profile of (E2, PRL,FSH, LH and T). The women with PCOS have high levels of the hormone (LH, PRL, T and FSH) and low levels of the E2 hormone and the gene expression of BMP-15 was high level in patient with PCOS.

Cytoarchitectural differences in reproductive organs of some polycystic ovary-like induced animal models

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common gynaecological, endocrine disorder that occurs during reproductive age and is a significant cause of anovulatory infertility. Letrozole is an aromatase inhibitor which negates the action of the aromatase enzyme, which results in the buildup of male hormones (testosterone) in the females, causing hyperandrogenism, which is a hallmark of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. Mifepristone (RU486) is a progestin antagonist that acts to arrest the actions of the progesterone hormone, resulting in follicular atresia and anovulation. DHEA is an androgen which was also administered in a bid to cause hyperandrogenism in the rats.This study aimed to evaluate the effects of these hormones on the cytoarchitecture of the ovaries and uterus to assess their various PCOS-like histological features.Animals were grouped mainly into three: Letrozole, Mifepristone and DHEA groups, which were further divided into two subgroups each, administered low and high doses of letrozole orally, Mifepristone and Dehydroepiandosterone (DHEA) subcutaneously. Each of the subgroups also had a comparison control group. Following the completion of administration, the Wistar rats were euthanized, and their ovaries and uterus were collected for histological analysis.Increased proliferation of ovarian follicles was noted in the treated groups compared to control, as well as thickening of the endometrial layer.

Testosterone and Cortisol Hormones Response and Some Functional Variables to Escalated Aerobic Physical Exercise with the Difference of Biological Timing

هدفت الدراسة الحالية إلى: الكشف عن تأثير الجهد البدني ذي الشدة المتزايدة على عدد من المتغيرات الوظيفية: التستوستيرون، الكورتيزول، معدل ضربات القلب، وضغط الدم الانقباضي في أوقات الصباح والمساء. وكذلك الكشف عن تأثير اختلاف التوقيت البيولوجي في فترتي الراحة والجهد على عدد من المتغيرات الوظيفية: التستوستيرون، الكورتيزول، معدل ضربات القلب، وضغط الدم الانقباضي. استخدم المنهج الوصفي لملاءمته لطبيعة الدراسة. تكونت العينة من (8) أفراد تم اختيارهم عشوائياً، تتراوح أعمارهم بين (21-23 سنة) ويمارسون النشاط الرياضي. أجريت التجربة النهائية في الفترة من 14/1/2024 إلى 18/1/2024 وشملت إجراء اختبارين على جهاز الجري المتحرك. أخذ الباحث بعين الاعتبار التسلسل الذي أجريت فيه الاختبارات في كل من فترتي الصباح والمساء. لمعالجة البيانات، استخدم الباحث اختبار T لتحديد الفروقات. توصل الباحث إلى: أن الجهد البدني ذو الشدة المتدرجة في ظروف فترتي الصباح والمساء أدى إلى زيادة واضحة من خلال ملاحظة قيمة المتوسط الحسابي والانحراف المعياري للفترتين، في مراحل الراحة ونهاية الجهد البدني، على التوالي، في هرمون التستوستيرون 7.09 (±1.17) -- 8.97 (±1.80) في الصباح، و 5.21 (±1.14) -- 6.16 (±1.86) في المساء، ومعدل ضربات القلب 70.25 (±6.51) -- 187.25 (±4.02) في الصباح، و 69.12 (±4.99) -- 183.00 (±3.11) في المساء، وضغط الدم الانقباضي 10.93 (±0.86) -- 14.31 (±2.06) في الصباح، و 11.06 (±0.86) -- 14.56 (±1.14) في المساء. كما أن الجهد البدني ذو الشدة المتدرجة تحت ظروف فترتي الصباح والمساء تسبب في انخفاض ملحوظ في هرمون الكورتيزول عند الانتقال من مرحلة الراحة حتى نهاية الجهد البدني. بلغ على التوالي 18.01(±1.38) -- 14.09(±3.87) في الصباح، و 5.17(±1.17) -- 3.94(±1.02) في المساء. يؤدي النمط البيولوجي إلى زيادة ملحوظة في تركيز هرموني التستوستيرون والكورتيزول في الدم في الصباح مقارنة بالمساء، من خلال ملاحظة قيمة المتوسطات الحسابية، التي بلغت (الصباح، المساء) (7.09، 5.21) في الراحة، على التوالي، وبعد إتمام الجهد البدني بلغت على التوالي (8.97، 6.16) لهرمون التستوستيرون. أما بالنسبة لهرمون الكورتيزول، فقد بلغ في الراحة على التوالي (18.01، 5.17)، بينما بعد إتمام الجهد البدني بلغ على التوالي (14.09)، 3.94. وهذا ما يحقق احد اهداف التنمية المستدامة للامم المتحدة في العراق (الصحة الجيدة).

A Rare Case of Bilateral Retroperitoneal Ovaries: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Introduction: Retroperitoneal gynecologic tumors and cysts are rare. They are often asymptomatic or present similarly to their intraperitoneal counterpart with vague abdominal discomfort and distention. Our literature review revealed that many retroperitoneal cysts are found intraoperatively due to their benign predominance consistent with their ultrasound findings. The rarity of retroperitoneal gynecologic tumors and cysts creates uncertainty regarding the best practice management for general gynecologists caught off guard by their location when found intraoperatively. Rarer still are retroperitoneal ovaries. There are few cases of retroperitoneal ovary displacement in the literature, most often associated with female neonatal incarcerated inguinal hernia repair surgery. We found one case report involving an intraoperatively found retroperitoneal ovarian cystadenofibroma in a patient with a hernia repair performed in infancy. To our knowledge, there are no bilateral retroperitoneal ovaries described in the literature. Objective: To report a rare case of bilateral retroperitoneal ovaries in an 11 year old female. Methods: Case report. Results: We present an 11-year-old female with a past medical history of Dandy-Walker malformation and hydrocephalus status post ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt with six laparoscopic VP shunt revisions who endorsed hirsutism and irregular, heavy, and painful menstrual periods. Her family history is significant for polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and Lynch syndrome. Physical exam revealed mild abdominal distention and lower abdominal tenderness. She had an elevated estradiol, luteinizing hormone (LH), and total and free testosterone. Normally, an elevated estradiol causes a negative feedback response that results in a low LH. Due to these abnormal results, a pelvic ultrasound was ordered to rule out a potential estrogen secreting ovarian tumor. Ultrasound revealed a large anechoic structure in the left adnexa not definitively separated from the ovary measuring 13.0 x 7.7 x 10.7 cm. Radiologic differential diagnosis included large simple cyst, hemorrhagic cyst, and serous neoplasm. A referral to an adolescent gynecologist was made where the patient presented five months later with 25-pound weight gain, constipation, and a hard belly. Repeat ultrasound was consistent with a left ovarian simple cyst with an increased size measuring 16.78 x 12.58 x 8.66 cm as well as a new finding consistent with a right ovarian simple cyst measuring 4.96 x 4.48 x 3.61 cm. Due to her history of severe abdominal adhesions secondary to multiple laparoscopic VP shunt revisions, likely endometriosis, and large ovarian cyst, she was referred to a gynecologic oncologist where she was consented for robotic assisted bilateral ovarian cystectomy and lysis of adhesions. In the operating room, extensive pelvic adhesions were lysed to reveal bilateral retroperitoneal ovaries. The right cyst was drained of clear fluid, revealing no internal complexity, and was completely excised. Persistent pelvic adhesions and cyst size prolonged the time required to excise the left ovarian cyst wall. Once open, papillary excrescences were seen inside the cyst raising concern for a borderline ovarian tumor. The decision was made to remove the cyst wall in its entirety regardless of increased risk of ovarian function compromise. Restoration of normal anatomy was not attainable, and her bilateral ovaries remained embedded in the side walls and superior to the iliac vessels. Pathology revealed a benign 8 cm right paratubal cyst and a benign 18 cm left serous cystadenoma with papillary excrescences. Conclusions: Pelvic anatomy can be greatly distorted secondary to prior abdominal surgeries or certain pathologies including endometriosis and congenital abnormalities. Ultrasound cannot easily discriminate between intraperitoneal and retroperitoneal ovarian cysts but is often the only preoperative imaging obtained prior to cystectomy. Thus, many retroperitoneal cysts are found intraoperatively resulting in diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Therefore, general gynecologists must be aware of risk factors associated with abnormal pelvic anatomy and prepared to request intraoperative consultation if needed to ensure optimized patient care and safety.

A Rare Case of Bilateral Retroperitoneal Ovaries: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Introduction: Retroperitoneal gynecologic tumors and cysts are rare. They are often asymptomatic or present similarly to their intraperitoneal counterpart with vague abdominal discomfort and distention. Our literature review revealed that many retroperitoneal cysts are found intraoperatively due to their benign predominance consistent with their ultrasound findings. The rarity of retroperitoneal gynecologic tumors and cysts creates uncertainty regarding the best practice management for general gynecologists caught off guard by their location when found intraoperatively. Rarer still are retroperitoneal ovaries. There are few cases of retroperitoneal ovary displacement in the literature, most often associated with female neonatal incarcerated inguinal hernia repair surgery. We found one case report involving an intraoperatively found retroperitoneal ovarian cystadenofibroma in a patient with a hernia repair performed in infancy. To our knowledge, there are no bilateral retroperitoneal ovaries described in the literature. Objective: To report a rare case of bilateral retroperitoneal ovaries in an 11 year old female. Methods: Case report. Results: We present an 11-year-old female with a past medical history of Dandy-Walker malformation and hydrocephalus status post ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt with six laparoscopic VP shunt revisions who endorsed hirsutism and irregular, heavy, and painful menstrual periods. Her family history is significant for polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and Lynch syndrome. Physical exam revealed mild abdominal distention and lower abdominal tenderness. She had an elevated estradiol, luteinizing hormone (LH), and total and free testosterone. Normally, an elevated estradiol causes a negative feedback response that results in a low LH. Due to these abnormal results, a pelvic ultrasound was ordered to rule out a potential estrogen secreting ovarian tumor. Ultrasound revealed a large anechoic structure in the left adnexa not definitively separated from the ovary measuring 13.0 x 7.7 x 10.7 cm. Radiologic differential diagnosis included large simple cyst, hemorrhagic cyst, and serous neoplasm. A referral to an adolescent gynecologist was made where the patient presented five months later with 25-pound weight gain, constipation, and a hard belly. Repeat ultrasound was consistent with a left ovarian simple cyst with an increased size measuring 16.78 x 12.58 x 8.66 cm as well as a new finding consistent with a right ovarian simple cyst measuring 4.96 x 4.48 x 3.61 cm. Due to her history of severe abdominal adhesions secondary to multiple laparoscopic VP shunt revisions, likely endometriosis, and large ovarian cyst, she was referred to a gynecologic oncologist where she was consented for robotic assisted bilateral ovarian cystectomy and lysis of adhesions. In the operating room, extensive pelvic adhesions were lysed to reveal bilateral retroperitoneal ovaries. The right cyst was drained of clear fluid, revealing no internal complexity, and was completely excised. Persistent pelvic adhesions and cyst size prolonged the time required to excise the left ovarian cyst wall. Once open, papillary excrescences were seen inside the cyst raising concern for a borderline ovarian tumor. The decision was made to remove the cyst wall in its entirety regardless of increased risk of ovarian function compromise. Restoration of normal anatomy was not attainable, and her bilateral ovaries remained embedded in the side walls and superior to the iliac vessels. Pathology revealed a benign 8 cm right paratubal cyst and a benign 18 cm left serous cystadenoma with papillary excrescences. Conclusions: Pelvic anatomy can be greatly distorted secondary to prior abdominal surgeries or certain pathologies including endometriosis and congenital abnormalities. Ultrasound cannot easily discriminate between intraperitoneal and retroperitoneal ovarian cysts but is often the only preoperative imaging obtained prior to cystectomy. Thus, many retroperitoneal cysts are found intraoperatively resulting in diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. Therefore, general gynecologists must be aware of risk factors associated with abnormal pelvic anatomy and prepared to request intraoperative consultation if needed to ensure optimized patient care and safety.

The association of prolactin and gonadal hormones with cognition and symptoms in men with schizophrenia spectrum disorder: Divergent effects of testosterone and estrogen

BackgroundCertain antipsychotics elevate prolactin levels in patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders (SSD), potentially affecting cognition, symptoms, and hormone levels. This study examines the association between prolactin, testosterone, and estrogen and cognition and symptoms in men with SSD, considering antipsychotic medication. MethodsThis cross-sectional study included 128 men with SSD and 44 healthy men from two trials. Patients were divided into a prolactin-sparing (n = 53) and prolactin-raising group (n = 75) based on antipsychotic medication. We examined the association between hormones (testosterone, estrogen and prolactin), and cognition and symptoms using backward linear regression. Three domains of cognition were assessed including: processing speed, verbal fluency, and working memory, while symptoms were measured using the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale (PANSS). ResultsProlactin levels were highest in the prolactin-raising group, followed by the control group, and lowest in the prolactin-sparing group (H = 45.279, p < .001). Testosterone and estrogen levels did not differ significantly between groups. In the prolactin-raising group, prolactin negatively correlated with testosterone (r(73) = −0.32, p = .005). Higher testosterone predicted better cognitive functioning (working memory: β = 0.20, p = .007, verbal fluency: β = 0.30, p = .001) and lower symptom scores (total: β = −0.21, p = .001; negative: β = −0.24, p = .002) in men with SSD. Conversely, higher estrogen levels related to slower processing speed (β = −0.22, p < .001) and higher symptoms scores (β = 0.23, p = .010) in men with SSD. ConclusionThe results suggest positive associations between testosterone and cognition and symptoms in men with SSD, while suggesting that high prolactin levels could relate to lower testosterone levels, possibly worsening cognition and symptoms in men with SSD.

Diabetes surpasses obesity as a risk factor for low serum testosterone level

BackgroundMale obesity is one of the most associated factors with substandard testosterone levels. However, there is growing evidence linking low testosterone levels to insulin resistance and diabetic complications. We aimed to study the impact of diabetes mellitus on testosterone levels and to assess the correlation of various clinical and biochemical factors with hypogonadism.Subjects and methodsThis case-control study was conducted on 160 adult males categorized into four equal groups (40 each); Group A: lean men with T2DM, Group B: obese with T2DM, Group C: lean with normal glycemic profile, Group D: obese with normal glycemic profile. Serum total testosterone (TT), SHBG and HbA1c have been measured. Free testosterone (cFT) and HOMA-IR were calculated.ResultsA significant negative correlation of serum TT and cFTwith BMI (r -0.16, p 0.04/ r -0.26, p < 0.001, respectively) and with waist circumference (WC) (r -0.23, p 0.003 and r -0.3, p < 0.001, respectively). A significant decrease in TT and cFT in the diabetes group versus the non-diabetes one (p < 0.001 for both). TT level was significantly lower in the diabetic lean group than in the non-diabetic lean (p < 0.001), and even significantly lower than in the non-diabetic obese (p < 0.001). TT level in the diabetic obese group was lower than in the non-diabetic obese (p < 0.001). The same for cFT level, lower in the diabetic lean group than in non-diabetic lean (p < 0.001) and lower in the diabetic obese than in the non-diabetic obese (p < 0.001). Concomitant significant reduction in SHBG in the diabetes group (p < 0.001). Linear regression analysis revealed that TT significantly correlated with HOMA-IR. HOMA-IR with WC, age and the duration of diabetes correlated significantly with cFT. In our model, HOMA-IR and HbA1c accounted for approximately 51.3% of TT variability (adjusted R-squared 0.513).ConclusionsThe impact of T2DM on serum testosterone levels was more significant than that of obesity. Our study showed a decrease in SHBG together with cFT among the diabetes group. Hypogonadism is significantly correlated to insulin resistance and poor glycemic control, which implies another perspective on the impact of suboptimal glycemic control on the development of hypogonadism.

Effects of vitamin D and L-cysteine cosupplementation on circulating bioavailable and total 25-hydroxy-vitamin D, the free/total testosterone ratio and inflammatory biomarkers in healthy vitamin D-deficient African Americans: a placebo-controlled double-blind clinical trial

BackgroundSubjects with metabolic syndrome and obesity have higher levels of inflammation with depression of the vitamin D (VD) hydroxylase/metabolising genes (CYP2R1/CYP27A1/CYP27B1/VDR) required to convert VD consumed in the diet into...

Effect of Ziziphus Spina-Christi Leaves on the Level of Testosterone Hormone and ‎Semen Parameters of Iraqi Bucks Semen

The study aimed to assess the effects of different concentrations of Ziziphus spina-Christi (ZSC) leaves on the fertility of buck goats. Twelve buck goats aged 12–15 months with an average body weight of 22±2 kg were divided randomly into three dietary treatments: T1, T2, and T3, each given a basal diet daily plus feeds of 20 g/kg (2%) of ZSC for T1 and 40 g/kg (4%) of ZSC for ‎T2; and T3 was used as the control that consumed a basal diet only. The experiment lasted for 3 months. On days 45 and 90, blood samples were collected for plasma testosterone measurement using an immunochromatographic assay. Additionally, semen samples were collected at the same time points for physical (volume, color, and pH) and microscopic (semen concentration, mass and individual motility percentage, and live-dead sperm percentages) evaluations. ‎ The results showed that ZSC at 4% significantly (P&lt;0.05) increased the testosterone hormone concentration and all physical parameters at 45 and 90 days comparing to 2% ZSC and control ‎groups. ‎Additionally, ZSC at 4% significantly improved (P&lt;0.05) the microscopic parameters at both ‎time periods compared to 2% ZSC and control groups. The present findings revealed that ZSC at 4% diet could enhance goat semen processing and ‎goat fertility enhanced significantly (P&lt;0.05) the testosterone hormone that had higher values ‎compared to ‎‎(2%) of the ZSC control group. Similarly, (4%) of ZSC affected the physical ‎assessment of ‎semen, such as the volume, color, and pH values. Thus, adding ZSC with a high ‎concentration ‎‎(4%) could enhance goat semen processing and goat fertility in general.

Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor Modulation and Resveratrol Influence on Dnah1 Expression: Implications for Male Reproductive Health

Male reproductive health is intricately regulated by molecular and physiological processes, with the aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) playing a crucial role. AhR is activated by various ligands and influences the onset and progression of diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the role of AhR on spermatogenesis in adult male rats were affected by resveratrol (RES) and CH223191, an AhR antagonist. The study include forty rats were randomly divided into four equal groups: Control group, DMSO group, RES group and AhR‾ group, the rats received respective treatments intraperitoneally twice weekly for 60 days, and various parameters related to male reproductive health were evaluated. The AhR that activation by the RES treatment were enhanced the sperm morphology, sperm acrosomal integrity and luteinizing hormone. Moreover, the Dnah1 gene expression, is has play major role in sperm morphology, was upregulated and testosterone levels were elevated by RES. On the other hand, sperm morphology, sperm acrosomal integrity, testosterone hormone levels, and Dnah1 expression were all reduced in AhR‍ rats. The testicular tissue integrity was maintained by RES, according to a histopathological analysis. These findings highlight the role of AhR in male reproductive health and suggest RES as a potential therapeutic agent.

Effects of vitamin D supplementation on oxidative stress biomarkers of Iranian women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a meta-analysis study.

To identify the impact of redox imbalance on the clinical evolution of patients with polycystic ovary syndrome and carry out a qualitative and quantitative projection of the benefits of vitamin D supplementation. Combinations of the keywords polycystic ovary syndrome, vitamin D, oxidative stress, reactive oxygen species, antioxidant, and free radicals were used in PubMed, Cochrane Library, LILACS, EMBASE, and Web of Science databases. The last search was conducted on August 22, 2023.Selection of studies: Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, studies were selected considering a low risk of bias, published in the last 5 years in English, which investigated the effects of vitamin D supplementation in women with PCOS, focusing on oxidative stress markers. Of the 136 articles retrieved, 6 intervention studies (445 women) were included. The risk of bias in included studies was assessed using the Jadad scale, and analysis and visualization of continuous data were performed using Review Manager 5.4.1, summarized as standardized mean differences (SMD) with confidence intervals (CI) of 95%. Vitamin D effectively reduced malondialdehyde (P=0.002) and total testosterone (P=0.0004) levels and increased total antioxidant capacity levels (P=0.01). Although possible improvements in the modified Ferriman-Gallwey hirsutism score, levels of sex hormone-binding globulin, and free androgen index were identified and the results were not statistically significant. Vitamin D is a promising alternative for the treatment of PCOS with a positive influence on the oxidative, metabolic, and endocrine disorders of this syndrome.

High bioavailable testosterone levels increase the incidence of isolated REM sleep behavior disorder: Results from multivariable and network Mendelian randomization analysis

ObjectivesTo explore the causal relationships between sex hormone levels and incidence of isolated REM sleep behavior disorder (iRBD). MethodsIn our study, we utilized Genome-Wide Association Studies (GWAS) data for iRBD, including 9447 samples with 1061 cases of iRBD provided by the International RBD Study Group. Initially, we conducted a two-sample univariate MR analysis to explore the impact of sex hormone-related indicators on iRBD. This was followed by the application of multivariable MR methods to adjust for other hormone levels and potential confounders. Finally, we undertook a network MR analysis, employing brain structure Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) characteristics as potential mediators, to examine whether sex hormones could indirectly influence the incidence of iRBD by affecting brain structure. ResultsBioavailable testosterone (BioT) is an independent risk factor for iRBD (Odds Ratio [95 % Confidence Interval] = 2.437 [1.308, 4.539], P = 0.005, corrected-P = 0.020), a finding that remained consistent even after adjusting for other sex hormone levels and potential confounders. Additionally, BioT appears to indirectly increase the risk of iRBD by reducing axial diffusivity and increasing the orientation dispersion index in the left cingulum and cingulate gyrus. ConclusionsOur research reveals that elevated levels of BioT contribute to the development of iRBD. However, the specific impact of BioT on different sexes remains unclear. Furthermore, high BioT may indirectly lead to iRBD by impairing normal pathways in the left cingulum and cingulate gyrus and fostering abnormal pathway formation.

Association Between Andropause and Demographic Factors with Depression Among Police Officers In Bali

Background : Andropause is a health problem in men caused by a decrease in free testosterone levels. Depression is a mental disorder that happens with a person that is related to mood.Objective : This research aims to determine the relationship between Andropause and Depression in police officers in Polda Bali in 2023. Methods : This research is a descriptive-analytical study with a cross-sectional study design. Andropause was assessed using the ADAM questionnaire, and depression was assessed using the PHQ- 9 questionnaire. The sample was selected using a purposive sampling technique. Results : There were 60 respondents in this study. A total of 31 people (51.7%) respondents were positive for Andropause, and 29 people (48.3%) were negative for Andropause. Meanwhile, 12 people (20.0%) of respondents experienced mild depression, and 48 people (80.0%) did not experience depression. Ten (10) respondents experienced Andropause with Depression. There is a significant relationship between Andropause and Depression (p=0.003). The odds ratio (OR 95% CI) obtained was 6.429 (1.270-32.541). Also there is a significant relationship between Stress and Depression with p&lt;0,001 (0,000), with OR 21 (4,4-100,1) Conclusion : The majority of police officers in Polda Bali were found to experience Andropause and Depression, as many as 10 people (32.3%). As age increases, the incidence of Andropause increases, and in the respondent population, most of whom are in the mid-life crisis period, it increases the possibility of depression. Police officers in Polda Bali with Andropause have a 6.429 times greater risk of experiencing depression

Transgender Women With Suppressed Testosterone Display Lower Burden of Coronary Disease Than Matched Cisgender Men.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) in transgender women (TW) may be affected by gender-affirming hormone therapy (GAHT) and HIV, but few data compare TW on contemporary GAHT to well-matched controls. We compared CVD burden and biomarker profiles between TW and matched cisgender men (CM). Adult TW on GAHT (n = 29) were recruited for a cross-sectional study (2018-2020). CM (n = 48) from the former Multicenter AIDS Cohort Study were matched 2:1 to TW on HIV serostatus, age ±5 years, race/ethnicity, BMI category and antiretroviral therapy (ART) type. Cardiac parameters were measured by CT and coronary atherosclerosis by coronary CT angiography; sex hormone and biomarker concentrations were measured centrally from stored samples. Overall, median age was 53 years and BMI 29 kg/m2; 69% were non-white. All participants with HIV (71%) had viral suppression on ART. Only 31% of TW had testosterone suppression (<50 ng/dL, TW-S). Traditional CVD risk factors were similar between groups, except that TW-S had higher BMI than TW with non-suppressed testosterone (TW-T). TW-S had no evidence of non-calcified coronary plaque or advanced coronary stenosis, whereas TW-T and CM had similar burden. TW had lower prevalence of any coronary plaque, calcified plaque and mixed plaque than CM, regardless of testosterone concentrations and HIV serostatus. Estradiol but not testosterone concentrations moderately and negatively correlated with the presence of coronary plaque and stenosis. Small sample size limited statistical power. Older TW with suppressed total testosterone on GAHT had no CT evidence of non-calcified coronary plaque or advanced coronary stenosis. Longitudinal studies to understand relationships between GAHT and CVD risk in TW are needed.

Gonadal hormones and metabolic syndrome in middle-aged and elderly males: results from a prospective cohort study in China.

Research has shown that gonadal hormones are involved in metabolic pathways relevant to metabolic syndrome (MetS). Nevertheless, no longitudinal study has been conducted on the association between SHBG and MetS in Chinese. The objective of our study was to determine whether there is any association between middle-aged and elderly males in China. A total of 531 eligible male subjects, aged above 40 years or older, without MetS at baseline, were recruited. Sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), total testosterone (TT), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) were measured. A harmonized definition and recommended thresholds for the Chinese population were used to determine metabolic syndrome. During 3.2 years of follow-up, 20.7% of subjects had developed MetS. Compared with the non-MetS group, subjects in the new-onset MetS group had significantly lower SHBG (43.5 nmol/L [28.8, 74.9] vs 53.7nmol/L [33.8, 115.0], P=0.0018), TT (18.1nmol/L [13.6-21.7] vs 19.5nmol/L[15.0-23.6], P=0.0204), and LH (5.13mIU/L [3.63-7.29] vs 5.87mIU/L [4.05-8.36]) at baseline. The incidence of MetS was decreased according to elevated SHBG quartiles (Q1:26.9%, Q2:22.7%, Q3:21.1%, Q4:12.1%, P for trend =0.0035), TT (Q1: 25.2%, Q2:23.7%, Q3: 17.3%, Q4: 16.7%, P for trend=0.0425), and LH (Q1:25.0%, Q2:21.8%, Q3: 21.8%, Q4: 14.3%, P for trend=0.0411). Compared with those in quartile 4, the OR[CI] of incident MetS for participants in Quartile 1 was 2.33[1.13-4.79] after multiple adjustments. But associations between incident MetS and different quartiles of LH, TT, and FSH were not observed after multiple adjustments. In the subgroup analyses, the significant association between SHBG level and Mets was detected in subjects over 60 years or older, with normal BMI, without insulin resistance, and with eGFR ≥90 mL/min per 1.73m2. Compared with TT, LH, and FSH, a lower level of SHBG is significantly related to the incidence of MetS among middle-aged and elderly males in China.

Vitamin B12 Is Associated with Higher Serum Testosterone Concentrations and Improved Androgenic Profiles Among Men with Infertility

BackgroundInfertility impacts 16% of North American couples, with male factor infertility contributing to ∼30% of cases. Reproductive hormones, especially testosterone, are essential for spermatogenesis. An age-independent population-level decline in testosterone concentrations over the past few decades has been proposed to be a consequence of diet and lifestyle changes. Vitamin B12 is present in the testes and has been suggested as an adjuvant nutritional therapy for male infertility due to its potential to improve sperm parameters. However, evidence examining the relationship between vitamin B12 and reproductive hormones is limited. ObjectivesThe objective was to cross-sectionally examine the relationship between serum vitamin B12 and male reproductive hormones (luteinizing hormone, follicular stimulating hormone, total testosterone, estradiol, and prolactin). MethodsMen with infertility (n = 303) were recruited from Mount Sinai Hospital in Toronto, Canada. Serum was analyzed for vitamin B12 and reproductive hormones. Statistical analyses included nonparametric Spearman’s rank correlation coefficient, linear regression, logistic regression, and effect modification by age and BMI linear regressions. ResultsAn independent monotonic relationship between serum vitamin B12 and total testosterone (ρ = 0.19, P = 0.001) was observed. Serum vitamin B12 was linearly associated with total testosterone (unadjusted β = 0.0007, P = 0.008 and adjusted β = 0.0005, P = 0.03). Compared to individuals in the lowest tertile of serum vitamin B12, those in the middle tertile (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 0.48; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.25, 0.93, P = 0.03) and the highest tertile (unadjusted OR = 0.41; 95% CI: 0.22, 0.77, P = 0.005 and adjusted OR = 0.44; 95% CI: 0.22, 0.87, P = 0.02) had reduced odds of testosterone deficiency. ConclusionsThese findings suggest that among men with infertility, low serum vitamin B12 is associated with a higher risk of testosterone deficiency and impaired androgenic hormonal profiles that impact spermatogenesis and consequently, fertility.