Testosterone Research Articles

Immunocastration caused dysfunction of Père David’s deer (Elaphurus davidianus)

Abstract The population density of Père David’s deer (Elaphurus davidianus) in Jiangsu Dafeng Milu Nature Reserve was excessively high due to an overemphasis on population recovery, while ignoring the crucial relationship between population size and habitats. This study used immunocastration to capture four Père David’s deer and observed their behavior. Their blood was collected for sex hormone testing, transcriptomics, and metabolomics analysis. In addition, six uncastrated Père David’s deer were included as control group. The results showed that reproductive behavior was absent in castrated Père David’s deer, while castrated individuals exhibited a significant decrease in blood hormone testosterone concentration compared to uncastrated Père David’s deer. Transcriptome and metabolome analyses revealed 450 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and five differentially expressed metabolites (DEMs), Combined analysis of transcriptome and metabolic data revealed a significant correlation between DEGs and DEMs. It shows that using immune castration to control the population of Père David’s deer may disrupt their cell apoptosis and disturb the cell cycle, leading to abnormal pathways and promoting the onset of many diseases. Therefore, a cautious approach should be adopted toward immune castration as a means of population control. This study can provide valuable references for the standardized management of Père David’s deer populations.

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

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

Comprehensive Analysis of the Association Between Sex Hormones and Body Mass Components Among Men Adults: Results From a Large Population-Based Study.

As the human body ages, adverse body composition status such as sarcopenia and obesity become obvious phenotypes which can cause numerous health problems. We aimed to comprehensively investigate the association of sex hormones and body mass components in adult men of various age groups. We analysed national representative population data from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. Generalized linear model regression analyses were used to evaluate the association between sex hormones (total testosterone [TT], bio-available testosterone [BT], sex hormone-binding globulin [SHBG], estradiol [E2] and testosterone to estradiol ratio [T/E ratio]) and body mass components (weight, body mass index (BMI), total lean mass, appendicular lean mass, bone mineral content, total fat and trunk fat). The collection and testing time of blood samples were not fixed and there was no strict fasting, but in subsequent analysis we used statistical methods to minimize the impact of random testing. After screening for inclusion and exclusion, 3759 male participants aged 20-85 years old were included in this study. Higher levels of TT, SHBG, BT and T/E ratios were significantly associated with higher total lean mass, appendicular lean mass and bone mineral content, while lower weight, BMI, total fat and trunk fat. For E2 levels in men, we found an opposite trend, with higher E2 levels significantly associated with lower total lean mass and appendicular lean mass, and higher weight, BMI, total fat and trunk fat. Notably, in subgroup analysis, the results showed that there were significant interaction effects of age and smoking history in the association between sex hormones and body mass components. Higher TT levels, BT levels, SHBG levels and T/E ratios are associated with lower body weight and improved body composition in young adult men (characterized by higher lean body mass, higher bone density and lower fat mass). The relationship is especially pronounced among relatively young, nonsmoking men.

Evaluation of male reproductive hormones of Kalahari Red and Kalawad goat bucks as affected by age and season under tropical conditions.

Comprehensive understanding of reproductive hormones and environmental cues with their relationship is essential for efficient production in livestock sectors involving either assisted or natural reproductive methods. This study evaluated the effects of age and seasonal-associated changes in the blood concentrations of testosterone and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) of male Kalahari Red (KR) andKalawad(KW)-crossbred goats. Based on a 2 × 3 × 4 factorial arrangement, a total of 42 bucks (KR n = 21 and KW n = 21) were allotted into three age groups (> 1 ≤ 2years, > 2 ≤ 3years and > 3 ≤ 4years) with seven KR bucks and seven KW bucks each per age group; reared under different seasons (early rainy, late rainy, early dry and late dry). The animals were managed semi-intensively, kept in an open-ventilated pen and subjected to same nutritional regime throughout the one-year experimental period. Follicle stimulating hormone and testosterone concentrations were analyzed in serum samples. Data obtained reproductive hormones were subjected to three-way Analysis of Variance using SAS 1999. Results show that breed had a significant effect (p < 0.05) on both serum FSH and testosterone concentrations. The highest FSH (0.49 ± 0.02ng/mL, 0.45 ± 0.01ng/mL, 0.41 ± 0.1ng/mL and 0.47 ± 0.07ng/mL) mean values (P > 0.05) were observed in KR in September, October, November and May, respectively while the highest (2.6 ± 0.02ng/mL) testosterone concentration in KW (p < 0.05) was obtained in December. Testosterone had irregular patterns between breeds and months of sampling. FSH was at peak (p > 0.05) in KR during the late rainy season at all ages while the values of FSH concentration in KW were not significantly different at all ages and seasons. The highest (2.05 ± 0.11ng/mL) serum testosterone mean value in KW peaked (p < 0.05) age > 3 ≤ 4years during the late rainy season. Testosterone concentration was lower and steady at all ages during rainy seasons in KR but started fluctuating during the early dry season. The least mean (0.62 ± 0.07ng/mL and 0.68 ± 0.05ng/mL) were recorded (p > 0.05) in KW during the late dry season at age > 2 ≤ 3 and > 3 ≤ 4years respectively. In KR and KW goat breeds raised under tropical condition, the high seasonal variations were responsible for the fluctuations in the reproductive hormones which resultantly altered or lowered the sexual activity of the animals at certain season(s).

Pathological and Hormonal Alterations of the Testis in Balb/C Mice Treated With Spirotetramat Insecticide

Background and Objectives: The side effects of insecticides are undeniable due to their excessive use by farmers. This study aims to investigate the impact of spirotetramat insecticide on pathological and hormonal alteration in BALB/c mice testes. Methods: In this experimental study, 24 adult BALB/c male mice, with a body weight range of 25-30 g, were obtained from the Animal House of Uremia University and examined. Mice were randomly divided into three groups of eight: control, experimental group 1, and experimental group 2. The mice of experimental group 1 received 2.5 mg/kg, and experimental group 2 received 10 mg/kg of spirotetramat. The control group received the same amount of distilled water for 21 days through the mouth by gavage. After this period, the mice were anesthetized and evaluated. Data were analyzed using a 1-way analysis of variance in SPSS version 19 software. Results: The results of the study showed that spirotetramat increased the thickness of the tunica albuginea, the diameter of the seminiferous tubules, the differentiation index of the testis tube, and the spermiogenesis index, but it decreased the thickness of the epithelium of the spermatogenic tubules, the replacement index of active spermatogonia, Leydig cells, and FSH, LH, and testosterone hormone levels. The thickness of interstitial tissue, Sertoli, and lymphocyte cells did not change significantly. Conclusion: By inhibiting the activity of acetyl coenzyme A, spirotetramat insecticide disrupts energy production and prevents the synthesis of lipids in the cells, finally decreasing spermatogenesis in mice.

Ethnopharmacological insights: hyperoside from Marsdenia latifolia (Benth.) K.Schum. mitigates reproductive toxicity in male Wistar rats induced by manganese exposure

This study provides novel findings on the ameliorative effect of hyperoside isolated from Marsdenia latifolia leaves (HIGLL) in reproductive health challenged by manganese toxicity. The study investigated the efficacy of HIGLL on male fertility in rats exposed to manganese chloride (MnCl2). The rats received either MnCl2 (30 mg/L) or in combination with HIGLL (100 mg/kg or 200 mg/kg). MnCl2 reduced fluid intake, organ-body weight, body weight; sperm count, sperm viability, sperm density, sperm motility, semen viscosity, daily sperm production, testicular sperm number; testosterone, follicle-stimulating and luteinising hormones, oestradiol, testosterone/oestradiol ratio; G6PDH, ALP, glucose, NO, acid phosphatase, sialic acid, 17-β-HSD, superoxide dismutase, CAT, GST, GSH, and T-SH without modifying the semen pH and volume, while it correspondingly raised the abnormalities associated with morphology of sperm cells in head, neck, and tail; H2O2 and lipid peroxidation levels. HIGLL abrogated the damaged histoarchitecture of the testes and epididymis caused by MnCl2. HIGLL can serve as a therapeutic agent in the management of male reproductive disorders related to oxidative stress and endocrine disruption.

Association between the weight-adjusted-waist index and testosterone deficiency in adult males: a cross-sectional study

Testosterone deficiency has been recognized as a significant health concern and is closely related to obesity. The weight-adjusted-waist index (WWI) is an innovative adiposity parameter that is superior to BMI in certain aspects, but its relationship with testosterone levels has not been elucidated. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationships of the WWI with total testosterone levels and testosterone deficiency. Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, 2011–2016) were utilized. The WWI was calculated as waist circumference (cm) over the square root of weight (kg), and a total testosterone level of less than 300 ng/dL was defined as testosterone deficiency. Weighted multivariable regression models were used to assess the associations. A total of 6859 participants were included, 26.28% of whom were testosterone deficient. The WWI was inversely related to total testosterone levels (β = -49.93, 95% CI: -60.07, -39.78, P < 0.001) and positively associated with testosterone deficiency (OR = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.23, 1.72, P < 0.001) in the fully adjusted model. A significant nonlinear relationship was also detected between WWI and testosterone deficiency (P for nonlinearity = 0.004) with an inflection point of 9.486 cm/√kg. The associations were consistent in the subgroup analysis (all P > 0.05), except for the participants with eGFR < 60 mL/(min*1.73m2) and hypertension. A higher WWI was linked to lower total testosterone levels and a greater risk of developing testosterone deficiency, especially among those who had an eGFR ≥ 60 mL/(min*1.73m2) and were nonhypertensive.

Mendelian randomization and multi-omics approach analyses reveal impaired glucose metabolism and oxidative phosphorylation in visceral adipose tissue of women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

What is the significance of visceral adipose tissue (VAT) in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and its impact on the regulation of metabolic disorders in women with PCOS? We revealed a potentially causal relationship between increased genetically predicted VAT and PCOS-related traits, and found that VAT exhibited impaired glucose metabolism and mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) in women with PCOS. PCOS is a common reproductive endocrine disorder accompanied by many metabolic abnormalities. Adipose tissue is a metabolically active endocrine organ that regulates multiple physiological processes, and VAT has a much stronger association with metabolism than subcutaneous adipose tissue does. Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was used to investigate the potential causal association between genetically predicted VAT and the risk of PCOS. Data for MR analysis were extracted from European population cohorts. VAT samples from sixteen PCOS patients and eight control women who underwent laparoscopic surgery were collected for proteomics and targeted metabolomics analyses. PCOS was diagnosed according to the 2003 Rotterdam Criteria. The control subjects were women who underwent laparoscopic investigation for infertility or benign indications. Proteomics was performed by TMT labeling and liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis, and targeted metabolomics was performed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry analysis. The key differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were validated by immunoblotting. MR analysis revealed a potentially causal relationship between increased genetically predicted VAT and PCOS, as well as related traits, such as polycystic ovaries, total testosterone, bioavailable testosterone, and anti-Müllerian hormone, while a negative relationship was found with sex hormone-binding globulin. Enrichment pathway analysis of DEPs indicated the inhibition of glycolysis and activation of mitochondrial OXPHOS in the VAT of PCOS patients. MR analysis revealed that key DEPs involved in glycolysis and OXPHOS were significantly linked to PCOS and its related traits. Dot blot assay confirmed a significant decrease in glycolysis enzymes PKM2 and HK1, and an increase in mitochondrial Complex I and III subunits, NDUFS3 and UQCR10. Moreover, metabolomics analysis confirmed down-regulated metabolites of energy metabolic pathways, in particular glycolysis. Further analysis of PCOS and control subjects of normal weight revealed that dysregulation of glucose metabolism and OXPHOS in VAT of women with PCOS was independent of obesity. The mass spectrometry proteomics data have been deposited to the iProX database (http://www.iprox.org) with the iProX accession: IPX0005774001. There may be an overlap in some exposure and outcome data, which might affect the results in the MR analysis. The changes in protein expression of key enzymes affect their activities and disrupt the energy metabolic homeostasis in VAT, providing valuable insight for identifying potential intervention targets of PCOS. This work was supported by the National Key Research and Development Project of China (2021YFC2700402), the National Natural Science Foundation of China (82071608, 82271665), the Key Clinical Projects of Peking University Third Hospital (BYSY2022043), and the CAMS Innovation Fund for Medical Sciences (2019-I2M-5-001). All authors report no conflict of interest. N/A.

Aromatase, testosterone, TMPRSS2: determinants of COVID-19 severity

BackgroundMale sex has been identified as a risk factor for worse COVID-19 outcomes. This sex difference has been mostly attributed to the complex role of sex hormones. Cell surface entry of SARS-CoV-2 is mediated by the transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2) which is under transcriptional regulation by androgens. P450 aromatase enzyme converts androgens to estrogens. This study measured concentrations of aromatase enzyme, testosterone, estradiol, and TMPRSS-2 in plasma of hospitalized COVID-19 patients to elucidate the dynamics of sex-linked disparity in COVID-19 and correlate them with disease severity and mortality.MethodsIn this prospective cohort study, a total of 265 patients (41% women), age 18 years and older, who had a positive COVID-19 PCR test and were hospitalized for COVID-19 at Memorial Hermann Hospital in Houston, (between May 2020 and May 2021) were enrolled in the study if met inclusion criteria. Plasma concentrations of Testosterone, aromatase, TMPRSS-2, and estradiol were measured by ELISA. COVID-19 patients were dichotomized based on disease severity into moderate-severe (n = 146) or critical (n = 119). Mann Whitney U and logistic regression were used to correlate the analytes with disease severity and mortality.ResultsTMPRSS2 (2.5 ± 0.31 vs. 1.73 ± 0.21 ng/mL, p < 0.01) and testosterone (1.2 ± 0.1 vs. 0.44 ± 0.12 ng/mL, p < 0.01) were significantly higher in men as compared to women with COVID-19 after adjusting for age in a multivariate model. There was no sex difference seen in the level of estradiol and aromatase in COVID-19 patients. TMPRSS2 and aromatase were higher, while testosterone was lower in patients with increased COVID-19 severity. They were independently associated with COVID-19 severity, after adjusting for several baseline risk factors in a multivariate logistic regression model. In terms of mortality, TMPRRS2 and aromatase levels were significantly higher in non-survivors.ConclusionsOur study demonstrates that testosterone, aromatase, and TMPRSS2 are markers of COVID-19 severity. Estradiol levels do not change with disease severity in COVID-19. In terms of mortality prediction, higher aromatase and TMPRSS-2 levels can be used to predict mortality from COVID-19 in hospitalized patients.Plain English SummaryCOVID-19 has caused over a million deaths in the U.S., with men often getting sicker than women. Testosterone, a male hormone, helps control a protein called TMPRSS-2, which allows the COVID-19 virus to spread more easily in the body. A protein called aromatase converts the male hormone testosterone into the female hormone estrogen. It is thought that female hormone estrogen helps protect women from getting seriously ill from COVID-19. To understand the role of these hormones in COVID-19 and sex differences, we measured levels of testosterone, estrogen, aromatase (which turns testosterone into estrogen), and TMPRSS-2 in hospitalized COVID-19 patients. We also checked how this level might reflect the severity of the disease. We found that critically ill COVID-19 patients (the ones in ICU) had higher levels of TMPRSS-2 and aromatase, and lower testosterone levels. When we used these hormone levels to predict death in hospitalized COVID-19 patients, higher levels of TMPRSS-2 and aromatase were linked to a lower chance of survival.

Rapid Liquid Chromatography–Tandem Mass Spectrometry Method for Determination of Total and Free Testosterone in Human Serum and Its Application to Monitoring Biomarker Response of Elite Athletes

Total testosterone (TT) and free testosterone (FT) are important biochemical markers for anabolism of the human body, and can also serve as early screening indicators for overtraining syndrome (OTS). Presently, there is no fast and reliable serum TT and FT determination method in the field of sport science that can meet the requirements of sports research. Thus, a rapid and accurate determination method for serum TT and FT to fill the gap is needed urgently in sports training. Herein, a simple and reliable liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method for the simultaneous determination of TT and FT in serum was developed and fully validated, followed by the application of professional athletes in training monitoring. Efficient pretreatments based on only one-step liquid–liquid extraction (LLE) for TT and one-step LLE after a 20 min ultrafiltration for FT were adopted in this study, and the isotope internal standard of testosterone-13C3 was used to ensure the reliability of the whole procedure. A linear range of four orders of magnitude with 0.02–100 ng/mL can meet the concentration range requirement between a higher limit for male TT and a lower limit for female FT. The accuracy, precision, stability, and matrix effect were all within the limits of the guidelines. The serum TT and FT levels of 200 professional athletes (98 male athletes and 102 female athletes) were investigated by this method. Serum TT, FT, and FT/TT levels of professional athletes were significantly higher than the general population, and serum TT levels were significantly higher by LC-MS/MS than by a chemiluminescence immunoassay. In conclusion, the LC-MS/MS method for TT and FT measurement developed in this study is time-saving and easy to operate, which can be used as a reliable method for the determination of serum TT and FT in sports training, offering valuable information for monitoring anabolism of athletes and screening OTS in the early stage.

Effect of 5β-dihydrotestosterone on vasodilator function and on cell proliferation.

Aging is one of the main factors associated with cardiovascular diseases. Androgens exert beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system and testosterone (TES) replacement therapy improves cardiometabolic risk factors. However, TES is contraindicated in patients with prostate cancer due to its proliferative effects on prostatic tumor cells. Additionally, TES and its reduced metabolites 5α- and 5β-dihydrotestosterone (5α-DHT and 5β-DHT) exert vasodilatory effects. Since androgen levels decrease during aging and 5β-DHT lacks genomic effects, this study is focused on analyzing its effect on vasodilator function and the proliferation rate of prostatic tumor and vascular smooth muscle cells. To study the vascular function, mesenteric arteries from aged-orchidectomized Sprague-Dawley rats were used. Mesenteric segments were divided into one control (without treatment) and three groups with the androgens (10 nM, 30 min) to analyze: acetylcholine- and sodium nitroprusside-induced responses and nitric oxide and superoxide anion production. To analyze cell proliferation, the effect of androgens on cell viability was determined. The results showed that 5β-DHT improves vasodilator function in arteries from aged-orchidectomized rats and induces antioxidant action, while the proliferation rate of the androgen-dependent prostatic tumor cells remains unaltered. These results make 5β-DHT a promising therapeutic agent for the treatment of cardiovascular pathologies.

EXPRESS: Association of exposure to non-persistent endocrine disruptors with sex hormones and metabolic health in US females.

Endocrine disruptive chemicals (EDCs) are considered as the potential attributes for the increasing trend in obesity and metabolic syndrome (MS) through disruption of sex hormones, particularly in women. We evaluated the association of understudied EDC compounds with total testosterone (TT), sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), obesity, and metabolic syndrome (MS). A population-based cross-sectional study was conducted using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey datasets collected during the years 2013-2016. Women of age ≥15 years with urinary measurements of non-persistent EDCs including bisphenol, triclosan, triclocarban, dichlorophenol, and paraben compounds were included in this study. Data were analyzed using the modified Poisson models to estimate the adjusted relative risk (RR) and 95% confidence interval (CI). The associations were also validated by considering TT and SHBG concentrations as the outcomes. The study included 1974 women with 11% high TT, 10.5% low SHBG, 40% obesity, and 46.2% MS. A medium to high exposure to bisphenol-A (RR=1.64; 95%CI: 1.14, 2.35, p=0.009), bisphenol-F (RR=1.83; 95%CI: 1.35, 2.49, p<0.001), bisphenol-S (RR=1.83; 95%CI: 1.35, 2.49, p=0.041) and 2, 4- dichlorophenol (RR=1.61; 95%CI: 1.06, 2.45, p=0.026) were associated with low SHBG but not with high TT. In addition, high exposure to triclosan was also inversely associated with lower SHBG concentrations (regression coefficient=-0.09; 95%CI: -0.15, -0.02, p=0.013). However, these EDCs were found to be associated with SHBG, obesity, and MS according to menopausal status. High exposure to certain non-persistent EDCs was associated with low SHBG, obesity, and MS according to menopausal status.

PFAS Exposure is Associated with a Lower Spermatic Quality in an Arctic Seabird.

Several studies have reported an increasing occurrence of poly- and perfluorinated alkyl substances (PFASs) in Arctic wildlife tissues, raising concerns due to their resistance to degradation. While some research has explored PFAS's physiological effects on birds, their impact on reproductive functions, particularly sperm quality, remains underexplored. This study aims to assess (1) potential association between PFAS concentrations in blood and sperm quality in black-legged kittiwakes (Rissa tridactyla), focusing on the percentage of abnormal spermatozoa, sperm velocity, percentage of sperm motility, and morphology; and (2) examine the association of plasma levels of testosterone, corticosterone, and luteinizing hormone with both PFAS concentrations and sperm quality parameters to assess possible endocrine disrupting pathways. Our findings reveal a positive correlation between the concentration of longer-chain perfluoroalkyl carboxylates (PFCA; C11-C14) in blood and the percentage of abnormal sperm in kittiwakes. Additionally, we observed that two other PFAS (i.e., PFOSlin and PFNA), distinct from those associated with sperm abnormalities, were positively correlated with the stress hormone corticosterone. These findings emphasize the potentially harmful substance-specific effects of long-chain PFCAs on seabirds and the need for further research into the impact of pollutants on sperm quality as a potential additional detrimental effect on birds.

A Mendelian Randomization Study of the Connection Between Exogenous Hormones and Perianal Abscess in Pediatric Patients.

Background: Recent years have witnessed the hypothesis that bioavailable testosterone (BT) might be closely related to the development of inflammatory diseases, especially anal abscess (AA), a common inflammatory ailment with unclear pathogenesis. Given that AA is more prevalent among males, this study investigates the causal relationship between BT and AA. Objective: To explore the causal link between BT and AA, a Mendelian randomization (MR) study was conducted using large-scale genomic data. Materials and Methods: Utilizing genomic data from the UK Biobank and IEU OpenGWAS databases, a two-sample MR analysis was executed. Twenty-six genetic variants strongly associated with BT were selected as instrumental variables (IVs) to assess their link with AA risk. Various MR methods were employed for consistency checks, including sensitivity analyses for heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy. Results: Using a combination of MR methods, we identified a significant causal relationship between BT and the risk of AA. Specifically, the MR analysis revealed that higher levels of BT were associated with an increased risk of AA. Sensitivity analyses, including heterogeneity tests and assessments for horizontal pleiotropy, confirmed the robustness of these findings. The IVs used in the analysis demonstrated a strong association with BT and showed no evidence of significant heterogeneity or horizontal pleiotropy, indicating the validity of the causal inference. Conclusion: This study, employing two-sample MR for the first time, confirms a causal relationship between BT levels and the risk of AA. These findings provide preliminary evidence of the causal relationship between BT and AA and may offer new insights into the pathophysiological mechanism of AA and future therapeutic strategies.

Impact of varying sorbitol concentrations on hematological and biochemical blood parameters in Wistar rats (Rattus norvegicus)

Background: Sorbitol is an artificial sweetener that is very similar to natural sugar, but it is sweeter than natural sugar and lower in calories. Sorbitol is used as an alternative to natural sugar, and it is extracted from regular glucose. It does not have any negative effects on the animals’ health, and it is characterized in safe use in many scientific experiments for the diet of humans and animals.Methods: This study was conducted in the animal house, College of Veterinary Medicine, Al-Qasim Green University for a period of 90 days. Forty rats of the Wistar strain (Rattus norvegicus) were randomly distributed into 4 groups, namely the first group (control group) while the second, third and fourth groups were treated with 100, 200 and 300 μg of sorbitol/kg of body weight .The rats were iso in live weight and age at the beginning of the experiment. Blood samples were drawn at the end of the experimental period. Results: Increase in level dose of sorbitol resulted significant improvement in accounts of red blood cells, white blood cells, and a significant increase in level of hemoglobin, lymphocytes, and monocytes for second, third, and fourth groups compared to the control group. Moreover, the significant improvement in most of the blood parameters was reflected to significant increase in clotting and bleeding time in the second, third and fourth groups of rats compared to the control group. Also, the results showed a significant increase in the levels of FSH, LH, testosterone, Inhibin and MAD hormones for the second, third and fourth groups compared to the control group.Conclusions: The results of the current study revealed that sorbitol has many benefits in the diet of humans and animals and has an effect on blood indicators, some sex hormones and antioxidants in the body. It is recommended not to consume excessive sorbitol in the diet.Keywords: Sorbitol; Hematological parameters; FSH; LH; Wistar rats

Associations of body composition measures with circulating insulin-like growth factor-I, testosterone, and sex hormone-binding globulin concentrations in 16,000 men.

Adiposity is positively associated with risk of some cancer sites and other health conditions in men; however, it is unclear if endogenous hormones play a role in these associations. We examined how body composition, measured from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and common measures of adiposity (e.g., body mass index (BMI)), are related to hormone concentrations in men from the UK Biobank study. Up to 16,237 men with available body composition data (including visceral, subcutaneous, and liver fat, muscle fat infiltration (MFI), lean tissue, and common adiposity measures) and serum hormone measurements (insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), total testosterone, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), and calculated free testosterone) were included. Multivariable-adjusted linear regression models were used to determine the geometric mean hormone and SHBG concentrations across categories of each exposure. Common measurements of adiposity were highly correlated with MRI measures of central and total adiposity (r = 0.76-0.91), although correlations with ectopic fat (liver fat and MFI) were lower (r = 0.43-0.54). Most adiposity measurements showed an inverse U- or J-shaped association with circulating IGF-I and free testosterone; however, MFI was linearly inversely associated, and lean tissue volume was positively associated with both IGF-I and free testosterone concentrations. All body composition measures were inversely associated with total testosterone and SHBG concentrations (relative geometric mean difference between Q5 vs. Q1: 20-30%). Our results show that common adiposity and most MRI measures of adiposity relate similarly to serum hormone concentrations; however, associations with ectopic fat (particularly MFI) and lean tissue were different.

Rapid and eco-friendly microextraction procedure based on green hydrophobic deep eutectic solvent for simultaneous determination of five sex hormones from cosmetic samples

Hormones, which are among the endocrine disruptors, are used in many fields and their use in cosmetic products has recently attracted considerable attention. Despite the negative health consequences, there is no detailed guidance that limits the use of these endocrine disruptors. This study aimed to develop a green hydrophobic deep eutectic solvent (HDES)-based microextraction method for the detection and quantification of sex hormones (progesterone, β-estradiol, estrone, ethinylestradiol, and testosterone) in different cosmetic products. The best value for extraction recovery was obtained by using DL-menthol and dodecanoic acid as green HDES in a 4:1 mole ratio. Optimization parameters such as HDES volume, pH, sample volume, centrifugation time, mixing type, and mixing time were investigated for cosmetic samples to be used as real samples. Furthermore, the extraction recovery values ranged from 85.7 % to 101.3 % and the detection limit was between 2.33–3.30 ng mL−1. Additionally, three different greenness methods, namely ComplexGAPI, AGREEprep, and BAGI, were used to evaluate how green the proposed method is in this study. The microextraction procedure developed in this study was successfully applied to five different cosmetic samples that will be used as real samples to detect and determine sex hormones.

Evaluation of Treatment Results for Male Hypogonadism in Patients with Varicocele and Without Varicocele in Can Tho City

&amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Introduction&amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;: male hypogonadism is defined by the European Association of Urology 2022 as being associated with reduced testicular function, reduced androgen production, and/or impaired sperm production. Male hypogonadism has many causes and accompanying diseases such as diabetes, varicocele, etc. Male hypogonadism hadsymptoms of varicocele and had two treatment options: testosterone replacement therapy or surgical treatment of varicocele. Each method has different advantages and disadvantages, so we research to evaluate each treatment method’s results. &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Objectives: &amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;Evaluate the results of male hypogonadism treatment of testosterone replacement therapy or varicocele surgery. &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Material and methods: &amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study in 111 men with symptoms of hypogonadism from January 2022 to the end of 2023. &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Result: &amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;The average age was 65.2 ± 2.4 years. The Androgen Deficiency in Aging Males (ADAM) questionnaire has the highest rate of 90.99% showing symptoms of decreased erection strength. Hypogonadism is associated with body mass index and diabetes. After treatment, the hypogonadism group with grade III varicocele had the lowest response to treatment. After treatment, total testosterone in blood levels in all treatments increased (p&amp;lt;0.001). &amp;lt;i&amp;gt;Conclusion: &amp;lt;/i&amp;gt;Testosterone replacement therapy for hypogonadism without varicocele is the gold standard, and microsurgical treatment for hypogonadism with varicocele is the most effective.

Justification of the effective sequence of group fitness classes with second mature women (45-55 years old)

This article deals with issues that are aimed at the organization of strength training. First of all, it is necessary to note significant differences between women and men in terms of strength. In women, they are 15-20% lower than in men. Women have a lower tendency to gain muscle mass. This is primarily related to the hormonal background, since the male hormone testosterone is responsible for the growth of muscle mass, and its amount in the body of women is many times smaller than that of men. At the same time, women's ability to display strength indicators of leg muscles is close to men's. Experts in age-related physiology note that at the age of 40-45, reverse processes begin in a woman's body. The main metabolism slows down, the productivity of various organs and systems decreases, the possibility of various pathological processes, chronic diseases, etc. increases. In connection with the decrease in the hormonal background, negative changes are observed in all organs and systems of the body. Blood pressure often rises, a tendency to osteoporosis appears, fat metabolism is disturbed, which often leads to an increase in body fat. There are significant changes in the respiratory system, the vital capacity of the lungs decreases, the mobility of the chest decreases. After 40 years, there is a significant decrease in muscle strength in women. The elasticity of muscles, tendons, and joint performance is lost. At the same time, muscle tone decreases, which leads to negative changes in posture.

From a solitary blood-derived biomarker to combined biomarkers of sarcopenia: Experiences from the Korean Frailty and Aging Cohort Study.

Sarcopenia is recognized as a complex and multifactorial disorder that includes nutritional deficiency, inactivity, proinflammatory status, hormonal changes, neurological degeneration, and metabolic disturbances. Its' pathogenesis is not fully understood. Therefore, identifying specific biomarkers of sarcopenia will help us understand its pathophysiology. The most frequently reported blood-derived biomarkers of sarcopenia are growth factors, neuromuscular junctions, endocrine systems, mitochondrial dysfunction, inflammation-mediated and redox processes, muscle protein turnover, blood metabolomics, and behavior-mediated biomarkers. Here, we address the implications of sarcopenia biomarkers based on our research experience with KFACS cohort data. It includes free testosterone, myostatin, fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF-21), growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15), procollagen type III N-terminal peptide (P3NP), creatinine-based biomarkers, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), metabolites (proline, alanine, tryptophan), and multi-biomarker risk score. We attempted to explain the paradoxical findings of myostatin and FGF-21 levels in relation to sarcopenia. GDF-15 levels were associated with sarcopenia prevalence but not its incidence. Plasma P3NP and BDNF levels may be biomarkers of muscle quality rather than quantity. Lower erythrocyte EPA and DHA levels were associated with slow gait speed, and erythrocyte EPA levels were associated with low handgrip strength. We developed a multi-biomarker risk score for sarcopenia and found that its accuracy in diagnosing sarcopenia was higher than that of any single biomarker.