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Anelli V, Gatta E, Pirola I, Delbarba A, Rotondi M, Cappelli C. Thyroid impairment and male fertility: a narrative review of literature. Aging Male 2024; 27:2310303. [PMID: 38347677 DOI: 10.1080/13685538.2024.2310303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the effect of thyroid function on male fertility, focusing on hypo- and hyperthyroidism. METHODS A PubMed/MEDLINE, Web of Science, and Scopus research was performed. Original studies in English published online up to 31 May 2023 were selected and reviewed. The final reference list was defined based on the relevance of each paper to the scope of this review. RESULTS The available data in animals (31 studies) and human (26 studies) showed conflicting results. However, thyroid dysfunction altered erection and ejaculation both in animal models than in men. CONCLUSION Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism seem to cause ejaculation and erectile dysfunction. Hence, Guidelines recommend against the systematic screening for thyroid disorders in the men in sub-fertile couples, but only in men with ejaculation and erectile dysfunction and/or altered semen parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Anelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, SSD Endocrinologia, University of Brescia, Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Elisa Gatta
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, SSD Endocrinologia, University of Brescia, Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Ilenia Pirola
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, SSD Endocrinologia, University of Brescia, Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Andrea Delbarba
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, SSD Endocrinologia, University of Brescia, Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
| | - Mario Rotondi
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Unit of Internal Medicine and Endocrinology, Laboratory for Endocrine Disruptors, Pavia, Italy
- Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Carlo Cappelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Sciences, SSD Endocrinologia, University of Brescia, Azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale (ASST) Spedali Civili di Brescia, Brescia, Italy
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Hantusch B, Kenner L, Stanulović VS, Hoogenkamp M, Brown G. Targeting Androgen, Thyroid Hormone, and Vitamin A and D Receptors to Treat Prostate Cancer. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:9245. [PMID: 39273194 PMCID: PMC11394715 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25179245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2024] [Revised: 08/20/2024] [Accepted: 08/23/2024] [Indexed: 09/15/2024] Open
Abstract
The nuclear hormone family of receptors regulates gene expression. The androgen receptor (AR), upon ligand binding and homodimerization, shuttles from the cytosol into the nucleus to activate gene expression. Thyroid hormone receptors (TRs), retinoic acid receptors (RARs), and the vitamin D receptor (VDR) are present in the nucleus bound to chromatin as a heterodimer with the retinoid X receptors (RXRs) and repress gene expression. Ligand binding leads to transcription activation. The hormonal ligands for these receptors play crucial roles to ensure the proper conduct of very many tissues and exert effects on prostate cancer (PCa) cells. Androgens support PCa proliferation and androgen deprivation alone or with chemotherapy is the standard therapy for PCa. RARγ activation and 3,5,3'-triiodo-L-thyronine (T3) stimulation of TRβ support the growth of PCa cells. Ligand stimulation of VDR drives growth arrest, differentiation, and apoptosis of PCa cells. Often these receptors are explored as separate avenues to find treatments for PCa and other cancers. However, there is accumulating evidence to support receptor interactions and crosstalk of regulatory events whereby a better understanding might lead to new combinatorial treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brigitte Hantusch
- Department of Pathology, Department for Experimental and Laboratory Animal Pathology, Medical University of Vienna, 1010 Vienna, Austria;
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Lukas Kenner
- Department of Pathology, Department for Experimental and Laboratory Animal Pathology, Medical University of Vienna, 1010 Vienna, Austria;
- Comprehensive Cancer Center, Medical University Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Unit of Laboratory Animal Pathology, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, 1210 Vienna, Austria
- Department of Molecular Biology, Umeå University, 901 87 Umeå, Sweden
- Christian Doppler Laboratory for Applied Metabolomics, Medical University Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria
- Center for Biomarker Research in Medicine (CBmed), 8010 Graz, Austria
| | - Vesna S. Stanulović
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; (V.S.S.); (M.H.)
| | - Maarten Hoogenkamp
- Institute of Cancer and Genomic Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; (V.S.S.); (M.H.)
| | - Geoffrey Brown
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Institute of Clinical Sciences, College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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Paiva RVN, Mondes PHDL, Brandão BDJ, Sant’Anna JN, Freire dos Santos ME, Fighera YM, Santos LC, Markus RP, Fernandes PACM, Silva JF, Tamura EK. Effects of acute hypothyroidism on plasma melatonin and Aanat and Asmt expression in the pineal gland and gonads of rats. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1322867. [PMID: 39149125 PMCID: PMC11324505 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1322867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/01/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The reproductive system is tightly regulated by environmental and physiological signals. Melatonin, known as the hormone of darkness, plays a crucial role in regulating both the circadian and reproductive systems in mammals. Hypothyroidism is a key endocrine disorder that harms the reproductive system. Despite many studies on melatonin's effects on the reproductive system, there is conflicting information regarding melatonin synthesis modulation in hypothyroidism. The objective of this study was to investigate the modulation of plasma melatonin levels and gene expression of Aanat and Asmt in the pineal gland and gonads of rats with hypothyroidism at different times of the day. Methods Female and male Wistar rats were divided into control and hypothyroid groups. Hypothyroidism was induced using propylthiouracil (PTU) for 15 days, rats were euthanized six hours after lights on (ZT6), before lights off (ZT11.5), and six hours after lights off (ZT18). Free thyroxine (FT4) and melatonin were quantified in plasma, and gene expressions of melatonin synthesizing enzymes (Aanat and Asmt) were measured in pineal and sexual organs (testis and ovary). Also, morphological analysis was performed in sexual organs. Results The results reveal some disparities between the sexes. Hypothyroidism reduced antral and primary follicles in the ovary, and reduced the weight of testis, epididymis, and prostate. In relation to gene expression, we observed a reduction in Aanat expression in the pineal gland during the light phase (ZT6), and in males, this reduction occurred during the dark phase (ZT18). Regarding Asmt expression, there was a decrease in females also during the dark phase (ZT18). In the gonads, there was an increase in expression in both sexes at ZT11.5. Additionally, it was interesting to observe the association between FT4 levels and Asmt expression in the gonads. Conclusions This study showed that acute hypothyroidism can affect components of the melatonergic system in gonads, particularly gene expression of melatonin synthesis enzymes (Aanat and Asmt) contributing to changes in reproduction organs during disease progression. These findings enhance our understanding of melatonin synthesis in the reproductive system during hypothyroidism, showing distinct responses in male and female rats, and suggest that hypothyroidism affects the circadian rhythmicity of melatonin synthesis in a sex-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafaella Valete Nunes Paiva
- Chronobiology Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, State University of Santa Cruz, Ilhéus, Brazil
- Reproduction and Endocrinology Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences, State University of Santa Cruz, Ilhéus, Brazil
| | | | - Beatriz de Jesus Brandão
- Chronobiology Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, State University of Santa Cruz, Ilhéus, Brazil
| | - Julia Nascimento Sant’Anna
- Chronobiology Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, State University of Santa Cruz, Ilhéus, Brazil
| | | | - Yasmin Muniz Fighera
- Chronobiology Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, State University of Santa Cruz, Ilhéus, Brazil
| | - Luciano Cardoso Santos
- Reproduction and Endocrinology Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences, State University of Santa Cruz, Ilhéus, Brazil
| | - Regina P. Markus
- Chronopharmacology Laboratory, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biosciences, University of São Paulo, São Paulo, Brazil
| | | | - Juneo Freitas Silva
- Reproduction and Endocrinology Research Center, Department of Biological Sciences, State University of Santa Cruz, Ilhéus, Brazil
| | - Eduardo Koji Tamura
- Chronobiology Research Group, Department of Health Sciences, State University of Santa Cruz, Ilhéus, Brazil
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Prathima P, Venkaiah K, Reddy MH, Pradeepkiran JA, Sainath SB. Antioxidant effects of α-lipoic acid against epididymal oxidative damage in adult offspring rats exposed to maternal hypothyroidism stress. Reprod Toxicol 2024; 125:108555. [PMID: 38342389 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2024.108555] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2023] [Revised: 02/05/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/13/2024]
Abstract
It is well known that the epididymis promotes post-testicular sperm maturation events. However, its malfunction during congenital hypothyroidism is relatively less understood as compared to the testis. The present study evaluated the probable effect of α-lipoic acid on epididymal oxidative stress parameters in rats exposed to antithyroid drug, carbimazole during fetal period. Time-mated pregnant rats in unexposed and carbimazole (1.35 mg/Kg body weight exposed were allowed to deliver pups and weaned. At postnatal day 100, the F1 male pups were assessed for epididymal endpoints. Among the epididymal regions, significant elevation of lipid peroxidation levels, superoxide anion, and hydrogen peroxide contents with a concomitant reduction in the activity levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase, glutathione reductase and reduced glutathione levels were observed in cauda epididymis of carbimazole exposed rats over controls. Significant elevation in sperm DNA fragmentation (comet assay), accelerated cauda epididymal sperm transit time and reduction in epididymal sialic acid content was observed in carbimazole exposed rats. RT-qPCR studies revealed that embryonic exposure to carbimazole resulted in down regulation of androgen receptor, nuclear factor eryrthoid 2 like 2, 5α-reducatse 1 mRNA levels, while up regulation of caspase 3 mRNA was observed in epididymal regions of rats. In addition, fetal exposure to carbimazole resulted in disorganization of cauda epididymal architecture in rats. Conversely, supplementation of α-lipoic acid (70 mg/Kg bodyweight) during PND 3 to 14 restored epididymal functions in carbimazole exposed rats and the ameliorative effects of lipoic acid could be attributed to its antioxidant and steroidogenic effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Prathima
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore 524 320, AP, India
| | - K Venkaiah
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore 524 320, AP, India
| | - M Hanuma Reddy
- Department of Marine Biology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore 524320, AP, India
| | | | - S B Sainath
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore 524 320, AP, India.
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Prathima P, Venkaiah K, Pavani R, Rao KVLS, Pitchika GK, Kishori B, Dirisala VR, Pradeepkiran JA, Sainath SB. Transcriptomic profiling identified altered expression of genes associated with testicular functions in adult F1 rats exposed to carbimazole during fetal period. J Proteomics 2023; 274:104811. [PMID: 36592655 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2022.104811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2022] [Revised: 12/17/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The central goal of this study was to investigate the alterations in transcriptome of testis in F1 generation adult rats exposed to carbimazole prenatally. At post-natal day 100, the testis of rats delivered to carbimazole exposed (time-mated pregnant rats orally administered with carbimazole from gestation day 9 to 21) and control (untreated pregnant rats) groups were subjected to transcriptomic analysis using NGS platform. A total of 187 differentially expressed (up regulated: 49 genes; down regulated: 138) genes were identified in carbimazole exposed rats over controls and the major processes associated with these altered testicular transcripts were examined. Functional clustering analysis suggest that the involvement of identified DEGs were linked to intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways, mitochondrial solute carriers slc25a members, nuclear receptors/zinc family members, steroidogenic pathway and cholesterol synthesis, and growth factors and protein kinases and thus represent potential mediators of the developmental toxic effects of carbimazole in F1 generation rats. Based on the findings, it can be concluded that prenatal exposure to carbimazole prominently affects expression of multiple transcripts implicating key regulatory events associated with testicular functions, spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis in rats at their adulthood. These results support our earlier findings and hypothesis. This background information obtained at the testicular transcriptome during gestational hypothyroidism might be helpful for future studies and experiments to gain additional in-depth analysis and to develop strategies to protect F1 generation male reproductive health. SIGNIFICANCE: The rationale for the paper described thyroid gland changes in the off springs. Antithyroid drugs are widely used to control thyroid disorders and used to control thyroid hormone levels during surgeries. Carbimazole is one of the antithyroid drugs and is a parent molecule of methimazole. Both the drugs can able to cross placenta. During fetal period, the development of thyroid gland is not completely formed and hence, the fetus entirely depends on the maternal thyroid hormones. Therefore, it is conceivable that the disturbances at the level of maternal thyroid hormones could interfere with the development of vital organs such as testis and glands including thyroid gland (Kala et al., 2012). To address this notion, the present study was designed and executed.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Prathima
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore 524324, AP, India
| | - K Venkaiah
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore 524324, AP, India
| | - R Pavani
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore 524324, AP, India
| | - K V L Shrikanya Rao
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore 524324, AP, India
| | - Gopi Krishna Pitchika
- Department of Zoology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Post-Graduation Centre, Kavali 524201, India
| | - B Kishori
- Department of Biotechnology, SPMVV, Tirupati 517 502, AP, India
| | - Vijaya R Dirisala
- Department of Biotechnology, Vignan University, Vadalmudu, 522213 Guntur, Tenali road, AP, India
| | | | - S B Sainath
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore 524324, AP, India.
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Anguiano B, Montes de Oca C, Delgado-González E, Aceves C. Prostate gland as a target organ of thyroid hormones: advances and controversies. Endocr Connect 2022; 11:e210581. [PMID: 35041618 PMCID: PMC8859956 DOI: 10.1530/ec-21-0581] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Thyroid hormones (THs) are involved in the development and function of the male reproductive system, but their effects on the prostate have been poorly studied. This work reviews studies related to the interrelationship between the thyroid and the prostate. The information presented here is based upon bibliographic searches in PubMed using the following search terms: prostate combined with thyroid hormone or triiodothyronine, thyroxine, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism, or deiodinase. We identified and searched 49 articles directly related to the issue, and discarded studies related to endocrine disruptors. The number of publications has grown in the last 20 years, considering that one of the first studies was published in 1965. This review provides information based on in vitro studies, murine models, and clinical protocols in patients with thyroid disorders. Studies indicate that THs regulate different aspects of growth, metabolism, and prostate pathology, whose global effect depends on total and/or free concentrations of THs in serum, local bioavailability, and the endocrine androgen/thyronine context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brenda Anguiano
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, México
- Correspondence should be addressed to B Anguiano:
| | - Carlos Montes de Oca
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, México
| | - Evangelina Delgado-González
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, México
| | - Carmen Aceves
- Departamento de Neurobiología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Neurobiología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Campus Juriquilla, Querétaro, México
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La Vignera S, Vita R, Condorelli RA, Mongioì LM, Presti S, Benvenga S, Calogero AE. Impact of thyroid disease on testicular function. Endocrine 2017; 58:397-407. [PMID: 28429281 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-017-1303-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2017] [Accepted: 04/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Testis was considered unresponsive to thyroid hormone for a long time. However, like in animals, the presence of thyroid hormone receptors in different testicular cell types was demonstrated also in humans. Accordingly, thyrotoxicosis and hypothyroidism have remarkable effects on testicular function and more extensively on fertility. REVIEW Thyrotoxicosis and hypothyroidism are associated with changes affecting the endocrine, sexual, or reproductive functions. Particularly, compared with controls, hyperthyroid patients have higher serum SHBG and lower free and bioavailable testosterone concentrations, a higher rate of astheno-zoospermia, oligo-zoospermia, and terato-zoospermia, and a higher prevalence of sexual disturbances, such as premature ejaculation. In hypothyroid patients, hormonal changes are in the opposite direction compared with hyperthyroid patients. Thyroid hormone regulates a number of functions in the testis, such as proliferation and differentiations of non-germ cells, steroidogenesis, and sperm motility. Furthermore, thyroid hormone regulates testicular redox status. Consequently, thyroid hormone excess or deficiency can affect testicular function at different levels. CONCLUSIONS In view of the high prevalence of thyrotoxicosis and hypothyroidism, a considerable part of infertile patients may harbor overt or subclinical thyroid disease. Identification and management of thyrotoxicosis/hypothyroidism associated infertility needs the collaboration of andrologists, endocrinologists, gynecologists, and general practitioners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandro La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico "G. Rodolico", Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy.
| | - Roberto Vita
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Policlinico Universitario di Messina, Padiglione H, 4th floor, Viale Gazzi, 98125, Messina, Italy
| | - Rosita A Condorelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico "G. Rodolico", Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Laura M Mongioì
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico "G. Rodolico", Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - Silvia Presti
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Policlinico Universitario di Messina, Padiglione H, 4th floor, Viale Gazzi, 98125, Messina, Italy
| | - Salvatore Benvenga
- Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Messina, Policlinico Universitario di Messina, Padiglione H, 4th floor, Viale Gazzi, 98125, Messina, Italy
- Master Program on Childhood, Adolescence & Women's Endocrine Health, University of Messina, Viale Gazzi, 98125, Messina, Italy
- Interdepartmental Program of Molecular & Clinical Endocrinology and Women's Endocrine Health, A.O.U. Policlinico G. Martino, Viale Gazzi, 98125, Messina, Italy
| | - Aldo E Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico "G. Rodolico", Via Santa Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy
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Prathima P, Venkaiah K, Pavani R, Daveedu T, Munikumar M, Gobinath M, Valli M, Sainath SB. α-lipoic acid inhibits oxidative stress in testis and attenuates testicular toxicity in rats exposed to carbimazole during embryonic period. Toxicol Rep 2017; 4:373-381. [PMID: 28959662 PMCID: PMC5615143 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxrep.2017.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Revised: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 06/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The intrauterine exposure of carbiamzole (CBZ) on male fertility is not well defined. CBZ exposure in utero results in spermatotoxic effects and impaired steroidogenesis in offspring rats at their adulthood. Gestational exposure to CBZ augmented testicular oxidative damage in offspring rats. α-lipoic acid supplementation with its antioxidant properties ameliorated diminished male reproductive health in rats exposed to CBZ prenatally.
The aim of this study was to evaluate the probable protective effect of α-lipoic acid against testicular toxicity in rats exposed to carbimazole during the embryonic period. Time-mated pregnant rats were exposed to carbimazole from the embryonic days 9–21. After completion of the gestation period, all the rats were allowed to deliver pups and weaned. At postnatal day 100, F1 male pups were assessed for the selected reproductive endpoints. Gestational exposure to carbimazole decreased the reproductive organ indices, testicular daily sperm count, epididymal sperm variables viz., sperm count, viable sperm, motile sperm and HOS-tail coiled sperms. Significant decrease in the activity levels of 3β- and 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases and expression of StAR mRNA levels with a significant increase in the total cholesterol levels were observed in the testis of experimental rats over the controls. These events were also accompanied by a significant reduction in the serum testosterone levels in CBZ exposed rats, indicating reduced steroidogenesis. In addition, the deterioration of the testicular architecture and reduced fertility ability were noticed in the carbimazole exposed rats. Significant reduction in the activity levels of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase and reduced glutathione content with a significant increase in the levels of lipid peroxidation were observed in the testis of carbimazole exposed rats over the controls. Conversely, supplementation of α-lipoic acid (70 mg/Kg bodyweight) ameliorated the male reproductive health in rats exposed to carbimazole during the embryonic period as evidenced by enhanced reproductive organ weights, selected sperm variables, testicular steroidogenesis, and testicular enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidants. To conclude, diminished testicular antioxidant balance associated with reduced spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis might be responsible for the suppressed reproduction in rats exposed to the carbimazole transplacentally. On the other hand, α-lipoic acid through its antioxidant and steroidogenic properties mitigated testicular toxicity which eventually restored the male reproductive health of carbimazole-exposed rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Prathima
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore-524003, AP, India, India
| | - K Venkaiah
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore-524003, AP, India, India
| | - R Pavani
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore-524003, AP, India, India
| | - T Daveedu
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore-524003, AP, India, India
| | - M Munikumar
- Biomedical Informatics Centre, National Institute of Nutrition-ICMR, Jamia Islamia (Post), Hyderabad-500007, Telangana, India, India
| | - M Gobinath
- Department of Pharmacy, Ratnam Institute of Pharmacy, Nellore-524346, AP, India
| | - M Valli
- Department of Genetics, Narayana Medical College, Nellore-524003, AP, India
| | - S B Sainath
- Department of Biotechnology, Vikrama Simhapuri University, Nellore-524003, AP, India, India
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Male reproductive toxicity of CrVI: In-utero exposure to CrVI at the critical window of testis differentiation represses the expression of Sertoli cell tight junction proteins and hormone receptors in adult F 1 progeny rats. Reprod Toxicol 2017; 69:84-98. [PMID: 28192182 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2017.02.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2016] [Revised: 01/19/2017] [Accepted: 02/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
The effect of gestational exposure to CrVI (occupational/environmental pollutant and target to Sertoli cells(SC)) was tested in a rat model during the testicular differentiation from the bipotential gonad may interrupt spermatogenesis by disrupting SC tight junctions(TJ) and it's proteins and hormone receptors. Pregnant Wistar rats were exposed to 50/100/200ppm CrVI through drinking water during embryonic days 9-14. On Postnatal day 120, testes were subjected to ion exchange chromatographic analysis and revealed increased level of CrIII in SCs and germ cells, serum and testicular interstitial fluid(TIF). Microscopic analyses showed seminiferous tubules atrophy and disruption of SC TJ, which also recorded decreased testosterone in TIF. mRNA and Protein expression analyses attested decreased level of Fshr, Ar, occludin and claudin-11 in SCs. Immunofluorescent detection revealed weak signal of TJ proteins. Taken together, we concluded that gestational exposure to CrVI interferes with the expression of SC TJ proteins due to attenuated expression of hormone receptors.
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Aiceles V, Gombar F, da Fonte Ramos C. Hormonal and testicular changes in rats submitted to congenital hypothyroidism in early life. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2017; 439:65-73. [PMID: 27793676 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2016.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2016] [Revised: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 10/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
The goal of this study was to evaluate the influence of hypothyroidism induced by MMI, during gestation (G) or gestation plus lactation (GL) on testis and its relation with leptin in rats. Six to eight pups were killed at 90 days of age. For statistical analysis One-way ANOVA followed by the Holm-Sìdak post hoc test was used. Hypothyroidism resulted in a significant reduction in LH, FSH and testosterone and an increase in leptin serum levels (p < 0.04). There was a significant decrease in StAR, AR, FSHR, LHR, pSTAT3 and SOCS3 (p < 0.04) protein expression and in the fertility parameters (p < 0.04). We can conclude that hypothyroidism is associated with reduction of steroidogenesis and spermatogenesis leading to a low fertility potential in these animals. This outcome could be a consequence of low pituitary stimulus and testicular response and probably are not related with leptin hormone since its signaling pathway is down-regulated in the testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veronica Aiceles
- Laboratory of Morphometry, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Disease, Biomedical Center, Institute of Biology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Flavia Gombar
- Laboratory of Morphometry, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Disease, Biomedical Center, Institute of Biology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Cristiane da Fonte Ramos
- Laboratory of Morphometry, Metabolism and Cardiovascular Disease, Biomedical Center, Institute of Biology, State University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
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Leach DA, Powell SM, Bevan CL. WOMEN IN CANCER THEMATIC REVIEW: New roles for nuclear receptors in prostate cancer. Endocr Relat Cancer 2016; 23:T85-T108. [PMID: 27645052 DOI: 10.1530/erc-16-0319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Accepted: 09/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Prostate cancer has, for decades, been treated by inhibiting androgen signalling. This is effective in the majority of patients, but inevitably resistance develops and patients progress to life-threatening metastatic disease - hence the quest for new effective therapies for 'castrate-resistant' prostate cancer (CRPC). Studies into what pathways can drive tumour recurrence under these conditions has identified several other nuclear receptor signalling pathways as potential drivers or modulators of CRPC.The nuclear receptors constitute a large (48 members) superfamily of transcription factors sharing a common modular functional structure. Many of them are activated by the binding of small lipophilic molecules, making them potentially druggable. Even those for which no ligand exists or has yet been identified may be tractable to activity modulation by small molecules. Moreover, genomic studies have shown that in models of CRPC, other nuclear receptors can potentially drive similar transcriptional responses to the androgen receptor, while analysis of expression and sequencing databases shows disproportionately high mutation and copy number variation rates among the superfamily. Hence, the nuclear receptor superfamily is of intense interest in the drive to understand how prostate cancer recurs and how we may best treat such recurrent disease. This review aims to provide a snapshot of the current knowledge of the roles of different nuclear receptors in prostate cancer - a rapidly evolving field of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Damien A Leach
- Division of CancerImperial Centre for Translational & Experimental Medicine, Imperial, College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London, UK
| | - Sue M Powell
- Division of CancerImperial Centre for Translational & Experimental Medicine, Imperial, College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London, UK
| | - Charlotte L Bevan
- Division of CancerImperial Centre for Translational & Experimental Medicine, Imperial, College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, London, UK
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Ahmed RG, Abdel-Latif M, Ahmed F. Protective effects of GM-CSF in experimental neonatal hypothyroidism. Int Immunopharmacol 2015; 29:538-543. [PMID: 26453507 DOI: 10.1016/j.intimp.2015.10.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2015] [Revised: 09/27/2015] [Accepted: 10/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Hypothyroidism induced by methimazole (MMI), has a negative impact on the postnatal development. Neonatal Granulocyte Macrophage-Colony Stimulating Factor [GM-CSF; 50μg/kg, intramuscular injection at postnatal day (PND) 17] had been tested to ameliorate the effects of MMI [0.05%, (weight per volume; w/v), intraperitoneal injection at PND 15]-induced hypothyroidism in Wistar rats. The hypothyroid conditions due to the administration of MMI produced inhibitory effects on neonatal serum thyroxine (T4), 3,5,3'-triiodothyronine (T3), neutrophil count in bone marrow and blood, cerebellar glutathione (GSH) and acetylcholinesterase (AchE), although it induced stimulatory actions on serum thyrotropin (TSH), growth hormone (GH), insulin growth factor-II (IGF-II), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and cerebellar malondialdehyde (MDA) at PND 19. The treatment with GM-CSF could reverse the depressing and stimulating effects of MMI on these markers except for cerebellar AchE where its enhancement was non-significant (P>0.05) at tested PND. Thus, neonatal GM-CSF may be responsible for suppressing autoimmune responses and preventing hypothyroidism.
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Affiliation(s)
- R G Ahmed
- Division of Anatomy and Embryology, Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt.
| | - M Abdel-Latif
- Division of Immunity, Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - F Ahmed
- Immunity and Microbiology Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
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Abstract
Male reproduction is governed by the classical hypothalamo-hypophyseal testicular axis: Hypothalamic gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH), pituitary luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and the gonadal steroid, principally, testosterone. Thyroid hormones have been shown to exert a modulatory influence on this axis and consequently the sexual and spermatogenic function of man. This review will examine the modulatory influence of thyroid hormones on male reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anand Kumar
- Department of Reproductive Biology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, Intern, India
| | - Skand Shekhar
- University College of Medical Sciences, Delhi, India
| | - Bodhana Dhole
- Department of Reproductive Biology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, Intern, India
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Maranghi F, De Angelis S, Tassinari R, Chiarotti F, Lorenzetti S, Moracci G, Marcoccia D, Gilardi E, Di Virgilio A, Eusepi A, Mantovani A, Olivieri A. Reproductive toxicity and thyroid effects in Sprague Dawley rats exposed to low doses of ethylenethiourea. Food Chem Toxicol 2013; 59:261-71. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fct.2013.05.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2013] [Revised: 05/15/2013] [Accepted: 05/31/2013] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
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Stanley JA, Aruldhas MM, Yuvaraju PB, Banu SK, Anbalagan J, Neelamohan R, Annapoorna K, Jayaraman G. Is gender difference in postnatal thyroid growth associated with specific expression patterns of androgen and estrogen receptors? Steroids 2010; 75:1058-66. [PMID: 20670640 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2010.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2009] [Revised: 06/19/2010] [Accepted: 06/22/2010] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Variations in sex steroids bioavailability were linked to the gender difference in the growth of thyroid glands of neonatal rats. In the present study we tested androgen receptor (AR) and estrogen receptor (ER) concentrations by ligand binding assay, and expression of their genes by RT-PCR and Western blot in the thyroid glands of neonatal rats. AR concentration remained elevated from postnatal day (PND) 10 onwards in males, whereas it decreased by PND 20 in females. AR mRNA and protein expressions were higher in males than females, which increased by PND 10, decreased after PND 15 and reached the nadir by PND 20. ER concentration increased by PND 10 and decreased thereafter in both sex. ERα mRNA expression diminished by PND 15 in both sex; while ERβ mRNA decreased by PND 15 to reach the nadir by PND 20 in males, it was augmented by PND 10 in females to reach the peak by PND 15 and diminished by PND 20. ERα protein expression increased by PND 10 and remained elevated till PND 20 in both sex. ERβ protein expression in males increased by PND 10 and decreased by PND 20, while it remained static up to PND 15 and decreased in females. Testosterone stimulated [(3)H]-thymidine uptake and the expression of IGF-1 and NIS genes in thyrocytes of both sex in vitro, while estradiol stimulated them in females but not in males. We conclude that androgens influence the growth and differentiation of thyrocytes through augmented expression of AR, IGF-1 and NIS in either sex, whereas estrogen imparts the gender difference, which may be at a level beyond the expression of ERs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jone A Stanley
- Department of Endocrinology, Dr. ALM, Post Graduate Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, University of Madras, Taramani, Chennai, India
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