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Ilkevič E, Hausmann M, Grikšienė R. Emotion recognition and regulation in males: Role of sex and stress steroids. Front Neuroendocrinol 2024; 74:101145. [PMID: 38862092 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2024.101145] [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: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024]
Abstract
Understanding emotions in males is crucial given their higher susceptibility to substance use, interpersonal violence, and suicide compared to females. Steroid hormones are assumed to be critical biological factors that affect and modulate emotion-related behaviors, together with psychological and social factors. This review explores whether males' abilities to recognize emotions of others and regulate their own emotions are associated with testosterone, cortisol, and their interaction. Higher levels of testosterone were associated with improved recognition and heightened sensitivity to threatening faces. In contrast, higher cortisol levels positively impacted emotion regulation ability. Indirect evidence from neuroimaging research suggested a link between higher testosterone levels and difficulties in cognitive emotion regulation. However, this notion must be investigated in future studies using different emotion regulation strategies and considering social status. The present review contributes to the understanding of how testosterone and cortisol affect psychological well-being and emotional behavior in males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik Ilkevič
- Department of Neurobiology and Biophysics, Life Science Center, Vilnius University, Lithuania
| | | | - Ramunė Grikšienė
- Department of Neurobiology and Biophysics, Life Science Center, Vilnius University, Lithuania.
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2
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Del Giudice M, Gangestad SW. Hormone ratios suffer from striking lack of robustness to measurement error. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2022; 142:105802. [PMID: 35598493 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2022.105802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Revised: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Hormone ratios are often used to capture the joint effect (or "balance") of two hormones with opposing or mutually suppressive effects. Despite some statistical and interpretative problems, hormone ratios are being increasingly used to examine associations of testosterone/cortisol, estradiol/progesterone, testosterone/estradiol, and other hormone pairs. Here we discuss a methodological problem that has not been previously recognized, namely, the striking lack of robustness of raw hormone ratios in the face of measurement error. Hormone levels are measured with error, both due to inability of assays to perfectly assess concentrations "in the tube" and due to discrepancies between levels at the time of sample collection and effective levels that produce the physiological and/or behavioral effect of interest. Noise in measured hormone levels can be substantially exaggerated by ratios, especially when the distribution of the hormone at the denominator is positively skewed, as is frequently observed. To evaluate the extent of this problem and explore the conditions that exacerbate it, we present two sets of simulations, one using idealized distributions and one using empirically observed distributions from studies of estrogen and progesterone. Results show that the validity of raw hormone ratios-the correlation between measured levels and underlying effective levels-drops rapidly in the presence of realistic levels of measurement error. Log-ratios are much more robust to measurement error, and their validity is more stable across samples; under some conditions (e.g., moderate amounts of noise with positively correlated hormone levels), they may provide a more valid measurement of the underlying raw ratio than the measured raw ratio itself. These findings have important implications for research that uses hormone ratios as predictors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Del Giudice
- Department of Psychology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA.
| | - Steven W Gangestad
- Department of Psychology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
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3
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Kowal M, Sorokowski P, Żelaźniewicz A, Nowak J, Orzechowski S, Żurek G, Żurek A, Nawrat M. Are Beards Honest Signals of Male Dominance and Testosterone? ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2021; 50:3703-3710. [PMID: 34676468 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-021-02012-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 10/03/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The male beard is one of the most visually salient and sexually dimorphic traits and a hypothesized potential marker of other traits, such as dominance, masculinity, social status, and self-confidence. However, as men can easily alter their facial hair, beards may provide unreliable information about the beard owner's characteristics. Here, we examined whether beards are honest signals of biological (testosterone levels) and psychological (self-reported dominance) traits. Young (M = 21.29, SD = 1.54) and healthy men (N = 97) participated in the study. Their beards were measured directly (using digital calipers) and by self-report. Participants provided saliva samples before and after acute exercise (to assess their testosterone and cortisol levels) and reported their dominance on a 5-item scale. The results showed that beard length (directly measured and self-reported) was not related to testosterone levels or dominance; thus, no evidence was found to support the hypothesis that beards are honest (or dishonest) signals of the beard owners' testosterone levels and dominance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Kowal
- Institute of Psychology, University of Wrocław, Dawida 1, 50-529, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Piotr Sorokowski
- Institute of Psychology, University of Wrocław, Dawida 1, 50-529, Wrocław, Poland.
| | | | - Judyta Nowak
- Department of Human Biology, University of Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
| | | | - Grzegorz Żurek
- University School of Physical Education in Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Alina Żurek
- Institute of Psychology, University of Wrocław, Dawida 1, 50-529, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Magdalena Nawrat
- Institute of Psychology, University of Wrocław, Dawida 1, 50-529, Wrocław, Poland
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4
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Kowal M, Sorokowski P, Żelaźniewicz A, Nowak J, Orzechowski S, Żurek A, Żurek G. A positive relationship between body height and the testosterone response to physical exercise. EVOL HUM BEHAV 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.evolhumbehav.2020.08.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Crewther BT, Hecht M, Cook CJ. Diurnal Within-Person Coupling Between Testosterone and Cortisol in Healthy Men: Evidence of Positive and Bidirectional Time-Lagged Associations Using a Continuous-Time Model. ADAPTIVE HUMAN BEHAVIOR AND PHYSIOLOGY 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40750-021-00162-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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OSTATNÍKOVÁ D, LAKATOŠOVÁ S, BABKOVÁ J, HODOSY J, CELEC P. Testosterone and the Brain: From Cognition to Autism. Physiol Res 2021. [DOI: 10.33549/10.33549/physiolres.934592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Sex and gender matter in all aspects of life. Humans exhibit sexual dimorphism in anatomy, physiology, but also pathology. Many of the differences are due to sex chromosomes and, thus, genetics, other due to endocrine factors such as sex hormones, some are of social origin. Over the past decades, huge number of scientific studies have revealed striking sex differences of the human brain with remarkable behavioral and cognitive consequences. Prenatal and postnatal testosterone influence brain structures and functions, respectively. Cognitive sex differences include especially certain spatial and language tasks, but they also affect many other aspects of the neurotypical brain. Sex differences of the brain are also relevant for the pathogenesis of neuropsychiatric disorders such as autism spectrum disorders, which are much more prevalent in the male population. Structural dimorphism in the human brain was well-described, but recent controversies now question its importance. On the other hand, solid evidence exists regarding gender differences in several brain functions. This review tries to summarize the current understanding of the complexity of the effects of testosterone on brain with special focus on their role in the known sex differences in healthy individuals and people in the autism spectrum.
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Affiliation(s)
- D OSTATNÍKOVÁ
- Institute of Physiology, Academic Research Centre for Autism, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - S LAKATOŠOVÁ
- Institute of Physiology, Academic Research Centre for Autism, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - J BABKOVÁ
- Institute of Physiology, Academic Research Centre for Autism, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - J HODOSY
- Institute of Physiology, Academic Research Centre for Autism, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
| | - P CELEC
- Institute of Physiology, Academic Research Centre for Autism, Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Bratislava, Slovak Republic
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Crewther BT, Hecht M, Potts N, Kilduff LP, Drawer S, Marshall E, Cook CJ. A longitudinal investigation of bidirectional and time-dependent interrelationships between testosterone and training motivation in an elite rugby environment. Horm Behav 2020; 126:104866. [PMID: 33002456 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2020.104866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2019] [Revised: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
In sport, testosterone has been positioned as a substrate for motivation with both directional and time dependencies. However, evidence is scarce when considering the complexities of competitive sport and no work has explicitly modeled these dependencies. To address these gaps, we investigated the bidirectional and time-dependent interrelationships between testosterone and training motivation in an elite rugby environment. Thirty-six male athletes were monitored across training weeks before and after eight international rugby matches. Pre-breakfast measures of salivary testosterone and training motivation (1-10 rating) were taken on training, competition, and recovery days (up to 40 tests). Using a continuous-time (CT) model, within-person estimates of autoregressive effects (persistence) and cross-lagged effects (relationships) were derived. A stronger, more persistent temporal association was identified for testosterone than for motivation. Cross-lagged effects verified that training motivation was positively related to testosterone at latter time points (p < 0.001). Discrete-time analyses revealed a non-linear association; increasing in strength from a zero-time lag to peak after 2.83 days (standardized effect = 0.25), before dissipation over longer lagged intervals. The testosterone relationship with ensuing training motivation was also positive, but non-significant. Match effects also appeared (p < 0.001) with a predicted decline in training motivation, but a rise in testosterone, at match onset. In summary, a positive association emerged between within-person fluctuations in self-appraised motivation to train and testosterone concentration in an elite rugby environment. The lagged, non-linear nature of this relationship and match predictions on both outcomes support, and extend, theoretical models linking testosterone and competitive behaviors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blair T Crewther
- Institute of Sport - National Research Institute, Poland; Hamlyn Centre, Imperial College, UK.
| | | | | | - Liam P Kilduff
- A-STEM, School of Engineering, Swansea University, UK; Welsh Institute of Performance Science (WIPS), Swansea University, UK
| | | | - Elizabeth Marshall
- Human Performance, Sport and Physiology Group, Brain-Behaviour Research Group, School of Science and Technology University of New England, Australia
| | - Christian J Cook
- Hamlyn Centre, Imperial College, UK; A-STEM, School of Engineering, Swansea University, UK; Human Performance, Sport and Physiology Group, Brain-Behaviour Research Group, School of Science and Technology University of New England, Australia
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8
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The Use of Acute Exercise Interventions as Game Day Priming Strategies to Improve Physical Performance and Athlete Readiness in Team-Sport Athletes: A Systematic Review. Sports Med 2020; 50:1943-1962. [PMID: 32779102 DOI: 10.1007/s40279-020-01329-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of exercise as a priming strategy to enhance sport performance is becoming increasingly popular in professional sports and as an area of research interest. Early research suggests that the acute physiological responses to exercise can positively influence performance for up to 48 h. There is yet to be a comprehensive review of exercise strategies which could be implemented specifically on the day of competition. OBJECTIVES The aim of this systematic review was to provide a synthesis of research investigating acute exercise interventions as game day priming strategies for team-sport athletes to improve physical performance and athlete readiness when implemented in the 1-12 h prior to competition. METHODS A literature search of SPORTDiscus, PubMed and Cochrane Central Register for Controlled Trials was conducted. A total of 6428 studies were retrieved and assessed against the following inclusion criteria: (1) randomised controlled trials and non-randomised comparative studies with reported pre-post intervention outcomes; (2) exercise interventions were applied 1-12 h prior to the assessment of outcome measures. Studies were excluded if they used nutrition, supplementation, pre-heating, pre-cooling, stretching, massage or vibration training as the priming strategies, or if interventions were performed at altitude or in hypoxic environments. Studies were assessed for methodological quality at the study level using the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale. RESULTS Twenty-nine studies satisfied the eligibility criteria and were included in this review. Studies were categorised as resistance training; cycling; running; and other strategies. Resistance training using heavy loads at low volumes increased strength and power measures following a 4-6 h recovery, with limited improvements observed following shorter (1-3 h) and longer (6-12 h) recovery periods. Running-based sprint priming led to improvements in subsequent sprint and repeat sprint performance following a 5-6 h recovery, whereas cycling improved counter-movement jump height in a single study only. No significant differences were reported in any performance measures following endurance-based running or cycling strategies. Physiological markers, such a hormone and blood lactate responses, showed mixed results between studies. CONCLUSIONS High-intensity low-volume resistance training leads to a greater physiological and performance response than high-volume resistance training. Maximal running sprints may be more effective than maximal cycling sprints due to an increased physiological demand; however, loading protocols must also be considered in conjunction with exercise volume and movement specificity to achieve a beneficial response for subsequent performance. There is limited evidence to suggest endurance cycling or running exercise is beneficial as a priming strategy.
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9
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Kowal M, Sorokowski P, Żelaźniewicz A, Nowak J, Orzechowski S, Żurek G, Żurek A, Juszkiewicz A, Wojtycka L, Sieniuć W, Poniatowska M, Tarnowska K, Kowalska K, Drabik K, Łukaszek P, Krawczyk K, Stefaniak T, Danek N. No relationship between the digit ratios (2D:4D) and salivary testosterone change: Study on men under an acute exercise. Sci Rep 2020; 10:10068. [PMID: 32572079 PMCID: PMC7308391 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-66915-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The digit ratio (2D:4D) is said to be a potential marker of exposure to prenatal sex steroids. Some studies suggest that the 2D:4D is also linked with the testosterone response to challenging situations due to organizational effect of prenatal hormonal milieu on adult endocrine functioning. However, up to date, there were only four studies (conducted on small samples) that examined the 2D:4D and the testosterone response to a challenging situation (i.e. physical exertion or aggressive context). Here, we examined the relationship between the 2D:4D and the testosterone change under an acute exercise among 97 men. We found that the digit ratios (the right 2D:4D, the left 2D:4D, and the right minus left 2D:4D) were neither predictors of pre-exercise testosterone, nor the change in testosterone level after a cycling task. Our results add a contradictory to previous studies evidence in a discussion on the links of the 2D:4D and the testosterone change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marta Kowal
- Institute of Psychology, University of Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Piotr Sorokowski
- Institute of Psychology, University of Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland.
| | | | - Judyta Nowak
- Department of Human Biology, University of Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
| | | | - Grzegorz Żurek
- University School of Physical Education in Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
| | - Alina Żurek
- Institute of Psychology, University of Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
| | | | - Lidia Wojtycka
- Institute of Psychology, University of Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
| | | | | | | | - Kaja Kowalska
- Institute of Psychology, University of Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
| | | | | | | | | | - Natalia Danek
- University School of Physical Education in Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
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10
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Grant AD, Wilsterman K, Smarr BL, Kriegsfeld LJ. Evidence for a Coupled Oscillator Model of Endocrine Ultradian Rhythms. J Biol Rhythms 2018; 33:475-496. [PMID: 30132387 DOI: 10.1177/0748730418791423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Whereas long-period temporal structures in endocrine dynamics have been well studied, endocrine rhythms on the scale of hours are relatively unexplored. The study of these ultradian rhythms (URs) has remained nascent, in part, because a theoretical framework unifying ultradian patterns across systems has not been established. The present overview proposes a conceptual coupled oscillator network model of URs in which oscillating hormonal outputs, or nodes, are connected by edges representing the strength of node-node coupling. We propose that variable-strength coupling exists both within and across classic hormonal axes. Because coupled oscillators synchronize, such a model implies that changes across hormonal systems could be inferred by surveying accessible nodes in the network. This implication would at once simplify the study of URs and open new avenues of exploration into conditions affecting coupling. In support of this proposed framework, we review mammalian evidence for (1) URs of the gut-brain axis and the hypothalamo-pituitary-thyroid, -adrenal, and -gonadal axes, (2) UR coupling within and across these axes; and (3) the relation of these URs to body temperature. URs across these systems exhibit behavior broadly consistent with a coupled oscillator network, maintaining both consistent URs and coupling within and across axes. This model may aid the exploration of mammalian physiology at high temporal resolution and improve the understanding of endocrine system dynamics within individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azure D Grant
- The Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, California
| | - Kathryn Wilsterman
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California
| | - Benjamin L Smarr
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Berkeley, California
| | - Lance J Kriegsfeld
- The Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, California.,Department of Psychology, University of California, Berkeley, California
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11
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Čupić Ž, Stanojević A, Marković VM, Kolar-Anić L, Terenius L, Vukojević V. The HPA axis and ethanol: a synthesis of mathematical modelling and experimental observations. Addict Biol 2017; 22:1486-1500. [PMID: 27189379 DOI: 10.1111/adb.12409] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2015] [Revised: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Stress and alcohol use are interrelated-stress contributes to the initiation and upholding of alcohol use and alcohol use alters the way we perceive and respond to stress. Intricate mechanisms through which ethanol alters the organism's response to stress remain elusive. We have developed a stoichiometric network model to succinctly describe neurochemical transformations underlying the stress response axis and use numerical simulations to model ethanol effects on complex daily changes of blood levels of cholesterol, 6 peptide and 8 steroid hormones. Modelling suggests that ethanol alters the dynamical regulation of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity by affecting the amplitude of ultradian oscillations of HPA axis hormones, which defines the threshold with respect to which the response to stress is being set. These effects are complex-low/moderate acute ethanol challenge (<8 mM) may reduce, leave unaltered or increase the amplitude of ultradian cortisol (CORT) oscillations, giving rise to an intricate response at the organism level, offering also a potential explanation as to why apparently discordant results were observed in experimental studies. In contrast, high-dose acute ethanol challenge (>8 mM) increases instantaneous CORT levels and the amplitude of ultradian CORT oscillations in a dose-dependent manner, affecting the HPA axis activity also during the following day(s). Chronic exposure to ethanol qualitatively changes the HPA axis dynamics, whereas ethanol at intoxicating levels shuts down this dynamic regulation mechanism. Mathematical modelling gives a quantitative biology-based framework that can be used for predicting how the integral HPA axis response is perturbed by alcohol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Željko Čupić
- Institute of Chemistry, Technology and Metallurgy, Department of Catalysis and Chemical Engineering; University of Belgrade; Belgrade Serbia
| | - Ana Stanojević
- Faculty of Physical Chemistry; University of Belgrade; Belgrade Serbia
| | | | - Ljiljana Kolar-Anić
- Institute of Chemistry, Technology and Metallurgy, Department of Catalysis and Chemical Engineering; University of Belgrade; Belgrade Serbia
- Faculty of Physical Chemistry; University of Belgrade; Belgrade Serbia
| | - Lars Terenius
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Center for Molecular Medicine; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
| | - Vladana Vukojević
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Center for Molecular Medicine; Karolinska Institutet; Stockholm Sweden
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12
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Robles J, Marcos J, Renau N, Garrostas L, Segura J, Ventura R, Barceló B, Barceló A, Pozo OJ. Quantifying endogenous androgens, estrogens, pregnenolone and progesterone metabolites in human urine by gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. Talanta 2017; 169:20-29. [PMID: 28411812 DOI: 10.1016/j.talanta.2017.03.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2016] [Revised: 03/09/2017] [Accepted: 03/10/2017] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
A method for the quantitation of 22 urinary steroids (androgens, estrogens and the main pregnenolone and progesterone metabolites) by means of gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry using a triple quadrupole analyzer has been developed. Two different enzymatic hydrolysis protocols were investigated; one capable of releasing steroids present as both sulfates and glucuronides (total fraction), and another with β-glucuronidase activity only. After selecting adequate internal standards and choosing the optimal instrumental parameters, i.e. chromatographic separation and ion transition conditions, the method was fully validated using both hydrolysis protocols. The method was shown to be linear (r >0.99) in the range of endogenous concentrations for all studied steroids with extraction recoveries higher than 80%. The use of labeled internal standards allowed for both a correct quantification and the evaluation of the rate of deconjugation for sulfates and glucuronides in every sample. In general, the sensitivity of the method was suitable for the detection of the endogenous levels, with limits of quantification ranging from 0.1 to 20ng/mL. Accuracies ranging from 80% to 120%, and relative standard deviations below 25% in intra- and inter- assay experiments were found for most of the analytes. The applicability of the validated method was tested by quantifying twenty-two metabolites in 24-h urine samples collected from healthy individuals. The ranges for the excretion of steroids in the total and glucuronide fractions obtained with the new method were compared with those available in the literature. By comparing the figures in both fractions, an estimation of the percentage that the sulfation represents for each steroid was also calculated. The presence of side enzymatic activities and the utility of the method for clinical studies as well as for doping control analysis is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Robles
- Servei d'Anàlisis Cliniques Hospital Universitari Son Espases, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
| | - Josep Marcos
- Bioanalysis Research Group, IMIM, Hospital del Mar, Doctor Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Doctor Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nuria Renau
- Bioanalysis Research Group, IMIM, Hospital del Mar, Doctor Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Lorena Garrostas
- Bioanalysis Research Group, IMIM, Hospital del Mar, Doctor Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Doping Control Research Group, IMIM, Hospital del Mar, Doctor Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jordi Segura
- Bioanalysis Research Group, IMIM, Hospital del Mar, Doctor Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Doctor Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Doping Control Research Group, IMIM, Hospital del Mar, Doctor Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rosa Ventura
- Bioanalysis Research Group, IMIM, Hospital del Mar, Doctor Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Universitat Pompeu Fabra, Doctor Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Doping Control Research Group, IMIM, Hospital del Mar, Doctor Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain
| | - Bernardí Barceló
- Servei d'Anàlisis Cliniques Hospital Universitari Son Espases, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
| | - Antonia Barceló
- Servei d'Anàlisis Cliniques Hospital Universitari Son Espases, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
| | - Oscar J Pozo
- Bioanalysis Research Group, IMIM, Hospital del Mar, Doctor Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain; Integrative Pharmacology and Systems Neuroscience Research Group, IMIM (Hospital del Mar Research Institute), Dr. Aiguader 88, 08003 Barcelona, Spain.
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13
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Diekhof EK, Kraft S. The association between endogenous testosterone level and behavioral flexibility in young men - Evidence from stimulus-outcome reversal learning. Horm Behav 2017; 89:193-200. [PMID: 28185881 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2017.02.006] [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: 09/28/2016] [Revised: 02/03/2017] [Accepted: 02/05/2017] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The capacity to flexibly adapt responding to unexpected changes in the environment is crucial for survival. Several neurotransmitters have been implicated in stimulus-outcome reversal learning. Yet, it remains an open question whether inter-individual differences in the neuroactive hormone testosterone may also be related to this type of behavioral flexibility. In this study we assessed the association between endogenous testosterone level and reversal learning in young healthy men. We used an observer reversal learning task, in which subjects viewed computer-based decisions between two stimuli, of which one was currently rewarded while the other one was punished. Contingencies reversed unpredictably every 5-9 trials. Subjects had to indicate the current outcome association before the actual outcome was revealed. In the trial following an unexpected reversal either the same stimulus from the reversal (experienced reversal), or its alternative, for which the reversal had not yet been shown (inferred reversal), could be chosen by the computer, and subjects had to adapt responding accordingly. We found that testosterone predicted better post-reversal performance. This correlation was strongest in the more difficult inferred reversal condition, particularly in impulsive individuals. Collectively, these data support the view that endogenous testosterone may enhance behavioral flexibility in men, particularly when working memory demand is high and subjects have to update several stimulus-outcome contingencies at the same time. It remains to be further elucidated whether this testosterone effect was achieved through an interaction with dopaminergic transmission or through direct interplay with androgen receptors in the brain regions implicated in reversal learning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esther K Diekhof
- University of Hamburg, Biological Department, Zoological Institute, Neuroendocrinology Unit, Germany.
| | - Susanne Kraft
- University of Hamburg, Biological Department, Zoological Institute, Neuroendocrinology Unit, Germany
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14
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Crewther B, Cook C, Kilduff L, Manning J. Digit ratio (2D:4D) and salivary testosterone, oestradiol and cortisol levels under challenge: Evidence for prenatal effects on adult endocrine responses. Early Hum Dev 2015; 91:451-6. [PMID: 26025335 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2015.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2015] [Revised: 04/23/2015] [Accepted: 04/25/2015] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Digit ratio (2D:4D) is a marker for prenatal sex steroids and a correlate of sporting performance. This association may exist because low 2D:4D is linked to high prenatal levels of testosterone (T) and low oestrogens (E). It was recently suggested that low 2D:4D, and particularly low right-left 2D:4D (or Dr-l), is a marker for T changes in response to physical and aggressive challenges. If correct, this link may in part explain the association between 2D:4D and sports performance. AIMS We tested this hypothesis in adults. STUDY DESIGN Three experimental treatments were completed using a randomised, cross-over design; (i) cycle sprints plus an aggressive video (S+V), (ii) aggressive video plus cycle sprints (V+S), and (iii) a control session. SUBJECTS 24 healthy adults (12 men and 12 women). OUTCOME MEASURES Salivary T, oestradiol (E2) and cortisol (C) levels were measured on six occasions across each session and pooled for analysis. RESULTS The S+V treatment was associated with a rise in T and C levels, and Dr-l was significantly and negatively correlated with T and E2 with these effects confined to men. The right 2D:4D and Dr-l were also negatively correlated with the T/C ratio and Dr-l negatively related to the E2/C ratio in men during the S+V treatment. CONCLUSIONS We suggest that the hormonal responses to a challenge are programmed by prenatal levels of T and E with possible links to sporting performance in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Christian Cook
- The Hamlyn Centre, Imperial College, London, UK; School of Sport, Health and Exercise Science, Bangor University, Gwynedd, UK
| | - Liam Kilduff
- Applied Sports Technology, Exercise and Medicine Research Centre, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - John Manning
- Department of Psychology, Northumbria University, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
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15
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Crewther BT, Kilduff LP, Cook CJ. Trained and untrained males show reliable salivary testosterone responses to a physical stimulus, but not a psychological stimulus. J Endocrinol Invest 2014; 37:1065-72. [PMID: 25200995 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-014-0144-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2014] [Accepted: 07/26/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The testosterone (T) responses to a physical stimulus are thought to be more stable and reproducible compared to a psychological stimulus. PURPOSE This study compared the salivary T (Sal-T) responses to both stimuli in four groups of men: professional rugby players (n = 17), recreational rugby players (n = 10), a mixed athlete group (n = 14) and untrained controls (n = 12). METHODS Each group completed three treatments: (1) watching a video with aggressive rugby footage, (2) performing a short bout of sprint exercise and (3) a control session. Saliva samples were taken before and 15 min after each treatment. RESULTS The sprint exercise changes in Sal-T levels were similar in the elite rugby (17.1 ± 11.1%), recreational rugby (11.9 ± 15.9%), mixed athlete (27.6 ± 32.0%) and control groups (25.3 ± 23.6%). In response to the video, Sal-T increased in the elite rugby (6.9 ± 6.4%) and untrained groups (11.9 ± 13.5%), but decreased in the recreational rugby players (-7.5 ± 11.0%). The individual Sal-T responses to the sprints were also correlated (r = 0.69 to 0.82) with other treatment responses. CONCLUSIONS Sprint exercise had a more consistent effect on Sal-T than a video with aggressive content and thus, could provide a reliable stimulus for increasing T availability in men with different training backgrounds. Individual Sal-T reactivity also appears to be somewhat stable across different treatments. These data provide further understanding around the induction, moderation and interpretation of T physiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- B T Crewther
- Hamlyn Centre for Robotic Surgery, Imperial College South Kensington Campus, London, SW7 2AZ, UK,
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Crewther BT, Sanctuary CE, Kilduff LP, Carruthers JS, Gaviglio CM, Cook CJ. The Workout Responses of Salivary-Free Testosterone and Cortisol Concentrations and Their Association With the Subsequent Competition Outcomes in Professional Rugby League. J Strength Cond Res 2013; 27:471-6. [DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0b013e3182577010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Crewther BT, Al-Dujaili E, Smail NF, Anastasova S, Kilduff LP, Cook CJ. Monitoring salivary testosterone and cortisol concentrations across an international sports competition: data comparison using two enzyme immunoassays and two sample preparations. Clin Biochem 2012. [PMID: 23206852 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinbiochem.2012.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Salivary testosterone (T) and cortisol (C) concentrations were monitored across a sports competition. Data were compared using two enzyme-immunoassay (EIA) methods and two sample preparations to determine their influence on hormone concentrations. DESIGN AND METHODS A group of male athletes (n=19) provided a saliva sample the morning before and one day after (24h post) an international rugby union match. Following an extraction procedure, the samples were analysed for T and C concentrations using a commercial kit (CM(E)) and an in-house method (IH(E)). Raw samples (no extraction procedure) were also tested using the commercial kit (CM(R)). RESULTS There were no significant changes in T and C levels from pre to post competition with each EIA method and sample preparation, but significant differences in T (IH(E)>CM(E)>CM(R)) and C (CM(R)>IH(E) and CM(E)) concentrations were seen when both samples were pooled. Bland-Altman analyses confirmed the presence of fixed and proportional bias. Strong and significant correlations were demonstrated between the IH(E) and CM(E) measures of salivary T (r=0.93-0.97) and C (r=0.95-0.97). The T and C values from the raw and extracted samples were also strongly correlated (r=0.93-0.96). CONCLUSIONS The measurement of salivary T and C concentrations across an international sports event was influenced by different EIA methods and sample preparations, but all measures were strongly correlated with some bias. Both T and C were unresponsive to the sports event, but within the group results large individual variation was seen.
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