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Soto-Heras S, Reinacher L, Wang B, Oh JE, Bunnell M, Park CJ, Hess RA, Ko CJ. Cryptorchidism and testicular cancer in the dog: unresolved questions and challenges in translating insights from human studies†. Biol Reprod 2024; 111:269-291. [PMID: 38738783 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioae075] [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: 12/23/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Cryptorchidism, the failure of one or both testes to descend into the scrotum, and testicular cancer show a strong correlation in both dogs and humans. Yet, long-standing medical debates persist about whether the location of undescended testes directly causes testicular cancer in humans or if both conditions stem from a common origin. Although testicular cancer is a prevalent disease in dogs, even less is known about its cause and correlation with testicular descent in this species. This review investigates the relation between these two disorders in dogs, drawing insights from human studies, and examines key biomarkers identified thus far. In addition, it explores potential causal links, including the impact of temperature on maturing testicular cells and a potential shared genetic origin. Notably, this literature review reveals significant differences between men and dogs in reproductive development, histological and molecular features of testicular tumors, and the prevalence of specific tumor types, such as Sertoli cell tumors in cryptorchid dogs and germ cell tumors in humans. These disparities caution against using dogs as models for human testicular cancer research and underscore the limitations when drawing comparisons between species. The paper concludes by suggesting specific research initiatives to enhance our understanding of the complex interplay between cryptorchidism and testicular cancer in dogs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Soto-Heras
- Epivara, Inc., 2109 S. Oak Street, Suite 100A, Champaign, IL 61820, USA
| | - Lindsey Reinacher
- Epivara, Inc., 2109 S. Oak Street, Suite 100A, Champaign, IL 61820, USA
| | - Bensen Wang
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Ji Eun Oh
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Mary Bunnell
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Chan Jin Park
- Epivara, Inc., 2109 S. Oak Street, Suite 100A, Champaign, IL 61820, USA
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - Rex A Hess
- Epivara, Inc., 2109 S. Oak Street, Suite 100A, Champaign, IL 61820, USA
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
| | - CheMyong Jay Ko
- Epivara, Inc., 2109 S. Oak Street, Suite 100A, Champaign, IL 61820, USA
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL 61802, USA
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Rey RA, Grinspon RP. Anti-Müllerian hormone, testicular descent and cryptorchidism. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2024; 15:1361032. [PMID: 38501100 PMCID: PMC10944898 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2024.1361032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a Sertoli cell-secreted glycoprotein involved in male fetal sex differentiation: it provokes the regression of Müllerian ducts, which otherwise give rise to the Fallopian tubes, the uterus and the upper part of the vagina. In the first trimester of fetal life, AMH is expressed independently of gonadotropins, whereas from the second trimester onwards AMH testicular production is stimulated by FSH and oestrogens; at puberty, AMH expression is inhibited by androgens. AMH has also been suggested to participate in testicular descent during fetal life, but its role remains unclear. Serum AMH is a well-recognized biomarker of testicular function from birth to the first stages of puberty. Especially in boys with nonpalpable gonads, serum AMH is the most useful marker of the existence of testicular tissue. In boys with cryptorchidism, serum AMH levels reflect the mass of functional Sertoli cells: they are lower in patients with bilateral than in those with unilateral cryptorchidism. Interestingly, serum AMH increases after testis relocation to the scrotum, suggesting that the ectopic position result in testicular dysfunction, which may be at least partially reversible. In boys with cryptorchidism associated with micropenis, low AMH and FSH are indicative of central hypogonadism, and serum AMH is a good marker of effective FSH treatment. In patients with cryptorchidism in the context of disorders of sex development, low serum AMH is suggestive of gonadal dysgenesis, whereas normal or high AMH is found in patients with isolated androgen synthesis defects or with androgen insensitivity. In syndromic disorders, assessment of serum AMH has shown that Sertoli cell function is preserved in boys with Klinefelter syndrome until mid-puberty, while it is affected in patients with Noonan, Prader-Willi or Down syndromes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rodolfo A. Rey
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET – FEI – División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Universidad de Buenos Aires, Facultad de Medicina, Departamento de Biología Celular, Histología, Embriología y Genética, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Santa Fe, Argentina
| | - Romina P. Grinspon
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET – FEI – División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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Benderradji H, Prasivoravong J, Marcelli F, Leroy C. Role of Anti-Müllerian Hormone in Male Reproduction and Sperm Motility. Semin Reprod Med 2024; 42:5-14. [PMID: 38914117 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1787687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/26/2024]
Abstract
Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is secreted by Sertoli cells and is responsible for the regression of Müllerian ducts in the male fetus as part of the sexual differentiation process. Serum AMH concentrations are at their lowest levels in the first days after birth but increase after the first week, likely reflecting active Sertoli cell proliferation. AMH rises rapidly in concentration in boys during the first month, reaching a peak level at ∼6 months of age, and it remains high during childhood, then they will slowly decline during puberty, falling to low levels in adulthood. Serum AMH measurement is used by pediatric endocrinologist as a specific marker of immature Sertoli cell number and function during childhood. After puberty, AMH is released especially by the apical pole of the Sertoli cells toward the lumen of the seminiferous tubules, resulting in higher levels in the seminal plasma than in the serum. Recently, AMH has received increasing attention in research on male fertility-related disorders. This article reviews and summarizes the potential contribution of serum AMH measurement in different male fertility-related disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamza Benderradji
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology, and Metabolism, CHU Lille, Lille, France
- Inserm, CHU Lille, Unit 1172, Lille Neuroscience & Cognition (LilNCog), University of Lille, Lille, France
- Department of Andrology, Urology and Renal Transplantation, University of Lille, CHU Lille, Lille University Hospital, Lille, France
| | - Julie Prasivoravong
- Department of Andrology, Urology and Renal Transplantation, University of Lille, CHU Lille, Lille University Hospital, Lille, France
| | - François Marcelli
- Department of Andrology, Urology and Renal Transplantation, University of Lille, CHU Lille, Lille University Hospital, Lille, France
| | - Clara Leroy
- Department of Andrology, Urology and Renal Transplantation, University of Lille, CHU Lille, Lille University Hospital, Lille, France
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Reference Centre for Genital Development Abnormalities, University of Lille, CHU Lille, DevGen, Lille, France
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Sinopidis X, Kostopoulou E, Rojas-Gil AP, Panagidis A, Kourea E, Skiadopoulos S, Georgiou G, Spiliotis BE. Association of antimullerian hormone with the size of the appendix testis, the androgen and estrogen receptors and their expression in the appendix testis, in congenital cryptorchidism. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2021; 34:1247-1255. [PMID: 34265880 DOI: 10.1515/jpem-2021-0240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2021] [Accepted: 06/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Antimullerian hormone (AMH) causes regression of the mullerian ducts in the male fetus. The appendix testis (AT) is a vestigial remnant of mullerian duct origin, containing both androgen (AR) and estrogen (ER) receptors. The role of both AMH and AT in testicular descent is yet to be studied. We investigated the possible association of AMH with AT size, the AR and ER, and their expression in the AT, in congenital cryptorchidism. METHODS A total of 26 patients with congenital unilateral cryptorchidism and 26 controls with orthotopic testes were investigated, and 21 ATs were identified in each group. AMH and insulin-like three hormone (INSL3) concentrations were measured with spectrophotometry. AR and ER receptor expression was assessed with immunohistochemistry using monoclonal antibodies R441 for AR and MAB463 for ER. For the estimation of receptor expression, the Allred Score method was used. RESULTS AMH concentrations did not present significant differences between patients with congenital cryptorchidism and the controls. Also, no correlation was found between AMH, INSL3, and AT length. Allred scores did not present significant differences. However, expression percentiles and intensity for both receptors presented significant differences. Three children with cryptorchidism and the highest AMH levels also had the highest estrogen receptor scores in the AT. CONCLUSIONS No association was found between AMH and the studied major parameters. However, higher AMH concentrations, in combination with higher estrogen receptor scores in the AT, may play a role in cryptorchidism in some children. Larger population samples are needed to verify this observation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xenophon Sinopidis
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, University of Patras School of Medicine, Patras, Greece
| | - Eirini Kostopoulou
- Research Laboratory of the Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Pediatrics, University of Patras School of Medicine, Patras, Greece
| | - Andrea Paola Rojas-Gil
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing, University of Peloponnese, Tripoli, Greece
| | | | - Eleni Kourea
- Department of Pathology, University of Patras School of Medicine, Patras, Greece
| | - Spyros Skiadopoulos
- Department of Medical Physics, University of Patras School of Medicine, Patras, Greece
| | - George Georgiou
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital, Patras, Greece
| | - Bessie E Spiliotis
- Research Laboratory of the Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Pediatrics, University of Patras School of Medicine, Patras, Greece
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Ma D, Yao ZG, Guo YP, Wu RF. Dynamic Changes in Serum Inhibin B Levels in 6- to 24-Month-Old Children Receiving Cryptorchidism Surgery. Int J Gen Med 2021; 14:1173-1177. [PMID: 33833557 PMCID: PMC8020581 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s301546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Cryptorchidism is the most common congenital disability and is defined as the absence of one or both testicles in the scrotum during fetal development. In patients with cryptorchidism, lowered serum inhibin B levels suggest testicular dysfunction. The practical application of serum inhibin B levels in childhood remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to observe the post-operational changes of serum inhibin B levels in patients with cryptorchidism and provide evidence that serum inhibin B is a potential marker for the efficacy of testicular surgery. Methods A total of 83 male children with cryptorchidism were enrolled in this study. All the children had blood samples taken by venipuncture on the day of surgery. The serum inhibin B levels in the blood samples were measured using an ELISA kit. Paired t-tests were used to assess differences between the groups. Results The results show that, compared with the preoperative values, there was a statistically significant increase in serum inhibin B values one month after the operation in each group (P < 0.05). Compared with the one-month post-operation results, there were no significant changes six months after operation in each group (P>0.05). However, serum inhibin B values decreased significantly in all groups at 12 months post-operation (P < 0.05), suggesting that serum inhibin B values are significantly correlated with age. Correlation analysis showed that serum inhibin B was negatively correlated with age from 6 to 36 months, and the correlation coefficient was −0.488. Conclusion Serum inhibin B can be used as a short-term evaluation index of cryptorchidism surgery rather than as a long-term indicator.
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Affiliation(s)
- Da Ma
- Department of Pediatric General Surgery, Dongguan Eighth People's Hospital (Dongguan Children's Hospital), Dongguan, 523000, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi-Guang Yao
- Department of Pediatric General Surgery, Dongguan Eighth People's Hospital (Dongguan Children's Hospital), Dongguan, 523000, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan-Ping Guo
- Department of Pediatric General Surgery, Dongguan Eighth People's Hospital (Dongguan Children's Hospital), Dongguan, 523000, People's Republic of China
| | - Rui-Fa Wu
- Department of Pediatric General Surgery, Dongguan Eighth People's Hospital (Dongguan Children's Hospital), Dongguan, 523000, People's Republic of China
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Xu H, Zhang M, Zhang H, Alpadi K, Wang L, Li R, Qiao J. Clinical Applications of Serum Anti-Müllerian Hormone Measurements in Both Males and Females: An Update. Innovation (N Y) 2021; 2:100091. [PMID: 34557745 PMCID: PMC8454570 DOI: 10.1016/j.xinn.2021.100091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility is one of the most common non-communicable diseases, affecting both men and women equally. Ovarian reserve, the number of primordial follicles in the ovaries is believed to be the most important determinants for female fertility. Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) secreted from granulosa cells of growing follicles is recognized as the most important biomarker for ovarian reserve. Ovarian reserve models have been developed using AMH and other hormonal indicators, thus childbearing plans and reproductive choices could be arranged by women. In assisted reproductive technology cycles, measurement of AMH helps to predict ovarian response and guide recombinant follicle-stimulating hormone dosing in women. Serum AMH level is increasingly being recognized as a potential surrogate marker for polycystic ovarian morphology, one of the criteria for diagnosis of polycystic ovarian syndrome. AMH is also secreted by Sertoli cells of testes in men, and AMH measurements in the prediction of surgical sperm recovery rate in men have also been investigated. AMH levels are significantly higher in boys than in girls before puberty. Therefore, serum levels of AMH in combination with testosterone is used for the differential diagnosis of disorders of sex development, anorchia, non-obstructive azoospermia, and persistent Müllerian duct syndrome. Recently, serum AMH measurements have also been used in fertility preservation programs in oncofertility, screening for granulosa cell tumors, and prediction of menopause applications. In this review, we will focus on clinical application of AMH in fertility assessments for healthy men and women, as well as for cancer patients. Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) plays a key role in models assessing ovarian reserve AMH is used for the differential diagnosis of disorders of sex development AMH provides a molecular marker for related fertility and infertility disorders An international standard will aid in the development of various AMH assays
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Affiliation(s)
- Huiyu Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, P.R. China.,National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, P.R. China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, P.R. China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
| | - Mengqian Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, P.R. China.,National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, P.R. China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, P.R. China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
| | - Hongxian Zhang
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
| | | | - Lina Wang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, P.R. China.,National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, P.R. China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, P.R. China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
| | - Rong Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, P.R. China.,National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, P.R. China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, P.R. China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
| | - Jie Qiao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, P.R. China.,National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, P.R. China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction (Peking University), Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, P.R. China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing 100191, P.R. China
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7
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Kurobe M, Harada A, Sugihara T, Baba Y, Hiramatsu T, Ohashi S, Otsuka M. The outcomes of conservative management and the natural history of asymptomatic hydroceles in children. Pediatr Surg Int 2020; 36:1189-1195. [PMID: 32700002 DOI: 10.1007/s00383-020-04720-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To elucidate the natural history of asymptomatic hydroceles (AHs) in children with conservative management and to discuss management strategies for AHs in children. METHODS We retrospectively reviewed 113 children with AHs who were followed without immediate surgery. Patients were divided into four groups according to age at presentation; group 1: ≤ 1 month, group 2: 1-12 months, group 3: 12-24 months, and group 4: > 24 months. Ages at spontaneous resolution or surgery were reviewed. To assess the effect of AH on the testis, testicular size before and after conservative management was compared in 11 cases. RESULTS In groups 1, 2, 3, and 4, spontaneous resolution occurred in 94.3%, 75.0%, 65.0%, and 33.3%, and the average time to resolution from presentation was 5, 5, 17, and 9 months, respectively. 41 patients underwent surgery at a mean age of 4.2 years. The testicular size did not differ significantly between before and after conservative management (14.4 vs. 14.5 mm, p = 0.483). CONCLUSION About one-third of children over 2 years of age achieve spontaneous resolution. Hydroceles with conservative management may not affect the testicular size. Thus, initial conservative management before surgery is recommend for AHs in children, even over 2 years of age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masashi Kurobe
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Kawaguchi Municipal Medical Center, 180 Nishi-araijuku, Kawaguchi, Saitama, 333-0833, Japan.
| | - Atsushi Harada
- Department of Surgery, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tetsuro Sugihara
- Department of Surgery, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yuji Baba
- Department of Surgery, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Tomomasa Hiramatsu
- Department of Surgery, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Shinsuke Ohashi
- Department of Surgery, The Jikei University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Masahiko Otsuka
- Department of Surgery, Kawaguchi Municipal Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
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8
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Xu HY, Zhang HX, Xiao Z, Qiao J, Li R. Regulation of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) in males and the associations of serum AMH with the disorders of male fertility. Asian J Androl 2020; 21:109-114. [PMID: 30381580 PMCID: PMC6413543 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_83_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) is a functional marker of fetal Sertoli cells. The germ cell number in adults depends on the number of Sertoli cells produced during perinatal development. Recently, AMH has received increasing attention in research of disorders related to male fertility. This paper reviews and summarizes the articles on the regulation of AMH in males and the serum levels of AMH in male fertility-related disorders. We have determined that follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) promotes AMH transcription in the absence of androgen signaling. Testosterone inhibits the transcriptional activation of AMH. The undetectable levels of serum AMH and testosterone levels indicate a lack of functional testicular tissue, for example, that in patients with anorchia or severe Klinefelter syndrome suffering from impaired spermatogenesis. The normal serum testosterone level and undetectable AMH are highly suggestive of persistent Müllerian duct syndrome (PMDS), combined with clinical manifestations. The levels of both AMH and testosterone are always subnormal in patients with mixed disorders of sex development (DSD). Mixed DSD is an early-onset complete type of disorder with fetal hypogonadism resulting from the dysfunction of both Leydig and Sertoli cells. Serum AMH levels are varying in patients with male fertility-related disorders, including pubertal delay, severe congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, nonobstructive azoospermia, Klinefelter syndrome, varicocele, McCune-Albright syndrome, and male senescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Yu Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Hong-Xian Zhang
- Department of Urology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Zhen Xiao
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Jie Qiao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Rong Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China.,National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology, Beijing 100191, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing 100191, China
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9
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Karaoglan M. Correlation of anti-Mullerian hormone with humanchorionic gonadotropin test in the evaluation of testicular function of children with 46 XY male hypogonadism: Use of anti-Mullerian hormone as abiomarker. J Paediatr Child Health 2020; 56:411-419. [PMID: 31614067 DOI: 10.1111/jpc.14643] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2019] [Revised: 08/06/2019] [Accepted: 09/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
AIM It is challenging to evaluate reproductive potential during childhood. These challenges necessitate the use of invasive dynamic tests. Although the anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) is a reliable biomarker in evaluating testicular function, especially in the pre-pubertal period, there are uncertainties concerning its use in a clinical setting. This study is focused on comparing the AMH and human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) test in boys with hypogonadism. METHODS A total of 160 boys aged between 0 and 18 years who presented with complaints associated with hypogonadism were prospectively enrolled in the study. All children were assigned to the following five groups: gonadal disorders (n = 34), androgen synthesis and end organ effect disorder (n = 48), isolated genital malformation disorders (n = 57), hypogonadotropic hypogonadism (n = 15) and constitutional delayed puberty (n = 6). All children underwent a short 3-day hCG test (1500 U/m2 /day). The concordance and correlation were evaluated between the hCG test and AMH. RESULTS All groups exhibited a strong correlation (r160 = 0.689) and strong concordance (Kappa coefficient160 = 0.7) between the AMH and hCG test. Values of AMH higher than 32.7 pmol/L and hCG responses higher than 86 pmol/L were significant as indicative markers of functional testicular tissue presence. CONCLUSIONS This study has shown that there is a strong correlation between the AMH and short-term hCG test and that values of AMH higher than 32.7 pmol/L and stimulated testosterone higher than 86 pmol/L can be used as indicators of functionally sufficient testicular tissue. These results indicate that AMH value can be used as a reliable and useful biomarker in the evaluation of the testicular function in 46 XY hypogonadism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murat Karaoglan
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Gaziantep University, Gaziantep, Turkey
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10
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Toliczenko-Bernatowicz D, Matuszczak E, Tylicka M, Szymańska B, Komarowska M, Gorodkiewicz E, Debek W, Hermanowicz A. Overexpression of ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal hydrolase 1 (UCHL1) in boys with cryptorchidism. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0191806. [PMID: 29401475 PMCID: PMC5798757 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0191806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The ubiquitin-proteasome system regulate p53, caspase and Bcl-2 family proteins, and is crucial for the degradation of the defective germ cells in testes. Purpose: to evaluate the concentration of ubiquitin carboxyl-terminal hydrolase 1 (UCHL1) in the blood plasma of boys with cryptorchidism and if there is any correlation with patient age. Methods Patients—50 boys aged 1–4 years (median = 2,4y.) with unilateral cryptorchidism. Exclusion criteria were: previous human chorionic gonadotropin treatment, an abnormal karyotype, endocrine or immunological disorders or any long-term medication. The control group—50 healthy, age matched boys (aged 1–4 years, median = 2,1y.), admitted to the Pediatric Surgery Department for planned herniotomy. To investigate UCHL1 in blood plasma of boys with cryptorchidism, we used a novel technique Surface PLASMON RESONANCE Imaging (SPRI). Results The median concentration of UCHL1 in the blood plasma of boys with cryptorchidism, was 5-folds higher than in boys with inguinal hernia, whose testicles were located in the scrotum. We also noticed statistically significant difference between UCHL1 levels in boys with cryptorchidism up to 2 years old, and above 2 years old. Older boys, whose testicles since birth were located in the inguinal pouch or in the abdominal cavity, had higher concentration of UCHL1 in their blood plasma, than boys from younger group. In the group of cryptorchid boys, we also found slightly lower concentrations of INSL3, without statistical significance and no correlation with UCHL1 levels. Conclusions Uchl1 concentrations in the blood plasma of boys with cryptorchidism, may reflect the heat-induced apoptosis of germ cells. Higher UCHL1 concentrations in older boys with undescended testicles, probably express intensity of germ cell apoptosis, more extensive when testicles are subjected to heat-stress for longer period. Further analyses of UCHL1 may help to elucidate its role in mechanisms influencing spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ewa Matuszczak
- Paediatric Surgery Department,Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
- * E-mail:
| | - Marzena Tylicka
- Biophysics Department Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Beata Szymańska
- Electrochemistry Department, University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Marta Komarowska
- Paediatric Surgery Department,Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Ewa Gorodkiewicz
- Electrochemistry Department, University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Wojciech Debek
- Paediatric Surgery Department,Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Adam Hermanowicz
- Paediatric Surgery Department,Medical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
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Shores DR, Everett AD. Children as Biomarker Orphans: Progress in the Field of Pediatric Biomarkers. J Pediatr 2018; 193:14-20.e31. [PMID: 29031860 PMCID: PMC5794519 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2017.08.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2017] [Revised: 08/04/2017] [Accepted: 08/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Darla R Shores
- Division of Gastroenterology, Hepatology, and Nutrition, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD.
| | - Allen D Everett
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD
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Grinspon RP, Gottlieb S, Bedecarrás P, Rey RA. Anti-Müllerian Hormone and Testicular Function in Prepubertal Boys With Cryptorchidism. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2018; 9:182. [PMID: 29922225 PMCID: PMC5996917 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2018.00182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The functional capacity of the testes in prepubertal boys with cryptorchidism before treatment has received very little attention. The assessment of testicular function at diagnosis could be helpful in the understanding of the pathophysiology of cryptorchidism and in the evaluation of the effect of treatment. Anti-Müllerian hormone is a well-accepted Sertoli cell biomarker to evaluate testicular function during childhood without the need for stimulation tests. OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to assess testicular function in prepubertal children with cryptorchidism before orchiopexy, by determining serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH). We also evaluated serum gonadotropins and testosterone and looked for associations between testicular function and the clinical characteristics of cryptorchidism. MATERIALS AND METHODS We performed a retrospective, cross-sectional, analytical study at a tertiary pediatric public hospital. All clinical charts of patients admitted at the outpatient clinic, and recorded in our database with the diagnosis of cryptorchidism, were eligible. The main outcome measure of the study was the serum concentration of AMH. Secondary outcome measures were serum LH, FSH, and testosterone. For comparison, serum hormone levels from a normal population of 179 apparently normal prepubertal boys were used. RESULTS Out of 1,557 patients eligible in our database, 186 with bilateral and 124 with unilateral cryptorchidism were selected using a randomization software. Median AMH standard deviation score was below 0 in both the bilaterally and the unilaterally cryptorchid groups, indicating that testicular function was overall decreased in patients with cryptorchidism. Serum AMH was significantly lower in boys with bilateral cryptorchidism as compared with controls and unilaterally cryptorchid patients between 6 months and 1.9 years and between 2 and 8.9 years of age. Serum AMH below the normal range reflected testicular dysfunction in 9.5-36.5% of patients according to the age group in bilaterally cryptorchid boys and 6.3-16.7% in unilaterally cryptorchid boys. FSH was elevated in 8.1% and LH in 9.1% of boys with bilateral cryptorchidism, most of whom were anorchid. In patients with present testes, gonadotropins were only mildly elevated in less than 5% of the cases. Basal testosterone was mildly decreased in patients younger than 6 months old, and uninformative during childhood. CONCLUSION Prepubertal boys with cryptorchidism, especially those with bilaterally undescended gonads, have decreased AMH production. Although serum AMH may fall within the normal range, there is a considerable prevalence of testicular dysfunction during childhood in this frequent condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romina P. Grinspon
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET – FEI – División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Silvia Gottlieb
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET – FEI – División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Patricia Bedecarrás
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET – FEI – División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rodolfo A. Rey
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas “Dr. César Bergadá” (CEDIE), CONICET – FEI – División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Histología, Biología Celular, Embriología y Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- *Correspondence: Rodolfo A. Rey,
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Serum variations of anti-mullerian hormone and total testosterone with aging in healthy adult Iranian men: A population-based study. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0179634. [PMID: 28715487 PMCID: PMC5513413 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0179634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2017] [Accepted: 06/01/2017] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Literature proves anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) and total testosterone (TT) as two important reproductive hormones in male development, however evidence regarding age variations of these hormones is lacking. Aims To estimate the normal serum AMH values and to assess the age-specific TT levels in men aged 30–70, we conducted the present population-based study. Methods A total of 831 healthy eligible men, aged 30–70 years, were recruited from Tehran Lipid and Glucose study cohort. Centiles for AMH were estimated according to the exponential normal 3-parameter model. The parametric method of Royston available in general software was applied for the first time to estimate the age-specific AMH and TT percentiles of 5th, 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th, 90th and 95th. Results Mean AMH level was 6.93, ranging from 0.1 to 40.1 ng/ml. Serum AMH concentrations followed a steady reduction with increasing age. Mean TT level was 4.8, ranging from 0.44 to 11.4 ng/ml. Discussion A measurable serum concentrations of AMH in healthy males throughout lifespan with variations, based on age, confirming a slight age-related AMH decline. Fractional polynomial (FP) regression models revealed that the mean and standard deviation (SD) of the TT were not associated with age, so the percentiles estimated were not age-specific. Conclusion We presented a nomogram of age-specific AMH values in a healthy cohort of Iranian men. This finding might have clinical importance in dealing hormonal disorders in men.
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Hamdi SM, Almont T, Galinier P, Mieusset R, Thonneau P. Altered secretion of Sertoli cells hormones in 2-year-old prepubertal cryptorchid boys: a cross-sectional study. Andrology 2017; 5:783-789. [PMID: 28544660 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2016] [Revised: 03/21/2017] [Accepted: 04/05/2017] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
In cryptorchid boys, failures in germ cell development have been clearly established. Some studies reported some abnormalities in Sertoli cells morphology but the results regarding their endocrine secretion remain controversial. To compare testicular hormone levels in young boys with and without cryptorchidism, we performed a cross-sectional hospital-based study. From surgery appointment records, we identified a case group of boys with unilateral or bilateral cryptorchidism and a control group undergoing dental care, minor osteoarticular or dermal surgery. Blood samples were withdrawn during the surgical procedure to perform testosterone, inhibin B and anti-müllerian hormone (AMH) immunoassays. We included 27 cryptorchid boys and 27 controls aged of 26.6 vs. 24.2 months, respectively (p = 0.172) far from the post-natal mini-puberty and the corresponding hormonal surges. Age-adjusted AMH and inhibin B levels were significantly lower in cryptorchid than in control boys (AMH: 87 ng/mL vs. 135 ng/mL; p = 0.009, inhibin B: 97 pg/mL vs. 133 pg/mL; p = 0.019, respectively). Moreover, AMH and inhibin B levels were significantly lower in the bilateral cryptorchid subgroup, being 50% lower than in the controls (p = 0.011 and 0.019, respectively) and while both hormones levels were independent in controls, they became strongly correlated in bilateral cryptorchid boys (R² = 0.75, p = 0.001). In addition, testosterone levels were still detectable in some boys, with significantly lower levels in cryptorchid group than in controls. Overall, 2-year-old cryptorchid patients presented a simultaneous and significant drop in AMH and inhibin B levels, suggesting a functional defect of Sertoli cells. This deficiency appeared more pronounced in bilateral cryptorchidism and thus, regarding the pivotal role of Sertoli cells in germ cell development, it may explain the compromised fertility found later in men born with such a malformation.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Hamdi
- EA 3694 Human Fertility Research Group, CHU de Toulouse, University of Toulouse, Toulouse, France.,Laboratory of Biochemistry and Hormonology, CHU de Toulouse, University of Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - T Almont
- EA 3694 Human Fertility Research Group, CHU de Toulouse, University of Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - P Galinier
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, CHU de Toulouse, Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - R Mieusset
- EA 3694 Human Fertility Research Group, CHU de Toulouse, University of Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - P Thonneau
- EA 3694 Human Fertility Research Group, CHU de Toulouse, University of Toulouse, Toulouse, France
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Rajak S, Kumaresan A, Attupuram N, Chhillar S, Baithalu R, Nayak S, Sreela L, Singh RK, Tripathi U, Mohanty T, Yadav S. Age-related changes in transcriptional abundance and circulating levels of anti-Mullerian hormone and Sertoli cell count in crossbred and Zebu bovine males. Theriogenology 2017; 89:1-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2016] [Revised: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 10/03/2016] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
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Siripunthana S, Sahakitrungruang T, Wacharasindhu S, Sosothikul D, Supornsilchai V. Testicular function in patients with regular blood transfusion for thalassemia major. ASIAN BIOMED 2017. [DOI: 10.5372/1905-7415.0902.385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Regular blood transfusion and iron chelation therapy have improved the quality of life of patients with thalassemia and increased their longevity, but transfusion also increases the frequency of endocrine complications, possibly because of iron deposition in the pituitary gland or the gonads, or both.
Objective
To evaluate testicular function in patients with thalassemia major by basal hormonal study, and identify risk factors for dysfunction.
Methods
We performed a cross-sectional study of 28 patients with thalassemia major aged 11.7 ± 1.8 (8–14.9) years (15 in prepuberty, 13 in puberty with no delayed puberty) who had regular blood transfusions. A normal control group comprised 64 boys who were matched for age and Tanner genital stage.
Results
The mean level of serum ferritin in the previous year was 1,575 ± 642 ng/mL, and the onset of blood transfusion was at 3.8 ± 2.3 years and iron chelation therapy was 6.6 ± 2.8 years. The trend for anti-Müllerian hormone levels in patients and controls was similar with age, and although higher in the patients, particularly at Tanner stage II, was not significantly different. Testosterone levels were lower in the patients compared with controls; particularly at Tanner stages IV–V (290.88 vs. 537.4 ng/dL, P < 0.05). Serum follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone levels were not significantly different between the groups at any Tanner stage.
Conclusion
Patients who received regular blood transfusions had normal Sertoli cell function. Leydig cell dysfunction may occur, even though the patients had a normal pubertal onset.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sukumarn Siripunthana
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics , Faculty of Medicine, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital , Bangkok 10330 , Thailand
| | - Taninee Sahakitrungruang
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics , Faculty of Medicine, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital , Bangkok 10330 , Thailand
| | - Suttipong Wacharasindhu
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics , Faculty of Medicine, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital , Bangkok 10330 , Thailand
| | - Darintr Sosothikul
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics , Faculty of Medicine, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital , Bangkok 10330 , Thailand
| | - Vichit Supornsilchai
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics , Faculty of Medicine, King Chulalongkorn Memorial Hospital , Bangkok 10330 , Thailand
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Cortes D, Clasen-Linde E, Hutson JM, Li R, Thorup J. The Sertoli cell hormones inhibin-B and anti Müllerian hormone have different patterns of secretion in prepubertal cryptorchid boys. J Pediatr Surg 2016; 51:475-80. [PMID: 26452703 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2015.08.059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2015] [Revised: 08/09/2015] [Accepted: 08/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES AND HYPOTHESES The Sertoli-cells produce inhibin-B and Anti-Müllerian-Hormone (AMH). Much is still unknown about these hormones in prepubertal cryptorchids. The Sertoli-cells are mandatory for germ cell development. The aim of the study was to investigate if there are differences in secretion pattern of Sertoli-cell hormones and their gonadotropin feed-back mechanisms. METHODS Included were 94 prepubertal cryptorchid boys 0.5-13.1years with measurements of serum-inhibin-B, Anti-Müllerian-Hormone (AMH), Luteinizing Hormone (LH) and Follicle Stimulation Hormone (FSH). The serum values were measured using commercially available kits. The hormonal values were related to age-matched normal values. Testicular biopsy was taken at orchiopexy. RESULTS Inhibin-B positively correlated to AMH for 1-13year-old patients (p<0.0001), but not for 0.5-1year-old patients (p=0.439). For 0.5-1year-old patients inhibin-B-values tended to decrease (p=0.055), in contrast to AMH-values (p=0.852). LH was elevated more often than FSH (p=0.014). FSH and LH were positively associated in patients both 0.5-1year (p=0.042) and 1-13years of age (p<0.0001). LH correlated positively to inhibin- B (p=0.001). In contrast, FSH did not correlate to inhibin-B or AMH (p=0.755 and p=0.528). The number of A-dark spermatogonia per tubular transverse section was positively correlated to inhibin-B serum level. CONCLUSION Our new finding of an association between LH and inhibin-B in infancy of cryptorchid boys may be essential for the transformation of gonocytes to A-dark spermatogonia. Previously, LH associated to inhibin-B was described in early puberty only. During the first year of life inhibin-B values decreased faster than AMH. The AMH-levels may just reflect the increased Sertoli cell number that occurs during the first 3months of life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dina Cortes
- The Department of Pediatric Surgery, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen; Section of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Hvidovre University Hospital, Copenhagen; Faculty of Health Science, University of Copenhagen
| | | | - John M Hutson
- Douglas Stephens Surgical Research Laboratory, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Paediatric Urology, Royal Children's Hospital, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Paediatrics, University of Melbourne
| | - Ruili Li
- Douglas Stephens Surgical Research Laboratory, Murdoch Childrens Research Institute, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Jorgen Thorup
- The Department of Pediatric Surgery, Rigshospitalet, DK-2100 Copenhagen; Faculty of Health Science, University of Copenhagen.
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Matuszczak E, Hermanowicz A, Komarowska M, Debek W. Serum AMH in Physiology and Pathology of Male Gonads. Int J Endocrinol 2013; 2013:128907. [PMID: 24282408 PMCID: PMC3824311 DOI: 10.1155/2013/128907] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2013] [Accepted: 09/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
AMH is secreted by immature Sertoli cells (SC) and is responsible for the regression of Müllerian ducts in the male fetus as part of the sexual differentiation process. AMH is also involved in testicular development and function. AMHs are at their lowest levels in the first days after birth but increase after the first week, likely reflecting active SC proliferation. AMH rises rapidly in concentration in boys during the first month, reaching a peak level at about 6 months of age, and then slowly declines during childhood, falling to low levels in puberty. Basal and FSH-stimulated levels of AMH, might become a useful predictive marker of the spermatogenic response to gonadotropic treatment in young patients with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. After puberty, AMH is released preferentially by the apical pole of the SC towards the lumen of the seminiferous tubules, resulting in higher concentrations in the seminal plasma than in the serum. Defects in AMH production and insensitivity to AMH due to receptor defects result in the persistent Müllerian duct syndrome. A measurable value of AMH in a boy with bilateral cryptorchidism is predictive of undescended testes, while an undetectable value is highly suggestive of anorchia or ovaries, as would be the case in girls with female pseudohermaphroditism and pure gonadal dysgenesis. Lower serum AMH concentrations in otherwise healthy boys with cryptorchidism, who were compared with their age-matched counterparts with palpable testes, have been reported previously. AMH levels are higher in prepubertal patients with varicocele than in controls. This altered serum profile of AMH in boys with varicoceles may indicate an early abnormality in the regulation of the seminiferous epithelial function. Serum AMH is known to be valuable in assessing gonadal function. As compared to testing involving the administration of human chorionic gonadotropin, the measurement of AMH is more sensitive and equally specific. Measurement of AMH is very useful in young children, because serum gonadotropin concentrations in those who are agonadal are nondiagnostic in midchildhood and serum testosterone concentrations may fail to increase with provocative testing in children with abdominal testes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Matuszczak
- Pediatric Surgery Department, Medical University of Bialystok, Waszyngtona 17, 15-274 Bialystok, Poland
- *Ewa Matuszczak:
| | - Adam Hermanowicz
- Pediatric Surgery Department, Medical University of Bialystok, Waszyngtona 17, 15-274 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Marta Komarowska
- Pediatric Surgery Department, Medical University of Bialystok, Waszyngtona 17, 15-274 Bialystok, Poland
| | - Wojciech Debek
- Pediatric Surgery Department, Medical University of Bialystok, Waszyngtona 17, 15-274 Bialystok, Poland
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Huang S, Tou J. Comment on "Serum AMH concentration as a marker evaluating gonadal function in boys operated on for unilateral cryptorchidism between 1st and 4th year of life". Endocrine 2012; 41:542-3. [PMID: 22234386 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-012-9601-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
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Matuszczak E, Hermanowicz A, Debek W. Serum AMH concentration as a marker evaluating gonadal function in boys operated on for unilateral cryptorchidism between 1st and 4th year of life-why patients with inguinal hernia served as controls. Endocrine 2012; 41:544-5. [PMID: 22246809 PMCID: PMC3343237 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-012-9602-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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