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Mohammadi Y, Ranjbaran J, Mamashli M, Marzuni HZ, Dashtgard A, Mohsenizadeh SM. Investigating the effects of the Omicron variant of COVID-19 on sperm parameters and serum levels of male sexual hormones: Prospective observational study. New Microbes New Infect 2024; 60-61:101432. [PMID: 38800713 PMCID: PMC11126988 DOI: 10.1016/j.nmni.2024.101432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 05/14/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background With the progress and prevalence of COVID-19, concerns have arisen regarding its impact on men's sexual health. Therefore, this study was conducted with the aim of examining the effects of COVID-19 on serum levels of sex hormones and semen. Methods Sixty participants who met the study inclusion criteria enrolled in this study between January and April 2022. The individuals were divided into three groups (n = 20): healthy, COVID-19 positive, and recovered from COVID-19. Blood and semen samples were collected from the participants. Serum levels of sex hormones and semen were evaluated both macroscopically and microscopically. Results Our study results showed that the most common symptoms observed in the COVID-19 group were cough (100 %), fever (100 %), fatigue (95 %), and runny nose (90 %). Serum levels of sex hormones (testosterone, FSH, and prolactin) in the COVID-19 group were significantly decreased compared to the healthy group. Microscopic examination of semen revealed significant differences in vitality, progressive, and motile parameters among the three groups, with a decrease observed in the COVID-19 group. Conclusion These results indicate that COVID-19 may have a negative impact on men's sexual health, potentially affecting hormone production and sperm quality. Further research is needed to determine the long-term effects of COVID-19 on male fertility and to explore potential treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yaser Mohammadi
- Department of Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Student Research Committee, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Javad Ranjbaran
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Morteza Mamashli
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Hadi Zare Marzuni
- Department of Nursing, Qaen School of Medical Sciences, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Ali Dashtgard
- Department of Nursing, Qaen School of Medical Sciences, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Seyed Mostafa Mohsenizadeh
- Department of Nursing, Qaen School of Medical Sciences, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
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Li JZ, Wu H, Wang L, Wang YS, Kong F, Cao LQ, Liang M, Wang X, Yuan MZ. Male reproductive function before and after the adjustment of the COVID-19 prevention policy: a multicenter study in China. Asian J Androl 2024; 26:308-314. [PMID: 38639721 PMCID: PMC11156448 DOI: 10.4103/aja202388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2024] Open
Abstract
At the end of 2022, the adjustment of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic control policy in China resulted in a large-scale increase in public infection. To compare the fertility parameters of male patients before and after the adjustments of the COVID-19 pandemic control policy in China, we collected data on patients' medical histories and laboratory examinations on their first visits between June 2022 and March 2023 in five different hospitals. Data were divided into five groups according to the timeline of the policy adjustment. The data we collected from male patients included semen quality and serum reproductive hormone levels, and intergroup comparisons were made using the Mann-Whitney U and Chi-square tests. In total, 16 784 cases underwent regular semen analysis, 11 180 had sperm morphology assessments, and 7200 had reproductive hormone analyses. The data showed declining trends in semen volume, sperm motility, and the progressive sperm motility rate after the policy adjustment. Subgroup comparison revealed an initial decrease and gradual recovery in progressive motility rate. Sperm morphology analysis showed increased neck and tail abnormalities after the policy adjustment. No significant change in hormone levels was observed. Following the adjustment of the COVID-19 prevention policy in China, a decline in sperm motility and morphology was observed. This trend may gradually recover over 2 months. After the policy adjustment, reproductive hormone levels were relatively stable throughout, except for an increase in luteinizing hormone (LH). These changes in semen parameters suggest that the policy adjustment had a short- to medium-term impact on male reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian-Zheng Li
- Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250000, China
| | - Han Wu
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Li Wang
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Yun-Shan Wang
- Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan 250000, China
| | - Feng Kong
- Engineering Laboratory of Urinary Organ and Functional Reconstruction of Shandong Province, Jinan 250000, China
| | - Long-Qiao Cao
- The First People’s Hospital of Jining, Jining 272000, China
| | - Ming Liang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Shandong University of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Jinan 250000, China
| | - Xiong Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Affiliated Yantai Yuhuangding Hospital of Qingdao University, Yantai 264000, China
| | - Ming-Zhen Yuan
- Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
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Chen X, Hao X, Xie L, Liu X. A bidirectional causal relationship study between mental disorders and male and female infertility. Front Psychiatry 2024; 15:1378224. [PMID: 38699446 PMCID: PMC11064171 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2024.1378224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2024] [Accepted: 03/28/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The relation between mental disorders (MDs) and infertility can be reciprocal. But exactly which MD affects infertility remains controversial. Our aim was to use Mendelian randomization (MR) to explore bidirectional causality between 15 MDs and male infertility and female infertility. Methods The data of MDs, male infertility, and female infertility were derived from published genome-wide association studies (GWAS). The inverse variance weighted method was considered to be the main analytical approach. Sensitivity analysis was performed using MR-Egger, Cochran's Q, radial MR, and MR-PRESSO tests. Results Our results found that mood disorders (OR, 1.4497; 95% CI, 1.0093 - 2.0823; P = 0.0444) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (OR, 1.3921; 95% CI, 1.0943 - 1.7709; P = 0.0071) were positively correlated with male infertility, but obsessive-compulsive disorder (OR, 0.8208; 95% CI, 0.7146 - 0.9429; P = 0.0052) was negatively associated with male infertility. For females, anorexia nervosa (OR, 1.0898; 95% CI, 1.0070 - 1.1794; P = 0.0329), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (OR, 1.1013; 95% CI, 1.0041 - 1.2079; P = 0.0406), and major depressive disorder (OR, 1.1423; 95% CI, 1.0213 - 1.2778; P = 0.0199) increased risk of infertility. In reverse relationship, female infertility increased the incidence of bipolar disorder (OR, 1.0009; 95% CI, 1.0001 - 1.0017; P = 0.0281). Conclusion We demonstrated the association between five MDs and male or female infertility. Female infertility was also found to be associated with an increased risk of one MD. We look forward to better designed epidemiological studies to support our results.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Xiaoqiang Liu
- Department of Urology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
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4
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Cutia CA, Christian-Hinman CA. Mechanisms linking neurological disorders with reproductive endocrine dysfunction: Insights from epilepsy research. Front Neuroendocrinol 2023; 71:101084. [PMID: 37506886 PMCID: PMC10818027 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2023.101084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2022] [Revised: 07/03/2023] [Accepted: 07/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Gonadal hormone actions in the brain can both worsen and alleviate symptoms of neurological disorders. Although neurological conditions and reproductive endocrine function are seemingly disparate, compelling evidence indicates that reciprocal interactions exist between certain disorders and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis irregularities. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that shows significant reproductive endocrine dysfunction (RED) in clinical populations. Seizures, particularly those arising from temporal lobe structures, can drive HPG axis alterations, and hormones produced in the HPG axis can reciprocally modulate seizure activity. Despite this relationship, mechanistic links between seizures and RED, and vice versa, are still largely unknown. Here, we review clinical evidence alongside recent investigations in preclinical animal models into the contributions of seizures to HPG axis malfunction, describe the effects of HPG axis hormonal feedback on seizure activity, and discuss how epilepsy research can offer insight into mechanisms linking neurological disorders to HPG axis dysfunction, an understudied area of neuroendocrinology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathryn A Cutia
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA
| | - Catherine A Christian-Hinman
- Neuroscience Program, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA; Beckman Institute for Advanced Science and Technology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, IL, USA.
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5
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Smith SJ, Lopresti AL, Fairchild TJ. The effects of alcohol on testosterone synthesis in men: a review. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2023; 18:155-166. [PMID: 36880700 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2023.2184797] [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: 10/14/2022] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 03/02/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Testosterone concentrations in men decline with advancing age, with low testosterone concentrations being associated with multiple morbidities, an increased risk of early mortality, and a reduced quality of life. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of alcohol on testosterone synthesis in men by investigating its effects on each level of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. AREAS COVERED Acute consumption of a low-to-moderate amount of alcohol increases testosterone concentrations in men, while consumption of a large volume of alcohol is associated with a reduction in serum testosterone concentrations. Elevated testosterone concentrations result from the increased activity of detoxification enzymes in the liver. Conversely, the primary mechanisms of action involved in the reduction of testosterone are increased hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis activity, inflammation, and oxidative stress. When alcohol is consumed in excess, particularly chronically, it negatively affects testosterone production in men. EXPERT OPINION Since testosterone is an important component of men's health and wellbeing, current levels of alcohol consumption in many countries of the world require urgent attention. Elucidating the relationship between alcohol consumption and testosterone may be useful in identifying strategies to attenuate the testosterone-reducing effects of excessive or chronic alcohol consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen James Smith
- Clinical Research Australia, Perth, Australia
- The Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
| | - Adrian Leo Lopresti
- Clinical Research Australia, Perth, Australia
- The Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
| | - Timothy John Fairchild
- The Centre for Molecular Medicine and Innovative Therapeutics, Murdoch University, Perth, Australia
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Dias NW, Timlin CL, Santilli FV, Harvey KM, Cooke RF, Clark S, Currin JF, Mercadante VRG. Effects of temperament on reproductive performance of Bos taurus heifers enrolled in the 7-day CO-Synch + controlled internal drug release protocol. Transl Anim Sci 2022; 6:txac156. [PMID: 36568898 PMCID: PMC9772815 DOI: 10.1093/tas/txac156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 12/01/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Cattle temperament significantly impacts production traits such as reproduction. The objective of this study was to assess the effects of temperament on pregnancy rates to fixed-timed artificial insemination (TAI) in Bos taurus beef heifers. A total of 297 Angus influenced heifers from 3 different locations were evaluated for temperament based on chute score and exit velocity on the first day of the estrus synchronization protocol (d-9) and classified by temperament type based on temperament score (calm ≤ 3 < excitable). Pregnancy status was determined by transrectal ultrasonography approximately 40 d after TAI. Hair from the tail switch was collected at d-9 and at d0 (TAI) for cumulative cortisol evaluation. A subset of 43 heifers from location 3 had blood samples collected at all handling events and evaluated for cortisol concentrations. Overall, 71% of heifers were classified as calm whereas 29% as excitable. Pregnancy rates to TAI were reduced (P = 0.042) in excitable heifers compared to calm heifers (36% vs. 55%, respectively). Mean concentration of cortisol in the hair was reduced over time (P < 0.001) from d-9 (3.5 ± 0.3 pg/mg) to d0 (1.74 ± 0.3 pg/mg) in all heifers, regardless of temperament. In addition, excitable heifers had increased circulating concentrations of cortisol when compared to calm heifers in all handling events (P = 0.015). More interestingly, despite of temperament, concentrations of circulating cortisol were reduced as the protocol events progressed, with greater cortisol concentrations on d-9, intermediate on d-3, and lesser on d0 (P = 0.031). Therefore, the present study demonstrates that heifer temperament has negative effects in pregnancy rates to TAI programs. However, according to blood cortisol concentrations, no chronic stress response was detected due to cattle handling for the TAI protocol. In fact, blood cortisol concentration was reduced between the initiation and completion of the protocol, indicating that heifers were acclimated to handing. These results support the adoption of acclimation protocols and proper cattle handling as a strategy to increase fertility of heifers that are exposed to TAI.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Claire L Timlin
- School of Animal Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA
| | - Felipe V Santilli
- School of Animal Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA
| | - Kelsey M Harvey
- Prairie Research Unit, Mississippi State University, Prairie, MS, 39756, USA
| | - Reinaldo F Cooke
- Department of Animal Science, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Sherrie Clark
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA
| | - John F Currin
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA
| | - Vitor R G Mercadante
- School of Animal Sciences, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA
- Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA
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Hlisníková H, Nagyová M, Kolena B, Mlynček M, Trnovec T, Petrovičová I. The Joint Effect of Perceived Psychosocial Stress and Phthalate Exposure on Hormonal Concentrations during the Early Stage of Pregnancy: A Cross-Sectional Study. CHILDREN (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 9:children9101561. [PMID: 36291497 PMCID: PMC9601203 DOI: 10.3390/children9101561] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Phthalates alter the hormonal balance in humans during pregnancy, potentially affecting embryonic and fetal development. We studied the joint effect of exposure to phthalates, quantified by urinary phthalate metabolite concentration, and perceived psychological stress on the concentration of hormones in pregnant women (n = 90) from the Nitra region, Slovakia, up to the 15th week of pregnancy. We used high-performance liquid chromatography, tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS), and electro-chemiluminescence immunoassay to determine urinary concentrations of phthalates and serum concentrations of hormones, respectively. We used Cohen perceived stress scale (PSS) to evaluate the human perception of stressful situations. Our results showed that mono(carboxy-methyl-heptyl) phthalate (cx-MiNP) and a molar sum of di-iso-nonyl phthalate metabolites (ΣDiNP) were negatively associated with luteinizing hormone (LH) (p ≤ 0.05). Mono(hydroxy-methyl-octyl) phthalate (OH-MiNP) and the molar sum of high-molecular-weight phthalate metabolites (ΣHMWP) were positively associated with estradiol (p ≤ 0.05). PSS score was not significantly associated with hormonal concentrations. When the interaction effects of PSS score and monoethyl phthalate (MEP), cx-MiNP, ΣDiNP, and ΣHMWP on LH were analyzed, the associations were positive (p ≤ 0.05). Our cross-sectional study highlights that joint psychosocial stress and xenobiotic-induced stress caused by phthalates are associated with modulated concentrations of reproductive hormones in pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrieta Hlisníková
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Informatics, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, 94974 Nitra-Chrenová, Slovakia
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +421-37-6408-716
| | - Miroslava Nagyová
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Informatics, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, 94974 Nitra-Chrenová, Slovakia
| | - Branislav Kolena
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Informatics, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, 94974 Nitra-Chrenová, Slovakia
| | - Miloš Mlynček
- Department of Nursing, Faculty of Social Sciences and Health Care, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, 94974 Nitra-Chrenová, Slovakia
| | - Tomáš Trnovec
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Faculty of Public Health, Slovak Medical University, 83101 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Ida Petrovičová
- Department of Zoology and Anthropology, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Informatics, Constantine the Philosopher University in Nitra, 94974 Nitra-Chrenová, Slovakia
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Xiao H, Xu Z, Zhu X, Wang J, Zheng Q, Zhang Q, Xu C, Tao W, Wang D. Cortisol safeguards oogenesis by promoting follicular cell survival. SCIENCE CHINA. LIFE SCIENCES 2022; 65:1563-1577. [PMID: 35167018 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-021-2051-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2021] [Accepted: 12/06/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
The role of glucocorticoids in oogenesis remains to be elucidated. cyp11c1 encodes the key enzyme involved in the synthesis of cortisol, the major glucocorticoid in teleosts. In our previous study, we mutated cyp11c1 in tilapia and analyzed its role in spermatogenesis. In this study, we analyzed its role in oogenesis. cyp11c1+/- XX tilapia showed normal ovarian morphology but poor egg quality, as indicated by the mortality of embryos before 3 d post fertilization, which could be partially rescued by the supplement of exogenous cortisol to the mother fish. Transcriptome analyses revealed reduced expression of maternal genes in the eggs of the cyp11c1+/- XX fish. The cyp11c1-/- females showed impaired vitellogenesis and arrested oogenesis due to significantly decreased serum cortisol. Further analyses revealed decreased serum E2 level and expression of amh, an important regulator of follicular cell development, and increased follicular cell apoptosis in the ovaries of cyp11c1-/- XX fish, which could be rescued by supplement of either exogenous cortisol or E2. Luciferase assays revealed a direct regulation of cortisol and E2 on amh transcription via GRs or ESRs. Taken together, our results demonstrate that cortisol safeguards oogenesis by promoting follicular cell survival probably via Amh signaling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hesheng Xiao
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Zhen Xu
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Xi Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Jingrong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Qiaoyuan Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Qingqing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Chunmei Xu
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China
| | - Wenjing Tao
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
| | - Deshou Wang
- Key Laboratory of Freshwater Fish Reproduction and Development (Ministry of Education), Key Laboratory of Aquatic Science of Chongqing, School of Life Sciences, Southwest University, Chongqing, 400715, China.
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Temiz MZ, Dincer MM, Hacibey I, Yazar RO, Celik C, Kucuk SH, Alkurt G, Doganay L, Yuruk E, Muslumanoglu AY. Investigation of SARS-CoV-2 in semen samples and the effects of COVID-19 on male sexual health by using semen analysis and serum male hormone profile: A cross-sectional, pilot study. Andrologia 2021; 53:e13912. [PMID: 33244788 PMCID: PMC7744846 DOI: 10.1111/and.13912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 10/19/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The study investigated whether there is a male reproductive system coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) phenomenon. Thirty participants who met the inclusion criteria were enrolled in the study between April and May 2020. The participants were assigned in one of the three groups including COVID-19 patients before and after treatment, and controls. Presence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) within the semen samples was investigated. Additionally, participant's demographics, semen parameters and serum sex hormone levels were compared between the groups. SARS-CoV-2 was not detected within the semen samples. Sperm morphology and serum sex hormone levels were significantly different between the groups. In the post hoc analysis, sperm morphology was significantly lower in the COVID-19 patients. Patients before treatment had significantly lower serum FSH, LH and T levels than controls. However, patients after treatment had similar serum FSH, LH and T levels with controls and patients before treatment. In our opinion, COVID-19 and its treatment had no specific deteriorative effect on male sexual health at a short-time period. In the patients before treatment, decreased serum of T, FSH and LH levels was consistent with acute patient stress due to COVID-19. Similarly, it seems that decreased sperm morphology was associated with the acute fever.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Zafer Temiz
- Department of UrologyBagcilar Training and Research HospitalBagcilar/IstanbulTurkey
| | | | - Ibrahim Hacibey
- Department of UrologyBagcilar Training and Research HospitalBagcilar/IstanbulTurkey
| | - Ramazan Omer Yazar
- Department of UrologyBagcilar Training and Research HospitalBagcilar/IstanbulTurkey
| | - Cengiz Celik
- Department of UrologyBagcilar Training and Research HospitalBagcilar/IstanbulTurkey
| | - Suat Hayri Kucuk
- Department of BiochemistryBagcilar Training and Research HospitalBagcilar/IstanbulTurkey
| | - Gizem Alkurt
- Genomic Laboratory (GLAB)Umraniye Training and Research HospitalElmalikentTurkey
| | - Levent Doganay
- Genomic Laboratory (GLAB)Umraniye Training and Research HospitalElmalikentTurkey
| | - Emrah Yuruk
- Department of UrologyBHT Clinic Istanbul Tema HospitalKücükcekmece/IstanbulTurkey
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Kim J, Whitcomb BW, Kwan B, Zava D, Sluss PM, Dietz A, Shliakhtsitsava K, Romero SAD, Natarajan L, Su HI. Psychosocial stress and ovarian function in adolescent and young adult cancer survivors. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:405-414. [PMID: 33279981 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2020] [Revised: 09/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is psychosocial stress associated with ovarian function in reproductive-aged survivors of cancer diagnosed as adolescents and young adults (AYA survivors)? SUMMARY ANSWER We observed no association between self-reported and biomarkers of psychosocial stress and ovarian function in AYA survivors. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Psychosocial stress suppresses hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, resulting in ovulatory dysfunction, decreased sex steroidogenesis and lower fertility in reproductive-aged women. Many cancer survivors experience high psychosocial stress and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysregulation. The menstrual pattern disturbances and infertility they experience have been attributed to ovarian follicle destruction, but the contribution of psychosocial stress to these phenotypes is unknown. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A cross-sectional study was conducted estimating the association between perceived stress, measured by self-report and saliva cortisol, and ovarian function, measured by bleeding pattern, dried blood spot (DBS) FSH and LH, and saliva estradiol. We included 377 AYA survivor participants. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS AYA survivor participants were ages 15-35 at cancer diagnosis and ages 18-40 at study enrollment, had completed primary cancer treatment, had a uterus and at least one ovary, did not have uncontrolled endocrinopathy and were not on hormone therapy. Recruited from cancer registries, physician referrals and cancer advocacy groups, participants provided self-reported information on psychosocial stress (Perceived Stress Scale-10 (PSS-10)) and on cancer and reproductive (fertility, contraception, menstrual pattern) characteristics. DBS samples were collected timed to the early follicular phase (cycle Days 3-7) for menstruating individuals and on a random day for amenorrheic individuals; saliva samples were collected three time points within 1 day. FSH and LH were measured by DBS ELISAs, cortisol was measured by ELISA and estradiol was measured by liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The median age of participants was 34.0 years (range 19-41) at a median of 6.0 years since cancer diagnosis. The most common cancer was breast (32.1%). Median PSS-10 score was 15 (range 0-36), with 5.3% scoring ≥26, the cut point suggestive of severe stress. Cortisol levels followed a diurnal pattern and cortisol AUC was negatively correlated with PSS-10 scores (P = 0.03). Neither PSS-10 scores nor cortisol AUC were associated with FSH, LH, estradiol levels or menstrual pattern. Waking and evening cortisol and the cortisol awakening response also were not related to ovarian function measures. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Our analysis is limited by its cross-sectional nature, heterogeneity of cancer diagnosis and treatments and low prevalence of severe stress. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The lack of association between psychosocial stress and a variety of ovarian function measures in female AYA cancer survivors suggests that psychosocial stress does not have a significant impact on the reproductive axis of AYA survivors. This finding is important in counseling this population on their menstrual pattern and family building plans. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) NIH HD080952, South Korea Health Industry Development Institute HI18C1837 (JK). Dr A.D. works for Bluebird Bio, Inc., Dr D.Z. works for ZRT Labs and Dr P.M.S. works for Ansh Labs, which did not sponsor, support or have oversight of this research. Other authors report no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jayeon Kim
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, CHA Seoul Fertility Center, CHA University, Seoul, Republic of Korea
| | - Brian W Whitcomb
- Department of Biostatistics and Epidemiology, School of Public Health and Health Sciences, University of Massachusetts Amherst
| | - Brian Kwan
- Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Department of Family Medicine and Public Health and Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego
| | | | | | - Andrew Dietz
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego.,Bluebird Bio, Inc
| | | | - Sally A D Romero
- Department of Family Medicine and Public Health and Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego
| | - Loki Natarajan
- Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Department of Family Medicine and Public Health and Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego
| | - H Irene Su
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences and Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego
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11
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Joung JY, Lee JS, Oh NS, Kim SH. Fermented Maillard reaction products attenuate stress-induced testicular dysfunction in mice. J Dairy Sci 2020; 104:1384-1393. [PMID: 33272581 DOI: 10.3168/jds.2020-18996] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Chronic stress can cause psychological diseases and affect male fertility and the reproductive system. Maillard reaction of milk proteins improves their functional and nutritional properties through modification of proteins. Previously, we determined that Maillard reaction product (MRP) from milk casein and MRP fermented (FMRP) with Lactobacillus rhamnosus 4B15 (4B15) had anti-anxiolytic effects in mice under chronic stress. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the effects of MRP and FMRP on chronic stress-induced testicular dysfunction in mice through quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and in situ hybridization analysis. Mice were pretreated with MRP and FMRP for 10 wk; simultaneously, from the third week of the experimental period, they were exposed to unpredictable chronic mild stress (UCMS) for 7 wk. The expression levels of the luteinizing hormone subunit β (Lhb) and follicle-stimulating hormone subunit β (Fshb) were remarkably reduced after exposure to UCMS. However, treatment with MRP and FMRP inhibited the UCMS-induced reduction, with FMRP showing especially significant inhibition. Moreover, the expression of steroidogenesis-related genes [luteinizing hormone receptor (Lhr), follicle-stimulating hormone (Fshr), 3-β hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2 (Hsd3b2), and steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR)] were significantly reduced in response to UCMS. In contrast, the transcript levels of these genes were highest in the MRP-treated mice. Mice pretreated with FMRP also exhibited higher levels of gene expression compared with the nonstressed mice. Moreover, UCMS significantly downregulated the expression of genes associated with testicular function [i.e., a disintegrin and metallopeptidase domain 5 (Adam5), Adam29, bone morphogenetic protein 2 (Bmp2), tektin 3 (Tekt3), and sperm adhesion molecule 1 (Spam1)]. However, the administration of MRP and FMRP prevented the UCMS-induced reduction in the expressions of above genes. The localization of Lhr, Srd5a2, Adam29, and Spam1 was confirmed by in situ hybridization analysis and the results were consistent with those of qRT-PCR. Consequently, these results indicated that MRP and FMRP, manufactured by the heat treatment of milk casein and fermentation with probiotic 4B15, have the potential to prevent chronic stress-induced testicular dysfunction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jae Yeon Joung
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Korea
| | - Ji Sun Lee
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Korea
| | - Nam Su Oh
- Department of Food and Biotechnology, Korea University, Sejong 30019, Korea.
| | - Sae Hun Kim
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Korea.
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12
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Abstract
Through their receptors at each level of hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal axis glucocorticoid excess, either endogenous or administered or stress-induced, could affect steroid production in the testis and thus male fertility. The main ways by which glucocorticoids act are as follows: 1) Affecting gonadoliberin and LH synthesis and release through glucocorticoid receptors in hypothalamic neurons and pituitary gonadotropes. 2) By so far not clearly evidenced reduction of the number of LH receptors on the membrane of Leydig cells. 3) By affecting expression and function of steroidogenic enzymes in the testis. 4) By regulation of in situ access of glucocorticoid to its target cells in the testis. 5) By promotion Leydig cell apoptosis. The review provides a survey of physiological and molecular mechanisms staying behind these effects. It does not deal with the clinical effects of glucocorticoid treatment which would substantially exceed the scope of the pater.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Hampl
- Institute of Endocrinology, Prague, Czech Republic.
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13
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Bagheri Y, Keshtmand Z, Rahbarghazi R, Gharamaleki MN, Barati A, Bagheri S, Rezaie J, Rezabakhsh A, Ahmadi M, Delashoub M. Salvia officinalis hydroalcoholic extract improved reproduction capacity and behavioral activity in rats exposed to immobilization stress. Anim Sci J 2020; 91:e13382. [PMID: 32378301 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Accepted: 04/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
This study was conducted to evaluate the Salvia officinalis hydroalcoholic extract on fertility capacity and behavioral features in rats exposed to immobilization stress. Male rats were randomly divided into five groups; Control; Stressed rats; and Stressed rats received 50, 100 and/or 200 mg/kg bw S. officinalis hydroalcoholic extract. To induce stress, rats were immobilized for 49 days and received S. officinalis extract orally. On day 56, we analyzed behavioral tests and evaluated reproduction capacity by measuring LH, FSH, and testosterone. Sperm parameters such as motility, viability, and total count were also determined. Bodyweight changes were also calculated on day 56. Male rats from different groups were mated with healthy female rats. Data showed that the use of 100 and 200 mg/kg bw S. officinalis extract in stressed rats increased bodyweight gain and improved behavioral disorders compared to control-matched groups (p < .05). Besides, administration of 100 and 200 mg/kg bw S. officinalis extract had the potential to improve sperm parameters and fertility capacity in stressed rats (p < .05). Decreased testosterone levels were blunted in the stressed rats that received plant extract coincided with the reduction of LH and FSH compared to control-matched stressed rats (p < .05). We found neutral effects in stressed rats that received 50 mg/kg bw plant extract. Collectively, the hydroalcoholic extract of S. officinalis could improve the fertility capacity and behavioral features under stressful conditions in a dose-dependent manner.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasin Bagheri
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Tabriz Branch Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Zahra Keshtmand
- Department of Biology, Central Tehran Branch Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Rahbarghazi
- Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mehrdad N Gharamaleki
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Alireza Barati
- Young Researchers and Elite Club, Tabriz Branch Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sara Bagheri
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Jafar Rezaie
- Solid Tumor Research Center, Research Institute for Cellular and Molecular Medicine, Urmia University of Medical Sciences, Urmia, Iran
| | - Aysa Rezabakhsh
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Research Center, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahdi Ahmadi
- Tuberculosis and Lung Diseases Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Masoud Delashoub
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Basic Sciences, Biotechnology Research Center, Tabriz Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz, Iran
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14
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Młotkowska P, Marciniak E, Roszkowicz-Ostrowska K, Misztal T. Effects of allopregnanolone on central reproductive functions in sheep under natural and stressful conditions. Theriogenology 2020; 158:138-147. [PMID: 32956862 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 09/05/2020] [Accepted: 09/07/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Reproductive functions may be affected by internal and external factors that are integrated in the central nervous system (CNS). Stressful stimuli induce the neuroendocrine response of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, as well as the synthesis of the neurosteroid allopregnanolone (AL) in the brain. This study tested the hypothesis that centrally administered AL could affect the expression of certain genes involved in reproductive functions at the hypothalamus and pituitary levels, as well as pulsatile gonadotropin secretion in sheep under both natural and stressful conditions. Luteal-phase sheep (n = 24) were subjected to a three-day (day 12-14 of the estrous cycle) series of control or AL (4 × 15 μg/60 μL/30 min, at 30 min intervals) infusions into the third ventricle. Acute stressful stimuli (isolation from other sheep and partial movement restriction) were used in the third day of infusion. Stressful stimuli reduced kisspeptin-1 mRNA levels in both the mediobasal hypothalamus (MBH) and the preoptic area (POA), while pro-dynorphin (PDYN) mRNA level only in the MBH. AL alone decreased the abundances of these transcripts in both structures. Stress increased the expression of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) mRNA in the MBH and POA, luteinizing hormone (LH) β subunit (LHβ) mRNA in the anterior pituitary (AP) and pulsatile LH secretion. In contrast, mRNA level of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) β subunit (FSHβ) was decreased in the AP, with no effect of stress on pulsatile FSH secretion. In stressed sheep, AL counteracted the increase in GnRH mRNA expression only in the POA, but it decreased the level of this transcript in both hypothalamic tissues when infused alone. AL prevented the stress-induced increase in LHβ mRNA expression in the AP and pulsatile LH secretion, as well as inhibited almost all aspects of FSH secretion when administered alone. The suppressive effect of AL on GnRH receptor mRNA expression was also observed in both MBH and AP. We concluded that acute stress and AL exerted multidirectional effects on hypothalamic centers that regulate reproductive functions and secretory activity of AP gonadotrophs in sheep. However, we indicated the dominant inhibitory effect of AL under natural and stressful conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrycja Młotkowska
- Department of Animal Physiology, The Kielanowski Institute of Animal Physiology and Nutrition, Polish Academy of Sciences, Instytucka 3 St, 05-110, Jablonna, Poland.
| | - Elżbieta Marciniak
- Department of Animal Physiology, The Kielanowski Institute of Animal Physiology and Nutrition, Polish Academy of Sciences, Instytucka 3 St, 05-110, Jablonna, Poland.
| | - Katarzyna Roszkowicz-Ostrowska
- Department of Animal Physiology, The Kielanowski Institute of Animal Physiology and Nutrition, Polish Academy of Sciences, Instytucka 3 St, 05-110, Jablonna, Poland.
| | - Tomasz Misztal
- Department of Animal Physiology, The Kielanowski Institute of Animal Physiology and Nutrition, Polish Academy of Sciences, Instytucka 3 St, 05-110, Jablonna, Poland.
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15
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Chang WP, Chang YP. Meta-Analysis Comparing Menstrual Regularity and Dysmenorrhea of Women Working Rotating Shifts and Fixed Day Shifts. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2020; 30:722-730. [PMID: 32907443 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2020.8517] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Rotating shift work can cause abnormalities in their endocrine system. We conducted a meta-analysis to gain a better understanding of the differences between women working rotating shifts and fixed day shifts in menstrual regularity and dysmenorrhea. Methods: We searched for studies containing relevant keywords that were published between 1990 and 2019 in the Cochrane Library, EBSCO (including the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature [CINAHL]), MEDLINE, and ProQuest. Data analysis was performed using the software package Comprehensive Meta-Analysis (CMA) Version 3.0. Results: A total of 14 studies met our selection criteria. The pooled odds ratio (OR) comparing the menstrual irregularity of women working rotating shifts and fixed day shifts was 1.35 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.28-1.42, p < 0.001). The pooled OR of the women aged 30 years or older was 1.35 (95% CI: 1.28-1.42, p < 0.001); and for the women under 30 years old, the pooled OR was 1.66 (95% CI: 1.13-2.44, p = 0.010). The pooled OR comparing the dysmenorrhea occurrence among women working rotating shifts and fixed day shifts was 1.51 (95% CI: 0.87-2.62, p = 0.139). The pooled OR of the women aged 30 years or older was 2.35 (95% CI: 1.63-3.39, p < 0.001); and for the women under 30 years old, the pooled OR was 1.20 (95% CI: 0.61-2.33, p = 0.601). Conclusions: The results indicate that regardless of age, women working rotating shifts were more likely to experience menstrual irregularity than those working fixed day shifts. With regard to dysmenorrhea, among women aged 30 years or older, those working rotating shifts were also more likely to experience dysmenorrhea than those working fixed day shifts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Pei Chang
- Department of Nursing, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan.,School of Nursing, College of Nursing, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Pei Chang
- Department of Nursing, Shuang Ho Hospital, Taipei Medical University, New Taipei City, Taiwan
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16
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Nephrotoxic effects caused by co-exposure to noise and toluene in New Zealand white rabbits: A biochemical and histopathological study. Life Sci 2020; 259:118254. [PMID: 32800833 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2020.118254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 07/31/2020] [Accepted: 08/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The biological and renal effects made by simultaneous and non-simultaneous exposure to toluene and noise were investigated. Twenty-four New Zealand white rabbits were exposed to 100 dB of white noise and 1000 ppm of toluene vapor for two weeks. The examined biochemical factors were urea, uric acid, creatinine, glucose, triglyceride, cholesterol, and albumin serum levels, measured on different days after the end of the exposure. Moreover, glutathione peroxidase activity (GPX), malondialdehyde dismutase activity (MDA), and superoxide dismutase (SOD) parameters were measured in the kidney tissue. The hematoxylin and eosin staining method was used for histopathological experiments. Overall, the noise increased albumin, uric acid, creatinine, and glucose levels, but it decreased urea, cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. Toluene decreased albumin, uric acid, and urea levels, while it increased creatinine, triglyceride, cholesterol, and glucose levels. Simultaneous exposure to noise and toluene decreased albumin, uric acid, cholesterol, and urea levels, whereas it increased creatinine, glucose, and triglyceride levels. GPX, MDA, and SOD levels increased by simultaneous and non-simultaneous exposure to noise and toluene. Furthermore, massive tubular degeneration, tubular cell vacuolization, glomerular disorganization, congestion, glomerular cell shrinkage, and unclear brush border were detected in the kidney tissue.
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17
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Bahougne T, Kretz M, Angelopoulou E, Jeandidier N, Simonneaux V. Impact of Circadian Disruption on Female Mice Reproductive Function. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5758065. [PMID: 32100021 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2019] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
In female mammals, cycles in reproductive function depend both on the biological clock synchronized to the light/dark cycle and on a balance between the negative and positive feedbacks of estradiol, whose concentration varies during oocyte maturation. In women, studies report that chronodisruptive environments such as shiftwork may impair fertility and gestational success. The objective of this study was to explore the effects of shifted light/dark cycles on both the robustness of the estrous cycles and the timing of the preovulatory luteinizing hormone (LH) surge in female mice. When mice were exposed to a single 10-hour phase advance or 10-hour phase delay, the occurrence and timing of the LH surge and estrous cyclicity were recovered at the third estrous cycle. By contrast, when mice were exposed to chronic shifts (successive rotations of 10-hoursour phase advances for 3 days followed by 10-hour phase delays for 4 days), they exhibited a severely impaired reproductive activity. Most mice had no preovulatory LH surge at the beginning of the chronic shifts. Furthermore, the gestational success of mice exposed to chronic shifts was reduced, because the number of pups was 2 times lower in shifted than in control mice. In conclusion, this study reports that exposure of female mice to a single phase shift has minor reproductive effects, whereas exposure to chronically disrupted light/dark cycles markedly impairs the occurrence of the preovulatory LH surge, leading to reduced fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thibault Bahougne
- Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, (UPR CNRS 3212) and University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Service d'Endocrinologie et Diabète, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Mathilda Kretz
- Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, (UPR CNRS 3212) and University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
- Service d'Endocrinologie et Diabète, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Eleni Angelopoulou
- Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, (UPR CNRS 3212) and University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Nathalie Jeandidier
- Service d'Endocrinologie et Diabète, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
| | - Valérie Simonneaux
- Institut des Neurosciences Cellulaires et Intégratives, (UPR CNRS 3212) and University of Strasbourg, Strasbourg, France
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18
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McCosh RB, Breen KM, Kauffman AS. Neural and endocrine mechanisms underlying stress-induced suppression of pulsatile LH secretion. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2019; 498:110579. [PMID: 31521706 PMCID: PMC6874223 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2019.110579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 08/30/2019] [Accepted: 09/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Stress is well-known to inhibit a variety of reproductive processes, including the suppression of episodic Gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion, typically measured via downstream luteinizing hormone (LH) secretion. Since pulsatile secretion of GnRH and LH are necessary for proper reproductive function in both males and females, and stress is common for both human and animals, understanding the fundamental mechanisms by which stress impairs LH pulses is of critical importance. Activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, and its corresponding endocrine factors, is a key feature of the stress response, so dissecting the role of stress hormones, including corticotrophin releasing hormone (CRH) and corticosterone, in the inhibition of LH secretion has been one key research focus. However, some evidence suggests that these stress hormones alone are not sufficient for the full inhibition of LH caused by stress, implicating the additional involvement of other hormonal or neural signaling pathways in this process (including inputs from the brainstem, amygdala, parabrachial nucleus, and dorsomedial nucleus). Moreover, different stress types, such as metabolic stress (hypoglycemia), immune stress, and psychosocial stress, appear to suppress LH secretion via partially unique neural and endocrine pathways. The mechanisms underlying the suppression of LH pulses in these models offer interesting comparisons and contrasts, including the specific roles of amygdaloid nuclei and CRH receptor types. This review focuses on the most recent and emerging insights into endocrine and neural mechanisms responsible for the suppression of pulsatile LH secretion in mammals, and offers insights in important gaps in knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard B McCosh
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0674, USA
| | - Kellie M Breen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0674, USA
| | - Alexander S Kauffman
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92093-0674, USA.
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19
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Fredslund SO, Gravholt CH, Laursen BE, Jensen AB. Key metabolic parameters change significantly in early breast cancer survivors: an explorative PILOT study. J Transl Med 2019; 17:105. [PMID: 30935397 PMCID: PMC6444586 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-019-1850-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background With increasing number of breast cancer survivors, more attention is drawn to long-term consequences of curative cancer treatment. Adjuvant treatment of breast cancer patients is associated with several unfavorable medical conditions, including dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, and obesity, potentially leading to cardiovascular disease and/or the metabolic syndrome. The aim of this explorative study is to investigate metabolic side effects of adjuvant treatment in breast cancer patients. Methods A cohort of 13 premenopausal and 20 postmenopausal women with early stage breast cancer were extensively examined prior to, immediately after and 1 year after ended adjuvant chemotherapy and compared with healthy controls (N = 36) matched by age and menopausal status. Repeated examinations included: anthropometric measures, DEXA scans, 24-h blood pressure measurements, and blood samples [high sensitivity CRP, lipid profile and glucose metabolism, including homeostatic model assessment (HOMA)]. Results At baseline, breast cancer patients were similar to healthy controls regarding all measures. From baseline to 1-year post-treatment specific components of the metabolic syndrome increased significantly in premenopausal breast cancer patients; body fat (P = 0.01), triglycerides (P = 0.03), waist circumference (P = 0.008) and diastolic blood pressure (P = 0.04). In postmenopausal patients, waist circumference also increased significantly (P = 0.03), and High density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol decreased significantly (P = 0.05). Conclusions Specific components of the metabolic syndrome changed significantly during chemotherapy in early stage breast cancer patients. After 1 year, several key parameters remained pathologically changed. Premenopausal breast cancer patients seemed to be especially prone to develop these unfavorable changes. Trial registration ClinicalTrial.gov, registration number NCT02652975. Registered 15 December 2015—Retrospectively registered, https://clinicaltrials.gov/.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stine Overvad Fredslund
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Nørrebrogade 44, 8000, Aarhus C, Denmark.
| | - Claus Højbjerg Gravholt
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine MEA, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul Jensens Blvd 99, 8200, Arhus N, Denmark.,Department of Molecular Medicine (MOMA), Aarhus University Hospital, Brendstrupgårdsvej 100, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - Britt Elmedal Laursen
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Nørrebrogade 44, 8000, Aarhus C, Denmark.,Department of Molecular Medicine (MOMA), Aarhus University Hospital, Brendstrupgårdsvej 100, 8200, Aarhus N, Denmark.,Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Wilhelm Meyers Allé 3, 8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
| | - Anders Bonde Jensen
- Department of Oncology, Aarhus University Hospital, Nørrebrogade 44, 8000, Aarhus C, Denmark
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20
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Peecher DL, Binder AK, Gabriel KI. Rodent models of mental illness in polycystic ovary syndrome: the potential role of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal dysregulation and lessons for behavioral researchers. Biol Reprod 2019; 100:590-600. [PMID: 30388193 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2018] [Revised: 10/04/2018] [Accepted: 10/31/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most commonly diagnosed endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age, with phenotypes including ovarian and metabolic dysfunctions. Women with PCOS also show increased rates of mental illness, dysregulation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, and altered responsiveness to stressors that may contribute to the higher rates of mental illness, specifically depression and anxiety. Animal models of PCOS have provided insight into the ovarian and metabolic mechanisms that underlie the syndrome, and several models have been used to study the behavioral consequences associated with PCOS in the laboratory. Several studies in rodent models of PCOS demonstrate changes in anxiety-like behavior, but researchers often neglect to report procedural details or behavioral data crucial to interpreting the differences observed in those studies. Additionally, the impact of potential HPA dysregulation in animal models of PCOS may influence behavioral findings, although only three studies to date have examined this. As such, researchers should consider and report stress-associated variables (e.g., time of day, light/dark cycle, light intensity, housing, and procedures to control experimenter and litter effects) that may influence depression- and anxiety-like behaviors in rodents. This review will summarize the behavioral and HPA-related studies in women with PCOS and rodent models of the disease, and provide considerations for future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danielle L Peecher
- Department of Psychology, Central Washington University, Ellensburg, Washington, USA.,Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA
| | - April K Binder
- Center for Reproductive Biology, Washington State University, Pullman, Washington, USA.,Department of Biological Sciences, Central Washington University, Ellensburg, Washington, USA
| | - Kara I Gabriel
- Department of Psychology, Central Washington University, Ellensburg, Washington, USA
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21
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Palomba S, Daolio J, Romeo S, Battaglia FA, Marci R, La Sala GB. Lifestyle and fertility: the influence of stress and quality of life on female fertility. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2018; 16:113. [PMID: 30501641 PMCID: PMC6275085 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-018-0434-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 10/24/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
There is growing evidence that lifestyle choices account for the overall quality of health and life (QoL) reflecting many potential lifestyle risks widely associated with alterations of the reproductive function up to the infertility. This review aims to summarize in a critical fashion the current knowledge about the potential effects of stress and QoL on female reproductive function. A specific literature search up to August 2017 was performed in IBSS, SocINDEX, Institute for Scientific Information, PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar. Current review highlights a close relationship in women between stress, QoL and reproductive function, that this association is more likely reported in infertile rather than fertile women, and that a vicious circle makes them to have supported each other. However, a precise cause-effect relationship is still difficult to demonstrate due to conflicting results and the lack of objective measures/instruments of evaluation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Palomba
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Grande Ospedale Metropolitano “Bianco – Melacrino - Morelli”, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Jessica Daolio
- Center of Reproductive Medicine “P. Bertocchi” Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Azienda Unità Sanitaria Locale – IRCCS di Reggio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Sara Romeo
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Grande Ospedale Metropolitano “Bianco – Melacrino - Morelli”, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Francesco Antonino Battaglia
- Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Grande Ospedale Metropolitano “Bianco – Melacrino - Morelli”, Reggio Calabria, Italy
| | - Roberto Marci
- Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Giovanni Battista La Sala
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova (ASMN) - Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Reggio Emilia, Italy
- University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
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22
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Raftogianni A, Roth LC, García-González D, Bus T, Kühne C, Monyer H, Spergel DJ, Deussing JM, Grinevich V. Deciphering the Contributions of CRH Receptors in the Brain and Pituitary to Stress-Induced Inhibition of the Reproductive Axis. Front Mol Neurosci 2018; 11:305. [PMID: 30214395 PMCID: PMC6125327 DOI: 10.3389/fnmol.2018.00305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2018] [Accepted: 08/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Based on pharmacological studies, corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) and its receptors play a leading role in the inhibition of the hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis during acute stress. To further study the effects of CRH receptor signaling on the HPG axis, we generated and/or employed male mice lacking CRH receptor type 1 (CRHR1) or type 2 (CRHR2) in gonadotropin-releasing hormone neurons, GABAergic neurons, or in all central neurons and glia. The deletion of CRHRs revealed a preserved decrease of plasma luteinizing hormone (LH) in response to either psychophysical or immunological stress. However, under basal conditions, central infusion of CRH into mice lacking CRHR1 in all central neurons and glia, or application of CRH to pituitary cultures from mice lacking CRHR2, failed to suppress LH release, unlike in controls. Our results, taken together with those of the earlier pharmacological studies, suggest that inhibition of the male HPG axis during acute stress is mediated by other factors along with CRH, and that CRH suppresses the HPG axis at the central and pituitary levels via CRHR1 and CRHR2, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Androniki Raftogianni
- Schaller Group on Neuropeptides, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg - Central Institute of Mental Health, Mannheim, Germany.,Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Lena C Roth
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Diego García-González
- Department of Clinical Neurobiology, Medical Faculty of Heidelberg, University of Heidelberg - German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Thorsten Bus
- Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, Heidelberg, Germany.,Max Planck Research Group at the Institute for Anatomy and Cell Biology, University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Claudia Kühne
- Molecular Neurogenetics Research Group, Department of Stress Neurobiology and Neurogenetics, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
| | - Hannah Monyer
- Department of Clinical Neurobiology, Medical Faculty of Heidelberg, University of Heidelberg - German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Daniel J Spergel
- Department of Neurosurgery, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, United States
| | - Jan M Deussing
- Molecular Neurogenetics Research Group, Department of Stress Neurobiology and Neurogenetics, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
| | - Valery Grinevich
- Schaller Group on Neuropeptides, German Cancer Research Center, Heidelberg - Central Institute of Mental Health, Mannheim, Germany.,Department of Molecular Neurobiology, Max Planck Institute for Medical Research, Heidelberg, Germany
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23
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Lv F, Wan Y, Chen Y, Pei L, Luo D, Fan G, Luo M, Xu D, Wang H. Prenatal Dexamethasone Exposure Induced Ovarian Developmental Toxicity and Transgenerational Effect in Rat Offspring. Endocrinology 2018; 159:1401-1415. [PMID: 29370380 DOI: 10.1210/en.2018-00044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2018] [Accepted: 01/12/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Prenatal dexamethasone exposure (PDE) induces multiorgan developmental toxicities in offspring. Here we verified the transgenerational inheritance effect of ovarian developmental toxicity by PDE and explored its intrauterine programming mechanism. Pregnant rats subcutaneously received 0.2 mg/kg/d dexamethasone from gestational day (GD) 9 to GD20. A subgroup was euthanized for fetuses on GD20, and the other group went on to spontaneous labor to produce F1 offspring. The adult F1 females were mated with normal males to produce the F2 and F3 generations. The PDE fetal rats exhibited ovarian mitochondrial structural abnormalities, decreased serum estradiol (E2) levels, and lower expression levels of ovarian steroidogenic factor 1 (SF1), steroidal synthetases, and insulinlike growth factor 1 (IGF1). On postnatal week (PW) 6 and PW12, the PDE F1 offspring showed altered reproductive behavior and ovarian morphology. The serum E2 level and ovarian expression of SF1, steroidal synthetases, and IGF1 were also decreased. The adult F3 offspring showed alterations in reproductive phenotype and ovarian IGF1, SF1, and steroidal synthetase expression similar to those of F1. PDE induces ovarian developmental toxicity and transgenerational inheritance effects. The mechanism by which this toxicity occurs may be related to PDE-induced low-functional programming of fetal ovarian IGF1/SF1 and steroidal synthetases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Lv
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yang Wan
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yunxi Chen
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Linguo Pei
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Daji Luo
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, China
| | - Guanlan Fan
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Mengcheng Luo
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, China
| | - Dan Xu
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, China
| | - Hui Wang
- Department of Pharmacology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Developmentally Originated Disease, Wuhan, China
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24
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Whirledge S, Cidlowski JA. Glucocorticoids and Reproduction: Traffic Control on the Road to Reproduction. Trends Endocrinol Metab 2017; 28:399-415. [PMID: 28274682 PMCID: PMC5438761 DOI: 10.1016/j.tem.2017.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2016] [Revised: 02/06/2017] [Accepted: 02/12/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Glucocorticoids are steroid hormones that regulate diverse cellular functions and are essential to facilitate normal physiology. However, stress-induced levels of glucocorticoids result in several pathologies including profound reproductive dysfunction. Compelling new evidence indicates that glucocorticoids are crucial to the establishment and maintenance of reproductive function. The fertility-promoting or -inhibiting activity of glucocorticoids depends on timing, dose, and glucocorticoid responsiveness within a given tissue, which is mediated by the glucocorticoid receptor (GR). The GR gene and protein are subject to cellular processing, contributing to signaling diversity and providing a mechanism by which both physiological and stress-induced levels of glucocorticoids function in a cell-specific manner. Understanding how glucocorticoids regulate fertility and infertility may lead to novel approaches to the regulation of reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shannon Whirledge
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
| | - John A Cidlowski
- Laboratory of Signal Transduction, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, 111 TW Alexander Drive, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA.
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25
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A novel non genomic glucocorticoid signaling mediated by a membrane palmitoylated glucocorticoid receptor cross talks with GnRH in gonadotrope cells. Sci Rep 2017; 7:1537. [PMID: 28484221 PMCID: PMC5431531 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-01777-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2016] [Accepted: 04/03/2017] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoid hormones (GC) are the main stress mediators associated with reproductive disorders. GC exert their effects through activation of the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) principally acting as a transcription factor. Beside well-established GR-mediated genomic actions, several lines of evidence suggest a role for rapid membrane-initiated GC signaling in gonadotrope cells triggered by a membrane-associated GR. Herein, we demonstrate the existence of a specific membrane-initiated GC signaling in LβT2 gonadotrope cells involving two related phosphoproteins: Ca2+/Calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) and synapsin-I. Within 5 min, LβT2 cells treated with stress range of 10−7 M Corticosterone or a membrane impermeable-GC, BSA-conjugated corticosterone, exhibited a 2-fold increase in levels of phospho-CaMKII and phospho-synapsin-I. Biochemical approaches revealed that this rapid signaling is promoted by a palmitoylated GR. Importantly, GC significantly alter GnRH-induced CaMKII phosphorylation, consistent with a novel cross-talk between the GnRH receptor and GC. This negative effect of GC on GnRH signaling was further observed on LH release by mouse pituitary explants. Altogether, our work provides new findings in GC field by bringing novel understanding on how GR integrates plasma membrane, allowing GC membrane-initiated signaling that differs in presence of GnRH to disrupt GnRH-dependent signaling and LH secretion.
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26
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Hardy TM, McCarthy DO, Fourie NH, Henderson WA. Anti-Müllerian Hormone Levels and Urinary Cortisol in Women With Chronic Abdominal Pain. J Obstet Gynecol Neonatal Nurs 2016; 45:772-780. [PMID: 27639111 PMCID: PMC5107147 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogn.2016.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the association of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal activity with ovarian functioning in women with and without chronic abdominal pain (CAP). DESIGN AND SETTING A secondary data analysis was performed with data from female participants in a natural history protocol at the National Institutes of Health. PARTICIPANTS A total of 36 women (age range = 19-39 years, mean = 27.11 years) were included in the study. METHODS This pilot study was conducted with a subset of participants enrolled in a natural history protocol conducted in the Hatfield Clinical Research Center at the National Institutes of Health. The parent study included participants with and without CAP who provided a 5-hour urine sample for determination of cortisol levels and serum samples for determination of circulating levels of cortisol, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone. CAP was defined as presence or absence of chronic pain for at least 6 months and was determined via self-report. RESULTS Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) concentrations declined significantly with age as expected. When AMH levels were dichotomized as normal or abnormal (defined as higher or lower than age-specific normative ranges, respectively), there were significant associations between abnormal AMH levels and CAP and urine cortisol levels. Participants with CAP or low urine cortisol levels were significantly more likely to have abnormal AMH levels. CONCLUSION Results suggest that chronic abdominal pain and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal dysregulation may be associated with abnormal AMH levels.
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27
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Harris BN, Carr JA. The role of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal/interrenal axis in mediating predator-avoidance trade-offs. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2016; 230-231:110-42. [PMID: 27080550 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2016.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2015] [Revised: 04/07/2016] [Accepted: 04/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Maintaining energy balance and reproducing are important for fitness, yet animals have evolved mechanisms by which the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal/interrenal (HPA/HPI) axis can shut these activities off. While HPA/HPI axis inhibition of feeding and reproduction may have evolved as a predator defense, to date there has been no review across taxa of the causal evidence for such a relationship. Here we review the literature on this topic by addressing evidence for three predictions: that exposure to predators decreases reproduction and feeding, that exposure to predators activates the HPA/HPI axis, and that predator-induced activation of the HPA/HPI axis inhibits foraging and reproduction. Weight of evidence indicates that exposure to predator cues inhibits several aspects of foraging and reproduction. While the evidence from fish and mammals supports the hypothesis that predator cues activate the HPA/HPI axis, the existing data in other vertebrate taxa are equivocal. A causal role for the HPA axis in predator-induced suppression of feeding and reproduction has not been demonstrated to date, although many studies report correlative relationships between HPA activity and reproduction and/or feeding. Manipulation of HPA/HPI axis signaling will be required in future studies to demonstrate direct mediation of predator-induced inhibition of feeding and reproduction. Understanding the circuitry linking sensory pathways to their control of the HPA/HPI axis also is needed. Finally, the role that fear and anxiety pathways play in the response of the HPA axis to predator cues is needed to better understand the role that predators have played in shaping anxiety related behaviors in all species, including humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Breanna N Harris
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, United States
| | - James A Carr
- Department of Biological Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock, TX 79409, United States.
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28
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Ernst DK, Lynn SE, Bentley GE. Differential response of GnIH in the brain and gonads following acute stress in a songbird. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2016; 227:51-7. [PMID: 26158243 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2015.05.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2015] [Revised: 05/28/2015] [Accepted: 05/29/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) acts to inhibit reproduction at all levels of the hypothalamo-pituitary-gonad axis. GnIH expression and/or immunoreactivity in the hypothalamus increase with acute stress in some birds and mammals, and thus may be involved in stress-induced reproductive inhibition. Much is known about GnIH and stress in seasonal and continuous breeders, but far less is known about these interactions in opportunistic breeders. For opportunistically breeding animals, reproductive readiness is closely associated with unpredictable environmental cues, and thus the GnIH system may be more sensitive to stress. To test this, we collected tissues from zebra finches immediately following capture or after 60 min of restraint. Restraint significantly increased plasma corticosterone in males and females but, contrary to studies on other species, restrained birds had significantly fewer GnIH immunoreactive (GnIH-ir) cell bodies than control birds. GnIH-ir cell number did not differ between the sexes. Stressed females had lower mRNA expression of the beta subunit of follicle stimulating hormone (FSHβ) in the pituitary, suggesting that the reduction in observed GnIH immunoreactivity in females may have been due to increased GnIH release in response to acute stress. GnIH expression increased in the testes, but not the ovaries, of restrained animals. Our data suggest that although GnIH responsiveness to stress appears to be conserved across species, specific tissue response and direction of GnIH regulation is not. Variation in the GnIH response to stress between species might be the result of ecological adaptations or other species differences in the response of the GnIH system to stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darcy K Ernst
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA.
| | - Sharon E Lynn
- Department of Biology, The College of Wooster, Wooster, OH 44691, USA
| | - George E Bentley
- Department of Integrative Biology, University of California, Berkeley, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA; Helen Wills Neuroscience Institute, University of California, Berkeley, USA
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29
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Malschitzky E, Pimentel AM, Garbade P, Jobim MIM, Gregory RM, Mattos RC. Management Strategies Aiming to Improve Horse Welfare Reduce Embryonic Death Rates in Mares. Reprod Domest Anim 2015; 50:632-6. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2015] [Accepted: 04/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - AM Pimentel
- Reprolab; Faculdade de Veterinária; UFRGS; Porto Alegre Brazil
| | - P Garbade
- Reprolab; Faculdade de Veterinária; UFRGS; Porto Alegre Brazil
| | - MIM Jobim
- Reprolab; Faculdade de Veterinária; UFRGS; Porto Alegre Brazil
| | - RM Gregory
- Reprolab; Faculdade de Veterinária; UFRGS; Porto Alegre Brazil
| | - RC Mattos
- Reprolab; Faculdade de Veterinária; UFRGS; Porto Alegre Brazil
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