New progestagens for contraceptive use

Development of new hormonal male contraception for the couple

BACKGROUND

Current options for male contraception are limited to condoms, the withdrawal method, or a vasectomy. Studies indicate that men have expressed growing interest in bearing responsibility for family planning.

OBJECTIVES

To review prior studies investigating the role of an androgen-only or androgen with progestin regimen for hormonal male contraception and to provide an update of a promising new hormonal agent, a transdermal gel.

DISCUSSION

Thus far, there have been six studies conducted in couples evaluating the contraceptive efficacy of an androgen-only or androgen co-administered with a progestin regimen for hormonal male contraception. The only ongoing study is by the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development, in collaboration with the Population Council. They have developed a novel transdermal gel containing testosterone and segesterone acetate (Nestorone), a progestin. An ongoing phase II study enrolling more than 460 couples has shown great potential with respect to the product's efficacy, safety, reversibility, and acceptability. As this agent advances in development, a rapid at-home test for sperm concentration will provide couples with immediate feedback regarding their potential for pregnancy.

CONCLUSION

There is promise for the first-of-its-kind hormonal male contraceptive, a transdermal gel, to achieve market approval for distribution in the United States and elsewhere. Its safety, efficacy, reversibility, and user-control are all appealing qualities that make it readily adoptable for clinical practice.

Menopausal hormone therapy and the female brain: leveraging neuroimaging and prescription registry data from the UK Biobank cohort

Background and Objectives

Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) is generally thought to be neuroprotective, yet results have been inconsistent. Here, we present a comprehensive study of MHT use and brain characteristics in middle- to older aged females from the UK Biobank, assessing detailed MHT data, APOE ε4 genotype, and tissue-specific gray (GM) and white matter (WM) brain age gap (BAG), as well as hippocampal and white matter hyperintensity (WMH) volumes.

Methods

A total of 19,846 females with magnetic resonance imaging data were included (current-users = 1,153, 60.1 ± 6.8 years; past-users = 6,681, 67.5 ± 6.2 years; never-users = 12,012, mean age 61.6 ± 7.1 years). For a sub-sample (n = 538), MHT prescription data was extracted from primary care records. Brain measures were derived from T1-, T2- and diffusion-weighted images. We fitted regression models to test for associations between the brain measures and MHT variables including user status, age at initiation, dosage and duration, formulation, route of administration, and type (i.e., bioidentical vs synthetic), as well as active ingredient (e.g., estradiol hemihydrate). We further tested for differences in brain measures among MHT users with and without a history of hysterectomy ± bilateral oophorectomy and examined associations by APOE ε4 status.

Results

We found significantly higher GM and WM BAG (i.e., older brain age relative to chronological age) as well as smaller left and right hippocampus volumes in current MHT users, not past users, compared to never-users. Effects were modest, with the largest effect size indicating a group difference of 0.77 years (~9 months) for GM BAG. Among MHT users, we found no significant associations between age at MHT initiation and brain measures. Longer duration of use and older age at last use post menopause was associated with higher GM and WM BAG, larger WMH volume, and smaller left and right hippocampal volumes. MHT users with a history of hysterectomy ± bilateral oophorectomy showed lower GM BAG relative to MHT users without such history. Although we found smaller hippocampus volumes in carriers of two APOE ε4 alleles compared to non-carriers, we found no interactions with MHT variables. In the sub-sample with prescription data, we found no significant associations between detailed MHT variables and brain measures after adjusting for multiple comparisons.

Discussion

Our results indicate that population-level associations between MHT use, and female brain health might vary depending on duration of use and past surgical history. Future research is crucial to establish causality, dissect interactions between menopause-related neurological changes and MHT use, and determine individual-level implications to advance precision medicine in female health care.

Nestorone (segesterone acetate) effects on neuroregeneration

Nestorone® (segesterone acetate) is a progestin with a chemical structure closely related to progesterone with high affinity and selectivity for the progesterone receptor without significant interaction with other steroid receptors. It has been developed for female and male contraception and is FDA-approved in a first long-acting contraceptive vaginal system for female contraception. Its safety has been extensively demonstrated in both preclinical and clinical studies for contraceptive indications. Nestorone was found to display neuroprotective and neuroregenerative activity in animal models of various central nervous system diseases, including multiple sclerosis, stroke, and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Reviewed herein are neuroprotective and myelin- regenerating properties of Nestorone in various animal models and its translational potential as a therapeutic agent for debilitating neurological diseases for which limited therapeutic options are available (Table 1).

Progestins as a Contributing Factor to Hepatocellular Adenoma: A Case Series and Literature Review

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To explore the role of progestins as potential contributing factors for the development of hepatocellular adenoma (HA) METHODS: We describe 3 cases of adolescents and young adults who developed HA while on norethindrone (NET), as well as their management. In addition, we provide a comprehensive literature review on the association between progestins and HA.

RESULTS

Since 1983, 16 cases of HA in patients on progestins have been reported. Ten patients were on NET and 5 on a prodrug of NET (4 on norethindrone acetate [NETA] and 1 on lynestrenol). One individual had a norgestrel implant. Eight subsequently ceased all hormones: 4 experienced a size reduction, and 3 had complete resolution of their HA. Among our patients, 1 ceased NET and instead had a levonorgestrel intrauterine device inserted, and another swapped from NET to oral medroxyprogesterone acetate. Both experienced complete resolution of their HA. The third ceased NET and underwent a hysterectomy, with size reduction of her HA.

CONCLUSION

These cases and the literature review suggest an association between progestin exposure, in particular NET and its prodrugs, and the development of HA. The pathophysiology is unknown but may include peripheral conversion of NET and NETA to ethinyl estradiol or a specific action of 19-nortestosterone derivatives on hepatocytes, especially those with higher systemic doses compared with the levonorgestrel intrauterine device. There are no case reports relating to other forms of progestins, such as 17-hydroxyprogesterone, which may be important when considering alternative therapeutic options in females requiring effective menstrual management who have comorbidities.

Levonorgestrel maintains goal-directed behavior in habit-trained intact female rats

Hormonal contraceptives are utilized by millions of women worldwide. However, it remains unclear if these powerful endocrine modulators may alter cognitive function. Habit formation involves the progression of instrumental learning as it goes from being a conscious goal-directed process to a cue-driven automatic habitual motor response. Dysregulated goal and/or habit is implicated in numerous psychopathologies, underscoring the relevance of examining the effect of hormonal contraceptives on goal-directed and habitual behavior. This study examined the effect of levonorgestrel (LNG), a widely used progestin-type contraceptive, on the development of habit in intact female rats. Rats were implanted with subcutaneous capsules that slowly released LNG over the course of the experiment or cholesterol-filled capsules. All female rats underwent operant training followed by reward devaluation to test for habit. One group of females was trained at a level that is sub-threshold to habit, while another group of females was trained to a level well over the habit threshold observed in intact females. The results reveal that all sub-threshold trained rats remained goal-directed irrespective of LGN treatment, suggesting LNG is not advancing habit formation in female rats at this level of reinforcement. However, in rats that were overtrained well above the threshold, cholesterol females showed habitual behavior, thus replicating a portion of our original studies. In contrast, LNG-treated habit-trained rats remained goal-directed, indicating that LNG impedes the development and/or expression of habit following this level of supra-threshold to habit training. Thus, LNG may offset habit formation by sustaining attentional or motivational processes during learning in intact female rats. These results may be clinically relevant to women using this type of hormonal contraceptive as well as in other progestin-based hormone therapies.

Light-Driven Purification of Progesterone from Steroid Mixtures Using a Photoresponsive Metal-Organic Capsule

Chemical separations are expensive, consuming 10-15% of humanity's global energy budget. Many current separation methods employ thermal energy for distillation, often through the combustion of carbon-containing fuels, or extractions and crystallizations from organic solvents, which must then be discarded or redistilled, with a substantial energetic cost. The direct use of renewable energy sources, such as light, could enable the development of novel separations processes, as is required for the transition away from fossil fuel use. Metal-organic capsules, which can selectively bind molecules from mixtures, can provide the foundation for these novel separations processes. Here we report a tetrahedral metal-organic capsule bearing light-responsive diazo moieties around its metal-ion vertices. This capsule can be used to selectively separate progesterone from a mixture of steroids in a process driven by visible light energy. Our process combines biphasic extraction and selective binding of progesterone with the light-driven release of this molecule in purified form. Ultimately, our process might be adapted to the purifications of the many other fine chemical products that are bound selectively by capsules.

The role of sex hormones, oral contraceptive use, and its parameters on visuospatial abilities, verbal fluency, and verbal memory

Sex hormones can cross the blood-brain barrier and access brain regions underlying higher-order cognition. Containing synthetic sex hormones, oral contraceptives (OC) have been found to modulate visuospatial and verbal abilities, though inconsistencies have been found in the literature. Among possible explanations, certain OC use parameters (progestin androgenicity, synthetic hormone levels, duration of use) have not received consistent consideration. Thus, the objectives were to (1) examine group differences between men, combined OC users, and naturally cycling women (NC women; not using OC) in visuospatial abilities, verbal fluency, and verbal memory and (2) investigate the contribution of endogenous and exogenous sex hormones on these effects. We also aimed to (3) identify OC use parameters relevant to cognitive outcomes. In total, 70 combined OC users, 53 early follicular (EF) women, 43 pre-ovulatory (PO) women, and 47 men underwent cognitive tests. Performance was compared based on hormonal milieus (OC, EF, PO, men) and OC users' contraceptive androgenicity (anti, low, high). Correlations between performance, hormone levels and OC use duration were also conducted. OC use dampened the sex difference that typically favors men in 3D visuospatial abilities, whereas its duration of use positively predicted verbal fluency. Androgenicity and hormone levels did not predict performance in any task. These results highlight the importance of considering OC use duration. Results also did not support a role for androgenicity in cognition. Importantly, combined OC use (including prolonged use) does not impair visuospatial, verbal, and memory functions in a healthy young sample.

Hormonal and natural contraceptives: a review on efficacy and risks of different methods for an informed choice

The debate about contraception has become increasingly important as more and more people seek safe and effective contraception. More than 1 billion women of reproductive age worldwide need a method of family planning, and wellbeing, socio-economic status, culture, religion and more influence the reasons why a woman may ask for contraception. Different contraceptive methods exist, ranging from 'natural methods' (fertility awareness-based methods - FABMs) to barrier methods and hormonal contraceptives (HCs). Each method works on a different principle, with different effectiveness.FABMs and HCs are usually pitted against each other, although it's difficult to really compare them. FABMs are a valid alternative for women who cannot or do not want to use hormone therapy, although they may have a high failure rate if not used appropriately and require specific training. HCs are commonly used to address various clinical situations, although concerns about their possible side effects are still widespread. However, many data show that the appropriate use of HC has a low rate of adverse events, mainly related to personal predisposition.The aim of this review is to summarize the information on the efficacy and safety of FABMs and HCs to help clinicians and women choose the best contraceptive method for their needs.

The impacts of endogenous progesterone and exogenous progestin on vascular endothelial cell, and smooth muscle cell function: A narrative review

Vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cell dysfunction proceed the development of numerous vascular diseases, such as atherosclerosis. Both estrogen and progesterone receptors are present on vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cells, and therefore it has been postulated that these compounds may affect vascular function. It has been well-established that estrogen is a vasoprotective compound, however, the effects of progesterone on vascular function are not well understood. This narrative review summarizes the current research investigating the impact of both endogenous progesterone, and exogenous synthetic progestin on vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cell function and identifies discrepancies on their effects in vitro and in vivo. We speculate that an inverted-U dose response curve may exist between nitric oxide bioavailability and progesterone concentration, and that the androgenic properties of a progestin may influence vascular function. Future research is needed to discern the effects of both endogenous progesterone and exogenous progestin on vascular endothelial and smooth muscle cell function with consideration for the impacts of progesterone/progestin dose, and progestin type.

Evaluations of memory, anxiety, and the growth factor IGF-1R after post-surgical menopause treatment with a highly selective progestin

Progestogens are a key component of menopausal hormone therapies. While some progestogens can be detrimental to cognition, there is preclinical evidence that progestogens with a strong progesterone-receptor affinity benefit some molecular mechanisms believed to underlie cognitive function. Thus, a progestin that maximizes progesterone-receptor affinity and minimizes affinities to other receptors may be cognitively beneficial. We evaluated segesterone-acetate (SGA), a 19-norprogesterone derivative with a strong progesterone-receptor affinity and no androgenic or estrogenic-receptor activity, hypothesizing that it would enhance cognition. Middle-aged rats underwent Sham or Ovariectomy (Ovx) surgery followed by administration of medroxyprogesterone-acetate (MPA; used as a positive control as we have previously shown MPA-induced cognitive deficits), SGA (low or high dose), or vehicle (one Sham and one Ovx group). Spatial working and reference memory, delayed retention, and anxiety-like behavior were assessed, as were memory- and hormone- related protein assays within the frontal cortex, dorsal hippocampus, and entorhinal cortex. Low-dose SGA impaired spatial working memory, while high-dose SGA had a more extensive detrimental impact, negatively affecting spatial reference memory and delayed retention. Replicating previous findings, MPA impaired spatial reference memory and delayed retention. SGA, but not MPA, alleviated Ovx-induced anxiety-like behaviors. On two working memory measures, IGF-1R expression correlated with better working memory only in rats without hormone manipulation; any hormone manipulation or combination of hormone manipulations used herein altered this relationship. These findings suggest that SGA impairs spatial cognition after surgical menopause, and that surgical menopause with or without progestin administration disrupts relationships between a growth factor critical to neuroplasticity.

Norethindrone suppress the germ cell development via androgen receptor resulting in male bias

Progestins are widely used and detected in surface waters, and can affect gonad development and sexual differentiation in fish. However, the toxicological mechanisms of sexual differentiation induced by progestins are not well understood. Here, we investigated the effects of norethindrone (NET) and androgen receptor (AR) antagonist flutamide (FLU) on gonadal differentiation in zebrafish from 21 dpf (days post-fertilization) to 49 dpf. The results showed that NET caused male bias, while FLU resulted in female bias at 49 dpf. The NET and FLU mixtures significantly decreased the percentage of males compared to the NET single exposure. Molecular docking analysis showed that FLU and NET had similar docking pocket and docking posture with AR resulting in competitively forming the hydrogen bond with Thr334 of AR. These results suggested that binding to AR was the molecular initiating event of sex differentiation induced by NET. Moreover, NET strongly decreased transcription of biomarker genes (dnd1, ddx4, dazl, piwil1 and nanos1) involved in germ cell development, while FLU significantly increased transcription of these target genes. There was an increase in the number of juvenile oocytes, which was consistent with the female bias in the combined groups. The bliss independence model analysis further showed that NET and FLU had antagonistic effect on transcription and histology during gonadal differentiation. Thus, NET suppressed the germ cell development via AR, resulting in male bias. Understanding the molecular initiation of sex differentiation in progestins is essential to provide a comprehensive biological basis for ecological risk assessment.

Hormonal therapies in females with blood disorders: thrombophilia, thrombosis, hemoglobinopathies, and anemias

There is widespread use of gonadal steroid hormone therapy for a variety of indications throughout the reproductive and postreproductive lifespan. These therapies may have particular benefits and specific risk among those with blood disorders, including inherited or acquired bleeding disorders, thrombophilia, thrombosis, or anemia. This clinical review is intended to provide a guidance for counseling and management of adolescent and adult biologic females with thrombophilic risk factors and/or thrombosis who require hormonal therapy. In general, synthetic estrogens present in contraceptive products should be avoided in those with a personal or strong family history of thrombosis or thrombophilias. In contrast, natural estrogens present in formulations for climacteric symptom management do not need to be avoided, and vaginal or transdermal formulations are preferred. Likewise, transdermal estradiol is preferred for gender-affirming hormone therapy and requires individualized assessment in those at high risk of thrombosis. Progestogens (either synthetic progestins or naturally occurring progesterone) can be used safely in nearly all patients. There is minimal safety evidence among anticoagulated patients at risk for thrombosis, which requires a patient-specific approach when discussing hormone therapies.

Oral contraceptives in the central nervous system: Basic pharmacology, methodological considerations, and current state of the field

Millions of women around the world use combined oral contraceptives (OCs), yet surprisingly little is known about their central nervous system (CNS) effects. This article provides a short overview of the basic pharmacology of OCs, emphasizing features that may be relevant to understanding their effects in the CNS. Historical and recent findings from studies of cognitive function, mood, and negative affect (depressive changes under OC use) are then reviewed. We also present data from an archival dataset from our own laboratory in which we explore dysphoric changes in women using four generations of contraceptive progestins. Current data in the field are consistent with a modest effect of OC use on CNS variables, but conclusions based on current findings must be made very cautiously because of multiple methodological issues in many published studies to date, and inconsistencies in the findings. Directions for future research over the next 10 years are suggested. (150 words).

Combined oral contraceptives and mental health: Are adolescence and the gut-brain axis the missing links?

Combined oral contraceptives (containing synthetic forms of estradiol and progestins) are one of the most commonly used drugs among females. However, their effects on the gut-brain axis have not been investigated to a great extent despite clear evidence that suggest bi-directional interactions between the gut microbiome and endogenous sex hormones. Moreover, oral contraceptives are prescribed during adolescence, a critical period of development during which several brain structures and systems, such as hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, undergo maturation. Considering that oral contraceptives could impact the developing adolescent brain and that these effects may be mediated by the gut-brain axis, further research investigating the effects of oral contraceptives on the gut-brain axis is imperative. This article briefly reviews evidence from animal and human studies on the effects of combined oral contraceptives on the brain and the gut microbiota particularly during adolescence.

Oral contraceptives and cognition: A systematic review

Oral contraceptives (OCs) are widely used. While the physical impacts of OCs have been well researched, there is increasing interest on potential impacts of OCs on brain, behaviour and cognition. We systematically reviewed the literature to determine the influence of OCs on cognition, including neurocognition, social cognition and emotional processing. Inclusionary criteria were: (a) premenopausal females taking OCs; (b) a control group of naturally cycling women or OCs users in their inactive (i.e. 'sugar pill') phase; and (c) at least one measure of performance on a neurocognitive or social cognitive task. The systematic review found that OC use was associated with some differences in performance on all cognitive domains examined (with the exception of basic auditory attention and psychomotor performance). Several factors were identified that are likely to modulate the way OCs influence cognition, including task related factors, OC type and control group characteristics. Directions for future research are highlighted.

Effects of peroral hormonal contraception on cardiovascular system: analysis of selected cardiovascular parameters in an adolescent cohort; a pilot project

Oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) have some strong advantages over more traditional types of contraception, including their consistently high contraceptive effect as well as multiple additional positive side effects. OCPs went through decades of intense pharmaceutical development and current formulas are well optimized - however, a handful of their negative side effects remain, including some that affect cardiovascular system, for example higher risk of hypertension, venous thromboembolism and increased arterial stiffness. The gold standard for arterial stiffness assessment is currently applanation tonometry, a method that relies on arterial pulse wave velocity measurement (PWV). Another possible method for arterial stiffness measurement is the use of the VaSera device, which measures cardio-ankle vascular index (CAVI). The aim of this study was to discover the effect of OCPs use on selected cardiovascular parameters related to arterial stiffness. We measured these cardiovascular parameters in the OCPs using group (OCP) and in the control group (CTRL) using applanation tonometer Sphygmocor and the VaSera device. Comparison of the data from both groups showed us significantly increased diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and carotid-radial pulse wave velocity (crPWV) as well as significantly lower subendocardial viability index (SVI) in the OCP. These results imply a negative effect of hormonal contraceptives on the cardiovascular system with most of the negative changes affecting the peripheral arteries. Despite this evidence supporting the hypothesis of OCPs having a negative effect on cardiovascular health, further research is necessary.

Weak associations between personality and contraceptive choice

Prospective randomized controlled trials on hormonal contraceptive (HC) effects on the brain are rare due to a number of methodological challenges. Thus, much of the evidence on HC effects on the brain comes from cross-sectional studies comparing HC-users to non-users. In interpreting these findings, it is of importance to be aware of potential confounds associated with women's contraceptive choices. Previous studies have discussed age, education, social status, sexual orientation, relationship status, and tolerability of HC. Given the current trend toward a reduction in HC use and increased skepticism toward HC it seems relevant to also identify variables associated with women's attitudes toward HC and whether they may represent confounds for neuroscientific studies. In the present study, we investigated whether women's personality characteristics were associated with their choice to use or not use HC in the present, past and future and the type of HC chosen. 1,391 females aged 18-45 years participated in an online survey including the HEXACO-60 personality questionnaire, as well as two different measures of gender role, and provided information about their current and previous contraceptive status, as well as experiences with and attitudes toward contraceptive use. We compared (i) current, previous and never-users of HC, (ii) prospective users of HC to women who opposed future HC use, and (iii) current users of IUDs to current users of oral contraceptives. Results revealed that associations between personality and the decision to use or not use HC were negligible, while differences in personality were observed corresponding to contraceptive type. Current users of IUDs showed higher agreeableness and extraversion compared to current users of oral contraceptives. The results suggest that personality is more strongly associated to the choice of contraceptive type rather than the choice between hormonal and non-hormonal options.

Imaging the human brain on oral contraceptives: A review of structural imaging methods and implications for future research goals

Worldwide over 150 million women use oral contraceptives (OCs), which are the most prescribed form of contraception in both the United States and in European countries. Sex hormones, such as estradiol and progesterone, are important endogenous hormones known for shaping the brain across the life span. Synthetic hormones, which are present in OCs, interfere with the natural hormonal balance by reducing the endogenous hormone levels. Little is known how this affects the brain, especially during the most vulnerable times of brain maturation. Here, we review studies that investigate differences in brain gray and white matter in women using OCs in comparison to naturally cycling women. We focus on two neuroimaging methods used to quantify structural gray and white matter changes, namely structural MRI and diffusion MRI. Finally, we discuss the potential of these imaging techniques to advance knowledge about the effects of OCs on the brain and wellbeing in women.

Reversible Control of Reproduction In Queens: Mastering the use of reproductive drugs to manipulate cyclicity

BACKGROUND

The literature is full of papers reporting side effects of progestogens in cats; however, they are, in fact, safe drugs, as discussed in this article. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonists and melatonin are additionally a practical solution for controlling cyclicity in queens, but they also have some contraindications and need to be used carefully.

CLINICAL RELEVANCE

Mastering the use of reproductive drugs allows feline practitioners to handle many more clinical situations than can be solved using surgery. It is not necessary to be a specialist in reproduction to be able to halt cyclicity in a valuable breeding queen using hormones.

EQUIPMENT AND TECHNICAL SKILLS

A sound knowledge of appropriate dosages and criteria for patient selection for all reproductive drugs currently used in feline reproduction is the best guarantee of owner satisfaction and of ensuring the queen's health. Availability of a serum progesterone assay, either in-house or via an external laboratory, is also important, in order to confirm a queen is at an appropriate stage of the reproductive cycle for treatment.

AUDIENCE

This article is aimed principally (but not exclusively) at veterinarians working with cat breeders and whose clientele is increasingly interested in alternative methods of controlling reproduction in pet queens. Surgery is no longer the only choice, and practitioners who manage to keep abreast of new developments will be able to address clients' needs in a modern, professional way.

EVIDENCE BASE

This review draws on a vast body of scientific evidence-based literature. Previously, personal (and sometimes misinformed) opinions, such as the proposed dangerous side effects of progestogens, have been perpetuated in the scientific literature. The papers cited in this review have therefore been carefully scrutinised to distinguish reliable information based on controlled studies from non-evidence-based information.

Importance of the endometrial immune environment in endometrial cancer and associated therapies

Endometrial cancer is rising in prevalence. The standard treatment modality of hysterectomy is becoming increasingly inadequate due primarily to the direct link between endometrial cancer and high BMI which increases surgical risks. This is an immunogenic cancer, with unique molecular subtypes associated with differential immune infiltration. Despite the immunogenicity of endometrial cancer, there is limited pre-clinical and clinical evidence of the function of immune cells in both the normal and cancerous endometrium. Immune checkpoint inhibitors for endometrial cancer are the most well studied type of immune therapy but these are not currently used as standard-of-care and importantly, they represent only one method of immune manipulation. There is limited evidence regarding the use of other immunotherapies as surgical adjuvants or alternatives. Levonorgestrel-loaded intra-uterine systems can also be effective for early-stage disease, but with varying success. There is currently no known reason as to what predisposes some patients to respond while others do not. As hormones can directly influence immune cell function, it is worth investigating the immune compartment in this context. This review assesses the immunological components of the endometrium and describes how the immune microenvironment changes with hormones, obesity, and in progression to malignancy. It also describes the importance of investigating novel pathways for immunotherapy.

Evaluating the Cognitive Impacts of Drospirenone, a Spironolactone-Derived Progestin, Independently and in Combination With Ethinyl Estradiol in Ovariectomized Adult Rats

Oral contraceptives and hormone therapies require a progestogen component to prevent ovulation, curtail uterine hyperplasia, and reduce gynecological cancer risk. Diverse classes of synthetic progestogens, called progestins, are used as natural progesterone alternatives due to progesterone’s low oral bioavailability. Progesterone and several synthetic analogs can negatively impact cognition and reverse some neuroprotective estrogen effects. Here, we investigate drospirenone, a spironolactone-derived progestin, which has unique pharmacological properties compared to other clinically-available progestins and natural progesterone, for its impact on spatial memory, anxiety-like behavior, and brain regions crucial to these cognitive tasks. Experiment 1 assessed three drospirenone doses in young adult, ovariectomized rats, and found that a moderate drospirenone dose benefited spatial memory. Experiment 2 investigated this moderate drospirenone dose with and without concomitant ethinyl estradiol (EE) treatment, the most common synthetic estrogen in oral contraceptives. Results demonstrate that the addition of EE to drospirenone administration reversed the beneficial working memory effects of drospirenone. The hippocampus, entorhinal cortex, and perirhinal cortex were then probed for proteins known to elicit estrogen- and progestin- mediated effects on learning and memory, including glutamate decarboxylase (GAD)65, GAD67, and insulin-like growth factor receptor protein expression, using western blot. EE increased GAD expression in the perirhinal cortex. Taken together, results underscore the necessity to consider the distinct cognitive and neural impacts of clinically-available synthetic estrogen and progesterone analogs, and why they produce unique cognitive profiles when administered together compared to those observed when each hormone is administered separately.

Endometriosis-Associated Angiogenesis and Anti-angiogenic Therapy for Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a known estrogen-dependent inflammatory disease affecting reproductive-aged women. Common symptoms include pelvic pain, dysmenorrhea, dyspareunia, heavy menstrual bleeding, and infertility. The exact etiology of endometriosis is largely unknown, and, thus, the diagnosis and treatment of endometriosis are challenging. A complex interplay of many molecular mechanisms is thought to aid in the progression of endometriosis, most notably angiogenesis. This mini-review examines our current knowledge of the molecular etiology of endometriosis-associated angiogenesis and discusses anti-angiogenic therapy, in the blockade of endometriosis-associated angiogenesis, as potential non-hormonal therapy for the treatment of endometriosis.

Synthetic Progestins in Waste and Surface Waters: Concentrations, Impacts and Ecological Risk

Synthetic progestins (PGs) are a large family of hormones used in continuously growing amounts in human and animal contraception and medicinal therapies. Because wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are unable to eradicate PGs after excretion, they are discharged into aquatic systems, where they can also be regenerated from conjugated PG metabolites. This review summarises the concentrations of 12 PGs in waters from 2015 to 2021. The selected PGs were considered of particular interest due to their wide use, activity, and hormonal derivation (from testosterone, progesterone, and spirolactone). We concluded that PGs had been analysed in WWTPs influents and effluents and, to a lesser extent, in other matrices, including surface waters, where their concentrations range from ng/L to a few µg/L. Because of their high affinity for cell hormone receptors, PGs are endocrine disruptor compounds that may alter the reproductive fitness and development of biota. This review focused on their biological effects in fish, which are the most used aquatic model organisms to qualify the impacts of PGs, highlighting the risks that environmental concentrations pose to their health, fecundity, and fertility. It is concluded that PGs research should be expanded because of the still limited data on their environmental concentrations and effects.

Active Women Across the Lifespan: Nutritional Ingredients to Support Health and Wellness

Women are the largest consumers of dietary supplements. Dietary supplements can play a role in health and performance, particularly for women. Growing evidence and innovations support the unique physiological and nutrient timing needs for women. Despite the need for more nutrition and exercise-specific research in women, initial data and known physiological differences between sexes related to the brain, respiration, bone, and muscle support new product development and evidence-based education for active women regarding the use of dietary supplements. In this narrative review, we discuss hormonal and metabolic considerations with the potential to impact nutritional recommendations for active women. We propose four potential areas of opportunity for ingredients to help support the health and well-being of active women, including: (1) body composition, (2) energy/fatigue, (3) mental health, and (4) physical health.

Effects of oral contraceptives on spatial cognition depend on pharmacological properties and phase of the contraceptive cycle

The central nervous system effects of oral contraceptives (OCs) are not well-documented. In a set of 3 studies, we investigated a specific cognitive function, mental rotation, in healthy women currently using OCs for contraceptive purposes (n = 201) and in medication-free controls not using OCs (n = 44). Mental rotation was measured using a well-standardized and extensively validated psychometric test, the Vandenberg Mental Rotations Test (MRT). In an initial study (Study 1), current OC users (n = 63) were tested during the active or inactive phases of the contraceptive cycle in a parallel-groups design. Studies 2 and 3 were based on an archival dataset (n = 201 current OC users) that consisted of data on the MRT collected in real-time over a 30-year period and compiled for purposes of the present work. The OCs were combined formulations containing ethinyl estradiol (10-35 ug/day) plus a synthetic progestin. All 4 families of synthetic progestins historically used in OCs were represented in the dataset. Cognitive performance was evaluated during either active OC use ('active phase') or during the washout week of the contraceptive cycle ('inactive phase') when OC steroids are not used. The results showed a significant phase-of-cycle (POC) effect. Accuracy on the MRT was mildly diminished during the active phase of OC use, while scores on verbal fluency and speeded motor tasks were modestly improved. The POC effect was most evident in women using OCs that contained first- or second-generation progestins (the estrane family of progestins or OCs containing levonorgestrel), but not in women using OCs containing recently developed progestins and lower doses of ethinyl estradiol. Using independently established ratings of the estrogenic, androgenic, and progestogenic intensities of the different OC formulations, each brand of OC was classified according to its distinct endocrine profile. Multiple regression revealed that the effects of OC use on the MRT could be predicted based on the estrogenic strength of the contraceptives used. Estrogenic potency, not androgenic or anti-androgenic effects of the OC pill, may underlie the effects of OC usage on spatial cognition.

Duration of oral contraceptive use relates to cognitive performance and brain activation in current and past users

Previous studies indicate effects of oral contraceptive (OC) use on spatial and verbal cognition. However, a better understanding of the OC effects is still needed, including the differential effects of androgenic or anti-androgenic OC use and whether the possible impact persists beyond the OC use. We aim to investigate the associations of OC use duration with spatial and verbal cognition, differentiating between androgenic and anti-androgenic OC. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), we scanned a group of 94 past and current OC-users in a single session. We grouped current OC users (N=53) and past OC users with a natural cycle (N=41) into androgenic and anti-androgenic user. Effects of OC use duration were observed for current use and after discontinuation. Duration of OC use was reflected only in verbal fluency performance but not navigation: The longer the current OC use, the less words were produced in the verbal fluency task. During navigation, deactivation in the caudate and postcentral gyrus was duration-dependent in current androgenic OC users. Only during the verbal fluency task, duration of previous OC use affects several brain parameters, including activation of the left putamen and connectivity between right-hemispheric language areas (i.e., right inferior frontal gyrus and right angular gyrus). The results regarding performance and brain activation point towards stronger organizational effects of OCs on verbal rather than spatial processing. Irrespective of the task, a duration-dependent connectivity between the hippocampus and various occipital areas was observed. This could suggest a shift in strategy or processing style with long-term contraceptive use during navigation/verbal fluency. The current findings suggest a key role of the progestogenic component of OCs in both tasks. The influence of OC use on verbal fluency remains even after discontinuation which further points out the importance of future studies on OC effects and their reversibility.

Nestorone nanosuspension-loaded dissolving microneedles array patch: A promising novel approach for "on-demand" hormonal female-controlled peritcoital contraception

"On demand" hormonal female-controlled pericoital contraception is one strategy which could be used to minimize the impact of unintended pregnancy. Nestorone (NES) is a potent contraceptive, with relatively few side effects in comparison with other contraceptives. NES presents an attractive option for "on demand" pericoital contraceptive. Unfortunately, the drug is inactive if taken orally, but it has high progestational activity and antiovulatory potency if administered parenterally. Current drug delivery systems, such as a transdermal hydrogel are not so satisfactory. Dissolving microneedles array (DMNs) are an attractive alternative, minimally-invasive, delivery system. In this study, we report, for the first time, development of tip-loaded NES-nanosuspension (NES-NS)-loaded bilayer DMNs to deliver NES intradermally for subsequent release. NES-NS was prepared and optimised, freeze-dried and then used to fabricate DMNs using a blend of two biocompatible polymers, namely poly(vinyl alcohol) and poly(vinyl pyrrolidone). Both NES-NS and the NES-NS-loaded DMNs were fully characterised and the performance of the DMNs was evaluated in vivo using Sprague Dawley rats. Results showed that the finalised NES-NS had particle size and PDI values of 666.06 ± 1.86 nm and 0.183 ± 0.01, respectively. The NES-NS-DMNs had relatively high tips-localised drug loading (approximately 2.26 ± 1.98 mg/array) and exhibited satisfactory mechanical and insertion properties. In Sprague Dawley rats, DMNs delivered NES into the skin, with the drug then appearing in blood and rapidly reaching its maximum concentration (C_max of 32.68 ± 14.06 ng/mL) within 1h post-DMNs application. Plasma levels above 3.4 ng/mL were maintained for 2 days. This suggests that DMNs are a promising drug delivery system that could be used to deliver NES as an "On demand" hormonal female-controlled pericoital contraceptive.

Combined Oral Contraceptives and Venous Thromboembolism: Review and Perspective to Mitigate the Risk

Many factors must be considered and discussed with women when initiating a contraceptive method and the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE) is one of them. In this review, we discuss the numerous strategies that have been implemented to reduce the thrombotic risk associated with combined oral contraceptives (COCs) from their arrival on the market until today. Evidences suggesting that COCs were associated with an increased risk of VTE appeared rapidly after their marketing. Identified as the main contributor of this risk, the dosage of the estrogen, i.e., ethinylestradiol (EE), was significantly reduced. New progestins were also synthetized (e.g., desogestrel or gestodene) but their weak androgenic activity did not permit to counterbalance the effect of EE as did the initial progestins such as levonorgestrel. Numerous studies assessed the impact of estroprogestative combinations on hemostasis and demonstrated that women under COC suffered from resistance towards activated protein C (APC). Subsequently, the European Medicines Agency updated its guidelines on clinical investigation of steroid contraceptives in which they recommended to assess this biological marker. In 2009, estradiol-containing COCs were marketed and the use of this natural form of estrogen was found to exert a weaker effect on the synthesis of hepatic proteins compared to EE. In this year 2021, a novel COC based on a native estrogen, i.e., estetrol, will be introduced on the market. Associated with drospirenone, this preparation demonstrated minor effects on coagulation proteins as compared with other drospirenone-containing COCs. At the present time, the standard of care when starting a contraception, consists of identifying the presence of hereditary thrombophilia solely on the basis of familial history of VTE. This strategy has however been reported as poorly predictive of hereditary thrombophilia. One rationale and affordable perspective which has already been considered in the past could be the implementation of a baseline screening of the prothrombotic state to provide health care professionals with objective data to support the prescription of the more appropriate contraceptive method. While this strategy was judged too expensive due to limited laboratory solutions, the endogenous thrombin potential-based APC resistance assay could now represent an interesting alternative.

An endocrine perspective on menstrual suppression for adolescents: achieving good suppression while optimizing bone health

Suppression of menstruation and/or ovarian function in adolescent girls may be desired for a variety of reasons. Numerous medical options exist. The choice of the appropriate modality for an individual patient depends on several factors based on differences in the efficacy of achieving menstrual suppression as well as in their side effect profiles. Adolescence is also a period of bone mass accrual in girls, and several of these modalities may negatively influence peak bone mass. This review focuses on the efficacy of achieving menstrual suppression and the effect on bone health of the various options through an overview of the current literature and also highlights areas in need of further research.

Clinical pharmacology of progestins

INTRODUCTION

In this paper, we report general pharmacological profile and major biological activities of natural progesterone (P) and progestins. The aim of this article consists of synthesizing the principal aspects of pharmacology and metabolism of P and progestins related to the clinical consequences of their use.

METHODS

We review scientific literature on the topic "Progestins", evaluating the most relevant data from original articles, reviews and meta-analyses.

EVIDENCE SYNTHESIS

Progestins represent a specific class of synthetic analogues of P clinically employed (alone or associated with estrogens) to manage several gynaecological conditions, for instance multiple abortions, luteal phase defect, premenstrual syndrome, abnormal uterine bleeding, endometriosis and menopause (for hormone replacement therapy). Besides their use in the field of contraception, many non-contraceptive benefits of estroprogestins are mostly due to the activities of progestins. Pharmacological characteristics, dosage and individual metabolism could be listed among the principal aspects influencing their clinical effects.

CONCLUSIONS

The choice of each progestin according to its pharmacological profile is crucial for the appropriate management of any gynaecological condition. An aware knowledge of these compounds is fundamental to hone medical practice.

Pharmacokinetics, metabolism and serum concentrations of progestins used in contraception

Many different forms of hormonal contraception are used by millions of women worldwide. These contraceptives differ in the dose and type of synthetic progestogenic compound (progestin) used, as well as the route of administration and whether or not they contain estrogenic compounds. There is an increasing awareness that different forms of contraception and different progestins have different side-effect profiles, in particular their cardiovascular effects, effects on reproductive cancers and susceptibility to infectious diseases. There is a need to develop new methods to suit different needs and with minimal risks, especially in under-resourced areas. This requires a better understanding of the pharmacokinetics, metabolism, serum and tissue concentrations of progestins used in contraception as well as the biological activities of progestins and their metabolites via steroid receptors. Here we review the current knowledge on these topics and identify the research gaps. We show that there is a paucity of research on most of these topics for most progestins. We find that major impediments to clear conclusions on these topics include a lack of standardized methodologies, comparisons between non-parallel clinical studies and variability of data on serum concentrations between and within studies. The latter is most likely due, at least in part, to differences in intrinsic characteristics of participants. The review highlights the importance of insight on these topics in order to provide the best contraceptive options to women with minimal risks.

Menopause, hormone therapy and cognition: maximizing translation from preclinical research

Menopause-associated and hormone-associated cognitive research has a rich history built from varied disciplines and species. This review discusses landmark rodent and human work addressing cognitive outcomes associated with varied experiences of menopause and hormone therapy. Critical variables in menopause and cognitive aging research are considered, including menopause etiology, background hormone milieu and parameters of exposure to estrogens and progestogens. Recent preclinical research has identified that menopause and ovarian hormone fluctuations across many neurobiological systems affect cognitive aging, mapping novel avenues for future research. Preclinical models provide insight into complex interdisciplinary relationships in a systematic and highly controlled fashion. We highlight that acknowledging the strengths and weaknesses for both preclinical and clinical research approaches is vital to accurate interpretation, optimal translation and the direction of future research. There is great value in collaboration and communication across preclinical and clinical realms, especially regarding reciprocal feedback of findings to advance preclinical models, improve experimental designs and enrich basic science translation to the clinic. In searching for biological mechanisms underlying the cognitive consequences of menopause and hormone therapies, it is noteworthy that clinical and preclinical scientists are grounded in the same fundamental goal of optimizing health outcomes for women across the lifespan.

Segesterone acetate serum levels with a regression model of continuous use of the segesterone acetate/ethinyl estradiol contraceptive vaginal system

OBJECTIVE

To predict serum segesterone (SA) and ethinyl estradiol (EE) levels after 364 days of hypothetical continuous use (without removal) of a cyclic contraceptive vaginal system (CVS) containing 0.15 mg SA and 0.013 mg EE.

STUDY DESIGN

We used pharmacokinetic (PK) data (n = 37) from a multicenter, open-label, nonrandomized study of healthy women (18-38 years) that used the CVS for 13 cycles in a 21 days-in/7 days-out regimen to develop a linear regression model to predict daily serum SA and EE levels for 364 days of continuous CVS use. We then determined residual SA/EE levels in vitro from 18 randomly chosen CVS used by women who completed 13 cycles. Serum SA and EE levels were also predicted for 364 days of continuous CVS use in another in vitro study.

RESULTS

After a hypothetical 364 days of continuous CVS use, we predicted daily mean serum levels to be 184 pmol/L (95% confidence interval [CI], 102‒332 pmol/L) for SA and 43 pmol/L (95% CI, 19‒95 pmol/L) for EE. We did predict that serum EE levels would not accumulate over time. Residual SA and EE in the CVS were 60% and 80% of the original load after 13 cycles, respectively.

CONCLUSION

The predicted serum SA level after 364 days of hypothetical continuous CVS use was comparable to reported levels at which no pregnancy occurred (>100 pmol/L), showing the potential of the CVS for one year of continuous use. Clinical trials on continuous CVS use are planned.

IMPLICATIONS

Based on statistical modeling, the long-term, user-controlled contraceptive vaginal system containing segesterone acetate and ethinyl estradiol may have the potential to provide effective pregnancy prevention if used continuously (without removal) for one year. Further investigation is warranted.

Effects of oral contraceptives on serum concentrations of adipokines and adiposity indices of women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a randomized controlled trial

PURPOSE

To compare the effects of oral contraceptives (OCs) with different progestins, including Levonorgestrel (LNG), Desogestrel (DSG), Cyproterone Acetate (CPA), and Drospirenone (DRSP) on adipokines levels and adiposity indices in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

METHODS

In this parallel randomized clinical trial, 120 women with PCOS randomly assigned to intervention with OCs containing LNG, DSG, CPA, or DRSP. Outcomes of interest, including serum concentrations of adiponectin, leptin, and resistin, and adiposity indices, i.e., body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), obesity, central obesity, waist to hip ratio (WHR), waist to height ratio (WHtR), lipid accumulation product (LAP), a body shape index (ABSI), body roundness index (BRI), and visceral adiposity index (VAI), and lipid profiles were assessed at baseline, and 6 months of treatment.

RESULTS

This study showed no significant differences in serum concentrations of adipokines between the four study groups after 6 months of treatment. Our results also showed that patients treated with various compounds of OC for 6 months had no significant differences in their adiposity indices, except for LAP (p = 0.04), and VAI (p = 0.03). PCOS patients treated with OCs containing CPA had significantly a higher mean LAP, compared to those using products containing LNG. Besides, patients treated with OCs containing CPA had significantly a higher mean VAI, compared to those treated with OCs containing DRSP.

CONCLUSION

This study demonstrated that OCs with low androgenic and antiandrogenic activities had identical effects on serum concentrations of adipokines, and adiposity indices, except LAP, and VAI parameters.

REGISTRATION NUMBER

IRCT20080929001281N3.

Drug-induced peripheral oedema: An aetiology-based review

Many drugs are responsible, through different mechanisms, for peripheral oedema. Severity is highly variable, ranging from slight oedema of the lower limbs to anasarca pictures as in the capillary leak syndrome. Although most often noninflammatory and bilateral, some drugs are associated with peripheral oedema that is readily erythematous (eg, pemetrexed) or unilateral (eg, sirolimus). Thus, drug-induced peripheral oedema is underrecognized and misdiagnosed, frequently leading to a prescribing cascade. Four main mechanisms are involved, namely precapillary arteriolar vasodilation (vasodilatory oedema), sodium/water retention (renal oedema), lymphatic insufficiency (lymphedema) and increased capillary permeability (permeability oedema). The underlying mechanism has significant impact on treatment efficacy. The purpose of this review is to provide a comprehensive analysis of the main causative drugs by illustrating each pathophysiological mechanism and their management through an example of a drug.

Progress in progestin-based therapies for neurological disorders

Hormone therapy, primarily progesterone and progestins, for central nervous system (CNS) disorders represents an emerging field of regenerative medicine. Following a failed clinical trial of progesterone for traumatic brain injury treatment, attention has shifted to the progestin Nestorone for its ability to potently and selectively transactivate progesterone receptors at relatively low doses, resulting in robust neurogenetic, remyelinating, and anti-inflammatory effects. That CNS disorders, including multiple sclerosis (MS), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), spinal cord injury (SCI), and stroke, develop via demyelinating, cell death, and/or inflammatory pathological pathways advances Nestorone as an auspicious candidate for these disorders. Here, we assess the scientific and clinical progress over decades of research into progesterone, progestins, and Nestorone as neuroprotective agents in MS, ALS, SCI, and stroke. We also offer recommendations for optimizing timing, dosage, and route of the drug regimen, and identifying candidate patient populations, in advancing Nestorone to the clinic.

Simultaneous assay of segesterone acetate (Nestorone®), estradiol, progesterone, and estrone in human serum by LC-MS/MS

OBJECTIVE

To develop a method to simultaneously quantify the synthetic contraceptive progestin segesterone acetate (Nestorone®, NES) and the endogenous steroid hormones estradiol (E2), progesterone (P4), and estrone (E1) in human serum samples by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).

STUDY DESIGN

We analyzed 615 serum samples collected from 67 reproductive-age women actively using a contraceptive vaginal ring (CVR) designed to release NES (200 mcg/d) and E2 (75-200 mcg/d). Samples were taken prior to and up to 30 days after CVR insertion and analyzed for concentrations of NES, E2, P4, and E1 in human serum using a Shimadzu Nexera-LCMS-8050 LC-MS/MS platform. Precision, accuracy, and sensitivity for all analytes were determined across multiple assays.

RESULTS

The assay ranges for NES, E2, P4, and E1 in this analytical method were 10 pg/mL to 10 ng/mL with a lower limit of quantification of 10 pg/mL for all targets. Assay precisions were less than or equal to 14.5% and accuracies ranged from 87.0% to 110.8%. When applied to the 615 clinical samples, 550 samples had quantifiable concentrations of NES (value range 0.014-1471 ng/mL). Similarly, 595 samples had quantifiable concentrations of E2 (0.010-0.312 ng/mL), 596 samples had quantifiable concentrations of P4 (0.010-5.791 ng/mL), and 609 samples had quantifiable concentrations of E1 (0.010-0.416 ng/mL).

CONCLUSIONS

The LC-MS/MS platform results in a robust, accurate, and sensitive method for the simultaneous quantification of NES and endogenous steroid hormones in human serum.

IMPLICATIONS

The analytical method described allows for the simultaneous quantification of NES and endogenous steroids and can be used to monitor NES concentrations during clinical trials and subject adherence to treatment with NES.

Progesterone, reproduction, and psychiatric illness

Mood and anxiety disorders are vastly overrepresented in women, and one important contributor to these differences is the fluctuation in sex steroids in women during the reproductive years. Considerable evidence supports a role for abnormal sensitivity to these hormonal fluctuations for some women, who develop mood symptoms associated with reproductive transitions. This chapter presents evidence of the role of endogenous progesterone and its metabolites in such mood symptoms, and then goes on to cover the evidence concerning exogenous progesterone's effects on mood. Overall, the literature does not support an association between exogenous progesterone and negative mood in the general population, but does indicate that subset of women may be vulnerable to such effects. Research is lacking on women with psychiatric illness.

Maternal oral contraceptive pill use and the risk of atopic diseases in the offspring: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Studies of maternal oral contraceptive pill (OCP) exposure and the offspring's risk of atopic diseases are of current interest due to concerns about widespread use of OCP before or during pregnancy.We evaluated whether maternal OCP exposure is associated with an increased risk of atopic diseases by reviewing the literature and performing a meta-analysis. The PubMed and Embase databases were searched to identify potential studies for inclusion. Three common atopic outcomes were included: asthma, eczema, and rhinitis.We found 693 titles, abstracts, and citations, and 6 studies were included in this analysis. A meta-analysis revealed that maternal OCP exposure was associated with higher odds of asthma (odds ratio [OR] 1.1; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02-1.19; P = .014), rhinitis (OR 1.34; 95% CI 1.07-1.68; P = .011) during childhood, whereas there was no association with eczema (OR 1.17; 95% CI 0.81-1.68; P = .383). This analysis was limited by the small number of studies included and the limited adjustments for the possible confounders in the studies.Current evidence suggests that maternal OCP exposure increases the risk for respiratory allergic diseases (asthma and rhinitis) in the offspring, but not for eczema. Given the few studies included, future larger, prospective studies that control for important confounders are needed to verify our findings.

The crystal structure of 6-methyl-3,20-dioxo-19-norpregna-4,6-dien-17-yl acetate–2,4-dihydroxybenzoic acid (1/1), C30H36O8

C30H36O8, monoclinic, P21 (no. 4), a = 10.899(2) Å, b = 11.002(2) Å, c = 11.847(2) Å, V = 1310.3(5) Å3, Z = 2, R gt(F) = 0.0504, wR ref(F 2) = 0.1161, T = 163(2) K.

Levonorgestrel Inhibits Embryo Attachment by Eliminating Uterine Induction of Leukemia Inhibitory Factor

Progestogens including progesterone (P4) and levonorgestrel (LNG) are clinically used for multiple purposes such as contraception and infertility treatment. The effects of progestogens on the uterus remains to be elucidated. Here we examine the effect of excessive progestogen administration on embryo implantation focusing on the function of uterine leukemia inhibitory factor (LIF), a cytokine that is induced by estrogen and essential for embryo attachment. Treatment of wild-type (WT) female mice with vehicle (control), LNG at the dose of 300 μg/kg/day and P4 at the dose of 10 mg/day from day 1 to day 4 of pregnancy was conducted. LNG-treated and P4-treated mice showed embryo attachment failure on day 5 of pregnancy (The rate of mice with embryo attachment sites [%MAS], 11% and 13%, respectively), while all the control mice had normal attachment sites. Uterine LIF expression was significantly reduced in LNG-treated and P4-treated mice on day 4 evening. Administration of recombinant LIF (rLIF) at the dose of 24 μg/day on day 4 significantly rescued embryo attachment failure in LNG-treated and P4-treated mice (%MAS, 80% and 75%, respectively). Estradiol (E2) administration also rescued embryo attachment failure in LNG-treated mice (%MAS, 83%). Furthermore, excess P4 treatment before implantation decreased decidual P4 receptor (PGR) expression and induced decidualization defect apart from LIF downregulation. These findings indicate that progestogens cause embryo attachment inhibition through downregulation of uterine LIF expression and compromised decidualization through downregulation of PGR independently of LIF reduction. This study may contribute to a better understanding of contraceptive action of progestogens.

Risk of HIV-1 acquisition among South African women using a variety of contraceptive methods in a prospective study

OBJECTIVE

Observational studies have associated use of intramuscular injectable depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA-IM) with increased risk of HIV-1 acquisition, but limited data are available to assess HIV-1 risk for alternate contraceptive methods.

METHODS

Within a randomized trial of the dapivirine vaginal ring for HIV-1 prevention, we assessed HIV-1 incidence by contraceptive method. We limited analyses to participants from South African sites and to women who used DMPA-IM, the alternative injectable norethisterone enanthate, implants, or copper intrauterine devices (IUDs). Contraceptive method was assessed as a time-dependent exposure and multivariate models adjusted for trial randomization arm, age, sexual behaviour, and incident sexually transmitted infections.

RESULTS

A total of 95 incident HIV-1 infections were observed: incidence 5.8 (DMPA-IM, n = 52), 6.2 (norethisterone enanthate, n = 28), 1.9 (implant, n = 3), and 4.5 (IUD, n = 12) cases per 100 woman-years. In multivariable models, there were no statistically significant differences between contraceptive methods in the risk of HIV-1 acquisition. However, compared with the IUD, the three hormonal methods each had point estimates near 1 while the implant had risk that was approximately half that of the IUD. When the three hormonal methods were combined, their relative risk compared with IUD was 0.90 (95% confidence interval 0.45-1.76).

CONCLUSION

Among women at risk of HIV-1 infections in South Africa, we found no statistically significant differences in HIV-1 incidence by contraceptive method. Implants had the lowest point estimate for HIV-1 incidence, and IUDs had risk comparable with injectable methods in multivariate models. Large, prospective studies are needed to define better the relative HIV-1 risks across different contraceptive methods.

Previous contraceptive treatment relates to grey matter volumes in the hippocampus and basal ganglia

Oral contraceptive (OC) effects on the brain have gained increasing interest, but are highly controversial. Previous studies suggest that OC users have larger hippocampi, parahippocampi, fusiform gyri and Cerebelli. Preliminary evidence from one of those studies even suggests an effect of previous contraceptive use on the hippocampi of women who are not current users of OCs. Furthermore, more recent studies postulate an involvement of previous OC treatment in later development of mood disorders. To address the question whether previous OC treatment affects women’s brain structure later in life, high resolution structural images were obtained from 131 naturally cycling women. Among them, 52 women had never used OC before, 52 had previously used one OC for a continuous time period and 27 had previously used multiple contraceptives. The groups did not differ in gray matter volumes. Since endogenous sex hormones modulate gray matter volumes of the hippocampus and basal ganglia along the menstrual cycle, we hypothesize effects of OC use on these areas. Specifically, we hypothesize that a longer duration of previous OC treatment is related to larger hippocampi and larger basal ganglia. Indeed we found the duration of previous OC use to be positively correlated to hippocampal and basal ganglia volumes bilaterally. For the hippocampus, but not for the basal ganglia, this association disappeared after controlling for the time since discontinuation. These results suggest that for the hippocampus, but not for the basal ganglia, effects of previous contraceptive treatment are reversed after a time period comparable to treatment duration. These data question the immediate reversibility of OC effects on brain structure. Accordingly, some changes in the brain due to long-term contraceptive use, while subtle, may be long-lasting.

Beyond Biological Sex: Interactive Effects of Gender Role and Sex Hormones on Spatial Abilities

Sex differences in spatial abilities are well documented, even though their underlying causes are poorly understood. Some studies assume a biological basis of these differences and study the relationship of sex hormone levels to spatial abilities. Other studies assume social influences and study the relationship of gender role (masculinity/femininity) to spatial abilities. Contemporary theories postulate a psychobiosocial model of sex differences in spatial abilities, in which both biological (e.g., hormonal) and psychosocial (e.g., gender role) variables interactively modulate spatial abilities. However, few studies have addressed both aspects simultaneously. Accordingly, the present study explores potential interactive effects between gender role and sex hormones on spatial performance. 41 men and 41 women completed a mental rotation and a virtual navigation task. Sex hormone levels and gender role were assessed in all participants. Sex differences favoring men were observed in both tasks. We found that neither sex hormones nor gender role alone emerged as mediators of these sex differences. However, several interactive effects between gender role and sex hormones were identified. Combined effects of masculinity and testosterone were observed for those variables that displayed sex differences. Participants with both, high masculinity and high testosterone showed the best performance. However, this association was further modulated by biological sex and progesterone levels. Furthermore, we observed an interactive effect of femininity, estradiol and testosterone on response times in both tasks. Consistent across both tasks and irrespective of biological sex, testosterone related to response times in participants with low estradiol levels, depending on their femininity. In participants with low femininity, testosterone was related to slower reaction times, while in participants with higher femininity, testosterone was related to faster reaction times.

Nomegestrol acetate/17beta-estradiol does not negatively alter the vascular resistance of clitoral arteries: a prospective, exploratory study

The effect of nomegestrol acetate/estradiol (NOMAC/E2) on clitoral and uterine vascularization has never been evaluated. We aimed to investigate, in women consulting for contraceptive needs, the possible changes in clitoral and uterine arteries hemodynamic parameters after 6 months treatment with NOMAC/E2 as compared with other hormonal contraceptives (HCs). In this observational, prospective pilot study, ten women were enrolled. Color Doppler ultrasound was performed on the clitoral and uterine arteries at baseline and after 6 months treatment with NOMAC/E2 (n = 5) or other HCs (n = 5). NOMAC/E2 did not exert any significant effect on clitoral vascular resistance expressed by the pulsatility index (PI); conversely, treatment with other HCs significantly increased this parameter (p = 0.04). The change in clitoral PI between the two groups retained a statistically significant difference even after adjusting for age. In the NOMAC/E2 group, at follow-up, uterine artery PI and acceleration were significantly reduced (p = 0.04), whereas no significant differences were observed in the HCs group; however, the change in uterine artery parameters did not differ significantly between the two groups. NOMAC/E2, differently from other COCs, does not negatively alter the vascular resistance of clitoral arteries and appears as a good contraceptive choice to protect both cardiovascular and sexual health.