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Avenant C, Singata-Madliki M, Bick AJ, Africander D, Balakrishna Y, Storbeck KH, Moliki JM, Dlamini S, Skosana S, Smit J, Beksinska M, Beesham I, Seocharan I, Batting J, Hofmeyr GJ, Hapgood JP. The injectable contraceptives depot medroxyprogesterone acetate and norethisterone enanthate substantially and differentially decrease testosterone and sex hormone binding globulin levels: A secondary study from the WHICH randomized clinical trial. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0307736. [PMID: 39178280 PMCID: PMC11343371 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0307736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2024] [Indexed: 08/25/2024] Open
Abstract
HIV acquisition risk with norethisterone (NET) enanthate (NET-EN) is reportedly less than for depo-medroxyprogesterone acetate intramuscular (DMPA-IM). We investigated the effects of these progestin-only injectable contraceptives on serum testosterone and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) levels, since these may play a role in sexual behavior and HIV acquisition. The open-label WHICH clinical trial, conducted at two sites in South Africa from 2018-2019, randomized HIV-negative women aged 18-40 years to 150 mg DMPA-IM 12-weekly (n = 262) or 200 mg NET-EN 8-weekly (n = 259). We measured testosterone by UHPLC-MS/MS and SHBG by immunoassay in matched pairs of serum samples collected at baseline (D0) and at peak serum progestin levels at 25 weeks post initiation (25W) (n = 214-218 pairs). Both contraceptives substantially decreased, from D0 to 25W, the total testosterone [DMPA-IM D0 0.560, 25W 0.423 nmol/L, -24.3% (p < 0.0001); NET-EN D0 0.551, 25W 0.253 nmol/L, -54.1%, (p < 0.0001)], SHBG [DMPA-IM D0 45.0, 25W 32.7 nmol/L, -29.8% (p < 0.0001); NET-EN D0 50.2, 25W 17.6 nmol/L, -65.1% (p < 0.0001)], and calculated free testosterone levels [DMPA-IM D0 6.87, 25W 5.38 pmol/L, -17.2% (p = 0.0371); NET-EN D0 6.00, 25W 3.70, -40.0% (p < 0.0001)]. After adjusting for change from D0, the total testosterone, SHBG and calculated free testosterone levels were significantly higher for DMPA-IM than NET-EN (64.9%, p < 0.0001; 101.2%, p < 0.0001; and 38.0%, p = 0.0120, respectively). The substantial and differential decrease in testosterone and SHBG levels does not explain our previous finding of no detected decrease in risky sexual behavior or sexual function for DMPA-IM or NET-EN users from D0 to 25W. Medroxyprogesterone (MPA) and NET are androgenic and are both present in molar excess over testosterone and SHBG concentrations at 25W. Any within or between contraceptive group androgenic effects on behavior in the brain are likely dominated by the androgenic activities of MPA and NET and not by the decreased endogenous testosterone levels. The clinical trial was registered with the Pan African Clinical Trials Registry (PACTR 202009758229976).
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Affiliation(s)
- Chanel Avenant
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Mandisa Singata-Madliki
- Effective Care Research Unit, Eastern Cape Department of Health/Universities of the Witwatersrand and Fort Hare, East London, South Africa
| | - Alexis J. Bick
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Donita Africander
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Yusentha Balakrishna
- Biostatistics Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - Karl-Heinz Storbeck
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Johnson M. Moliki
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Sigcinile Dlamini
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Salndave Skosana
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Jenni Smit
- Wits MRU (MatCH Research Unit), Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Mags Beksinska
- Wits MRU (MatCH Research Unit), Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Ivana Beesham
- Wits MRU (MatCH Research Unit), Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of the Witwatersrand, Durban, South Africa
| | - Ishen Seocharan
- Biostatistics Research Unit, South African Medical Research Council, Durban, South Africa
| | - Joanne Batting
- Effective Care Research Unit, Eastern Cape Department of Health/Universities of the Witwatersrand and Fort Hare, East London, South Africa
| | - George J. Hofmeyr
- Effective Care Research Unit, Eastern Cape Department of Health/Universities of the Witwatersrand and Fort Hare, East London, South Africa
- Walter Sisulu University, East London, South Africa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Botswana, Gaborone, Botswana
| | - Janet P. Hapgood
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
- Institute of Infectious Disease and Molecular Medicine, University of Cape Town, Cape Town, South Africa
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Allaoui G, Rylander C, Fuskevåg OM, Grimnes G, Averina M, Wilsgaard T, Berg V. Longitudinal assessment of classic and 11-oxygenated androgen concentrations and their association with type 2 diabetes mellitus development: the Tromsø study. Acta Diabetol 2024; 61:847-857. [PMID: 38498076 PMCID: PMC11182793 DOI: 10.1007/s00592-024-02266-5] [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: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
AIM We aimed to investigate changes in pre-diagnostic concentrations of classic and 11-oxygenated androgens in type 2 diabetes (T2DM) cases and healthy controls, associations between androgen concentrations and T2DM, and the potential for androgens to improve the prediction of T2DM when considered in combination with established risk factors. METHODS Androgen concentrations were analysed in serum samples from 116 T2DM cases and 138 controls at 3, pre-diagnostic time-points: 1986/87 (T1), 1994/95 (T2), and 2001 (T3). Generalised estimating equations were used to longitudinally examine androgen concentrations, and logistic regression models were used to estimate the odds ratios (OR) of T2DM at each time-point. Logistic regression models were also used to calculate area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AROC) from models including established risk factors alone (ERF model) and established risk factors plus each androgen, respectively, which were compared to identify improvements in predictive ability. RESULTS For women, no significant associations were observed between any of the investigated androgens and T2DM after adjusting for confounders. For men, after adjusting for confounders, concentrations of all investigated 11-oxygenated androgens were higher in cases than controls at one or several time-points. We observed associations between T2DM and concentrations of 11-ketoandrostenedione (OR: 1.59) and 11-ketotestosterone (OR: 1.62) at T1; and 11-hydroxyandrostenedione (OR: 2.00), 11-hydroxytestosterone (OR: 1.76), 11-ketoandrostenedione (OR: 1.84), 11-ketotestosterone (OR: 1.78) and testosterone (OR: 0.45) at T3 in men. The addition of these androgens (including 11-hydroxytestosterone at T2) to the ERF model resulted in an improved ability to predict T2DM in men (AROC: 0.79-0.82). We did not observe significant differences in changes in androgen concentrations over time between cases and controls in either sex. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate that testosterone and 11-oxygenated androgens are associated with T2DM in men before diagnosis and may be potential biomarkers in T2DM risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanni Allaoui
- Division of Diagnostic Services, Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital of North-Norway, 9038, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT-The Arctic University of Norway, 9037, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Charlotta Rylander
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UIT-The Arctic University of Norway, 9037, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Ole-Martin Fuskevåg
- Division of Diagnostic Services, Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital of North-Norway, 9038, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UIT-The Arctic University of Norway, 9037, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Guri Grimnes
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UIT-The Arctic University of Norway, 9037, Tromsø, Norway
- Division of Medicine, University Hospital of North-Norway, 9038, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Maria Averina
- Division of Diagnostic Services, Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital of North-Norway, 9038, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UIT-The Arctic University of Norway, 9037, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Tom Wilsgaard
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, UIT-The Arctic University of Norway, 9037, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Vivian Berg
- Division of Diagnostic Services, Department of Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital of North-Norway, 9038, Tromsø, Norway.
- Department of Medical Biology, Faculty of Health Sciences, UiT-The Arctic University of Norway, 9037, Tromsø, Norway.
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3
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Satué K, Fazio E, Damiá E, Barbiera G, Medica P, Cravana C. Effect of age on androgens pattern in cyclic mares. Res Vet Sci 2024; 173:105276. [PMID: 38677075 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2024.105276] [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: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
Androgens are produced in both sexes. In females produced by the adrenal gland and the ovaries they play a crucial role in regulating ovarian function, estrogen synthesis and follicular growth. Age leads to a reduction in androgen concentrations, although, at present, these mechanisms are not elucidated in mares. The objective of this study was to evaluate the concentrations of testosterone (T), androstenedione (A4) and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in mares of different ages. Blood samples were drawn from seventy cyclic Spanish Purebred mares belonging to five age groups: 3-5 years, 6-9 years, 10-13 years, 14-16 years and > 16 years. The concentrations of T, A4 and DHEA were determined by EIA, validated specifically for horses. Mares aged 3-5, 6-9 and 10-13 years had higher T concentrations (P < 0.05) than mares aged >16 years, and mares aged 6-9 years had also higher concentrations than those 14-16 years old (P < 0.05). A4 concentrations were lower (P < 0.05) in mares >16 years old when compared with those of other age groups. DHEA concentrations were lower (P < 0.05) in mares 14-16 years and > 16 years old when compared with those of other age groups. DHEA was positively correlated with T (r = 0.61; P < 0.05) and A4 (r = 0.51; P < 0.05). Age induces reduction in androgens' synthesis in physiologically cyclic Spanish Purebred mares. These physiological variations must be duly considered for a correct and objective interpretation of the analytical data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katiuska Satué
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, CEU-Cardenal Herrera University, Tirant lo Blanc, 7, Alfara del Patriarca, 46115, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Esterina Fazio
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Veterinary Physiology Unit, Polo Universitario Annunziata, Via Palatucci 13, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Elena Damiá
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, CEU-Cardenal Herrera University, Tirant lo Blanc, 7, Alfara del Patriarca, 46115, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Pietro Medica
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Veterinary Physiology Unit, Polo Universitario Annunziata, Via Palatucci 13, 98168 Messina, Italy
| | - Cristina Cravana
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Veterinary Physiology Unit, Polo Universitario Annunziata, Via Palatucci 13, 98168 Messina, Italy
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Davis SR, Azene ZN, Tonkin AM, Woods RL, McNeil JJ, Islam RM. Higher testosterone is associated with higher HDL-cholesterol and lower triglyceride concentrations in older women: an observational study. Climacteric 2024; 27:282-288. [PMID: 38345304 PMCID: PMC11196127 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2024.2310530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine whether concentrations of testosterone and its main precursor after menopause, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), are associated with lipoproteins and other lipids in community-dwelling older women. METHODS The Sex Hormones in Older Women (SHOW) study was an observational study of 6358 Australian women, aged at least 70 years, with no prior major adverse cardiovascular event who had sex hormones measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Associations between hormones and lipids were examined using multilinear regression adjusted for potential confounders. RESULTS The cross-sectional analyses included 3231 participants, median age 74.0 (interquartile range 71.7-77.9) years. Compared with concentrations in the lowest quartile (Q1), testosterone concentrations in the highest quartiles (Q3 and Q4) were positively associated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (p = 0.002 and p < 0.001, respectively) while Q4 testosterone concentrations were positively associated with total cholesterol (p = 0.038). Q2, Q3 and Q4 testosterone concentrations were significantly inversely associated with triglycerides (TG) (p = 0.024, p = 0.003 and p < 0.001, respectively). For DHEA, Q4 concentrations was positively associated with non-HDL-C (p = 0.024). CONCLUSIONS In older women, higher endogenous testosterone concentrations are significantly associated with higher HDL-C and lower TG, indicating a less atherogenic profile. These findings suggest a neutral, or potentially protective, cardiovascular disease effect of testosterone in older women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan R Davis
- Women’s Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia 3004
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Alfred Health, Melbourne, Victoria Australia 3004
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia 3004
| | - Zelalem N Azene
- Women’s Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia 3004
| | - Andrew M Tonkin
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia 3004
| | - Robyn L Woods
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia 3004
| | - John J McNeil
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia 3004
| | - Rakibul M Islam
- Women’s Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia 3004
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia 3004
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5
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Schiffer L, Oestlund I, Snoep JL, Gilligan LC, Taylor AE, Sinclair AJ, Singhal R, Freeman A, Ajjan R, Tiganescu A, Arlt W, Storbeck KH. Inhibition of the glucocorticoid-activating enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 drives concurrent 11-oxygenated androgen excess. FASEB J 2024; 38:e23574. [PMID: 38551804 DOI: 10.1096/fj.202302131r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 02/19/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Aldo-keto reductase 1C3 (AKR1C3) is a key enzyme in the activation of both classic and 11-oxygenated androgens. In adipose tissue, AKR1C3 is co-expressed with 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1 (HSD11B1), which catalyzes not only the local activation of glucocorticoids but also the inactivation of 11-oxygenated androgens, and thus has the potential to counteract AKR1C3. Using a combination of in vitro assays and in silico modeling we show that HSD11B1 attenuates the biosynthesis of the potent 11-oxygenated androgen, 11-ketotestosterone (11KT), by AKR1C3. Employing ex vivo incubations of human female adipose tissue samples we show that inhibition of HSD11B1 results in the increased peripheral biosynthesis of 11KT. Moreover, circulating 11KT increased 2-3 fold in individuals with type 2 diabetes after receiving the selective oral HSD11B1 inhibitor AZD4017 for 35 days, thus confirming that HSD11B1 inhibition results in systemic increases in 11KT concentrations. Our findings show that HSD11B1 protects against excess 11KT production by adipose tissue, a finding of particular significance when considering the evidence for adverse metabolic effects of androgens in women. Therefore, when targeting glucocorticoid activation by HSD11B1 inhibitor treatment in women, the consequently increased generation of 11KT may offset beneficial effects of decreased glucocorticoid activation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Schiffer
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Imken Oestlund
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Jacky L Snoep
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
- Molecular Cell Biology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lorna C Gilligan
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Angela E Taylor
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Alexandra J Sinclair
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Rishi Singhal
- Upper GI Unit and Minimally Invasive Unit, Heartlands Hospital, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Adrian Freeman
- Emerging Innovations Unit, Discovery Sciences, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, Cambridge, UK
| | - Ramzi Ajjan
- Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- NIHR Leeds Biomedical Research Center, Leeds Teaching Hospitals, NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Ana Tiganescu
- Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- NIHR Leeds Biomedical Research Center, Leeds Teaching Hospitals, NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Wiebke Arlt
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College, London, UK
- Medical Research Council Laboratory of Medical Sciences, London, UK
| | - Karl-Heinz Storbeck
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
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Yu C, Bakshi A, Bell RJ, Islam RM, Handelsman DJ, McNeil JJ, Lacaze P, Davis SR. Genome-wide association study identifies genetic regulation of oestrone concentrations and association with endometrial cancer risk in postmenopausal women. EBioMedicine 2024; 101:104997. [PMID: 38324981 PMCID: PMC10862393 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2024.104997] [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: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 01/19/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oestrone, predominantly made in fat, is the main circulating oestrogen and important for target tissue oestradiol production in women after menopause. The present study was undertaken to determine the genetic regulation of blood oestrone, measured with precision, in postmenopausal women and to explore associations between the identified genetic loci and endometrial cancer in a large, independent cohort. METHODS A genome-wide association study (GWAS) was undertaken in women aged at least 70 years to identify genetic associations with blood oestrone concentrations measured by liquid chromatography and tandem mass spectrometry. The GWAS included participants from the Sex Hormones in Older Women (SHOW) study, a sub-study of the longitudinal ASPREE (ASPirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly) randomised trial. Of the 6358 women providing a biobank sample at enrolment, 4951 unrelated women of European ancestry, not taking sex hormones, anti-oestrogens, anti-androgens or systemic glucocorticoids were included in the GWAS. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from loci identified below the genome-wide significance threshold were then tested in an independent cohort (the UK Biobank) for association with endometrial cancer risk, using logistic regression and adjusting for age, body mass index (BMI) and the top 10 genetic principal components. FINDINGS The median age of the 4951 women included in the GWAS was 75.9 years (range 70-94.8 years). The GWAS identified four independent SNPs associated with oestrone concentrations (p < 5 × 10-8). Among them, the effect (minor) alleles rs34670419-T, rs2846729-T and rs2414098-T were associated with lower oestrone concentrations. Carrying these effect alleles was associated with lower oestrone concentrations in a dose-dependent manner. The effect allele rs56400819-A was associated with higher oestrone concentrations. When applied to UK Biobank, carrier status for rs2414098-T associated with the CYP19A1 gene which encodes the aromatase enzyme required for oestrogen synthesis was significantly associated with lower endometrial cancer risk (adjusted odd ratio [aOR] 0.87 [95% CI 0.82-0.93]; p = 6.69 × 10-5 for women across all ages and aOR 0.89 [95% CI 0.83-0.96]; p = 0.003 for postmenopausal women). None of the models that included age, body mass index (BMI), the top 10 genetic principal components, parity and diabetes mellitus explained more than 7.6% of the variation in risk. INTERPRETATION We have shown genetic regulation of oestrone concentrations in postmenopausal women, and that SNPs associated with oestrone were also associated with endometrial cancer risk, independent of BMI, parity and diabetes mellitus. Although the apparent contribution was modest, the biological influence of oestrone concentrations may be greater through conversion to oestradiol in endometrial tissue. FUNDING The ASPREE trial was supported by the National Institute on Aging and the National Cancer Institute at the National Institutes of Health (Grant U01AG029824); the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) of Australia (Grant 34047, 1127060); Monash University (Australia); and the Victorian Cancer Agency (Australia). The ASPREE Healthy Ageing Biobank was funded by the CSIRO (Flagship Grant), the National Cancer Institute (Grant U01 AG029824) and Monash University. This analysis of sex hormones was funded by an NHMRC of Australia Project Grant (No. 1105305). SRD holds an NHMRC Investigator Grant (2016627). PL is supported by a National Heart Foundation Future Leader Fellowship (102604).
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenglong Yu
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Andrew Bakshi
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Robin J Bell
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Rakibul M Islam
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | | | - John J McNeil
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Paul Lacaze
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia
| | - Susan R Davis
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia; Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, 3004, Australia.
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7
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Davis SR. Testosterone and the heart: friend or foe? Climacteric 2024; 27:53-59. [PMID: 37666273 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2023.2250252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in women aged 65 years and older. Sex hormones have been implicated as having a critical role in the evolution of CVD, with the focus mainly on estrogens in women. Available data also indicate that low testosterone blood levels may be detrimental to cardiovascular function in women. At blood concentrations considered normal for premenopausal women, testosterone has favorable effects on blood vessel function (relaxation and contraction), much of which is determined by the endothelial cells that line the inside of blood vessels. Testosterone enhances endothelium-dependent and independent brachial artery vasodilation and has an acute systolic blood pressure-lowering effect in postmenopausal women. Advantageous effects of testosterone in animal models have been seen for myocardial function and cardiac electrical signaling. Human data are mainly limited to observational and mechanistic studies, which mostly demonstrate beneficial effects of testosterone on cardiovascular health. Few studies of testosterone use in women, with cardiovascular endpoints as primary outcomes, have been published.
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Affiliation(s)
- S R Davis
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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8
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Auer MK, Joue G, Biedermann SV, Sommer T, Fuss J. The effect of short-term increase of estradiol levels on sexual desire and orgasm frequency in women and men: A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2024; 160:106682. [PMID: 38056372 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2023.106682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
Estradiol (E2) has been implicated in sexual functioning in both sexes. E2 levels change distinctively over the menstrual cycle, peaking around ovulation. Data on short-term effects of fluctuating E2 levels on sexual desire are however sparse and mostly based on observational studies. To fill this gap, we ran a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study (N = 126) to investigate the effects of a short-term increase in E2 on sexual desire and orgasm frequency in healthy, young men and women. Circulating E2 levels were elevated through estradiol valerate (E2V) administered over two consecutive days to simulate the rise in E2 levels around ovulation. E2V had no effect on orgasm frequency and only minor effects on sexual desire. On average, the administered E2V dampened change in sexual desire compared to untreated participants with comparable baseline sexual desire in such a way that sexual desire was slightly reduced even in those with higher baseline sexual desire. These findings suggest that short-term increases in E2 have little effect on sexual function and are unlikely to explain the increase in sexual desire around ovulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthias K Auer
- Institute of Forensic Psychiatry and Sex Research, Center for Translational Neuro, and Behavioral Sciences, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Gina Joue
- Institute of Systems Neuroscience, Center of Experimental Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Sarah V Biedermann
- Social and Emotional Neuroscience, Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Center of Psychosocial Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Tobias Sommer
- Institute of Systems Neuroscience, Center of Experimental Medicine, University Medical Center Hamburg-Eppendorf, Martinistraße 52, 20246 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Johannes Fuss
- Institute of Forensic Psychiatry and Sex Research, Center for Translational Neuro, and Behavioral Sciences, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany.
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9
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Deacon F, Maqhashu A, Luther-Binoir I, Daffue W, Storbeck KH, Stander M, Bercovitch FB. Reproductive endocrinology, morphological traits, and sexual selection in a population of wild South African giraffes. Gen Comp Endocrinol 2024; 345:114383. [PMID: 37741470 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygcen.2023.114383] [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: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 09/15/2023] [Indexed: 09/25/2023]
Abstract
Sex steroids are pervasive in mammals and evolutionarily conserved, but differences in the nuances of endocrine profiles characterize distinct species. Two sex steroids, testosterone and progesterone, feature prominently in the life history of mammalian taxa, but neither one has been analyzed from wild giraffes. Our study was designed to address this gap in knowledge by examining how these sex steroids are related to biological features and giraffe life history. We conducted the research at Rooipoort Nature Reserve a 44,000 ha private nature reserve in South Africa on a population of South African giraffes (Giraffa camelopardalis giraffa). Eleven adult giraffe cows and seven adult bulls were immobilized and various biological samples and morphological measurements were obtained. We analyzed both testosterone and progesterone using Ultra High Performance Liquid Chromotography - Tandem Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS). We found that non-pregnant females had lower progesterone concentrations than pregnant females and that those in the last trimester of pregnancy showed a slight drop in progesterone, as well as an increase in testosterone. Among males, chronological age was correlated with testicle size, testosterone concentrations, and ossicone volume. We propose that the progesterone decline functions partly to accelerate resumption of ovulation because giraffes become pregnant while lactating, and that the testosterone elevation provides an endocrine mileu for female defense of neonatal calves, given that lion predation is a major threat to calf survival. We suggest that male reproductive strategies are mediated by the age-related impacts of testosterone on growth in both body mass and ossicone volume as a consequence of sexual selection. We conclude by noting that the robust and solid ossicones of male giraffes function in mate competition as wedges that are used to topple opponents by raising their legs and placing them in an off-balanced position that can seriously injure them when falling to the ground.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francois Deacon
- Department of Animal Science, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa.
| | - Ayanda Maqhashu
- Department of Animal Science, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa
| | - Ilse Luther-Binoir
- Geosperm, Wildlife Reproductive and Biotechnology Services, Brits, South Africa
| | | | - Karl-Heinz Storbeck
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Marietjie Stander
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Stellenbosch, South Africa
| | - Fred B Bercovitch
- Department of Animal Science, University of the Free State, Bloemfontein, South Africa; Wildlife Research Center, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan; Anne Innis Dagg Foundation, Toronto, Canada.
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10
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Rosato E, Sciarra F, Minnetti M, Degjoni A, Venneri MA. Clinical management of androgen excess and defect in women. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2024; 19:21-35. [PMID: 37953607 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2023.2279537] [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: 05/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Hyperandrogenism and hypoandrogenism are complex disorders involving multiple-organ systems. While androgen excess is a well-characterized condition, androgen deficiency still needs diagnostic criteria, as there are no specific cutoffs. AREAS COVERED We highlight the most recent findings on the role of androgens in female pathophysiology, investigating clinically relevant conditions of androgen insufficiency or excess throughout a woman's life, and their possible therapeutic management. EXPERT OPINION Combined oral contraceptives (COCs) should be considered as first-line therapy for the management of menstrual irregularity and/or clinical hyperandrogenism in adolescents with a clear diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). There are limited evidence-based data regarding specific types or doses of COCs for management of PCOS in women; however, the lowest effective estrogen dose should be considered for treatment. Despite evidence regarding safety, efficacy, and clinical use, testosterone therapy has not been approved for women by most regulatory agencies for treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). The long-term safety for treatments with testosterone is still to be evaluated, and this review highlights the need for more research in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Rosato
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Sciarra
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Marianna Minnetti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Anisa Degjoni
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Mary Anna Venneri
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
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11
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Whitton K, Baber R. Androgen-based therapies in women. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2024; 38:101783. [PMID: 37246051 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2023.101783] [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] [Indexed: 05/30/2023]
Abstract
Androgens play a key biological role in libido and sexual arousal in women, and knowledge about their complex role in other systems remains ambiguous and incomplete. This narrative review examines the role of endogenous androgens in women's health throughout the life span before focusing on evidence surrounding the use of androgen-based therapies to treat postmenopausal women. The role of testosterone as a therapeutic agent in women continues to attract controversy as approved preparations are rare, and use of off-label and compounded formulations is widespread. Despite this androgen therapy has been used for decades in oral, injectable, and transdermal formulations. Responses to androgen therapy have been demonstrated to improve aspects of female sexual dysfunction, notably hypoactive sexual desire disorder, in a dose related manner. Substantial research has also been conducted into the role of androgens in treating aspects of the genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). Evidence for benefits beyond these is mixed and more research is required regarding long-term safety. However, It remains biologically plausible that androgens will be effective in treating hypoestrogenic symptoms related to menopause, either through direct physiological effects or following aromatization to estradiol throughout the body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kath Whitton
- North Shore Private Hospital, Level 3, Suite 7, 3 Westbourne Street, St Leonards, NSW 2065, Australia
| | - Rodney Baber
- Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Neonatology, Northern Clinical School, The University of Sydney, Australia.
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12
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Heijboer AC, Hannema SE. Androgen Excess and Deficiency: Analytical and Diagnostic Approaches. Clin Chem 2023; 69:1361-1373. [PMID: 37794651 DOI: 10.1093/clinchem/hvad146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Androgens are synthesized from cholesterol through sequential conversions by enzymes in the adrenal glands and gonads. Serum levels of androgens change during the different phases of life and regulate important developmental and maturational processes. Androgen excess or deficiency can therefore present at various ages in various ways. CONTENT The diagnostic approach for atypical genitalia, premature pubarche, delayed pubertal onset or progression, and hirsutism or virilization, including measurement of androgens (testosterone, androstenedione, 17-OHprogesterone, dehydroepiandrosterone, and dihydrotestosterone) is discussed in the current review. Androgens can be measured in serum, saliva, urine, or dried blood spots. Techniques to measure androgens, including immunoassays and LC-MS, have their own advantages and pitfalls. In addition, pre- and postanalytical issues are important when measuring androgens. SUMMARY During clinical interpretation of androgen measurements, it is important to take preanalytical circumstances, such as time of blood withdrawal, into account. As immunoassays have major drawbacks, especially in samples from women and neonates, concentrations measured using these assays should be interpreted with care. Reference intervals can only be used in relation to the measurement technique and the standardization of the assay. In the near future, new androgens will probably be added to the current repertoire to further improve the diagnosis and follow-up of androgen excess or deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annemieke C Heijboer
- Endocrine Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Amsterdam UMC location University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Endocrine Laboratory, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sabine E Hannema
- Amsterdam Gastroenterology, Endocrinology & Metabolism, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Amsterdam UMC location Vrije Universiteit, Emma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
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13
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Davis SR, Taylor S, Hemachandra C, Magraith K, Ebeling PR, Jane F, Islam RM. The 2023 Practitioner's Toolkit for Managing Menopause. Climacteric 2023; 26:517-536. [PMID: 37902335 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2023.2258783] [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: 09/10/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The Practitioner's Toolkit for Managing the Menopause, developed in 2014, provided an accessible desk-top tool for health-care practitioners caring for women at midlife. To ensure the Toolkit algorithms and supporting information reflect current best practice, the Toolkit has been revised in accordance with the published literature. METHODS A systematic search for guidelines, position and consensus statements pertaining to the menopause and published after 2014 was undertaken, and key recommendations extracted from the Clinical Practice Guidelines determined to be the most robust by formal evaluation. The peer-reviewed literature was further searched for identified information gaps. RESULTS The revised Toolkit provides algorithms that guide the clinical assessment and care of women relevant to menopause. Included are the reasons why women present, information that should be ascertained, issues that may influence shared decision-making and algorithms that assist with determination of menopausal status, menopause hormone therapy (MHT) and non-hormonal treatment options for symptom relief. As clear guidelines regarding when MHT might be indicated to prevent bone loss and subsequent osteoporosis in asymptomatic women were found to be lacking, the Toolkit has been expanded to support shared decision-making regarding bone health. CONCLUSIONS The 2023 Toolkit and supporting document provide accessible desk-top information to support health-care providers caring for women at midlife.The Toolkit has been endorsed by the International Menopause Society, Australasian Menopause Society, British Menopause Society, Endocrine Society of Australia and Jean hailes for Women's Health.
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Affiliation(s)
- S R Davis
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - S Taylor
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - C Hemachandra
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Ministry of Health, Colombo, Sri Lanka
| | - K Magraith
- Cascade Road General Practice, TAS, Australia
- College of Health and Medicine, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia
| | - P R Ebeling
- Department of Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - F Jane
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - R M Islam
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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14
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Sandahl KJ, Just J, Erlandsen M, Mortensen KH, Andersen NH, Gravholt CH. A Prospective Study of Lipids in Adult Women With Turner Syndrome. J Endocr Soc 2023; 7:bvad124. [PMID: 37822574 PMCID: PMC10563659 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvad124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Context Turner syndrome (TS) is a rare genetic syndrome with an increased mortality, mainly attributed to cardiovascular disease. Objective This work aimed to investigate and correlate the lipid profile in adult women with TS to clinical characteristics. Methods A 12-year prospective cohort study, including 4 study visits, was conducted at a specialist hospital. A total of 102 women with TS qualified for inclusion. Excluding missing variables and participants lost to follow-up, 86 women (mean age 38.1 years; range, 18.4-62.1 years) were included in this study. Fifty-three women completed the study. Repeated-measurement analysis was performed, using total cholesterol (Total-C), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), triglycerides (TGs), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) as outcome variables and age, karyotype, body mass index (BMI), treatment with statins, antidiabetics, and hormone replacement therapy as explanatory variables. Principal component analysis (PCA) and partial least squares (PLS) analysis were performed at the first study visit. Results Hyperlipidemia was present in 30% of the TS cohort. Total-C increased with age (0.12 mmol/L/y; P = .016). LDL (P = .08), TGs (P = .14), and HDL (P = .24) were not associated with age. BMI significantly increased total-C (0.19 mmol/L/kg/m2; P = .006), LDL (0.63 mmol/L/kg/m2; P < .001), and TGs (0.80 mmol/L/kg/m2; P < .001) and decreased HDL (-0.59 mmol/L/kg/m2; P < .001). PCA and PLS analysis found correlations between weight and BMI and total-C, LDL, and TGs. Conclusion Hyperlipidemia is more prevalent in adult women with TS across adulthood compared to the background population. Total-C, LDL, TGs, and HDL were significantly associated with BMI characterizing the atherogenic profile in adult women with TS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristian Juul Sandahl
- Department of Endocrinology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N 8200, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus N 8200, Denmark
| | - Jesper Just
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus N 8200, Denmark
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N 8200, Denmark
| | - Mogens Erlandsen
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus N 8200, Denmark
| | | | | | - Claus Højbjerg Gravholt
- Department of Endocrinology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N 8200, Denmark
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus N 8200, Denmark
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus N 8200, Denmark
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15
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Handelsman DJ, Jones G, Kouzios D, Desai R. Evaluation of testosterone, estradiol and progesterone immunoassay calibrators by liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. Clin Chem Lab Med 2023; 61:1612-1618. [PMID: 37272075 DOI: 10.1515/cclm-2022-1179] [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: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES In clinical practice, steroid measurements are performed mainly by direct, non-extraction immunoassays adapted to high throughput, automated immunoassay platforms and employing secondary calibrators. The accuracy of such steroid immunoassays is limited by cross-reactivity with structurally related steroids and nonspecific matrix interference as well as the metrological traceability of manufacturer supplied calibrators. The accuracy of steroid immunoassay calibrators has been little investigated by independent chemical methods. METHODS Steroid concentrations of 41 calibrators (4-6 replicates per calibrator) supplied by four manufacturers for use in testosterone (T), estradiol (E2), and progesterone (P4) commercial immunoassays were measured by ultra-pressure liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (UPLC-MS). RESULTS Among 14 non-zero T calibrators, six (43 %) deviated significantly from the label concentration with 29 % outside 20 % of it. Among 14 E2 calibrators, eight (57 %) deviated significantly, whereas seven (50 %) were outside 20 % of the label concentration. Among 11 P4 calibrators, eight (73 %) deviated significantly whereas four (36 %) were outside within 20 % of the label concentration. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that inaccurate calibration of manufacturer's supplied standards may contribute to inaccuracy of commercial direct steroid immunoassays.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Handelsman
- ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord, NSW, Australia
- Department of Andrology, Concord Hospital, Concord, NSW 2139, Australia
| | - Graham Jones
- SydPath, St Vincent's Hospital, Sydney and University of NSW, Darlinghurst, Australia
| | - Dorothy Kouzios
- Diagnostic Pathology Unit, Concord Repatriation Hospital, Concord, NSW, Australia
| | - Reena Desai
- ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Concord, NSW, Australia
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Ganie MA, Chowdhury S, Suri V, Joshi B, Bhattacharya PK, Agrawal S, Malhotra N, Sahay R, Jabbar PK, Nair A, Rozati R, Shukla A, Rashid R, Shah IA, Rashid H, Wani IA, Arora T, Kulkarni B. Normative range of various serum hormonal parameters among Indian women of reproductive age: ICMR-PCOS task force study outcome. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. SOUTHEAST ASIA 2023; 15:100226. [PMID: 37614351 PMCID: PMC10442974 DOI: 10.1016/j.lansea.2023.100226] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2023] [Revised: 04/04/2023] [Accepted: 05/17/2023] [Indexed: 08/25/2023]
Abstract
Background The hormonal profile varies considerably with age, gender, ethnicity, diet or physiological state of an individual. Limited population-specific studies have studied the variations in hormonal parameters among apparently healthy women. We aimed to analyse the biological reference interval for various hormonal parameters in the reproductive-aged healthy Indian women. Methods Out of 3877 participants that were clinically evaluated, 1441 subjects were subjected to laboratory investigations. All participants underwent a detailed clinical, biochemical and hormonal profiling. The hormone analysis was carried out at a single centre using a uniform methodology. Among the participants evaluated for biochemical and hormonal parameters, subjects that presented any abnormal profile or had incomplete investigations (n = 593) were excluded for further analysis. Findings The mean age (±SD) of the subjects retained in the final analysis (n = 848) was 29.9 (±6.3) years. In the present study, the biological reference interval (2.5th-97.5th centile) observed were: serum T4: μg/dL (5.23-12.31), TSH: μg/mL (0.52-4.16) and serum prolactin: ng/mL (5.13-37.35), LH: mIU/mL (2.75-20.68), FSH: mIU/mL 2.59-15.12), serum total testosterone: ng/mL (0.06-0.68), fasting insulin: mIU/mL (1.92-39.72), morning cortisol: μg/dL (4.71-19.64), DHEAS:μg/dL (50.61-342.6) and SHBG: nmol/L (21.37-117.54). Unlike T4, TSH, LH, and E2, the biological reference interval for prolactin, FSH, testosterone, C-peptide insulin and DHEAS varied when the subjects were stratified by age (p < 0.05). The comparative analysis showed marginal differences in the normative ranges for the hormones analysed among different populations. Interpretation Our first large composite data on hormonal measures will benefit future endeavours to define biological reference intervals in reproductive-aged Indian women. Funding The study was financially supported by the grant-in-aid from ICMR vide file No:5/7/13337/2015-RBMH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohd Ashraf Ganie
- Department of Endocrinology, Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, India
- Multidisciplinary Research Unit, Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, India
| | - Subhankar Chowdhury
- Department of Endocrinology Metabolism, Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education Research, Kolkata, India
| | - Vanita Suri
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research, Chandigarh, India
| | - Beena Joshi
- Department of Operational Research, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health, Indian Council of Medical Research, Mumbai, India
| | - Prasanta Kumar Bhattacharya
- Department of General Medicine, North-Eastern Indira Gandhi Regional Institute of Health and Medical Sciences, Shillong, India
| | - Sarita Agrawal
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Raipur, India
| | - Neena Malhotra
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India
| | - Rakesh Sahay
- Department of Endocrinology, Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad, India
| | | | - Abilash Nair
- Department of Endocrinology, Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram, India
| | - Roya Rozati
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Maternal Health, Research Trust, Hyderabad, India
| | - Amlin Shukla
- Reproductive Biology and Maternal Health, Child Health, Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi, India
| | - Rabiya Rashid
- Department of Endocrinology, Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, India
| | - Idrees A. Shah
- Multidisciplinary Research Unit, Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, India
| | - Haroon Rashid
- Department of Endocrinology, Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, India
| | - Imtiyaz Ahmad Wani
- Department of Endocrinology, Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, India
| | - Taruna Arora
- Reproductive Biology and Maternal Health, Child Health, Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi, India
| | - Bharati Kulkarni
- Reproductive Biology and Maternal Health, Child Health, Indian Council of Medical Research, New Delhi, India
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Boga A, Stapleton F, Chapman M, Golebiowski B. Effects of elevated serum estrogen on dry eye in women undergoing in vitro fertilisation. Ocul Surf 2023; 29:511-520. [PMID: 37422153 DOI: 10.1016/j.jtos.2023.06.015] [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: 06/30/2022] [Revised: 06/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/25/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Sex hormones impact inflammatory and immune-mediated diseases. During IVF (in vitro fertilisation) treatment, circulating estrogen levels increase dramatically (10-50x) alongside changes in other hormones. This study examined changes in dry eye with IVF and its relationship with sex hormones. METHODS A two visit study was conducted on first day of menstruation when estrogen levels are lowest (baseline visit), and on day 9-11 (peak estrogen visit (PO)) of IVF. Symptoms of dry eye and ocular pain and signs of dry eye were examined. Serum hormone levels were assessed using mass spectrometry and immunoassay. Changes in signs and symptoms and associations were explored. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis assessed factors contributing to signs and symptoms. RESULTS 40 women (36.2 ± 4.0 years) completed the study. Baseline and PO oestradiol (E2) levels were 28.9 pg/ml (20) (median (IQR)); 1360 pg/ml (1276) respectively. Ocular pain and dry eye symptoms worsened (p = 0.02 and p < 0.01) and tear break up and tear secretion values decreased (p = 0.005 and 0.01) at PO. Higher E2 and lower luteinizing hormone (LH) were associated with worsening of dry eye symptoms (ρ = 0.34 p = 0.03, ρ = -0.49 p = 0.001). Reduction in LH and increase in progesterone (P4) were associated with increased ocular pain (ρ = 0.45, p = 0.004 and ρ = 0.39, p = 0.01). Dry eye symptoms were predicted by LH and tear break up (p = 0.02; R2 = 0.18). CONCLUSIONS IVF treatment resulted in significantly increased ocular symptoms and tear film alterations although these changes were not clinically significant. Dry eye signs and symptoms were poorly predicted by hormone levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Archana Boga
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, UNSW Sydney, Australia.
| | - Fiona Stapleton
- School of Optometry and Vision Science, UNSW Sydney, Australia.
| | - Michael Chapman
- St.George's Hospital and School of Women's & Children's Health UNSW Sydney, Australia; IVF Australia, Southern Sydney, Australia.
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18
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Bokulić A, Zec I, Marijančević D, Goreta S. Androgens in women: Establishing reference intervals for dehydroepiandrostenedione sulphate and androstenedione on the Roche Cobas. Biochem Med (Zagreb) 2023; 33:020706. [PMID: 37324111 PMCID: PMC10231767 DOI: 10.11613/bm.2023.020706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Immunoassays are the most common method in routine practice for measuring androgens in women. Study's aim was to establish new population specific indirect reference intervals (RI) for dehydroepiandrostenedione sulphate (DHEAS) and for new androstenedione test available on automated Roche Cobas electrochemiluminescent immunoassay method. Materials and methods From extracted laboratory records, testosterone, sex hormone binding globulin and follicle-stimulating hormone were used as reference tests to exclude possibly diseased women. After the data selection steps, the study included 3500 subjects for DHEAS and 520 for androstenedione aged 20-45 years. To evaluate the need for age partitioning, we calculated standard deviation ratio and bias ratio. For each hormone, 90% and 95% RIs were calculated with appropriate statistical method. Results Total age group (20-45 years) 95% RIs were: 2.77-11.50 µmol/L for DHEAS and 2.48-8.89 nmol/L for androstenedione. Age-stratified 95% RIs for DHEAS were: 3.65-12.76 µmol/L (20-25 years); 2.97-11.50 µmol/L (25-35 years) and 2.30-9.83 µmol/L (35-45 years). Age-stratified 95% RIs for androstenedione were: 3.02-9.43 nmol/L (20-30 years) and 2.23-7.75 nmol/L (30-45 years). Conclusion New RIs for DHEAS were slightly wider for age group 20-25 and 35-45, while the differences in the age group 25-35 years were more pronounced. Androstenedione RI showed significantly higher concentrations than the manufacturer's. Age-related decrease of androgens should be considered when calculating RIs. We propose population specific, age-stratified RIs for DHEAS and androstenedione on electrochemiluminescent method, which should improve test interpretation in women of reproductive age.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ivana Zec
- Corresponding author: , Submitted: December 13, 2022 Accepted: May 5, 2023
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Lissaman AC, Girling JE, Cree LM, Campbell RE, Ponnampalam AP. Androgen signalling in the ovaries and endometrium. Mol Hum Reprod 2023; 29:gaad017. [PMID: 37171897 PMCID: PMC10663053 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaad017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 05/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Currently, our understanding of hormonal regulation within the female reproductive system is largely based on our knowledge of estrogen and progesterone signalling. However, while the important functions of androgens in male physiology are well known, it is also recognized that androgens play critical roles in the female reproductive system. Further, androgen signalling is altered in a variety of gynaecological conditions, including endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome, indicative of regulatory roles in endometrial and ovarian function. Co-regulatory mechanisms exist between different androgens, estrogens, and progesterone, resulting in a complex network of steroid hormone interactions. Evidence from animal knockout studies, in vitro experiments, and human data indicate that androgen receptor expression is cell-specific and menstrual cycle stage-dependent, with important regulatory roles in the menstrual cycle, endometrial biology, and follicular development in the ovaries. This review will discuss the expression and co-regulatory interactions of androgen receptors, highlighting the complexity of the androgen signalling pathway in the endometrium and ovaries, and the synthesis of androgens from additional alternative pathways previously disregarded as male-specific. Moreover, it will illustrate the challenges faced when studying androgens in female biology, and the need for a more in-depth, integrative view of androgen metabolism and signalling in the female reproductive system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abbey C Lissaman
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Jane E Girling
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Lynsey M Cree
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Department of Physiology and Centre for Neuroendocrinology, University of Otago, Dunedin, New Zealand
| | - Anna P Ponnampalam
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
- Pūtahi Manawa-Healthy Hearts for Aotearoa New Zealand, Centre of Research Excellence, New Zealand
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Chehab O, Shabani M, Varadarajan V, Wu CO, Watson KE, Yeboah J, Post WS, Ambale-Venkatesh B, Bluemke DA, Michos E, Lima JA. Endogenous Sex Hormone Levels and Myocardial Fibrosis in Men and Postmenopausal Women. JACC. ADVANCES 2023; 2:100320. [PMID: 37691970 PMCID: PMC10489298 DOI: 10.1016/j.jacadv.2023.100320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sex hormone (SH) imbalances have been linked to a higher risk of heart failure in both sexes. However, mechanisms that underlie this relationship remain unclear. We examined the association of baseline SH with interstitial and replacement myocardial fibrosis in the MESA (Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis) using cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) T1 mapping and late gadolinium enhancement (LGE). OBJECTIVES The purpose of this study was to assess the link between baseline sex hormone levels and myocardial fibrosis in the MESA cohort using CMR. METHODS A total of 2,324 participants (men and postmenopausal women [PMW]) were included in the MESA with SH measured at baseline and had underwent CMR 10 years later. All analyses were stratified by sex and age. Regression models were constructed to assess the associations of baseline SH with extracellular volume (ECV)% and native T1 time and with LGE. Higher native T1 time and ECV% are interpreted as evidence of increasing interstitial myocardial fibrosis (IMF). Given the limited number of myocardial scars present in PMW, analysis of LGE was limited to men. RESULTS Among older men (age ≥65 years), a 1-SD increment higher free testosterone was significantly associated with 2.45% lower ECV% and 21.5% lower native T1 time, while a 1-SD increment higher bioavailable testosterone was associated with 12.5% lower native T1 time. A 1-SD increment greater sex hormone-binding globulin level was associated with 1% higher ECV%. Among PMW of 55 to 64 years, a 1-SD increment higher total testosterone was associated with 9.5% lower native T1 time. Higher levels of estradiol in older men were independently associated with higher odds of having a myocardial scar (OR: 4.10; 95% CI: 1.35-12.40; P = 0.01). CONCLUSIONS Among older men, SH imbalances at initial evaluation were independently associated with CMR defined IMF and replacement fibrosis, respectively; while increasing total testosterone in middle-aged PMW was associated with lesser marker of IMF. (JACC Adv 2023;2:100320) Published by Elsevier on behalf of the American College of Cardiology Foundation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omar Chehab
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Mahsima Shabani
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Vinithra Varadarajan
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Collin O. Wu
- Office of Biostatistics Research, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Karol E. Watson
- Division of Cardiology, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | - Joseph Yeboah
- Section of Cardiology, Department of Internal Medicine, Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, USA
| | - Wendy S. Post
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | | | - David A. Bluemke
- Department of Radiology, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Heath, Madison, Wisconsin, USA
| | - Erin Michos
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - João A.C. Lima
- Division of Cardiology, Department of Medicine, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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21
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Davis SR. Testosterone for women: certainties and uncertainties. Climacteric 2023; 26:21-24. [PMID: 36464322 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2022.2146492] [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] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
The clinical effects of testosterone in women have expanded from the field of androgen excess to consideration of testosterone action and the consequences of depletion and replacement. This article is not a comprehensive review of the vast and increasing literature in this field. Rather, it summarizes some of what is known of testosterone in women that the author elected to highlight in a plenary lecture and is hopefully informative, but not to be considered conclusive.
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Affiliation(s)
- S R Davis
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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22
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Endometrial Heparin-Binding Epidermal Growth Factor Gene Expression and Hormone Level Changes in Implantation Window of Obese Women with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome. Biomedicines 2023; 11:biomedicines11020276. [PMID: 36830813 PMCID: PMC9953163 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines11020276] [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: 09/28/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder amongst reproductive-age women, and 61% to 76% of women with PCOS are obese. Obese women with PCOS are usually burdened with infertility problems due to implantation failure. Thus, progesterone treatment is usually used to improve implantation rates. Although Hb-EGF expression is actively involved in endometrial receptivity and implantation, the data on heparin-binding epidermal growth factor (Hb-EGF) expression following progesterone therapy in obese women with PCOS are still lacking. OBJECTIVE To investigate the changes in serum follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinising hormone (LH), dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEA), progesterone and oestradiol levels and Hb-EGF expression in obese women with PCOS during the implantation window following progesterone therapy. METHOD A total of 40 participants aged 18-40 years old were recruited following the provision of written consent. The participants were divided into the obese PCOS, normal-weight PCOS, obese fertile and normal-weight fertile groups. First blood collection was done before ovulation. Then, daily oral micronised progesterone (Utrogestan 200 mg) was given to the PCOS group for 10 days. The treatment was followed by a second blood collection and endometrial tissue sampling by using a Pipelle de Cornier catheter. In the fertile group, ovulation was confirmed by using ultrasound, and a second blood sample was collected on days 7 to 9 postovulation. The serum levels of FSH, LH, DHEA, progesterone and oestradiol were measured in all participants. Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare FSH, LH, DHEA, progesterone and oestradiol levels during pre- and postovulation. Mann-Whitney test was performed to compare FSH, LH, DHEA, progesterone and oestradiol levels between two groups: (1) the PCOS group and the fertile group, (2) the obese PCOS group and the non-obese PCOS group and (3) the obese group and the non-obese fertile group. RESULT Serum FSH levels were lower in obese women in their follicular phase than in women with normal weight regardless of their PCOS status, whereas serum LH/FSH ratios and DHEA levels were higher in women with PCOS than in women without PCOS. However, endometrial Hb-EGF expression was lower in the obese PCOS group than in the normal-weight PCOS group. CONCLUSIONS Different patterns of hormonal levels and Hb-EGF expression levels were seen between the studied groups. However, further in vitro and in vivo studies are needed to investigate the mechanism underlying the changes in FSH, LH/FSH ratio, DHEA and Hb-EGF expression in PCOS after progesterone treatment.
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Gravholt CH, Viuff M, Just J, Sandahl K, Brun S, van der Velden J, Andersen NH, Skakkebaek A. The Changing Face of Turner Syndrome. Endocr Rev 2023; 44:33-69. [PMID: 35695701 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnac016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 35.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
Turner syndrome (TS) is a condition in females missing the second sex chromosome (45,X) or parts thereof. It is considered a rare genetic condition and is associated with a wide range of clinical stigmata, such as short stature, ovarian dysgenesis, delayed puberty and infertility, congenital malformations, endocrine disorders, including a range of autoimmune conditions and type 2 diabetes, and neurocognitive deficits. Morbidity and mortality are clearly increased compared with the general population and the average age at diagnosis is quite delayed. During recent years it has become clear that a multidisciplinary approach is necessary toward the patient with TS. A number of clinical advances has been implemented, and these are reviewed. Our understanding of the genomic architecture of TS is advancing rapidly, and these latest developments are reviewed and discussed. Several candidate genes, genomic pathways and mechanisms, including an altered transcriptome and epigenome, are also presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claus H Gravholt
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus 8200 N, Denmark.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus 8200 N, Denmark
| | - Mette Viuff
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus 8200 N, Denmark.,Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus 8200 N, Denmark
| | - Jesper Just
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus 8200 N, Denmark
| | - Kristian Sandahl
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus 8200 N, Denmark
| | - Sara Brun
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus 8200 N, Denmark
| | - Janielle van der Velden
- Department of Pediatrics, Radboud University Medical Centre, Amalia Children's Hospital, 6525 Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| | - Niels H Andersen
- Department of Cardiology, Aalborg University Hospital, Aalborg 9000, Denmark
| | - Anne Skakkebaek
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus 8200 N, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus 8200 N, Denmark
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24
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Schiffer L, Kempegowda P, Sitch AJ, Adaway JE, Shaheen F, Ebbehoj A, Singh S, McTaggart MP, O'Reilly MW, Prete A, Hawley JM, Keevil BG, Bancos I, Taylor AE, Arlt W. Classic and 11-oxygenated androgens in serum and saliva across adulthood: a cross-sectional study analyzing the impact of age, body mass index, and diurnal and menstrual cycle variation. Eur J Endocrinol 2023; 188:lvac017. [PMID: 36651154 DOI: 10.1093/ejendo/lvac017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 09/28/2022] [Accepted: 12/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE 11-oxygenated androgens significantly contribute to the circulating androgen pool. Understanding the physiological variation of 11-oxygenated androgens and their determinants is essential for clinical interpretation, for example, in androgen excess conditions. We quantified classic and 11-oxygenated androgens in serum and saliva across the adult age and body mass index (BMI) range, also analyzing diurnal and menstrual cycle-dependent variation. DESIGN Cross-sectional. Morning serum samples were collected from 290 healthy volunteers (125 men, 22-95 years; 165 women, 21-91 years). Morning saliva samples were collected by a sub-group (51 women and 32 men). Diurnal saliva profiles were collected by 13 men. Twelve women collected diurnal saliva profiles and morning saliva samples on 7 consecutive days during both follicular and luteal menstrual cycle phases. METHODS Serum and salivary steroids were quantified by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry profiling assays. RESULTS Serum classic androgens decreased with age-adjusted BMI, for example, %change kg/m2 for 5α-dihydrotestosterone: men -5.54% (95% confidence interval (CI) -8.10 to -2.98) and women -1.62% (95%CI -3.16 to -0.08). By contrast, 11-oxygenated androgens increased with BMI, for example, %change kg/m2 for 11-ketotestosterone: men 3.05% (95%CI 0.08-6.03) and women 1.68% (95%CI -0.44 to 3.79). Conversely, classic androgens decreased with age in both men and women, while 11-oxygenated androgens did not. Salivary androgens showed a diurnal pattern in men and in the follicular phase in women; in the luteal phase, only 11-oxygenated androgens showed diurnal variation. CONCLUSIONS Classic androgens decrease while active 11-oxygenated androgens increase with increasing BMI, pointing toward the importance of adipose tissue mass for the activation of 11-oxygenated androgens. Classic but not 11-oxygenated androgens decline with age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lina Schiffer
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Punith Kempegowda
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Alice J Sitch
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Birmingham and University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Joanne E Adaway
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Fozia Shaheen
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Andreas Ebbehoj
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, Diabetes and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Sumitabh Singh
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, Diabetes and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Malcom P McTaggart
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Michael W O'Reilly
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Endocrinology Research Group, Department of Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) University of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Alessandro Prete
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - James M Hawley
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Brian G Keevil
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Wythenshawe Hospital, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Irina Bancos
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, Diabetes and Nutrition, Department of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, United States
| | - Angela E Taylor
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
| | - Wiebke Arlt
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham, United Kingdom
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University of Birmingham and University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, United Kingdom
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25
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Espitia De La Hoz FJ. [Efficacy and safety of testosterone in the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire in women: what does the evidence say?]. Rev Int Androl 2023; 21:100328. [PMID: 36347772 DOI: 10.1016/j.androl.2021.09.002] [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: 06/16/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine the efficacy and safety of testosterone in the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire in women. MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic review of the literature was carried out in different electronic databases (CINAHL, DynaMed, EMBASE, Lilacs, Medline, Scopus, among others), between January 1990 and May 2021; through standardized search terms. The outcomes evaluated included the efficacy and safety of testosterone in increasing sexual desire, the total number of satisfactory sexual activity, the number of orgasms and the level of distress in patients with hypoactive sexual desire and the proportion of adverse reactions. RESULTS 72 articles were included. The use of testosterone, in postmenopausal women, with hypoactive sexual desire, reports a positive effect on sexual function, with significant increases in satisfactory sexual activity, as well as improvement in all domains of sexual function (desire, arousal and orgasmic response) and a decrease in personal anguish, with an increase in the Female Sexual Function Index score. In women of childbearing age, testosterone is formulated for "off-label" use, in such a way that compounds and doses designed for treatments in men or magisterial formulas are used (which are not approved by consensus groups or endorsed by research), but has not shown any effect on sexual function. The most frequent adverse reactions are usually hirsutism and acne, although in general testosterone, at physiological doses, has a favorable safety profile. CONCLUSIONS Testosterone is an effective and safe therapy in the treatment of hypoactive sexual desire disorder in women after menopause. Currently there are no studies available to support the use of testosterone therapy in women of reproductive age, therefore, its use is not approved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franklin José Espitia De La Hoz
- Ginecología y Obstetricia, Universidad Militar Nueva Granada, Bogotá, Colombia; Sexología Clínica, Universidad de Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, España; Uroginecología, FUCS, Hospital de San José, Unicamp, Brasil; Hathor, Clínica Sexológica, Armenia, Colombia.
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26
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Liu C, Zhao M, Zhao Y, Hu Y. Association between serum total testosterone levels and metabolic syndrome among adult women in the United States, NHANES 2011-2016. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1053665. [PMID: 36843599 PMCID: PMC9946982 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1053665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Accepted: 01/30/2023] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the association between serum total testosterone (TT) levels and metabolic syndrome (MetS) or its components among adult women. METHODS 2,678 women from NHANES 2011-2016 were included in this cross-sectional study. MetS was determined according to the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III guidelines. The association between serum TT levels and MetS was evaluated by two logistics regression models and the adjusted restricted cubic spline (RCS). Stratified analysis and sensitive analysis were also conducted. RESULTS Continuous TT levels were negatively associated with the occurrence of MetS, and the ORs associated with per SD increase in ln TT were 0.70 (95%CI: 0.58-0.85) in 2011-2014 and 0.56 (95%CI: 0.39-0.79) in 2015-2016 in Model A. High TT group were less likely to have MetS (OR=0.60, 95%CI: 0.45-0.80 in 2011-2014 and OR=0.50, 95%CI: 0.32-0.78 in 2015-2016) when compared to the low TT group. When TT levels were divided into quartiles, TT levels were negatively correlated with the incidence of MetS (p for trend < 0.001). Similar trend was observed in Model B. Multivariate-adjusted logistic regression with RCS exhibited that TT had a L-shaped dose-response association with MetS or its components. Interaction analyses revealed that women who were less than 50 years old (OR=0.37, 95%CI: 0.22, 0.63), with depression (OR=0.50, 95%CI: 0.29, 0.87) or being smokers (OR=0.37, 95%CI: 0.23, 0.54) showed lower ORs than those who were over 50 years old (OR=0.66, 95%CI: 0.40, 1.09), without depression (OR=0.59, 95%CI: 0.41, 0.85) or non-smokers (OR=0.59, 95%CI: 0.39, 0.89) when measure the association between ln TT and the occurrence of MetS. CONCLUSIONS Our study indicated that TT levels are negatively correlated with the occurrence of MetS, with interaction effects of age, smoke behaviors, and depressive status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chenning Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
- Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Meiduo Zhao
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Institute of Basic Medical Sciences Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, School of Basic Medicine Peking Union Medical College, Beijing, China
| | - Yonghua Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
| | - Yuanjia Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
- Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, Macao SAR, China
- *Correspondence: Yuanjia Hu,
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27
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Zeidler R, Biemann R, Ceglarek U, Kratzsch J, Isermann B, Gaudl A. Inclusion of 11-Oxygenated Androgens in a Clinical Routine LC-MS/MS Setup for Steroid Hormone Profiling. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 24:ijms24010539. [PMID: 36613983 PMCID: PMC9820169 DOI: 10.3390/ijms24010539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Revised: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 12/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
11-Oxygenated androgens (11-OAs) are being discussed as potential biomarkers in diagnosis and therapy control of disorders with androgen excess such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia and polycystic ovary syndrome. However, quantification of 11-OAs by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) still relies on extensive sample preparation including liquid-liquid extraction, derivatization and partial long runtimes, which is unsuitable for high-throughput analysis under routine laboratory settings. For the first time, an established online-solid-phase extraction-LC-MS/MS (online-SPE-LC-MS/MS) method for the quantitation of seven serum steroids in daily routine use was extended and validated to include 11-ketoandrostenedione, 11-ketotestosterone, 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione and 11β-hydroxytestosterone. Combining a simple protein precipitation step with fast chromatographic separation and ammonium fluoride-modified ionization resulted in a high-throughput method (6.6 min run time) featuring lower limits of quantification well below endogenous ranges (63-320 pmol/L) with recoveries between 85% and 117% (CVs ≤ 15%). Furthermore, the ability of this method to distinguish between adrenal and gonadal androgens was shown by comparing 11-OAs in patients with hyperandrogenemia to healthy controls. Due to the single shot multiplex design of the method, potential clinically relevant ratios of 11-OAs and corresponding androgens were readily available. The fully validated method covering endogenous concentration levels is ready to investigate the diagnostic values of 11-OAs in prospective studies and clinical applications.
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A Novel Model Using AAV9-Cre to Knockout Adult Leydig Cell Gene Expression Reveals a Physiological Role of Glucocorticoid Receptor Signalling in Leydig Cell Function. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232315015. [PMID: 36499341 PMCID: PMC9737203 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232315015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Glucocorticoids are steroids involved in key physiological processes such as development, metabolism, inflammatory and stress responses and are mostly used exogenously as medications to treat various inflammation-based conditions. They act via the glucocorticoid receptor (GR) expressed in most cells. Exogenous glucocorticoids can negatively impact the function of the Leydig cells in the testis, leading to decreased androgen production. However, endogenous glucocorticoids are produced by the adrenal and within the testis, but whether their action on GR in Leydig cells regulates steroidogenesis is unknown. This study aimed to define the role of endogenous GR signalling in adult Leydig cells. We developed and compared two models; an inducible Cre transgene driven by expression of the Cyp17a1 steroidogenic gene (Cyp17-iCre) that depletes GR during development and a viral vector-driven Cre (AAV9-Cre) to deplete GR in adulthood. The delivery of AAV9-Cre ablated GR in adult mouse Leydig cells depleted Leydig cell GR more efficiently than the Cyp17-iCre model. Importantly, adult depletion of GR in Leydig cells caused reduced expression of luteinising hormone receptor (Lhcgr) and of steroidogenic enzymes required for normal androgen production. These findings reveal that Leydig cell GR signalling plays a physiological role in the testis and highlight that a normal balance of glucocorticoid activity in the testis is important for steroidogenesis.
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29
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Abstract
Androgens are essential sex steroid hormones for both sexes. Testosterone (T) is the predominant androgen in males, while in adult females, T concentrations are about 15-fold lower and androgen precursors are converted to estrogens. T is produced primarily in testicular Leydig cells in men, while in women precursors are biosynthesised in the adrenal cortex and ovaries and converted into T in the periphery. The biosynthesis of T occurs via a series of enzymatic reactions in steroidogenic organs. Notably, the more potent androgen, dihydrotestosterone, may be synthesized from T in the classic pathway, however, alternate metabolic pathways also exist. The classic action of androgens on target organs is mediated through the androgen receptor, which regulates nuclear receptor gene transcription. However, the androgen-androgen receptor complex may also interact directly with membrane proteins or signaling molecules to exert more rapid effects. This review summarizes the current knowledge of androgen biosynthesis, mechanisms of action and endocrine effects in human biology, and relates these effects to respective human congenital and acquired disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rawda Naamneh Elzenaty
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland; Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, Switzerland; Graduate School of Cellular and Biomedical Sciences, University of Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Therina du Toit
- Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, Switzerland.
| | - Christa E Flück
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, Department of Pediatrics, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Switzerland; Department of Biomedical Research, University of Bern, Switzerland.
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30
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Viuff MH, Just J, Brun S, Dam TV, Hansen M, Melgaard L, Hougaard DM, Lappe M, Gravholt CH. Women With Turner Syndrome Are Both Estrogen and Androgen Deficient: The Impact of Hormone Replacement Therapy. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:1983-1993. [PMID: 35302622 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgac167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Women with Turner syndrome (TS) suffer from hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, causing a deficit in gonadal hormone secretion. As a consequence, these women are treated with estrogen from the age of 12 years, and later in combination with progesterone. However, androgens have been given less attention. OBJECTIVE To assess sex hormone levels in women with TS, both those treated and those nontreated with hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and investigate the impact of HRT on sex hormone levels. METHODS At Aarhus University Hospital, 99 women with TS were followed 3 times from August 2003 to February 2010. Seventeen were lost during follow-up. Control group 1 consisted of 68 healthy age-matched control women seen once during this period. Control group 2 consisted of 28 young, eumenorrheic women sampled 9 times throughout the same menstrual cycle. Serum concentrations of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), 17β-estradiol, estrone sulfate, DHEAS, testosterone, free androgen index, androstenedione, 17-OH progesterone, and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) were analyzed. RESULTS All androgens, 17-OH progesterone, and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) were 30% to 50% lower in TS compared with controls (P < 0.01). FSH, LH, and estrone sulfate were more than doubled in women with TS compared with controls (P < 0.02). Using principal component analysis, we describe a positive correlation between women with TS receiving HRT, elevated levels of SHBG, and decreased levels of androgens. CONCLUSION The sex hormone profile in TS reveals a picture of androgen deficiency, aggravated further by HRT. Conventional HRT does not normalize estradiol levels in TS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mette Hansen Viuff
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Jesper Just
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Sara Brun
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Tine Vrist Dam
- Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Mette Hansen
- Department of Public Health, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Lars Melgaard
- Danish Center for Neonatal Screening, Clinical Mass Spectrometry, Statens Serum Institut, 2300 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - David M Hougaard
- Danish Center for Neonatal Screening, Clinical Mass Spectrometry, Statens Serum Institut, 2300 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Michael Lappe
- CONNECT, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Claus Højbjerg Gravholt
- Department of Molecular Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, 8200 Aarhus, Denmark
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Šimková M, Kolátorová L, Drašar P, Vítků J. An LC-MS/MS method for the simultaneous quantification of 32 steroids in human plasma. J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci 2022; 1201-1202:123294. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jchromb.2022.123294] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 05/08/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Tosi F, Villani M, Garofalo S, Faccin G, Bonora E, Fiers T, Kaufman JM, Moghetti P. Clinical Value of Serum Levels of 11-Oxygenated Metabolites of Testosterone in Women With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:e2047-e2055. [PMID: 34951635 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab920] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Recent data suggested that 11-oxygenated androgens may be the preponderant circulating androgens in women with PCOS. However, the pathophysiological significance of these hormones remains unclear. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationships between serum 11-OH testosterone (11-OHT) and 11-keto testosterone (11-KetoT) and clinical and biochemical hyperandrogenism, as well as the metabolic parameters, in women with PCOS. METHODS The main classic and 11-oxygenated androgens were measured by LC-MS/MS and direct equilibrium dialysis in 123 women with PCOS, diagnosed according to the Rotterdam criteria, and 38 healthy controls. Insulin sensitivity was assessed by hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp. RESULTS Serum 11-oxygenated androgens were higher in women with PCOS than in controls. Elevated levels of 11-OHT and 11-KetoT were found in 28.5% and 30.1% of PCOS women, respectively, whereas free testosterone (FT) was increased in 61.0% of them. Serum 11-oxygenated androgens showed a limited performance in recognizing women with classically defined hyperandrogenism. Unlike FT, 11-oxygenated androgens did not show significant relationships with anthropometric and metabolic parameters, except for a direct association with insulin sensitivity. In multivariable analysis, 11-OHT and 11-KetoT, directly, and FT, inversely, remained significant independent predictors of insulin sensitivity. CONCLUSIONS Serum levels of 11-oxygenated androgens are higher in women with PCOS than in controls. However, these hormones show a poor performance in recognizing women with hyperandrogenism, as currently defined. The relationships of these androgens with insulin sensitivity strongly differ from that of FT, suggesting a different role of classic and 11-oxygenated androgens in the pathophysiology of PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Tosi
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Verona and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, I-37126 Verona, Italy
| | - Michela Villani
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Verona and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, I-37126 Verona, Italy
| | - Sabrina Garofalo
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Verona and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, I-37126 Verona, Italy
| | - Giulia Faccin
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Verona and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, I-37126 Verona, Italy
| | - Enzo Bonora
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Verona and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, I-37126 Verona, Italy
| | - Tom Fiers
- Laboratory for Hormonology and Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Jean-Marc Kaufman
- Laboratory for Hormonology and Department of Endocrinology, Ghent University Hospital, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Paolo Moghetti
- Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, University of Verona and Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata Verona, I-37126 Verona, Italy
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Handelsman DJ, Cooper ER, Heather AK. Bioactivity of 11 keto and hydroxy androgens in yeast and mammalian host cells. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2022; 218:106049. [PMID: 34990809 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2021.106049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2021] [Revised: 12/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Recent studies have highlighted the potential role of 11oxygenated (keto or hydroxy) androgens in human reproductive function with 11keto androgens circulating at concentrations comparable with testosterone in women and children. However, the intrinsic androgenic bioactivities of 11 keto and hydroxy androgens are not fully characterized. We therefore investigated the full androgen dose-response curves using complementary in vitro yeast and mammalian (HEK293) host cell bioassays of 11 keto and hydroxy derivatives of the potent androgens, testosterone (T) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), compared with their parent non-11 oxygenated steroids together with the pro-androgen precursor (androstenedione (A4)) and metabolites (androstanedione, androsterone). For potent androgens, the mammalian HEK293 host cell bioassay was 22-138 times more sensitive than the yeast host cell bioassay. In both androgen bioassays, 11keto derivatives displayed androgenic bioactivity but significantly lower molar potency than their parent non-keto steroids. By contrast, the 11hydroxy derivatives had minimal or no androgenic bioactivity. In both bioassays 5α-reduction increased androgenic potency. These findings confirm that that 11keto androgens may contribute directly to androgen status in women, children, and other conditions apart from healthy eugonadal men whereas 11hydroxy androgens have negligible androgenic potency although it cannot be excluded that they may be converted to more potent androgens in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elliot R Cooper
- ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia; National Measurement Institute, Sydney, Australia; Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, New Zealand
| | - Alison K Heather
- Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, New Zealand
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Calcaterra V, Nappi RE, Farolfi A, Tiranini L, Rossi V, Regalbuto C, Zuccotti G. Perimenstrual Asthma in Adolescents: A Shared Condition in Pediatric and Gynecological Endocrinology. CHILDREN 2022; 9:children9020233. [PMID: 35204953 PMCID: PMC8870409 DOI: 10.3390/children9020233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2022] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Asthma is a frequent medical condition in adolescence. The worsening of the most common symptoms perimenstrually is defined as perimenstrual asthma (PMA). The cause of PMA remains unclear, but a role for hormonal milieu is plausible. Data on PMA in adolescents are limited, and its management is not fully established. We aimed to discuss the PMA phenomenon in young females from pathophysiology to preventive strategies, focusing on the relationship with the hormonal pattern. The fluctuation of estrogens at ovulation and before menstruation and the progesterone secretion during the luteal phase and its subsequent withdrawal seem to be the culprits, because the deterioration of asthma is cyclical during the luteal phase and/or during the first days of the menstrual cycle. Conventional asthma therapies are not always effective for PMA. Preventive strategies may include innovative hormonal contraception. Even a possible beneficial effect of other hormonal treatments, including estrogens, progestogens, and androgens, as well as leukotriene receptor antagonists and explorative approach using microbial-directed therapy, is considered. The underlying mechanisms, through which sex-hormone fluctuations influence asthma symptoms, represent a challenge in the clinical management of such a distressing condition. Further studies focused on young females are mandatory to promote adolescent health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valeria Calcaterra
- Pediatric and Adolescent Unit, Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
- Department of Pediatrics, “Vittore Buzzi” Children’s Hospital, 20154 Milano, Italy; (A.F.); (V.R.); (G.Z.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Rossella Elena Nappi
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Gynecological Endocrinology and Menopause, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (R.E.N.); (L.T.)
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Andrea Farolfi
- Department of Pediatrics, “Vittore Buzzi” Children’s Hospital, 20154 Milano, Italy; (A.F.); (V.R.); (G.Z.)
| | - Lara Tiranini
- Research Center for Reproductive Medicine, Gynecological Endocrinology and Menopause, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, 27100 Pavia, Italy; (R.E.N.); (L.T.)
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy
| | - Virginia Rossi
- Department of Pediatrics, “Vittore Buzzi” Children’s Hospital, 20154 Milano, Italy; (A.F.); (V.R.); (G.Z.)
| | - Corrado Regalbuto
- Pediatric Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Policlinico San Matteo, University of Pavia, 27100 Pavia, Italy;
| | - Gianvincenzo Zuccotti
- Department of Pediatrics, “Vittore Buzzi” Children’s Hospital, 20154 Milano, Italy; (A.F.); (V.R.); (G.Z.)
- Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science “L. Sacco”, University of Milano, 20157 Milano, Italy
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Islam RM, Bell RJ, Handelsman DJ, McNeil JJ, Nelson MR, Reid CM, Tonkin AM, Wolfe RS, Woods RL, Davis SR. Associations between blood sex steroid concentrations and risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in healthy older women in Australia: a prospective cohort substudy of the ASPREE trial. THE LANCET. HEALTHY LONGEVITY 2022; 3:e109-e118. [PMID: 35252940 PMCID: PMC8896500 DOI: 10.1016/s2666-7568(22)00001-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Blood testosterone concentrations in women decline during the reproductive years and reach a nadir in the seventh decade, after which concentrations increase and are restored to those of reproductive-aged women early in the eighth decade. We aimed to establish the association between the concentration of testosterone in the blood and risk of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) and all-cause mortality in healthy older women. METHODS SHOW was a prospective cohort substudy of the longitudinal randomised ASPREE trial. Eligible participants were women aged at least 70 years from Australia with unimpaired cognition, no previous MACE, and a life expectancy of at least 5 years. Participants who were receiving hormonal or steroid therapy were ineligible for inclusion. We measured serum concentrations of sex steroids with liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and of SHBG with immunoassay. We compared lower concentrations of sex hormones with higher concentrations using four quartiles. Primary endpoints were risk of MACE and all-cause mortality, the associations of which with sex steroid concentrations were assessed using Cox proportional hazards regression that included age, body-mass index, smoking status, alcohol consumption, diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidaemia, impaired renal function, and treatment allocation in the ASPREE trial (aspirin vs placebo). ASPREE is registered with ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT01038583. FINDINGS Of the 9180 women recruited to the ASPREE trial between March 10, 2010, and Dec 31 2014, 6358 participants provided sufficient biobank samples at baseline and 5535 were included in the final analysis. Median age at entry was 74·0 years (IQR 71·7-77·7). During a median 4·4 years of follow-up (24 553 person-years), 144 (2·6%) women had a first MACE (incidence 5·9 per 1000 person-years). During a median 4·6 years of follow-up (3·8-5·6), 200 women died (7·9 per 1000 person-years). In the fully adjusted models, higher concentrations of testosterone were associated with a lower incidence of MACE (quartile 4 vs quartile 1: hazard ratio 0·57 [95% CI 0·36-0·91]; p=0·02), as were higher concentrations of DHEA (quartile 4 vs quartile 1: 0·61 [0·38-0·97]; p=0·04). For oestrone, a lower risk of MACE was seen for concentrations in quartile 2 only, compared with quartile 1 (0·55 [0·33-0·92]; p=0·02). In fully adjusted models, no association was seen between SHBG and MACE, or between any hormone or SHBG and all-cause mortality. INTERPRETATION Blood concentrations of testosterone and DHEA above the lowest quartile in older women were associated with a reduced risk of a first-ever MACE. Given that the physiological effects of DHEA are mediated through its steroid metabolites, if the current findings were to be replicated, trials investigating testosterone therapy for the primary prevention of ischaemic cardiovascular disease events in older women would be warranted. FUNDING The National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia, US National Institute on Aging, the Victorian Cancer Agency, the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation, and Monash University.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakibul M Islam
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia (R M Islam PhD, Prof R J Bell MBBS, Prof J J McNeil MBBS, Prof M R Nelson MBBS, Prof C M Reid PhD, Prof R S Wolfe PhD, R L Woods PhD, Prof S R Davis MBBS); ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia (Prof D J Handelsman MBBS); Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia (Prof M R Nelson); School of Population Health, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia (Prof C M Reid)
| | - Robin J Bell
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia (R M Islam PhD, Prof R J Bell MBBS, Prof J J McNeil MBBS, Prof M R Nelson MBBS, Prof C M Reid PhD, Prof R S Wolfe PhD, R L Woods PhD, Prof S R Davis MBBS); ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia (Prof D J Handelsman MBBS); Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia (Prof M R Nelson); School of Population Health, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia (Prof C M Reid)
| | - David J Handelsman
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia (R M Islam PhD, Prof R J Bell MBBS, Prof J J McNeil MBBS, Prof M R Nelson MBBS, Prof C M Reid PhD, Prof R S Wolfe PhD, R L Woods PhD, Prof S R Davis MBBS); ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia (Prof D J Handelsman MBBS); Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia (Prof M R Nelson); School of Population Health, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia (Prof C M Reid)
| | - John J McNeil
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia (R M Islam PhD, Prof R J Bell MBBS, Prof J J McNeil MBBS, Prof M R Nelson MBBS, Prof C M Reid PhD, Prof R S Wolfe PhD, R L Woods PhD, Prof S R Davis MBBS); ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia (Prof D J Handelsman MBBS); Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia (Prof M R Nelson); School of Population Health, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia (Prof C M Reid)
| | - Mark R Nelson
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia (R M Islam PhD, Prof R J Bell MBBS, Prof J J McNeil MBBS, Prof M R Nelson MBBS, Prof C M Reid PhD, Prof R S Wolfe PhD, R L Woods PhD, Prof S R Davis MBBS); ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia (Prof D J Handelsman MBBS); Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia (Prof M R Nelson); School of Population Health, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia (Prof C M Reid)
| | - Christopher M Reid
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia (R M Islam PhD, Prof R J Bell MBBS, Prof J J McNeil MBBS, Prof M R Nelson MBBS, Prof C M Reid PhD, Prof R S Wolfe PhD, R L Woods PhD, Prof S R Davis MBBS); ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia (Prof D J Handelsman MBBS); Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia (Prof M R Nelson); School of Population Health, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia (Prof C M Reid)
| | - Andrew M Tonkin
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia (R M Islam PhD, Prof R J Bell MBBS, Prof J J McNeil MBBS, Prof M R Nelson MBBS, Prof C M Reid PhD, Prof R S Wolfe PhD, R L Woods PhD, Prof S R Davis MBBS); ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia (Prof D J Handelsman MBBS); Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia (Prof M R Nelson); School of Population Health, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia (Prof C M Reid)
| | - Rory S Wolfe
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia (R M Islam PhD, Prof R J Bell MBBS, Prof J J McNeil MBBS, Prof M R Nelson MBBS, Prof C M Reid PhD, Prof R S Wolfe PhD, R L Woods PhD, Prof S R Davis MBBS); ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia (Prof D J Handelsman MBBS); Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia (Prof M R Nelson); School of Population Health, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia (Prof C M Reid)
| | - Robyn L Woods
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia (R M Islam PhD, Prof R J Bell MBBS, Prof J J McNeil MBBS, Prof M R Nelson MBBS, Prof C M Reid PhD, Prof R S Wolfe PhD, R L Woods PhD, Prof S R Davis MBBS); ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia (Prof D J Handelsman MBBS); Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia (Prof M R Nelson); School of Population Health, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia (Prof C M Reid)
| | - Susan R Davis
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia (R M Islam PhD, Prof R J Bell MBBS, Prof J J McNeil MBBS, Prof M R Nelson MBBS, Prof C M Reid PhD, Prof R S Wolfe PhD, R L Woods PhD, Prof S R Davis MBBS); ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia (Prof D J Handelsman MBBS); Menzies Institute for Medical Research, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia (Prof M R Nelson); School of Population Health, Curtin University, Bentley, WA, Australia (Prof C M Reid)
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OUP accepted manuscript. Hum Reprod 2022; 37:622. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Drummond AE, Swain CTV, Brown KA, Dixon-Suen SC, Boing L, van Roekel EH, Moore MM, Gaunt TR, Milne RL, English DR, Martin RM, Lewis SJ, Lynch BM. Linking Physical Activity to Breast Cancer via Sex Steroid Hormones, Part 2: The Effect of Sex Steroid Hormones on Breast Cancer Risk. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2022; 31:28-37. [PMID: 34670801 PMCID: PMC7612577 DOI: 10.1158/1055-9965.epi-21-0438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2021] [Revised: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 10/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
We undertook a systematic review and appraised the evidence for an effect of circulating sex steroid hormones and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) on breast cancer risk in pre- and postmenopausal women. Systematic searches identified prospective studies relevant to this review. Meta-analyses estimated breast cancer risk for women with the highest compared with the lowest level of sex hormones, and the DRMETA Stata package was used to graphically represent the shape of these associations. The ROBINS-E tool assessed risk of bias, and the GRADE system appraised the strength of evidence. In premenopausal women, there was little evidence that estrogens, progesterone, or SHBG were associated with breast cancer risk, whereas androgens showed a positive association. In postmenopausal women, higher estrogens and androgens were associated with an increase in breast cancer risk, whereas higher SHBG was inversely associated with risk. The strength of the evidence quality ranged from low to high for each hormone. Dose-response relationships between sex steroid hormone concentrations and breast cancer risk were most notable for postmenopausal women. These data support the plausibility of a role for sex steroid hormones in mediating the causal relationship between physical activity and the risk of breast cancer.See related reviews by Lynch et al., p. 11 and Swain et al., p. 16.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann E Drummond
- Cancer Epidemiology Division, Cancer Council Victoria, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Kristy A Brown
- Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, New York
| | - Suzanne C Dixon-Suen
- Cancer Epidemiology Division, Cancer Council Victoria, Victoria, Australia
- Institute for Physical Activity and Nutrition, Deakin University, Geelong, Victoria, Australia
| | - Leonessa Boing
- Laboratory of Research in Leisure and Physical Activity, Santa Catarina State University, Florianópolis, Brazil
| | - Eline H van Roekel
- Department of Epidemiology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Melissa M Moore
- Medical Oncology, St Vincent's Hospital, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Tom R Gaunt
- Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Roger L Milne
- Cancer Epidemiology Division, Cancer Council Victoria, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Precision Medicine, School of Clinical Sciences at Monash Health, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Dallas R English
- Cancer Epidemiology Division, Cancer Council Victoria, Victoria, Australia
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Richard M Martin
- Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
- NIHR Biomedical Research Centre at University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust and the University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah J Lewis
- Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Brigid M Lynch
- Cancer Epidemiology Division, Cancer Council Victoria, Victoria, Australia.
- Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Marko KI, Simon JA. Androgen therapy for women after menopause. Best Pract Res Clin Endocrinol Metab 2021; 35:101592. [PMID: 34674962 DOI: 10.1016/j.beem.2021.101592] [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] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Androgens are essential hormones in women. Yet, androgen therapy is understudied and underutilized despite showing improvement in postmenopausal hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD) and the genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). Additionally, regulatory concerns have left a significant gap in commercially available testosterone preparations, formulated specifically for women, in most countries. This has led to off-label use of male formulations and compounded therapies which are under-regulated. Beyond HSDD and GSM, testosterone likely influences the brain, breast, cardiovascular and musculoskeletal systems. These effects are not well studied, and therefore it is difficult to counsel patients on testosterone therapy when used for these endpoints. Ultimately, further study is needed to elucidate these effects, create a fuller picture of the risks and benefits, and encourage product development specifically designed for women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn I Marko
- The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, USA.
| | - James A Simon
- The George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences, USA.
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Bell RJ, Islam RM, Skiba MA, Herbert D, Martinez Garcia A, Davis SR. Substituting serum anti-Müllerian hormone for polycystic ovary morphology increases the number of women diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome: a community-based cross-sectional study. Hum Reprod 2021; 37:109-118. [PMID: 34741176 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 09/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can serum anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) replace polycystic ovary morphology (PCOM) determined by ultrasound as a diagnostic component of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)? SUMMARY ANSWER Despite good correlations between serum AMH and PCOM, the use of a high serum AMH as a proxy for PCOM resulted in the reclassification of PCOS in 5% of study participants, with the main effect being more women identified, although some women previously classified as having PCOS were no longer classified as such. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY AMH has been proposed as an alternative to PCOM as a diagnostic component of PCOS. Previous studies are limited by poorly defining PCOS, use of infertile women as comparators, measurement of hormones by immunoassay that lack precision in the female range, low-resolution ovarian ultrasound and inconsistent handling and storage of serum samples. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This is an Australian cross-sectional study of 163 non-healthcare-seeking women. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Serum AMH was measured by both the Ansh picoAMH assay and the Beckman Coulter Access 2 (BA2) assay, in parallel with androgens measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry, in blood samples of women, not pregnant, breast feeding or using systemic steroids, who also underwent high-resolution ovarian ultrasound. PCOS was determined by the Rotterdam criteria with PCOM defined by the Androgen Excess-PCOS Taskforce recommendation of ≥25 follicles in at least one ovary. Cut-off serum concentrations that best identified women as having PCOM were identified by receiver operator characteristic (ROC) curves. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A total of 163 women, mean (SD) age 32.5 (5.5) years, who provided a blood sample and had both ovaries visualized on ultrasound were included in the analysis. Women with isolated PCOM had higher median (range) Ansh AMH and BA2 AMH concentrations than those with no PCOS characteristics [56.9 pmol/l (34.6, 104.2) versus 18.7 (3.2, 50.9), P = 0.002 and 38.5 pmol/l (22.2, 100.2) versus 16.7 (3.5, 38.9), P = 0.002, respectively]. An AMH ≥ 44.0 pmol/l, suggested by the ROC curve, identified 80.6% of women with PCOM, falsely identified 15.2% of women without PCOM as having PCOS and had a positive predictive value of 55.6%. The negative predictive value was 94.9%. An AMH BA2 assay cut-off of ≥33.2 pmol/l provided a sensitivity of 80.6%, a specificity of 79.5% and a positive predictive value for PCOM of 48.1%. The negative predictive value was 94.6% for PCOM. When serum AMH was used in the place of PCOM as a diagnostic criterion for PCOS, the Ansh assay resulted in an additional seven women classified as having PCOS and no longer classified one woman as having PCOS. For the BA2 assay, eight additional and two fewer women were classified as having PCOS. Overall, both assays resulted in six more women being classified as having PCOS. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Women with functional hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism were not excluded and may have been misclassified as having an oligo-amenorrhoea-PCOM phenotype. As study participants were predominantly Caucasian/White, our findings cannot be generalized to women of other ethnicities. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Although serum AMH reflects the number of developing ovarian follicles, the absolute values vary between assays and specific reference ranges for individual assays are required. Irrespective of the assay used, replacing PCOM with serum AMH to diagnose PCOS in a community-based sample altered the number of women classified as having or not having PCOS. Consequently, although overall the risk of women being identified as having PCOS would be increased, some women would no longer be classified as having this condition. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The study was supported by the Norman Beischer Research Foundation and the Grollo-Ruzzene Foundation. S.R.D. is an NHMRC Senior Principal Research Fellow (Grant No. 1135843). S.R.D. reports unrelated support that includes grants from the NHMRC Australia, personal fees for educational activities from Besins Healthcare, Abbott Chile, BioFemme and Pfizer Australia, personal Advisory Board/consultancy fees from Theramex, Abbott Laboratories, Astellas, Mayne Pharmaceuticals, Roche Diagnostics, Lawley Pharmaceuticals and Que Oncology and has received institutional grant funding from Que Oncology and Ovoca research. The other authors declare no conflicts of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robin J Bell
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Rakibul M Islam
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Marina A Skiba
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Dilinie Herbert
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alejandra Martinez Garcia
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.,Department of Endocrinology, Division of Medicine, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Susan R Davis
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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Islam RM, Bell RJ, Skiba MA, Davis SR. Testosterone and androstenedione are positively associated with anti-Müllerian hormone in premenopausal women. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2021; 95:752-759. [PMID: 34524701 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14592] [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: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 08/03/2021] [Accepted: 08/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To document associations between anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and circulating androgens in nonhealthcare-seeking premenopausal women. DESIGN Community-based, cross-sectional study. SETTING Eastern states of Australia. PARTICIPANTS Women aged 18-39 years not using systemic hormones, not pregnant or breastfeeding within 3 months, and not postmenopausal. MEASUREMENTS AMH, measured by the Beckman Access 2, 2 site immunometric assay from fresh samples, and testosterone, androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and 11-oxygenated C19 steroids, measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. RESULTS Data were available for 794 women, median age of 33 years (range: 18-39). 76.1% were of European ancestry and 48.2% were parous. Serum AMH was positively associated with testosterone (rho = .29, p < .001) androstenedione (rho = .39, p < .001) and DHEA (rho = .10, p = .005) but not 11-ketoandrostenedione or 11-ketotestosterone. When adjusted for age, body mass index and smoking, using quantile regression, independent positive associations remained between AMH and testosterone (β coefficient: 20.90, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 13.79-28.03; p < .001) and androstenedione (β coefficient: 5.90, 95% CI: 3.76-8.03; p < .001). The serum concentration of testosterone was greater at the top AMH quintile than other quintiles (0.56 nmol/L [range: 0.21-1.90] vs. 0.36 nmol/L [range: 0.13-0.87]; p = .001) in women with self-reported polycystic ovary syndrome. CONCLUSIONS The positive associations between serum testosterone and androstenedione and AMH in premenopausal women is consistent with androgens directly or indirectly influencing AMH production during follicular development. As the highest AMH concentrations are most likely to be seen in women with multifollicular ovaries, it would be expected that women with multifollicular ovaries would have higher serum testosterone. Therefore, whether hyperandrogenemia and multifollicular ovaries should be considered independent characteristics of polycystic ovary syndrome warrants review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakibul M Islam
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventative Medicine, Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Robin J Bell
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventative Medicine, Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Marina A Skiba
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventative Medicine, Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Susan R Davis
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventative Medicine, Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventative Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Skiba MA, Bell RJ, Herbert D, Garcia AM, Islam RM, Davis SR. Use of community-based reference ranges to estimate the prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome by the recognised diagnostic criteria, a cross-sectional study. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:1611-1620. [PMID: 33846715 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2020] [Revised: 01/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does the application of reference ranges for sex steroids and the modified Ferriman-Gallwey (mFG) scale established in the community from which the study sample was drawn, combined with the most conservative polycystic ovary morphology (PCOM) criteria to the recognised diagnostic criteria for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) improve the certainty of diagnosis of PCOS in non-healthcare-seeking women? SUMMARY ANSWER Despite application of the stringent definitions of the elements used to diagnose PCOS in a non-healthcare seeking community-based sample, the risk of diagnostic uncertainty remains. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY There is heterogeneity in prevalence estimates for PCOS due, in part, to lack of standardisation of the elements comprising the recognised National Institutes of Health (NIH), Rotterdam and Androgen Excess Society (AE-PCOS) diagnostic criteria. The AE-PCOS Society proposed refinements to the definitions of biochemical androgen excess and PCOM that can now be incorporated into these sets of diagnostic criteria to estimate PCOS prevalence. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION An Australian cross-sectional study of 168 non-healthcare-seeking women. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The 168 included women were aged 18-39 years, euthyroid and normoprolactinemic, not recently pregnant, breast feeding or using systemic hormones. Each provided menstrual history and assessment of the mFG, had measurement of sex steroids by liquid chromatography, tandem mass spectrometry, and a pelvic ultrasound. The presence of PCOS was determined using modified (m) NIH, Rotterdam, and AE-PCOS criteria according to AE-PCOS Society recommendations. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Overall, 10.1% of the included participants met the mNIH PCOS criteria, which requires the presence of menstrual dysfunction, while 18.5% met the mRotterdam and 17.5% the AE-PCOS criteria, with the latter requiring hyperandrogenism. Eight of the 27 participants with menstrual dysfunction, 10 of 31 women with PCOM, and 39 of 68 women with hyperandrogenism had no other feature of PCOS. Of the 19 participants with hyperandrogenaemia, 10 met the mNIH criteria (52.5%) and 14 met both the mRotterdam and AE-PCOS criteria (78.9%). Women who had the combination of hyperandrogenism and PCOM explained the greatest discrepancy between the mNIH and the other criteria. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Clinical androgenisation relied on participant self-assessment, which has been shown to be valid when compared with clinician assessment. The sample size was a function of both the strict inclusion criteria and the requirements of non-healthcare-seeking women having a blood draw and pelvic ultrasound which may have introduced a selection bias. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Despite applying stringent cut-offs for serum androgens, the mFG scale and the ovarian follicle count, these criteria remain arbitrary. Accordingly, healthy women may be captured by these criteria, and misidentified as having PCOS, while women with the condition may be missed. Consequently, PCOS remains a diagnosis to be made with care. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The study was supported by the Grollo-Ruzzene Foundation. Dr S.R.D. is an NHMRC Senior Principal Research Fellow (Grant no. 1135843). S.R.D. has been paid for developing and delivering educational presentations for Besins Healthcare, BioFemme and Pfizer Australia, has been on Advisory Boards for Theramex, Abbott Laboratories, Mayne Pharmaceuticals and Roche and a consultant to Lawley Pharmaceuticals and Que Oncology and has received has received institutional grant funding for Que Oncology research; there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina A Skiba
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Robin J Bell
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Dilinie Herbert
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Alejandra Martinez Garcia
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.,Division of Medicine, Department of Endocrinology, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Rakibul M Islam
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Susan R Davis
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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Caron P, Turcotte V, Guillemette C. A quantitative analysis of total and free 11-oxygenated androgens and its application to human serum and plasma specimens using liquid-chromatography tandem mass spectrometry. J Chromatogr A 2021; 1650:462228. [PMID: 34090133 DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2021.462228] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 04/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Bioactive 11-oxygenated C19 adrenal-derived steroids (11-oxy C19) are potentially relevant in diverse endocrine and metabolic contexts. We report the development and validation of a liquid chromatography electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometric method (LC-ESI-MS/MS) for the simultaneous quantification of seven 11-oxy C19 using 200 µL of plasma or serum. Sample preparation involved chemical derivatization using hydroxylamine after liquid-liquid extraction to improve specificity and sensitivity. The method allowed the quantitation of total 11-oxy C19 (free + sulfate and glucuronide conjugates) following enzymatic hydrolysis. This included the abundant precursor 11-hydroxyandrostenedione (11OHA4) and the most potent androgenic derivatives 11-keto-testosterone (11KT) and 11-keto-dihydrotestosterone (11KDHT), their abundant metabolites 11-hydroxyandrosterone (11OHAST) and 11-keto-androsterone (11KAST) potentially feeding back into the pool of potent androgens, in addition to 11-keto-androstenedione (11KA4) and 11-hydroxytestosterone (11OHT). Stable isotopes were used as internal standards, and calibrators and quality controls were prepared in the same matrix as the study samples. Performance was validated against the Food and Drug Administration Criteria. The method was sensitive with lower limit of quantification (LLOQ) values of 10 and 20 pg/mL for free and total 11-oxy C19, respectively. The applicability was demonstrated in men and women adult donors that showed sex-differences. All steroids were quantified well above LLOQ, except 11KDHT that remained undetectable suggesting interfering endogenous molecules present in non-derivatized samples in which a peak was observed. By providing accurate and reliable quantitative data, this method will permit to evaluate how profiling of 11-oxy C19 will be most informative as diagnostic, prognostic and/or theranostic tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Caron
- Pharmacogenomics Laboratory, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Québec - Université Laval Research Center and Faculty of Pharmacy, Laval University, Québec city, QC, Canada
| | - Véronique Turcotte
- Pharmacogenomics Laboratory, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Québec - Université Laval Research Center and Faculty of Pharmacy, Laval University, Québec city, QC, Canada
| | - Chantal Guillemette
- Pharmacogenomics Laboratory, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) de Québec - Université Laval Research Center and Faculty of Pharmacy, Laval University, Québec city, QC, Canada; Canada Research Chair in Pharmacogenomics, Canada.
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The Role of Androgens and Androgen Receptor in Human Bladder Cancer. Biomolecules 2021; 11:biom11040594. [PMID: 33919565 PMCID: PMC8072960 DOI: 10.3390/biom11040594] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 04/12/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Bladder cancer (urothelial carcinoma) is one of the most frequently diagnosed neoplasms, with an estimated half a million new cases and 200,000 deaths per year worldwide. This pathology mainly affects men. Men have a higher risk (4:1) of developing bladder cancer than women. Cigarette smoking and exposure to chemicals such as aromatic amines, and aniline dyes have been established as risk factors for bladder cancer and may contribute to the sex disparity. Male internal genitalia, including the urothelium and prostate, are derived from urothelial sinus endoderm; both tissues express the androgen receptor (AR). Several investigations have shown evidence that the AR plays an important role in the initiation and development of different types of cancer including bladder cancer. In this article, we summarize the available data that help to explain the role of the AR in the development and progression of bladder cancer, as well as the therapies used for its treatment.
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Barnard L, du Toit T, Swart AC. Back where it belongs: 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione compels the re-assessment of C11-oxy androgens in steroidogenesis. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 525:111189. [PMID: 33539964 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2021.111189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Revised: 01/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/24/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Adrenal steroidogenesis has, for decades, been depicted as three biosynthesis pathways -the mineralocorticoid, glucocorticoid and androgen pathways with aldosterone, cortisol and androstenedione as the respective end products. 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione was not included as an adrenal steroid despite the adrenal output of this steroid being twice that of androstenedione. While it is the end of the line for aldosterone and cortisol, as it is in these forms that they exhibit their most potent receptor activities prior to inactivation and conjugation, 11β-hydroxyandrostenedione is another matter entirely. The steroid, which is weakly androgenic, has its own designated pathway yielding 11-ketoandrostenedione, 11β-hydroxytestosterone and the potent androgens, 11-ketotestosterone and 11-ketodihydrotestosterone, primarily in the periphery. Over the last decade, these C11-oxy C19 steroids have once again come to the fore with the rising number of studies contradicting the generally accepted notion that testosterone and it's 5α-reduced product, dihydrotestosterone, are the principal potent androgens in humans. These C11-oxy androgens have been shown to contribute to the androgen milieu in adrenal disorders associated with androgen excess and in androgen dependant disease progression. In this review, we will highlight these overlooked C11-oxy C19 steroids as well as the C11-oxy C21 steroids and their contribution to congenital adrenal hyperplasia, polycystic ovarian syndrome and prostate cancer. The focus is on new findings over the past decade which are slowly but surely reshaping our current outlook on human sex steroid biology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lise Barnard
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa
| | - Therina du Toit
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa
| | - Amanda C Swart
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa; Department of Chemistry and Polymer Science, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa.
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Parish SJ, Simon JA, Davis SR, Giraldi A, Goldstein I, Goldstein SW, Kim NN, Kingsberg SA, Morgentaler A, Nappi RE, Park K, Stuenkel CA, Traish AM, Vignozzi L. International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health Clinical Practice Guideline for the Use of Systemic Testosterone for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder in Women. Climacteric 2021; 24:533-550. [PMID: 33792440 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2021.1891773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
AIM To provide a clinical practice guideline for the use of testosterone including identification of patients, laboratory testing, dosing, post-treatment monitoring, and follow-up care in women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). METHODS The International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health appointed a multidisciplinary panel of experts who performed a literature review of original research, meta-analyses, review papers, and consensus guidelines regarding testosterone use in women. Consensus was reached using a modified Delphi method. OUTCOMES A clinically useful guideline following a biopsychosocial assessment and treatment approach for the safe and efficacious use of testosterone in women with HSDD was developed including measurement, indications, formulations, prescribing, dosing, monitoring, and follow-up. RESULTS Although the Global Position Statement endorses testosterone therapy for only postmenopausal women, limited data also support the use in late reproductive age premenopausal women, consistent with the International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health Process of Care for the Management of HSDD. Systemic transdermal testosterone is recommended for women with HSDD not primarily related to modifiable factors or comorbidities such as relationship or mental health problems. Current available research supports a moderate therapeutic benefit. Safety data show no serious adverse events with physiologic testosterone use, but long-term safety has not been established. Before initiation of therapy, clinicians should provide an informed consent. Shared decision-making involves a comprehensive discussion of off-label use, as well as benefits and risks. A total testosterone level should not be used to diagnose HSDD, but as a baseline for monitoring. Government-approved transdermal male formulations can be used cautiously with dosing appropriate for women. Patients should be assessed for signs of androgen excess and total testosterone levels monitored to maintain concentrations in the physiologic premenopausal range. Compounded products cannot be recommended because of the lack of efficacy and safety data. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS This clinical practice guideline provides standards for safely prescribing testosterone to women with HSDD, including identification of appropriate patients, dosing, and monitoring. STRENGTHS AND LIMITATIONS This evidence-based guideline builds on a recently published comprehensive meta-analysis and the Global Position Statement endorsed by numerous societies. The limitation is that testosterone therapy is not approved for women by most regulatory agencies, thereby making prescribing and proper dosing challenging. CONCLUSION Despite substantial evidence regarding safety, efficacy, and clinical use, access to testosterone therapy for the treatment of HSDD in women remains a significant unmet need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon J Parish
- Department of Psychiatry & Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - James A Simon
- IntimMedicine Specialists, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Susan R Davis
- Women's Health Research Program, Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Annamaria Giraldi
- Sexological Clinic, Psychiatric Center, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Irwin Goldstein
- Sexual Medicine, Alvarado Hospital, San Diego, CA, USA.,San Diego Sexual Medicine, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | - Noel N Kim
- Institute for Sexual Medicine, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Sheryl A Kingsberg
- University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Abraham Morgentaler
- Men's Health Boston, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA
| | - Rossella E Nappi
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Gynecological Endocrinology and Menopause, Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS S. Matteo Foundation, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Kwangsung Park
- Department of Urology, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Cynthia A Stuenkel
- Department of Medicine, UC San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Abdulmaged M Traish
- Departments of Biochemistry and Urology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Linda Vignozzi
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology & Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of "Excellence" Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio", Careggi Hospital-University of Florence, Florence, Italy.,Consorzio Interuniversitario I.N.B.B., Rome, Italy
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Parish SJ, Simon JA, Davis SR, Giraldi A, Goldstein I, Goldstein SW, Kim NN, Kingsberg SA, Morgentaler A, Nappi RE, Park K, Stuenkel CA, Traish AM, Vignozzi L. International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health Clinical Practice Guideline for the Use of Systemic Testosterone for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder in Women. J Sex Med 2021; 18:849-867. [PMID: 33814355 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2020.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 10/12/2020] [Accepted: 10/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Global Consensus Position Statement on the Use of Testosterone Therapy for Women (Global Position Statement) recommended testosterone therapy for postmenopausal women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). AIM To provide a clinical practice guideline for the use of testosterone including identification of patients, laboratory testing, dosing, post-treatment monitoring, and follow-up care in women with HSDD. METHODS The International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health appointed a multidisciplinary panel of experts who performed a literature review of original research, meta-analyses, review papers, and consensus guidelines regarding testosterone use in women. Consensus was reached using a modified Delphi method. OUTCOMES A clinically useful guideline following a biopsychosocial assessment and treatment approach for the safe and efficacious use of testosterone in women with HSDD was developed including measurement, indications, formulations, prescribing, dosing, monitoring, and follow-up. RESULTS Although the Global Position Statement endorses testosterone therapy for only postmenopausal women, limited data also support the use in late reproductive age premenopausal women, consistent with the International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health Process of Care for the Management of HSDD. Systemic transdermal testosterone is recommended for women with HSDD not primarily related to modifiable factors or comorbidities such as relationship or mental health problems. Current available research supports a moderate therapeutic benefit. Safety data show no serious adverse events with physiologic testosterone use, but long-term safety has not been established. Before initiation of therapy, clinicians should provide an informed consent. Shared decision-making involves a comprehensive discussion of off-label use, as well as benefits and risks. A total testosterone level should not be used to diagnose HSDD, but as a baseline for monitoring. Government-approved transdermal male formulations can be used cautiously with dosing appropriate for women. Patients should be assessed for signs of androgen excess and total testosterone levels monitored to maintain concentrations in the physiologic premenopausal range. Compounded products cannot be recommended because of the lack of efficacy and safety data. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS This clinical practice guideline provides standards for safely prescribing testosterone to women with HSDD, including identification of appropriate patients, dosing, and monitoring. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS This evidence-based guideline builds on a recently published comprehensive meta-analysis and the Global Position Statement endorsed by numerous societies. The limitation is that testosterone therapy is not approved for women by most regulatory agencies, thereby making prescribing and proper dosing challenging. CONCLUSION Despite substantial evidence regarding safety, efficacy, and clinical use, access to testosterone therapy for the treatment of HSDD in women remains a significant unmet need. Parish SJ, Simon JA, Davis SR, et al. International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health Clinical Practice Guideline for the Use of Systemic Testosterone for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder in Women. J Sex Med 2021;18:849-867.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon J Parish
- Department of Psychiatry & Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA.
| | - James A Simon
- IntimMedicine Specialists, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Susan R Davis
- Women's Health Research Program, Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Annamaria Giraldi
- Sexological Clinic, Psychiatric Center, Copenhagen, Denmark; Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Irwin Goldstein
- Sexual Medicine, Alvarado Hospital, San Diego, CA, USA; San Diego Sexual Medicine, San Diego, CA, USA
| | | | - Noel N Kim
- Institute for Sexual Medicine, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Sheryl A Kingsberg
- University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Abraham Morgentaler
- Men's Health Boston, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Chestnut Hill, MA, USA
| | - Rossella E Nappi
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Gynecological Endocrinology and Menopause, Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS S. Matteo Foundation, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Kwangsung Park
- Department of Urology, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Cynthia A Stuenkel
- Department of Medicine, UC San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Abdulmaged M Traish
- Departments of Biochemistry and Urology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Linda Vignozzi
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology & Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of "Excellence" Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio"-Careggi Hospital-University of Florence, Florence, Italy; Consorzio Interuniversitario I.N.B.B., Rome, Italy
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Parish SJ, Simon JA, Davis SR, Giraldi A, Goldstein I, Goldstein SW, Kim NN, Kingsberg SA, Morgentaler A, Nappi RE, Park K, Stuenkel CA, Traish AM, Vignozzi L. International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health Clinical Practice Guideline for the Use of Systemic Testosterone for Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder in Women. J Womens Health (Larchmt) 2021; 30:474-491. [PMID: 33797277 PMCID: PMC8064950 DOI: 10.1089/jwh.2021.29037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The Global Consensus Position Statement on the Use of Testosterone Therapy for Women (Global Position Statement) recommended testosterone therapy for postmenopausal women with hypoactive sexual desire disorder (HSDD). Aim: To provide a clinical practice guideline for the use of testosterone including identification of patients, laboratory testing, dosing, post-treatment monitoring, and follow-up care in women with HSDD. Methods: The International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health appointed a multidisciplinary panel of experts who performed a literature review of original research, meta-analyses, review papers, and consensus guidelines regarding testosterone use in women. Consensus was reached using a modified Delphi method. Outcomes: A clinically useful guideline following a biopsychosocial assessment and treatment approach for the safe and efficacious use of testosterone in women with HSDD was developed including measurement, indications, formulations, prescribing, dosing, monitoring, and follow-up. Results: Although the Global Position Statement endorses testosterone therapy for only postmenopausal women, limited data also support the use in late reproductive age premenopausal women, consistent with the International Society for the Study of Women's Sexual Health Process of Care for the Management of HSDD. Systemic transdermal testosterone is recommended for women with HSDD not primarily related to modifiable factors or comorbidities such as relationship or mental health problems. Current available research supports a moderate therapeutic benefit. Safety data show no serious adverse events with physiologic testosterone use, but long-term safety has not been established. Before initiation of therapy, clinicians should provide an informed consent. Shared decision-making involves a comprehensive discussion of off-label use, as well as benefits and risks. A total testosterone level should not be used to diagnose HSDD, but as a baseline for monitoring. Government-approved transdermal male formulations can be used cautiously with dosing appropriate for women. Patients should be assessed for signs of androgen excess and total testosterone levels monitored to maintain concentrations in the physiologic premenopausal range. Compounded products cannot be recommended because of the lack of efficacy and safety data. Clinical Implications: This clinical practice guideline provides standards for safely prescribing testosterone to women with HSDD, including identification of appropriate patients, dosing, and monitoring. Strengths & Limitations: This evidence-based guideline builds on a recently published comprehensive meta-analysis and the Global Position Statement endorsed by numerous societies. The limitation is that testosterone therapy is not approved for women by most regulatory agencies, thereby making prescribing and proper dosing challenging. Conclusion: Despite substantial evidence regarding safety, efficacy, and clinical use, access to testosterone therapy for the treatment of HSDD in women remains a significant unmet need.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sharon J Parish
- Department of Psychiatry, New York Presbyterian Hospital/Westchester Behavioral Health Center, White Plains, New York, USA.,Department of Medicine, New York Presbyterian Hospital/Westchester Behavioral Health Center, White Plains, New York, USA
| | - James A Simon
- IntimMedicine Specialists, George Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Susan R Davis
- Women's Health Research Program, Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Annamaria Giraldi
- Sexological Clinic, Psychiatric Center, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Irwin Goldstein
- Sexual Medicine, Alvarado Hospital, San Diego, California, USA.,San Diego Sexual Medicine, San Diego, California, USA
| | | | - Noel N Kim
- Institute for Sexual Medicine, San Diego, California, USA
| | - Sheryl A Kingsberg
- University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center, Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Abraham Morgentaler
- Men's Health Boston, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, Harvard Medical School, Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Rossella E Nappi
- Department of Clinical, Surgical, Diagnostic and Pediatric Sciences, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Gynecological Endocrinology and Menopause, Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, IRCCS S. Matteo Foundation, University of Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Kwangsung Park
- Department of Urology, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
| | - Cynthia A Stuenkel
- Department of Medicine, UC San Diego School of Medicine, La Jolla, California, USA
| | - Abdulmaged M Traish
- Departments of Biochemistry and Urology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Linda Vignozzi
- Andrology, Women's Endocrinology & Gender Incongruence Unit, Department of "Excellence" Experimental and Clinical Biomedical Sciences "Mario Serio"-Careggi Hospital-University of Florence, Florence, Italy.,Consorzio Interuniversitario I.N.B.B., Rome, Italy
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Barnard L, Schiffer L, Louw du-Toit R, Tamblyn JA, Chen S, Africander D, Arlt W, Foster PA, Storbeck KH. 11-Oxygenated Estrogens Are a Novel Class of Human Estrogens but Do not Contribute to the Circulating Estrogen Pool. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6042237. [PMID: 33340399 PMCID: PMC7814299 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Androgens are the obligatory precursors of estrogens. In humans, classic androgen biosynthesis yields testosterone, thought to represent the predominant circulating active androgen both in men and women. However, recent work has shown that 11-ketotestosterone, derived from the newly described 11-oxygenated androgen biosynthesis pathway, makes a substantial contribution to the active androgen pool in women. Considering that classic androgens are the obligatory substrates for estrogen biosynthesis catalyzed by cytochrome P450 aromatase, we hypothesized that 11-oxygenated androgens are aromatizable. Here we use steroid analysis by tandem mass spectrometry to demonstrate that human aromatase generates 11-oxygenated estrogens from 11-oxygenated androgens in 3 different cell-based aromatase expression systems and in human ex vivo placenta explant cultures. We also show that 11-oxygenated estrogens are generated as a byproduct of the aromatization of classic androgens. We show that 11β-hydroxy-17β-estradiol binds and activates estrogen receptors α and β and that 11β-hydroxy-17β-estradiol and the classic androgen pathway-derived active estrogen, 17β-estradiol, are equipotent in stimulating breast cancer cell line proliferation and expression of estrogen-responsive genes. 11-oxygenated estrogens were, however, not detectable in serum from individuals with high aromatase levels (pregnant women) and elevated 11-oxygenated androgen levels (patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia or adrenocortical carcinoma). Our data show that while 11-oxygenated androgens are aromatizable in vitro and ex vivo, the resulting 11-oxygenated estrogens are not detectable in circulation, suggesting that 11-oxygenated androgens function primarily as androgens in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lise Barnard
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Matieland, South Africa
| | - Lina Schiffer
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Renate Louw du-Toit
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Matieland, South Africa
| | - Jennifer A Tamblyn
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Centre for Women’s & Newborn Health, Birmingham Health Partners, Birmingham Women’s & Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Shiuan Chen
- Department of Cancer Biology, Beckman Research Institute, Duarte, California USA
| | - Donita Africander
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Matieland, South Africa
| | - Wiebke Arlt
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust and University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Paul A Foster
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Centre for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Birmingham Health Partners, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Karl-Heinz Storbeck
- Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Matieland, South Africa
- Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research (IMSR), College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Correspondence: Karl-Heinz Storbeck, PhD, Department of Biochemistry, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, South Africa.
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49
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Davis SR. Use of Testosterone in Postmenopausal Women. Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am 2021; 50:113-124. [PMID: 33518180 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecl.2020.11.002] [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] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The role of testosterone in women and its potential as a therapeutic agent continue to attract controversy. The clinical trials of testosterone therapy for women primarily have focused on treatment of female sexual dysfunction, with the largest placebo-controlled studies being of transdermal testosterone in postmenopausal women. Based on the cumulative data from these studies, loss of sexual desire with associated personal distress currently is the only agreed-on indication for judicious testosterone supplementation for postmenopausal women. This article reviews the physiology of testosterone in women, summarizes the findings from observational studies and clinical trials, and considers indications for testosterone use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan R Davis
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, 553 St Kilda Road, Melbourne, Victoria 3004, Australia.
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50
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Islam RM, Bell RJ, Handelsman DJ, Robinson PJ, Wolfe R, Davis SR. Longitudinal changes over three years in sex steroid hormone levels in women aged 70 years and over. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2021; 94:443-448. [PMID: 33351205 PMCID: PMC7957957 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Sex steroid levels in women vary with increasing age from the age of 70 years (70+). Whether this reflects change within individuals with age or a survival advantage is not known. This study aimed to determine the stability of circulating sex steroids and SHBG over time in individual women aged 70+. DESIGN A prospective cohort study. PARTICIPANTS 400 women, aged 70+ not using any sex steroid, anti-androgen/oestrogen or glucocorticoid therapy. MAIN OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS Sex steroid concentrations, measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) by immunoassay, in paired blood samples drawn 3 years apart and analysed together. RESULTS 400 women, median (IQR) age 78.0 (8.6) years, were included in the analysis. Mean testosterone concentrations were statistically significantly higher in follow-up samples compared with baseline. The change was modest (mean change 31 pmol/L, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.4-59.8; p = .034), and an increase was not observed in all women. There was a statistically significant decline in mean body mass index (mean change -0.4 kg/m2 , 95% CI 0.6 to -0.3; p < .001) and a significant increase in the mean serum SHBG concentration (mean change 4.0 nmol/L, 95% CI 2.7-5.4; p < .001). The change observed in testosterone was not explained by the observed change in SHBG. There was no significant change in the mean oestrone or dehydroepiandrosterone concentration. CONCLUSIONS Testosterone concentrations in women aged 70+ were more likely to increase than decrease. Whether increasing testosterone concentrations in older women confer a survival advantage needs investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rakibul M Islam
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Robin J Bell
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | | | - Penelope J Robinson
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
| | - Rory Wolfe
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic, Australia
| | - Susan R Davis
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
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