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Ding Y, Chen ZQ, Pan WF, Chen HJ, Wu M, Lyu YQ, Xie H, Huang YC, Chen ZZ, Chen F. The association and underlying mechanism of the digit ratio (2D:4D) in hypospadias. Asian J Androl 2024; 26:356-365. [PMID: 38563741 PMCID: PMC11280205 DOI: 10.4103/aja202377] [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: 07/29/2023] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
The second-to-fourth digit (2D:4D) ratio is thought to be associated with prenatal androgen exposure. However, the relationship between the 2D:4D ratio and hypospadias is poorly understood, and its molecular mechanism is not clear. In this study, by analyzing the hand digit length of 142 boys with hypospadias (23 distal, 68 middle, and 51 proximal) and 196 controls enrolled in Shanghai Children's Hospital (Shanghai, China) from December 2020 to December 2021, we found that the 2D:4D ratio was significantly increased in boys with hypospadias ( P < 0.001) and it was positively correlated with the severity of the hypospadias. This was further verified by the comparison of control mice and prenatal low testosterone mice model obtained by knocking out the risk gene (dynein axonemal heavy chain 8 [ DNAH8 ]) associated with hypospadias. Furthermore, the discrepancy was mainly caused by a shift in 4D. Proteomic characterization of a mouse model validated that low testosterone levels during pregnancy can impair the growth and development of 4D. Comprehensive mechanistic explorations revealed that during the androgen-sensitive window, the downregulation of the androgen receptor (AR) caused by low testosterone levels, as well as the suppressed expression of chondrocyte proliferation-related genes such as Wnt family member 5a ( Wnt5a ), Wnt5b , Smad family member 2 ( Smad2 ), and Smad3 ; mitochondrial function-related genes in cartilage such as AMP-activated protein kinase ( AMPK ) and nuclear respiratory factor 1 ( Nrf-1 ); and vascular development-related genes such as myosin light chain ( MLC ), notch receptor 3 ( Notch3 ), and sphingosine kinase 1 ( Sphk1 ), are responsible for the limitation of 4D growth, which results in a higher 2D:4D ratio in boys with hypospadias via decreased endochondral ossification. This study indicates that the ratio of 2D:4D is a risk marker of hypospadias and provides a potential molecular mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Ding
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Zu-Quan Chen
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Wen-Feng Pan
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Hao-Jie Chen
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Min Wu
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Yi-Qing Lyu
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Hua Xie
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Yi-Chen Huang
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Zhong-Zhong Chen
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200062, China
- Urogenital Development Research Center, Shanghai Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200062, China
| | - Fang Chen
- Department of Urology, Shanghai Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200062, China
- Clinical Research Center for Hypospadias, Pediatric College, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200062, China
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Dutta S, Nie CW, Sarna A, Hari P, Sengupta P. Second to fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) as the 'anatomical marker' and reproductive 'hormonal fingerprint' in the occurrence dental plaque accumulation. Horm Mol Biol Clin Investig 2024; 45:41-47. [PMID: 38726654 DOI: 10.1515/hmbci-2023-0063] [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: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Digit ratio (2D:4D), as endocrine fingerprint, can indicate prenatal androgen exposure. It serves as an anatomical marker for various systemic diseases and a few studies relating it to oral health. The present study aims to evaluate the association between digit ratio and susceptibility to dental plaque formation. METHODS The study was conducted on young adults aged between 18 and 25 years. Digit ratio and reproductive hormones were measured; dental plaque score and gingival index (GI) were recorded. Data were analysed using the MedCalc. v.20. RESULTS Male and female participants were categorized into two groups based on their digit ratios being either above or below the calculated average (0.99 for females, 0.98 for males). Those with a digit ratio below the average had a significantly higher mean dental plaque score (p < 0.0001) than those with ratios at or above the average. However, there was no significant difference in the GI between the two groups. Reproductive hormone profiles varied significantly between the higher and lower digit ratio groups for both sexes. CONCLUSIONS Digit ratio may find potential to be used as an anatomical marker to identify the susceptibility to dental plaque build-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sulagna Dutta
- Basic Medical Sciences Department, College of Medicine, Ajman University, Ajman, UAE
| | - Chin Win Nie
- Faculty of Dentistry, 105956 MAHSA University , Jenjarom, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Amrita Sarna
- Faculty of Dentistry, 105956 MAHSA University , Jenjarom, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Padmini Hari
- Faculty of Dentistry, 105956 MAHSA University , Jenjarom, Selangor, Malaysia
| | - Pallav Sengupta
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine, Gulf Medical University, Ajman, UAE
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Osadchuk LV, Vasiliev GV, Osadchuk AV. Associations of CAG repeat polymorphism in the androgen receptor gene with steroid hormone levels and anthropometrics among men: the role of the ethnic factor. Vavilovskii Zhurnal Genet Selektsii 2024; 28:80-89. [PMID: 38469358 PMCID: PMC10926003 DOI: 10.18699/vjgb-24-10] [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] [Received: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Androgens are required for stimulation and maintenance of skeletal growth and bone homeostasis. Physiological functions of androgens are mediated through the androgen receptor (AR). The androgen receptor gene AR has a polymorphic trinucleotide CAG repeat and the length of AR CAG repeats determining the sensitivity of bone tissue to androgens is associated with skeleton formation and body proportions. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between AR CAG repeat polymorphism, circulating sex steroid hormones and the anthropometrics in males of different ethnic origins. Male volunteers of three ethnic groups (Slavs, Buryats, Yakuts) from urban Russian populations were recruited in a population-based study (n = 1078). Anthropometric indicators (height, arm span, leg length, the length of 2 and 4 digits of both hands) were measured and the following anthropometric indices were calculated: the ratio of height to leg length, the ratio of arm span to height, the ratio of lengths of second to fourth digit of the hand. Serum testosterone and estradiol were determined by enzyme immunoassay. Genotyping of the AR CAG repeats was performed using fragment analysis and capillary electrophoresis. Ethnic differences in all anthropometric and hormonal indicators have been established, with higher anthropometric indicators in Slavs than Buryats, and in most cases higher than in Yakuts. The testosterone level was higher among Slavs compared to Buryats, but did not differ from Yakuts; the estradiol level was lower among Slavs compared to Buryats, who did not differ from Yakuts. Buryats and Yakuts had a higher number of CAG repeats than Slavs (medians: Slavs, 23; Buryats, 24; Yakuts, 25). Positive correlations were found between the length of AR CAG repeats and estradiol levels in Buryats and testosterone levels in Yakuts, while longer CAG repeats were accompanied by higher estradiol levels in Buryats and testosterone levels in Slavs and Yakuts. Ethnic-specific correlations have been established between the steroid hormone levels and some anthropometric indicators in all ethnic groups. Available data suggest that the ethnic-specific associations of AR CAG repeats with anthropometrics can be mediated by sex steroid hormones as important regulators of skeletal growth and bone homeostasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- L V Osadchuk
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - G V Vasiliev
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - A V Osadchuk
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
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Sorokowski P, Kowal M. Relationship between the 2D:4D and prenatal testosterone, adult level testosterone, and testosterone change: Meta-analysis of 54 studies. AMERICAN JOURNAL OF BIOLOGICAL ANTHROPOLOGY 2024; 183:20-38. [PMID: 37795916 DOI: 10.1002/ajpa.24852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023]
Abstract
The ratio between the hands' second to the fourth finger (2D:4D) is commonly hypothesized to result from prenatal testosterone. The 2D:4D has also been hypothesized to relate to adult-level testosterone and, more recently, to the testosterone response to a challenging situation. In the present work, we tested these core assumptions. Drawing from, in total, 54 studies and 8077 participants, we investigated whether the 2D:4D is related to adult level testosterone (44 studies), testosterone change (6 studies), and prenatal testosterone (10 studies). We found no evidence of the relationship between the above testosterone types and digit ratios. Furthermore, there was no relationship between testosterone and the right and left 2D:4D, male and female 2D:4D, and the 2D:4D and testosterone measurement (i.e., measured in blood or saliva). However, we found some evidence that prenatal testosterone measured in amniotic fluid (but not cord blood) might be related to the digit ratios-further studies are necessary to validate this observation. In summary, considering the current state of knowledge, any conclusions drawn from the assumption of the digit ratios as the proxy for testosterone (prenatal, adult level, or testosterone change under a challenging situation) warrant great caution.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marta Kowal
- IDN Being Human Lab, University of Wrocław, Wrocław, Poland
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Digit ratio (2D:4D) and maternal testosterone-to-estradiol ratio measured in early pregnancy. Sci Rep 2022; 12:13586. [PMID: 35945232 PMCID: PMC9363442 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-17247-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2022] [Accepted: 07/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
The ratio of index to ring finger (2D:4D) has been hypothesised to indicate prenatal androgen exposure, yet evidence for its validity is lacking. We report the first pre-registered study to investigate mothers' early pregnancy sex hormone concentrations in relation to their children's digit ratios measured at 18-22-month follow-up. Although the testosterone (T) to estradiol (E) ratio correlated negatively with right hand digit ratio (R2D:4D) and directional asymmetry (right-minus-left) in digit ratio (D[R-L]), neither effect remained statistically significant once demographic and obstetric covariates were controlled for. Nevertheless, the multivariate level of analysis did reveal that T correlated positively with left hand digit ratio (L2D:4D) and negatively with D[R-L]. However, the first of these effects is in the opposite direction to that predicted by theory. Taken together, the results of our study suggest research with larger samples is required to determine whether digit ratios are valid proxies for maternal sex hormone exposure.
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Butovskaya M, Burkova V, Apalkova Y, Dronova D, Rostovtseva V, Karelin D, Mkrtchyan R, Negasheva M, Batsevich V. Sex, population origin, age and average digit length as predictors of digit ratio in three large world populations. Sci Rep 2021; 11:8157. [PMID: 33854119 PMCID: PMC8046776 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-87394-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Recently, a number of authors have claimed that sexual dimorphism in the second-to-fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) is simply dependent on digit length and is an artifact of allometry. The goal of our study is to verify the validity of these assumptions. The study sample comprised 7,582 individuals (3,802 men and 3,780 women) from three large world populations: Europeans (n = 3043), East Africans (n = 2844), and Central Asians (n = 1695). The lengths of the second and fourth digits on both hands were measured. Digit ratios were computed according to standard procedures. Analyses were conducted separately for each hand for the whole sample and in succession for the three large populations. Additionally, we separately tested four age cohorts (≤ 13, 14-18, 19-30, and 31 ≥ years) to test the effect of developmental allometry. The second and fourth digits showed strong positive linear relationships on both hands, and demonstrated an increase with age; digit length in women from the youngest age cohort was longer or equal to that of men, and shorter than men in older age cohorts. However, the 2D:4D magnitude and its sexual dimorphism remained stable throughout the ontogeny. To test for an allometric effect on 2D:4D, the average digit lengths were calculated. Both sex and population origin were permanent reliable predictors of 2D:4D, whereas average digit length was not. Height was applied as another measure of allometric effect on the limited sample (≤ 30 years) from the European population, along with sex and age. No allometric effect was observed in this case. We conclude that sex differences in 2D:4D are not an artifact of allometry.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marina Butovskaya
- Institute of Ethnology and Anthropology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky pr., 32a, Moscow, Russia, 119991.
- National Research University Higher School of Economics, Moscow, Russia.
- Russian State University for the Humanities, Moscow, Russia.
| | - Valentina Burkova
- Institute of Ethnology and Anthropology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky pr., 32a, Moscow, Russia, 119991
- National Research University Higher School of Economics, Moscow, Russia
| | - Yulia Apalkova
- Institute of Ethnology and Anthropology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky pr., 32a, Moscow, Russia, 119991
| | - Daria Dronova
- Institute of Ethnology and Anthropology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky pr., 32a, Moscow, Russia, 119991
| | - Victoria Rostovtseva
- Institute of Ethnology and Anthropology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Leninsky pr., 32a, Moscow, Russia, 119991
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Digit ratio, a proposed marker of the prenatal hormone environment, is not associated with prenatal sex steroids, anogenital distance, or gender-typed play behavior in preschool age children. J Dev Orig Health Dis 2020; 12:923-932. [PMID: 33336644 DOI: 10.1017/s2040174420001270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Prenatal hormones have been proposed as key factors impacting child development as well as long-term health and disease. Digit ratio (the ratio of the lengths of the second to fourth digits; 2D:4D) has been proposed as a sexually dimorphic, noninvasive marker of prenatal androgen exposure that can be reliably measured in children and adults. To date, few longitudinal pregnancy cohort studies have examined childhood digit ratio in relation to other relevant measures including prenatal hormones and androgen-sensitive outcomes. To augment the current literature on this topic, we measured right-hand digit ratio in 4-year-old children participating in The Infant Development and the Environment Study, a multicenter longitudinal cohort study that has been following mother-child dyads since the first trimester of pregnancy (n = 321). We assessed sex differences in digit ratio and fit multivariable linear regression models to examine digit ratio in relation to: (1) child sex; (2) maternal sex steroid hormone concentrations in early pregnancy; (3) newborn anogenital distance, another proposed measure of sensitivity to prenatal androgens; and (4) gender-typical play behavior as measured by the Preschool Activities Inventory (PSAI) at age 4. We observed no sex difference in digit ratio; the mean 2D:4D was 0.97 ± 0.05 mm in both sexes. Furthermore, digit ratio was not associated with maternal sex steroid concentrations in early pregnancy, anogenital distance in either sex, or PSAI scores in either sex in covariate-adjusted models. In conclusion, we observed no evidence that early childhood digit ratio was associated with child sex or hormone-sensitive measures in this cohort.
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Richards G, Browne WV, Aydin E, Constantinescu M, Nave G, Kim MS, Watson SJ. Digit ratio (2D:4D) and congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH): Systematic literature review and meta-analysis. Horm Behav 2020; 126:104867. [PMID: 32998030 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2020.104867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Revised: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 09/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The ratio of length between the second and fourth fingers (2D:4D) is commonly used as an indicator of prenatal sex hormone exposure. Several approaches have been used to try to validate the measure, including examining 2D:4D in people with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), a suite of conditions characterised by elevated adrenal androgen production secondary to defective steroidogenesis. We present a systematic review and meta-analysis that examines the relationship between these two variables. Twelve articles relating to nine CAH cohorts were identified, and 2D:4D comparisons have been made between cases and controls in eight of these cohorts. Altogether, at least one 2D:4D variable has been compared between n = 251 females with CAH and n = 358 unaffected females, and between n = 108 males with CAH and n = 204 unaffected males. A previous meta-analysis (Hönekopp and Watson, 2010) reported lower right hand (R2D:4D) and left hand (L2D:4D) digit ratios in patients with CAH relative to sex-matched controls. Our meta-analysis showed the same pattern, with medium effect sizes for R2D:4D and small effect sizes for L2D:4D. Differences of small magnitude were also observed for M2D:4D, and no significant effects were observed for D[R-L]. Notably, the only effects that remained statistically significant when stratified by sex were R2D:4D in males and L2D:4D in females, and the average effect size had reduced by 46.70% since the meta-analysis of Hönekopp and Watson (2010). We also found that individual comparisons in this literature were considerably underpowered, and that patterns of sexual dimorphism in 2D:4D were similar in CAH samples as in typically developing populations. Findings are discussed in relation to the prenatal androgen hypothesis as well as alternative explanations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gareth Richards
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, UK; Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, UK.
| | | | - Ezra Aydin
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, UK
| | - Mihaela Constantinescu
- Gender Development Research Centre, University of Cambridge, UK; School of Psychology, University of East London, UK
| | - Gideon Nave
- Marketing Department, The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Mimi S Kim
- Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, USA
| | - Steven J Watson
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, UK; Department of Psychology of Conflict, Risk and Safety, University of Twente, Netherlands
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Baxter A, Wood EK, Witczak LR, Bales KL, Higley JD. Sexual Dimorphism in Titi Monkeys' Digit (2D:4D) Ratio is Associated with Maternal Urinary Sex Hormones During Pregnancy. Dev Psychobiol 2020; 62:979-991. [PMID: 31372988 PMCID: PMC7871332 DOI: 10.1002/dev.21899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2019] [Revised: 06/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
The second-to-fourth digit (2D:4D) ratio is a sexually-dimorphic biomarker for prenatal sex hormone exposure. We investigated whether titi monkeys (Plecturocebus cupreus) exhibit sexually-dimorphic 2D:4D ratio, and whether variation in 2D:4D ratio correlates with maternal testosterone and estrogen levels during early pregnancy. Subjects were 61 adult titi monkeys (32 males, 29 females). For 26 subjects, maternal urine samples were collected approximately 15-20 weeks before birth and assayed for testosterone and estrone conjugate (E1 C). Titi monkeys exhibited a human-like pattern of sexual dimorphism in right-hand 2D:4D ratio, with females exhibiting higher 2D:4D ratio than males (β = -0.29, p = 0.023). For left-hand 2D:4D ratio, high levels of maternal E1 C predicted low offspring 2D:4D ratio (β = -0.48, p = 0.009). For right-hand 2D:4D ratio, high levels of testosterone (β = -0.53, p = 0.005) and testosterone-to-E1 C ratio (β = -0.41, p = 0.028) predicted low offspring 2D:4D ratio. For 2D:4D ratio asymmetry (right-hand - left-hand), high levels of testosterone (β = -0.43, p = 0.03) and testosterone-to-E1 C ratio (β = -0.53, p = 0.003) predicted low (right-biased) asymmetry. This is the first report of sexually-dimorphic 2D:4D ratio in New World monkeys, and the results support a growing literature suggesting prenatal sex hormones may modulate offspring 2D:4D ratio.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Baxter
- Department of Psychology, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, California
- California National Primate Research Center, Davis, California
| | | | - Lynea R Witczak
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, California
- California National Primate Research Center, Davis, California
| | - Karen L Bales
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, California
- California National Primate Research Center, Davis, California
| | - J Dee Higley
- Department of Psychology, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah
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Chen Y, Miao M, Liang H, Chen Y, Ji H, Ren Y, Liu X, Zhou Y, Wang Z, Yuan W. Effects of prenatal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) on the second to fourth digit ratio in children aged 4 years. Int J Hyg Environ Health 2020; 231:113639. [PMID: 33130430 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijheh.2020.113639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 10/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The second to fourth digit ratio (2D:4D) is assumed to be a biomarker of prenatal sex steroid exposure, correlating negatively with prenatal testosterone and positively with prenatal estrogen. The ratio has been suggested to be influenced by endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs). However, evidence regarding effects of prenatal exposure to polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) on 2D:4D of children was sparse. OBJECTIVES We investigated the associations between prenatal exposure to PBDEs and 2D:4D of children aged 4 years. METHODS Participants were mother-child pairs from the Shanghai-Minhang Birth Cohort Study (S-MBCS) which enrolled pregnant women at 12-16 weeks of gestation from April to December 2012. Nine PBDE congeners in venous umbilical cord plasma of 340 children were measured. Digit lengths were measured using a vernier caliper in children aged 4 years and 2D:4D for left and right hands and average 2D:4D value of both hands were calculated. A total of 281 children (160 boys and 121 girls) who had data on both 2D:4D and PBDE concentrations were included in the final analysis. Associations between prenatal PBDE exposures and 2D:4D were investigated using multiple linear regression models. RESULTS Among the nine congeners, BDE-47 had the highest detection rate of 86.12% with the highest median concentration of 0.20 ng/ml lipid. Five PBDE congeners with detection rates greater than or close to 50% (BDE-28, -47, -99, -100 and -153) and Σ5PBDEs (the sum of them) were included in final analysis. For girls, a consistent pattern for the positive associations between prenatal PBDE exposures and 2D:4D of children was observed mainly for the left hand, where those in the highest exposure groups had higher 2D:4D compared to the lowest exposure groups (a feminizing effect), with statistically significant associations observed for BDE-47 (β = 0.0247, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.0017, 0.0477), -100 (β = 0.0264, 95% CI: 0.0087, 0.0441) and Σ5PBDEs (β = 0.0201, 95% CI: 0.0027, 0.0374). For boys, compared with the lowest exposure groups, statistically significantly higher (feminized) 2D:4D for both hands was observed in those with the highest exposure levels of BDE-100 (β = 0.0147, 95% CI: 0.0005, 0.0289 for the left hand; β = 0.0182, 95% CI: 0.0046, 0.0318 for the right hand) and those with the middle and the highest exposure levels of BDE-153 (middle vs. undetected, β = 0.0215, 95% CI: 0.0072, 0.0358 for the left hand; β = 0.0155, 95% CI: 0.0015, 0.0295 for the right hand; highest vs. undetected, β = 0.0162, 95% CI: 0.0017, 0.0307 for the left hand; β = 0.0152, 95% CI: 0.0011, 0.0294 for the right hand). CONCLUSIONS Our study provides preliminary evidence that prenatal exposure to PBDEs might be associated with higher 2D:4D in boys and girls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yafei Chen
- NHC Key Lab. of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), School of Public Health, Fudan University, China
| | - Maohua Miao
- NHC Key Lab. of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), School of Public Health, Fudan University, China
| | - Hong Liang
- NHC Key Lab. of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), School of Public Health, Fudan University, China
| | - Yao Chen
- NHC Key Lab. of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), School of Public Health, Fudan University, China
| | - Honglei Ji
- NHC Key Lab. of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), School of Public Health, Fudan University, China
| | - Yanfeng Ren
- Department of Health Statistics, School of Public Health and Management, Weifang Medical University, Shandong, China
| | - Xiao Liu
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Toxicology, National Reference Laboratory of Dioxin, Hubei Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuhan, China
| | - Yan Zhou
- Hubei Provincial Key Laboratory of Applied Toxicology, National Reference Laboratory of Dioxin, Hubei Provincial Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Wuhan, China
| | - Ziliang Wang
- NHC Key Lab. of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), School of Public Health, Fudan University, China.
| | - Wei Yuan
- NHC Key Lab. of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), School of Public Health, Fudan University, China
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Yamaguchi N, Yasui T, Kaji T, Sogawa E, Yoshida A, Yonetani N, Irahara M. Usefulness of measurement of proximal phalanx length by using ultrasonography in newborn infants. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2020; 41:739-745. [PMID: 33054451 DOI: 10.1080/01443615.2020.1798903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to compare digit lengths and proximal phalanx lengths in newborn infants by using ultrasonography (USG) and to examine sex differences between the ratio of the second digit (2D) and fourth digit (4D) of digit length and that of proximal phalanx length and the associations of digit length and proximal phalanx length with birth weight and birth height. Sixty newborn infants (28 males and 32 females) were recruited. Digit lengths were measured by using a transparent ruler and proximal phalanx lengths were measured by using USG. There were significant correlations between digit length and proximal phalanx length in the left and right hands. There was no significant correlation between 2D:4D ratios of digit lengths and 2D:4D ratios of proximal phalanx lengths measured by using USG. In males, birth height was significantly associated with right fourth proximal phalanx length and with left second and fourth proximal phalanx lengths. Birth weight was significantly associated with proximal phalanx length in males. Proximal phalanx length measured by using USG was significantly associated with digit length in newborn infants. Hormonal exposure before birth may be involved in the associations of proximal phalanx length with birth weight and height in males.Impact statementWhat is already known on this subject? The ratio of the second digit (2D) and fourth digit (4D) has been used postnatally to provide a retrospective indication of the foetal hormonal environment. Digit lengths have been measured by using a direct method, photocopies, digital scans and radiographs, but the results of a study on measurement of digit lengths by using ultrasonography (USG) have not been reported.What do the results of this study add? Proximal phalanx length measured by using USG was significantly associated with digit length in newborn infants. In males, birth height was significantly associated with right fourth proximal phalanx length and with left second and fourth proximal phalanx lengths. Birth weight was significantly associated with proximal phalanx length in males.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? Measurement of proximal phalanx length by using USG may be useful for a study on gender differences in foetal development and the foetal hormonal environment. Hormonal exposure before birth may be involved in the associations of proximal phalanx length with birth weight and height in males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natsumi Yamaguchi
- Department of Cardiology, Tokushima Graduate School of Medical Science, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Toshiyuki Yasui
- Department of Reproductive and Menopausal Medicine, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Takashi Kaji
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Eishi Sogawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Atsuko Yoshida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Naoto Yonetani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Minoru Irahara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Tokushima University Graduate School, Tokushima, Japan
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12
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Yamada Y, Ebara T, Yamaguchi C, Miyachi T, Shoji N, Matsuki T, Kano H, Hirosawa M, Kamijima M. Sexual difference in 2nd-to-4th digit ratio among 1.5-year-old Japanese children: A cross-sectional study of Aichi regional adjunct cohort of the Japan Environment and Children's Study (JECS-A). Early Hum Dev 2020; 146:105050. [PMID: 32387816 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2020.105050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Revised: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A sex difference in the second-to-fourth digit ratio (2D:4D, males < females) has been described in Japanese fetuses and children, and its possible links to autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) have been discussed. Accordingly, this sexual difference in representative neonates merits examination. AIMS This study aimed to examine 2D:4D measurements and sexual differences in Japanese toddlers aged 1.5 years. STUDY DESIGN AND SUBJECTS The digit lengths used to calculate 2D:4D were measured using an easy-to-use photography method. A total of 1045 JECS-A (the Aichi regional sub-cohort of the Japan Environment and Children's Study) children (males, 523; females, 522) aged 1.5 years were analyzed. RESULTS The mean ages for the males and females were 575.3 ± 13.1 and 575.9 ± 17.1 days, respectively. Histograms of left and right 2D:4D were normally distributed regardless of sex (left male, 0.909 ± 0.048; left female, 0.913 ± 0.049, d = 0.08; right male, 0.938 ± 0.055; right female, 0.937 ± 0.049, d = 0.02). Because of high dispersion in the data, t-tests did not support a significant sex difference in 2D:4D. Post-hoc statistical power was calculated as 0.124 and the effect size for the sex difference in 2D:4D was 0.036. CONCLUSIONS This study failed to confirm sexual differences in 2D:4D in 1.5-year-old Japanese children. This may be because digit measurement is difficult in this group, resulting in reduced effect sizes, or because rapid growth attenuates the in utero sexual dimorphism. This evidence is useful for the light it casts on the extreme male brain theory of ASDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuyuki Yamada
- Juntendo University, Graduate School of Health and Sports Science, Inzai, Chiba 2701695, Japan; Nagoya City University, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 4678601, Japan
| | - Takeshi Ebara
- Nagoya City University, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 4678601, Japan.
| | - Chikae Yamaguchi
- Nagoya City University, Graduate School of Nursing, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 4678601, Japan
| | - Taishi Miyachi
- Nagoya City University, Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 4678601, Japan
| | - Naoto Shoji
- Nagoya City University, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 4678601, Japan; Asahi University, School of Health Sciences, Mizuho, Gifu 5010296, Japan
| | - Taro Matsuki
- Nagoya City University, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 4678601, Japan
| | - Hirohisa Kano
- Nagoya City University, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 4678601, Japan
| | - Masataka Hirosawa
- Juntendo University, Graduate School of Health and Sports Science, Inzai, Chiba 2701695, Japan
| | - Michihiro Kamijima
- Nagoya City University, Department of Occupational and Environmental Health, Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Mizuho-ku, Nagoya, Aichi 4678601, Japan
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13
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Mitsui T, Araki A, Miyashita C, Ito S, Ikeno T, Sasaki S, Kitta T, Moriya K, Cho K, Morioka K, Kishi R, Shinohara N, Takeda M, Nonomura K. Effects of prenatal sex hormones on behavioral sexual dimorphism. Pediatr Int 2019; 61:140-146. [PMID: 30565800 DOI: 10.1111/ped.13756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2018] [Revised: 08/17/2018] [Accepted: 10/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We investigated the association between the hormone environment during the prenatal period using cord blood, and gender-role play behavior in school-aged children. METHODS A total of 879 school-aged children (433 boys and 446 girls) in a prospective birth cohort study in Hokkaido were enrolled to analyze the relationship between cord blood level of the sex hormones estradiol (E), testosterone (T), progesterone (P), and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and the Pre-School Activities Inventory (PSAI) score. The PSAI evaluated sex-typical characteristics, the type of preferred toys and play activities. The PSAI consists of 12 masculine and 12 feminine items, and the composite scores were calculated by subtracting the feminine score from the masculine score. Higher scores indicated male-typical behavior. RESULTS Composite and masculine PSAI scores were significantly higher in boys. Meanwhile, the feminine score was significantly lower in boys. Although T and P were significantly higher in boys, E/T was significantly higher in girls. In a multivariate regression model, including covariates of social factors, there was no correlation between any of the hormones and PSAI score in boys. In girls, only P and E/T were positively correlated with the feminine score. CONCLUSIONS Prenatal sex hormone exposure may influence the dimorphic brain development and behavior in school-aged girls. Furthermore, the cord blood hormone levels may not fully reflect the hormone environment during the prenatal period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiko Mitsui
- Department of Urology, University of Yamanashi Graduate School of Medical Science, Chuo City, Yamanashi, Japan.,Department of Urology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Atsuko Araki
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Chihiro Miyashita
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Sachiko Ito
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Tamiko Ikeno
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Seiko Sasaki
- Department of Public Health, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Takeya Kitta
- Department of Urology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Kimihiko Moriya
- Department of Urology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Kazutoshi Cho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Keita Morioka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Reiko Kishi
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Nobuo Shinohara
- Department of Urology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Masayuki Takeda
- Department of Urology, University of Yamanashi Graduate School of Medical Science, Chuo City, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Katsuya Nonomura
- Department of Urology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
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Nishimura Y, Moriya K, Kobayashi S, Araki A, Sata F, Mitsui T, Itoh S, Miyashita C, Cho K, Kon M, Nakamura M, Kitta T, Murai S, Kishi R, Shinohara N. Association between ESR1 polymorphisms and second to fourth digit ratio in school-aged children in the Hokkaido Study. Steroids 2019; 141:55-62. [PMID: 30468784 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2018.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2018] [Revised: 11/14/2018] [Accepted: 11/17/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
The ratio of the lengths of the 2nd and 4th digits (2D:4D) is considered an index of prenatal exposure to androgen. Indeed, androgen receptors have been linked to digit length, but estrogen receptors are rarely investigated in this context. Thus, we investigated the association between estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1) genetic polymorphisms and 2D:4D in school-aged children. The 2D:4D ratios were determined using Vernier calipers from photocopies of palms provided by 1800 children aged 7 years who were enrolled in an ongoing prospective cohort study in Hokkaido, Japan. The children were genotyped using cord blood collected at birth for single nucleotide polymorphisms in ESR1, specifically PvuII (T > C, dbSNP: rs2234693), XbaI (A > G, dbSNP: rs9340799), and rs2077647 (A > G). The association between ESR1 polymorphisms and 2D:4D was assessed by multiple linear regression adjusted for potential cofounding factors. Boys with the GG genotype at rs9340799 had a significantly lower 2D:4D in the right hand than boys with the AA/AG genotype (-0.96% lower, 95% confidence interval: -1.68 to -0.24). However, this association was detected only in boys born to non-smoking mothers. No significant differences were found between rs9340799 polymorphisms and 2D:4D among girls. There was also no link between 2D:4D and polymorphisms at rs2234693 and rs2077647. These data suggest that rs9340799 polymorphisms in ESR1 may contribute to digit length and 2D:4D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoko Nishimura
- Department of Renal and Genitourinary Surgery, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, North-15, West-7, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan; Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, North-12, West-7, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan
| | - Kimihiko Moriya
- Department of Renal and Genitourinary Surgery, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, North-15, West-7, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan.
| | - Sumitaka Kobayashi
- Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, North-12, West-7, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan
| | - Atsuko Araki
- Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, North-12, West-7, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan
| | - Fumihiro Sata
- Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, North-12, West-7, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan; Health Center, Chuo University, 42-8, Ichigaya-Hommura-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8473, Japan
| | - Takahiko Mitsui
- Department of Urology, Graduate School of Medical Science, University of Yamanashi, Simokato-1110, Chuo 409-3898, Japan
| | - Sachiko Itoh
- Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, North-12, West-7, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan
| | - Chihiro Miyashita
- Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, North-12, West-7, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan
| | - Kazutoshi Cho
- Maternity and Perinatal Care Center, Hokkaido University Hospital, North-14, West-5 Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-8648, Japan
| | - Masafumi Kon
- Department of Renal and Genitourinary Surgery, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, North-15, West-7, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
| | - Michiko Nakamura
- Department of Renal and Genitourinary Surgery, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, North-15, West-7, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
| | - Takeya Kitta
- Department of Renal and Genitourinary Surgery, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, North-15, West-7, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
| | - Sachiyo Murai
- Department of Renal and Genitourinary Surgery, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, North-15, West-7, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
| | - Reiko Kishi
- Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, North-12, West-7, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-0812, Japan
| | - Nobuo Shinohara
- Department of Renal and Genitourinary Surgery, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, North-15, West-7, Kita-ku, Sapporo 060-8638, Japan
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15
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Sanwald S, Widenhorn-Müller K, Wernicke J, Sindermann C, Kiefer M, Montag C. Depression Is Associated With the Absence of Sex Differences in the 2D:4D Ratio of the Right Hand. Front Psychiatry 2019; 10:483. [PMID: 31379616 PMCID: PMC6660250 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00483] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The 2D:4D digit ratio reflects prenatal testosterone relative to estradiol exposure of a developing embryo. Higher levels of prenatal testosterone have been related to lower 2D:4D ratios. In addition, higher 2D:4D ratios have been associated with female gender, neuroticism, and depression severity. Therefore, the present study investigated whether 2D:4D ratios differ between inpatients with major depression and matched healthy controls and whether 2D:4D ratios correlate with depression severity. We examined 139 inpatients diagnosed with major depression according to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV) criteria and 137 healthy controls regarding 2D:4D ratios of both hands and BDI-II scores. While we observed significant sex differences in the 2D:4D ratio of the right hand in the healthy control group (women on average showed a significantly higher 2D:4D ratio), no such differences were found in the group of depressed patients. The 2D:4D digit ratios did not correlate with depression severity even when examined for group and sex separately. We conclude that major depression is associated with an absence of sex differences in the 2D:4D ratio.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Sanwald
- Department of Psychiatry, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | | | - Jennifer Wernicke
- Department of Molecular Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Cornelia Sindermann
- Department of Molecular Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Markus Kiefer
- Department of Psychiatry, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
| | - Christian Montag
- Department of Molecular Psychology, Institute of Psychology and Education, Ulm University, Ulm, Germany
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16
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Harrison SM, Bush NC, Wang Y, Mucher ZR, Lorenzo AJ, Grimsby GM, Schlomer BJ, Büllesbach EE, Baker LA. Insulin-Like Peptide 3 (INSL3) Serum Concentration During Human Male Fetal Life. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:596. [PMID: 31611843 PMCID: PMC6737488 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00596] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2018] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Context: Insulin-like peptide 3 (INSL3), a protein hormone produced by Leydig cells, may play a crucial role in testicular descent as male INSL3 knockout mice have bilateral cryptorchidism. Previous studies have measured human fetal INSL3 levels in amniotic fluid only. Objective: To measure INSL3 serum levels and mRNA in fetal umbilical cord blood and fetal testes, respectively. Design: INSL3 concentrations were assayed on 50 μl of serum from male human fetal umbilical cord blood by a non-commercial highly sensitive and specific radioimmunoassay. For secondary confirmation, quantitative real-time PCR was used to measure INSL3 relative mRNA expression in 7 age-matched human fetal testes. Setting: UT Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX and Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC. Patients or other Participants: Twelve human male umbilical cord blood samples and 7 human male testes were obtained from fetuses 14-21 weeks gestation. Male sex was verified by leukocyte genomic DNA SRY PCR. Interventions: None. Main Outcome Measures: Human male fetal INSL3 cord blood serum concentrations and testicular relative mRNA expression. Results: INSL3 serum concentrations during human male gestational weeks 15-20 were 2-4 times higher than published prepubertal male levels and were 5-100 times higher than previous reports of INSL3 concentrations obtained from amniotic fluid. Testicular fetal INSL3 mRNA relative expression was low from weeks 14-16, rose significantly weeks 17 and 18, and returned to low levels at week 21. Conclusions: These findings further support the role of INSL3 in human testicular descent and could prove relevant in uncovering the pathophysiology of cryptorchidism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven M. Harrison
- Clinical R&D Sequencing Platform, Broad Institute, MIT and Harvard, Cambridge, MA, United States
| | | | - Yi Wang
- Endocrinology Division, Department of Internal Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China
| | - Zachary R. Mucher
- Department of Urology, Memorial Hermann Health System, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Armando J. Lorenzo
- Department of Pediatric Urology, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | | | - Bruce J. Schlomer
- Division of Pediatric Urology, Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
| | - Erika E. Büllesbach
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston, SC, United States
| | - Linda A. Baker
- John W. Duckett MD Laboratory in Pediatric Urology, Division of Pediatric Urology, Department of Urology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, United States
- *Correspondence: Linda A. Baker
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17
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Testosterone measured from amniotic fluid and maternal plasma shows no significant association with directional asymmetry in newborn digit ratio (2D:4D). J Dev Orig Health Dis 2018; 10:362-367. [PMID: 30376903 DOI: 10.1017/s2040174418000752] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Foetal sex hormones can have powerful and far-reaching effects on later phenotype. However, obtaining accurate measurements is difficult for ethical reasons, and researchers often employ proxy variables to examine their effects. The relative length of the second and fourth fingers (digit ratio or 2D:4D) is frequently used for this purpose, as it is hypothesized to index variance in prenatal androgen and oestrogen exposure. Most studies employing this method examine digit ratio for the right hand (R2D:4D) and/or left hand (L2D:4D), though the mean value (M2D:4D) (i.e., the average of R2D:4D and L2D:4D) and directional asymmetry (D[R-L]) (i.e., R2D:4D minus L2D:4D) are also commonly used. As no published studies have examined M2D:4D or D[R-L] in relation to testosterone measured from amniotic fluid, we conducted a secondary analysis of data published by Ventura et al. The sample comprises 106 mothers from Portugal who underwent amniocentesis during the second trimester and their neonates. Newborn M2D:4D was negatively correlated with amniotic testosterone in females (P<0.05) but not in males; no significant association was observed between amniotic testosterone and D[R-L] in either sex. In addition, we examined testosterone measured from maternal circulation during the second trimester, and found that it was not a significant predictor of M2D:4D or D[R-L] in male or female infants. Further research should aim to measure the ratio of testosterone to oestradiol present in amniotic fluid and maternal plasma, to examine whether either is a predictor of digit ratio variables at different stages of postnatal development.
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18
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Shere M, Arbuckle TE, Monnier P, Fraser W, Velez MP. Time-to-pregnancy and offspring finger-length ratio (2D:4D). Am J Hum Biol 2018; 30:e23176. [PMID: 30329191 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.23176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2018] [Revised: 06/28/2018] [Accepted: 08/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Time-to-Pregnancy (TTP) is an epidemiological tool to assess couple fecundity. The finger digit ratio (2D:4D) has been suggested as a marker of androgen exposure in utero. Maternal, paternal, or couple-mediated factors related to fecundity may also have an effect on androgen exposure during pregnancy. We aimed to investigate the association between TTP, infertility, or use of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) and offspring 2D:4D. METHODS Data from 673 mother-child pairs were collected from questionnaires in the Maternal-Infant Research on Environmental Chemicals (MIREC) study across 10 cities in Canada. The mean maternal age was 33.4 years (SD 4.7), with a median gestational age of 12.1 weeks (SD 1.3), at the time of recruitment. Our study included 338 girls and 335 boys, and the mean age of the children at follow-up was 3.5 years (SD 1.0). TTP was assessed through questionnaires during the first trimester of pregnancy. Digital photographs of both hands were taken in a follow-up study to calculate the children's 2D:4D (2-5 years). anova, t tests, and multiple linear regression analyses were conducted. RESULTS Boys had significantly lower mean 2D:4Ds (0.936 ±0.041 in right hand, 0.936 ±0.040 in left hand) compared to girls (0.948 ±0.038 in right hand, 0.945 ±0.038 in left hand). The mean 2D:4D did not differ according to TTP, infertility, or use of ART. The only factors associated with the child's 2D:4D were the child's age and maternal 2D:4D. CONCLUSIONS Our study does not support an association between TTP, infertility, or use of ART and children's 2D:4D.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahvash Shere
- School of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
| | - Tye E Arbuckle
- Targeted Epidemiology and Biomonitoring Section, Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch, Ottawa, Canada
| | - Patricia Monnier
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada
| | - William Fraser
- Sainte-Justine University Hospital Research Centre, University of Montreal, Montreal, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada
| | - Maria P Velez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
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19
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Araki A, Itoh S, Miyashita C, Minatoya M, Kishi R. [Environmental Chemical Exposure and Its Effects on Infants' Reproductive Hormones]. Nihon Eiseigaku Zasshi 2018; 73:313-321. [PMID: 30270299 DOI: 10.1265/jjh.73.313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, the birthrate has been continuously declining in Japan. The main causes of the decline are social factors. On the other hand, there is increasing evidence that many environmental chemicals show endocrine disrupting properties. Thus, we hypothesized that exposure to these chemicals would also be a causal for the fertility crisis. In this review, we examined current evidence that focused on environmental chemical exposure in utero and its association with reproductive hormones in children. We have included the findings from a prospective birth cohorts, the Hokkaido Study on Environment and Children's Health Sapporo cohort. According to the literature, environmental chemical levels in utero, such as polychlorinated biphenyl, dioxins, perfluorinated chemical substances, phthalates, and bisphenol A were somewhat associated with the levels of reproductive hormones, such as testosterone, estradiol, progesterone, inhibin B, and insulin-like factor-3 in cord blood, in early childhood and adolescence. The literature also suggests the association between exposure to these chemicals and brain-sexual differentiation or the anogenital distance, which suggests the disruption of androgen shower during the developmental stage in the fetal period. There are still knowledge gaps on whether these hormones at an early stage affect the pubertal development and reproductive functions in later life. In addition, alternative chemicals are produced after banning one type. The health effects of alternative chemicals should be evaluated. Effects of exposure to a mixture of the chemicals should also be examined in future studies. In conclusion, the prevention of environmental chemical hazards in relation to human reproductive function is important. It would be one of the countermeasures to the falling birthrate caused by fertility issues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsuko Araki
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences
| | - Sachiko Itoh
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences
| | | | - Machiko Minatoya
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences
| | - Reiko Kishi
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences
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20
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Roy R, Kundu R, Sengupta M, Som P. Association between digit length ratio (2D:4D) and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)—A study among eastern Indian population. J ANAT SOC INDIA 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jasi.2017.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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21
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O'Hanlan KA, Gordon JC, Sullivan MW. Biological origins of sexual orientation and gender identity: Impact on health. Gynecol Oncol 2018; 149:33-42. [PMID: 29605047 DOI: 10.1016/j.ygyno.2017.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2017] [Revised: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 11/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
Gynecologic Oncologists are sometimes consulted to care for patients who present with diverse gender identities or sexual orientations. Clinicians can create more helpful relationships with their patients if they understand the etiologies of these diverse expressions of sexual humanity. Multidisciplinary evidence reveals that a sexually dimorphic spectrum of somatic and neurologic anatomy, traits and abilities, including sexual orientation and gender identity, are conferred together during the first half of pregnancy due to genetics, epigenetics and the diversity of timing and function of sex chromosomes, sex-determining protein secretion, gonadal hormone secretion, receptor levels, adrenal function, maternally ingested dietary hormones, fetal health, and many other factors. Multiple layers of evidence confirm that sexual orientation and gender identity are as biological, innate and immutable as the other traits conferred during that critical time in gestation. Negative social responses to diverse orientations or gender identities have caused marginalization of these individuals with resultant alienation from medical care, reduced self-care and reduced access to medical care. The increased risks for many diseases, including gynecologic cancers are reviewed. Gynecologic Oncologists can potentially create more effective healthcare relationships with their patients if they have this information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katherine A O'Hanlan
- Laparoscopic Institute for Gynecology and Oncology (LIGO), 4370 Alpine Rd. Suite 104, Portola Valley, CA 94028, United States.
| | - Jennifer C Gordon
- University of Tennessee Health Sciences Center, Memphis, TN, United States.
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22
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Kishi R, Araki A, Miyashita C, Itoh S, Minatoya M, Kobayashi S, Yamazaki K, Ait Bamai Y, Miura R, Tamura N. [Importance of Two Birth Cohorts (n=20,926 and n=514): 15 Years' Experience of the Hokkaido Study on Environment and Children's Health: Malformation, Development and Allergy]. Nihon Eiseigaku Zasshi 2018; 73:164-177. [PMID: 29848869 DOI: 10.1265/jjh.73.164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Since "Our Stolen Future" by Theo Colborn was published in 1996, global interest on the impact of chemical substances, such as the endocrine-disrupting action of chemicals, has increased. In Japan, "The Hokkaido Study on Environment and Children's Health: Malformation, Development and Allergy" was launched in 2001. It was a model of Japan Environment and Children's Study of the Ministry of the Environment. In a large-scale, Hokkaido cohort, we obtained the consent of 20,926 mothers at the organogenesis stage with the cooperation of 37 obstetrics clinics in Hokkaido. We tracked the effects of endocrine disruptors on developmental disorders. In a small-scale Sapporo cohort, we observed in detail the neuropsychiatric development of children with the consent of 514 mothers in their late pregnancy. We examined how prenatal exposure to low concentrations of environmental chemicals affect the development of organs and the postnatal development of children. Maternal exposure to POPs, such as PCB/dioxins and perfluorinated alkyl substances, has affected not only children's birth size, thyroid functions, and sex hormone levels, but also postnatal neurodevelopment, infection, and allergy among others. The associations of short-half-life substances, such as DEHP and BPA, with obesity, ASD, and ADHD have been investigated. Gene-environment interactions have been found for smoking, caffeine, folic acid, and PCB/dioxin. In 2015, our center was officially designated as the WHO Collaborating Centre for Environmental Health and Prevention of Chemical Hazards, and we continue to the contribute to the global perspectives of child health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reiko Kishi
- Center for Environmental and Health Sciences,Hokkaido University.,WHO Collaborating Centre for Environmental Health and Prevention of Chemical Hazards
| | - Atsuko Araki
- Center for Environmental and Health Sciences,Hokkaido University.,WHO Collaborating Centre for Environmental Health and Prevention of Chemical Hazards
| | - Chihiro Miyashita
- Center for Environmental and Health Sciences,Hokkaido University.,WHO Collaborating Centre for Environmental Health and Prevention of Chemical Hazards
| | - Sachiko Itoh
- Center for Environmental and Health Sciences,Hokkaido University.,WHO Collaborating Centre for Environmental Health and Prevention of Chemical Hazards
| | - Machiko Minatoya
- Center for Environmental and Health Sciences,Hokkaido University.,WHO Collaborating Centre for Environmental Health and Prevention of Chemical Hazards
| | - Sumitaka Kobayashi
- Center for Environmental and Health Sciences,Hokkaido University.,WHO Collaborating Centre for Environmental Health and Prevention of Chemical Hazards
| | - Keiko Yamazaki
- Center for Environmental and Health Sciences,Hokkaido University.,WHO Collaborating Centre for Environmental Health and Prevention of Chemical Hazards
| | - Yu Ait Bamai
- Center for Environmental and Health Sciences,Hokkaido University.,WHO Collaborating Centre for Environmental Health and Prevention of Chemical Hazards
| | - Ryu Miura
- Center for Environmental and Health Sciences,Hokkaido University.,WHO Collaborating Centre for Environmental Health and Prevention of Chemical Hazards
| | - Naomi Tamura
- Center for Environmental and Health Sciences,Hokkaido University.,WHO Collaborating Centre for Environmental Health and Prevention of Chemical Hazards
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23
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Affiliation(s)
- Gareth Richards
- Autism Research Centre, Department of Psychiatry, University of Cambridge, UK.
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24
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Manning JT, Fink B. Are there any "direct" human studies of digit ratio (2D:4D) and measures of prenatal sex hormones? Early Hum Dev 2017; 113:73-74. [PMID: 28927753 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2017.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2017] [Accepted: 09/05/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- John T Manning
- Applied Sports, Technology, Exercise and Medicine (A-STEM), Swansea University, Swansea, United Kingdom
| | - Bernhard Fink
- Institute of Psychology, University of Goettingen, Goettingen, Germany.
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25
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Pasterski V. Fetal Androgens and Human Sexual Orientation: Searching for the Elusive Link. ARCHIVES OF SEXUAL BEHAVIOR 2017; 46:1615-1619. [PMID: 28660433 PMCID: PMC5529473 DOI: 10.1007/s10508-017-1021-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Accepted: 06/17/2017] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Vickie Pasterski
- Department of Psychology, University of Cambridge, Free School Lane, Cambridge, CB2 3RQ, UK.
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26
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Kishi R, Araki A, Minatoya M, Hanaoka T, Miyashita C, Itoh S, Kobayashi S, Ait Bamai Y, Yamazaki K, Miura R, Tamura N, Ito K, Goudarzi H. The Hokkaido Birth Cohort Study on Environment and Children's Health: cohort profile-updated 2017. Environ Health Prev Med 2017; 22:46. [PMID: 29165157 PMCID: PMC5664568 DOI: 10.1186/s12199-017-0654-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2017] [Accepted: 04/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The Hokkaido Study on Environment and Children's Health is an ongoing study consisting of two birth cohorts of different population sizes: the Sapporo cohort and the Hokkaido cohort. Our primary study goals are (1) to examine the effects of low-level environmental chemical exposures on birth outcomes, including birth defects and growth retardation; (2) to follow the development of allergies, infectious diseases, and neurobehavioral developmental disorders and perform a longitudinal observation of child development; (3) to identify high-risk groups based on genetic susceptibility to environmental chemicals; and (4) to identify the additive effects of various chemicals, including tobacco smoking. The purpose of this report is to update the progress of the Hokkaido Study, to summarize the recent results, and to suggest future directions. In particular, this report provides the basic characteristics of the cohort populations, discusses the population remaining in the cohorts and those who were lost to follow-up at birth, and introduces the newly added follow-up studies and case-cohort study design. In the Sapporo cohort of 514 enrolled pregnant women, various specimens, including maternal and cord blood, maternal hair, and breast milk, were collected for the assessment of exposures to dioxins, polychlorinated biphenyls, organochlorine pesticides, perfluoroalkyl substances, phthalates, bisphenol A, and methylmercury. As follow-ups, face-to-face neurobehavioral developmental tests were conducted at several different ages. In the Hokkaido cohort of 20,926 enrolled pregnant women, the prevalence of complicated pregnancies and birth outcomes, such as miscarriage, stillbirth, low birth weight, preterm birth, and small for gestational age were examined. The levels of exposure to environmental chemicals were relatively low in these study populations compared to those reported previously. We also studied environmental chemical exposure in association with health outcomes, including birth size, neonatal hormone levels, neurobehavioral development, asthma, allergies, and infectious diseases. In addition, genetic and epigenetic analyses were conducted. The results of this study demonstrate the effects of environmental chemical exposures on genetically susceptible populations and on DNA methylation. Further study and continuous follow-up are necessary to elucidate the combined effects of chemical exposure on health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reiko Kishi
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Kita 12, Nishi 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0812, Japan.
| | - Atsuko Araki
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Kita 12, Nishi 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0812, Japan
| | - Machiko Minatoya
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Kita 12, Nishi 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0812, Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Hanaoka
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Kita 12, Nishi 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0812, Japan
| | - Chihiro Miyashita
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Kita 12, Nishi 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0812, Japan
| | - Sachiko Itoh
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Kita 12, Nishi 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0812, Japan
| | - Sumitaka Kobayashi
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Kita 12, Nishi 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0812, Japan
| | - Yu Ait Bamai
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Kita 12, Nishi 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0812, Japan
| | - Keiko Yamazaki
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Kita 12, Nishi 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0812, Japan
| | - Ryu Miura
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Kita 12, Nishi 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0812, Japan
| | - Naomi Tamura
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Kita 12, Nishi 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0812, Japan
- Graduate School of Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Kumiko Ito
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Kita 12, Nishi 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0812, Japan
- Department of Public Health, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Houman Goudarzi
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Kita 12, Nishi 7, Kita-ku, Sapporo, 060-0812, Japan
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
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27
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Araki A, Mitsui T, Goudarzi H, Nakajima T, Miyashita C, Itoh S, Sasaki S, Cho K, Moriya K, Shinohara N, Nonomura K, Kishi R. Prenatal di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate exposure and disruption of adrenal androgens and glucocorticoids levels in cord blood: The Hokkaido Study. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2017; 581-582:297-304. [PMID: 28043700 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.12.124] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2016] [Revised: 12/17/2016] [Accepted: 12/18/2016] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) is known for its endocrine disrupting properties. We previously demonstrated that prenatal DEHP exposure is associated with decreased progesterone levels and testosterone/estradiol ratio in the cord blood. However, evidence of the effects of prenatal DEHP exposure on adrenal androgen and glucocorticoids in infants is scarce. Thus, the objectives of this study were to investigate the association between prenatal DEHP exposure and adrenal androgen and glucocorticoids, and to discuss its effects on steroid hormone profiles in infants. This is part of a birth cohort study: The Hokkaido Study on Environment and Children's Health, Sapporo Cohort. Among the 514 participants, 202 mother-infant pairs with available data on maternal mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (MEHP), adrenal androgen (dehydroepiandrostenedione [DHEA] and androstenedione) and glucocorticoid (cortisol and cortisone) cord blood levels were included in this study. After adjusting for potential confounders, a linear regression analysis showed that maternal MEHP levels were associated with reduced cortisol and cortisone levels and glucocorticoid/adrenal androgen ratio, whereas increased DHEA levels and DHEA/androstenedione ratio. In a quartile model, when comparing the adjusted least square means in the 4th quartile of MEHP with those in the 1st quartile, cortisol and cortisone levels and glucocorticoid/adrenal androgen ratio decreased, whereas DHEA/androstenedione and cortisol/cortisone ratios increased. Significant p-value trends for cortisol and cortisone levels, cortisol/cortisone ratio, and glucocorticoid/adrenal androgen ratio were observed. In combination with the previous results of reduced progesterone levels and testosterone/estradiol ratio, prenatal exposure to DEHP altered the steroid hormone profiles of infants. Further studies investigating the long-term effects of DEHP exposure on growth, neurodevelopment, and gonad and reproductive function are required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Atsuko Araki
- Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, Kita 12, Nishi 7, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Takahiko Mitsui
- Department of Urology, Hokkaido University Hospital, Kita 15, Nishi 7, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan; Yamanashi University, 1110, Shimogato, Chuo, Yamanashi, Japan
| | - Houman Goudarzi
- Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, Kita 12, Nishi 7, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan; Division of Respiratory Medicine, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 15, Nishi 7, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Tamie Nakajima
- Graduate School of Medicine, Nagoya University, Furo-cho, Chikusa-ku, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan; College of Life and Health Sciences, Chubu University, 1200 Matsumoto-cho, Kasugai, Aichi, Japan
| | - Chihiro Miyashita
- Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, Kita 12, Nishi 7, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Sachiko Itoh
- Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, Kita 12, Nishi 7, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Seiko Sasaki
- Department of Public Health, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 15, Nishi 7, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Kazutoshi Cho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hokkaido University Hospital, Kita 15, Nishi 7, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Kimihiko Moriya
- Department of Renal and Genitourinary Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 15, Nishi 7, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Nobuo Shinohara
- Department of Renal and Genitourinary Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 15, Nishi 7, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Katsuya Nonomura
- Department of Renal and Genitourinary Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Kita 15, Nishi 7, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan; Kushiro Rosai Hospital, 13-23, Nakazono-cho, Kushiro, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Reiko Kishi
- Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Hokkaido University, Kita 12, Nishi 7, Sapporo, Hokkaido, Japan.
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28
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Mitsui T, Araki A, Goudarzi H, Miyashita C, Ito S, Sasaki S, Kitta T, Moriya K, Cho K, Morioka K, Kishi R, Shinohara N, Takeda M, Nonomura K. Effects of adrenal androgens during the prenatal period on the second to fourth digit ratio in school-aged children. Steroids 2016; 113:46-51. [PMID: 27343975 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2016.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2016] [Revised: 05/23/2016] [Accepted: 06/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We investigated the relationship between the levels of adrenal steroid hormones in cord blood and the second to fourth digit ratio (2D/4D), which is regarded as an indirect method to investigate the putative effects of prenatal exposure to androgens, in school-aged children. MATERIALS AND METHODS Of the 514 mother-child pairs who participated in the prospective cohort study of birth in Sapporo between 2002 and 2005, the following adrenal steroid hormone levels in 294 stored cord blood samples (135 males and 159 females) were measured; cortisol, cortisone, androstenedione and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). A total of 190 out of 350 children who were currently school-aged and contactable for this survey sent back photocopies of their palms for 2D/4D measurements. RESULTS 2D/4D in all right hands, left hands, and mean values was significantly lower in males than in females (p<0.01). DHEA levels were significantly higher in females. A multivariate regression model showed that 2D/4D negatively correlated with DHEA in males only (p<0.01). No correlations were observed in the other adrenal steroid hormones tested in males or in any adrenal steroid hormones in females. CONCLUSION DHEA is mainly secreted in large amounts by the adrenal gland and is transformed into active sex-steroid hormones in peripheral tissues. The present study demonstrated that sex differences in digits were influenced by adrenal androgens during the prenatal period, possibly through intracrinological processes for androgen receptors located in fetal cartilaginous tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiko Mitsui
- Department of Urology, University of Yamanashi Graduate School of Medical Science, Japan; Department of Urology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan.
| | - Atsuko Araki
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Japan
| | - Houman Goudarzi
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Japan
| | - Chihiro Miyashita
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Japan
| | - Sachiko Ito
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Japan
| | - Seiko Sasaki
- Department of Public Health, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Takeya Kitta
- Department of Urology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Kimihiko Moriya
- Department of Urology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Kazutoshi Cho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Keita Morioka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Reiko Kishi
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Japan
| | - Nobuo Shinohara
- Department of Urology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Japan
| | - Masayuki Takeda
- Department of Urology, University of Yamanashi Graduate School of Medical Science, Japan
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Mitsui T, Araki A, Miyashita C, Ito S, Ikeno T, Sasaki S, Kitta T, Moriya K, Cho K, Morioka K, Kishi R, Shinohara N, Takeda M, Nonomura K. The Relationship between the Second-to-Fourth Digit Ratio and Behavioral Sexual Dimorphism in School-Aged Children. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0146849. [PMID: 26756472 PMCID: PMC4710460 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0146849] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2015] [Accepted: 12/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Sexually dimorphic brain development and behavior are known to be influenced by sex hormones exposure in prenatal periods. On the other hand, second-to forth digit ratio (2D/4D) has been used as an indirect method to investigate the putative effects of prenatal exposure to androgen. In the present study, we herein investigated the relationship between gender-role play behavior and the second-to-fourth digit ratio (2D/4D), which has been used as an indirect method to investigate the putative effects of prenatal exposure to androgens, in school-aged children. Among 4981 children who became 8 years old by November 2014 and were contactable for this survey by The Hokkaido Study of Environment and Children's Health, 1631 (32.7%), who had data for 2D/4D and Pre-school Activities Inventory (PSAI) as well as data for the survey at baseline, were available for analysis. Parents sent reports of PSAI on the sex-typical characteristics, preferred toys, and play activities of children, and black and white photocopies of the left and right hand palms via mail. PSAI consisted of 12 masculine items and 12 feminine items, and a composite score was created by subtracting the feminine score from the masculine score, with higher scores representing masculine-typical behavior. While composite scores in PSAI were significantly higher in boys than in girls, 2D/4D was significantly lower in boys than in girls. Although the presence or absence of brothers or sisters affected the composite, masculine, and feminine scored of PSAI, a multivariate regression model revealed that 2D/4D negatively correlated with the composite scores of PSAI in boys, whereas no correlation was found in girls. Although 2D/4D negatively correlated with the masculine score in boys and girls, no correlation was observed between 2D/4D and the feminine score. In conclusion, although social factors, such as the existence of brother or sisters, affect dimorphic brain development and behavior in childhood, the present study revealed that the prenatal hormonal environment was an important factor influencing masculine-typical dimorphic brain development and behavior in school-aged children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiko Mitsui
- Department of Urology, University of Yamanashi Graduate School of Medical Science, Chuo-city, Japan
- Department of Urology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
- * E-mail:
| | - Atsuko Araki
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Chihiro Miyashita
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Sachiko Ito
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Tamiko Ikeno
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Seiko Sasaki
- Department of Public Health, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Takeya Kitta
- Department of Urology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Kimihiko Moriya
- Department of Urology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Kazutoshi Cho
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Keita Morioka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Reiko Kishi
- Hokkaido University Center for Environmental and Health Sciences, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Nobuo Shinohara
- Department of Urology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Masayuki Takeda
- Department of Urology, University of Yamanashi Graduate School of Medical Science, Chuo-city, Japan
| | - Katsuya Nonomura
- Department of Urology, Hokkaido University Graduate School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan
- Department of Urology, Kushiro Rosai Hospital, Kushiro, Japan
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30
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Bove R, Malik MT, Diaz-Cruz C, Chua A, Saraceno TJ, Bargiela D, Greeke E, Glanz BI, Healy BC, Chitnis T. The 2D:4D ratio, a proxy for prenatal androgen levels, differs in men with and without MS. Neurology 2015; 85:1209-13. [PMID: 26341868 DOI: 10.1212/wnl.0000000000001990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2015] [Accepted: 05/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether the 2D:4D ratio (ratio of the second and fourth digit lengths), a proxy for lower prenatal androgen to estrogen ratio, differs in men with and without multiple sclerosis (MS) using a case-control study design. METHODS We obtained 2 digital scans of the right hand for men with MS presenting to a scheduled clinic visit at a large MS referral center, and for men without autoimmune or endocrine diseases. All individuals were aged 18 to 65 years, right-handed, and reported no prior digit trauma. We calculated a mean 2D:4D ratio using digital calipers. In participants with MS, we assessed age at first MS symptoms, MS type, and the MS Severity Score; 51 had provided a testosterone level within 10 years of symptom onset. Our primary analysis was a cross-sectional comparison of the 2D:4D ratio between men with and without MS, using a 2-sample t test for independent samples assuming unequal variance. RESULTS In total, we scanned 137 men with MS and 145 men without MS. A statistically significant association between 2D:4D ratio and MS status was observed in the univariate logistic regression model (p<0.05). These differences were not associated with age or race, which differed between the 2 groups. In participants with MS, the 2D:4D ratio was not correlated with MS type, age at first symptoms, or MS Severity Score (p>0.15 for each), and it was not correlated with adult testosterone levels (r=0.06, p=0.68, n=51). CONCLUSIONS During the prenatal period, low androgens could represent a risk factor for MS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riley Bove
- From the Partners Multiple Sclerosis Center (R.B., M.T.M., C.D.-C., A.C., T.J.S., D.B., E.G., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Brookline; Harvard Medical School (R.B., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Boston; Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases (R.B., D.B., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Harvard Medical School, Boston; and Massachusetts General Hospital Biostatistics Center (B.C.H.), Boston, MA
| | - Muhammed T Malik
- From the Partners Multiple Sclerosis Center (R.B., M.T.M., C.D.-C., A.C., T.J.S., D.B., E.G., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Brookline; Harvard Medical School (R.B., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Boston; Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases (R.B., D.B., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Harvard Medical School, Boston; and Massachusetts General Hospital Biostatistics Center (B.C.H.), Boston, MA
| | - Camilo Diaz-Cruz
- From the Partners Multiple Sclerosis Center (R.B., M.T.M., C.D.-C., A.C., T.J.S., D.B., E.G., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Brookline; Harvard Medical School (R.B., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Boston; Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases (R.B., D.B., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Harvard Medical School, Boston; and Massachusetts General Hospital Biostatistics Center (B.C.H.), Boston, MA
| | - Alicia Chua
- From the Partners Multiple Sclerosis Center (R.B., M.T.M., C.D.-C., A.C., T.J.S., D.B., E.G., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Brookline; Harvard Medical School (R.B., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Boston; Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases (R.B., D.B., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Harvard Medical School, Boston; and Massachusetts General Hospital Biostatistics Center (B.C.H.), Boston, MA
| | - Taylor J Saraceno
- From the Partners Multiple Sclerosis Center (R.B., M.T.M., C.D.-C., A.C., T.J.S., D.B., E.G., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Brookline; Harvard Medical School (R.B., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Boston; Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases (R.B., D.B., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Harvard Medical School, Boston; and Massachusetts General Hospital Biostatistics Center (B.C.H.), Boston, MA
| | - David Bargiela
- From the Partners Multiple Sclerosis Center (R.B., M.T.M., C.D.-C., A.C., T.J.S., D.B., E.G., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Brookline; Harvard Medical School (R.B., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Boston; Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases (R.B., D.B., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Harvard Medical School, Boston; and Massachusetts General Hospital Biostatistics Center (B.C.H.), Boston, MA
| | - Emily Greeke
- From the Partners Multiple Sclerosis Center (R.B., M.T.M., C.D.-C., A.C., T.J.S., D.B., E.G., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Brookline; Harvard Medical School (R.B., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Boston; Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases (R.B., D.B., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Harvard Medical School, Boston; and Massachusetts General Hospital Biostatistics Center (B.C.H.), Boston, MA
| | - Bonnie I Glanz
- From the Partners Multiple Sclerosis Center (R.B., M.T.M., C.D.-C., A.C., T.J.S., D.B., E.G., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Brookline; Harvard Medical School (R.B., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Boston; Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases (R.B., D.B., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Harvard Medical School, Boston; and Massachusetts General Hospital Biostatistics Center (B.C.H.), Boston, MA
| | - Brian C Healy
- From the Partners Multiple Sclerosis Center (R.B., M.T.M., C.D.-C., A.C., T.J.S., D.B., E.G., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Brookline; Harvard Medical School (R.B., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Boston; Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases (R.B., D.B., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Harvard Medical School, Boston; and Massachusetts General Hospital Biostatistics Center (B.C.H.), Boston, MA
| | - Tanuja Chitnis
- From the Partners Multiple Sclerosis Center (R.B., M.T.M., C.D.-C., A.C., T.J.S., D.B., E.G., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Department of Neurology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Brookline; Harvard Medical School (R.B., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Boston; Ann Romney Center for Neurologic Diseases (R.B., D.B., B.I.G., B.C.H., T.C.), Harvard Medical School, Boston; and Massachusetts General Hospital Biostatistics Center (B.C.H.), Boston, MA.
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