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Sivakumar S, Kressel A, Mendonca R, Girshin M. Battle of the Blocks: Which Pain Management Technique Triumphs in Gender-Affirming Bilateral Mastectomies? J Clin Med Res 2024; 16:284-292. [PMID: 39027810 PMCID: PMC11254309 DOI: 10.14740/jocmr5159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Gender-affirming mastectomy, performed on transgender men and non-binary individuals, frequently leads to considerable postoperative pain. This pain can significantly affect both patient satisfaction and the overall recovery process. The study examines the efficacy of four analgesic techniques pectoral nerve (PECS) 2 block, erector spinae plane (ESP) block, thoracic wall local anesthesia infiltration (TWI), and systemic multimodal analgesia (SMA) in managing perioperative pain, with special consideration for the effects of chronic testosterone therapy on pain thresholds. Methods A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients aged 18 - 45 who underwent gender-affirming bilateral mastectomies at a New York City community hospital. The study compared intraoperative and post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) opioid consumption, postoperative pain scores, the interval to first rescue analgesia, and total PACU duration among the four analgesic techniques. Results The study found significant differences in intraoperative and PACU opioid consumption across the groups, with the PECS 2 block group showing the least opioid requirement. The PACU morphine milligram equivalent (MME) consumption was highest in the SMA group. Postoperative pain scores were significantly lower in the PECS and ESP groups at earlier time points post-surgery. However, by postoperative day 2, pain scores did not significantly differ among the groups. Chronic testosterone therapy did not significantly impact intraoperative opioid requirements. Conclusion The PECS 2 block is superior in reducing overall opioid consumption and providing effective postoperative pain control in gender-affirming mastectomies. The study underscores the importance of tailoring pain management strategies to the unique physiological responses of the transgender and non-binary community. Future research should focus on prospective designs, standardized block techniques, and the complex relationship between hormonal therapy and pain perception.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Aron Kressel
- Department of Plastic Surgery, Metropolitan Hospitals, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Roni Mendonca
- Department of Anesthesia, Metropolitan Hospitals, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Michael Girshin
- Department of Anesthesia, Metropolitan Hospitals, New York, NY 10029, USA
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2
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Stevenson R, Bishop DG, Rodseth RN. A review of the role of testosterone in the care of the critically ill patient. SOUTHERN AFRICAN JOURNAL OF CRITICAL CARE 2024; 40:e1303. [PMID: 38989478 PMCID: PMC11232568 DOI: 10.7196/sajcc.2024.v40i1.1303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background Testosterone is an anabolic and androgenic steroid hormone therapeutically used to produce male sex characteristics. It has also been shown to have a modulating effect on proinflammatory biomarkers. Critical illness is characterised by a proinflammatory and catabolic state and is accompanied by altered testosterone production, which may persist into the recovery phase. Testosterone may, therefore be a potential therapeutic option in critical illness. This paper reviews normal testosterone physiology, and the changes seen during critical illness and systematically reviews testosterone therapy during both the acute and chronic phases of critical illness. Contribution of the study This article explains the pathophysiology of testosterone during critical illness and explores the therapeutic value of testosterone in the management of critically ill patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Stevenson
- Department of Anaesthesia, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - D G Bishop
- Department of Anaesthesia and Critical Care, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
| | - R N Rodseth
- Department of Anaesthesia and Critical Care, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Pietermaritzburg, South Africa
- Netcare Ltd, Johannesburg, South Africa
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Sood A, Hosseinpour A, Sood A, Avula S, Durrani J, Bhatia V, Gupta R. Cardiovascular Outcomes of Hypogonadal Men Receiving Testosterone Replacement Therapy: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Endocr Pract 2024; 30:2-10. [PMID: 37797887 DOI: 10.1016/j.eprac.2023.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the impact of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) on cardiovascular outcomes in hypogonadal men. METHODS A meta-analysis of 26 randomized controlled trials involving 10 941 participants was conducted. Various clinical outcomes, including all-cause mortality, cardiovascular-related mortality, myocardial infarction, stroke, congestive heart failure, atrial fibrillation, pulmonary embolism, and venous thrombosis, were assessed. RESULTS No statistically significant differences were observed between the TRT group and the control group in terms of these clinical outcomes. Sensitivity analysis and publication bias assessment supported the robustness of the findings. Meta-regression analysis found no significant associations between clinical outcomes and potential covariates, including age, diabetes, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and smoking. DISCUSSION Previous research on TRT and cardiovascular events, with comparisons to studies like the Testosterone Trials and the studies conducted by Vigen et al, Finkle et al, Layton et al, and Wallis et al, is provided. The significance of the systematic review and meta-analysis approach is emphasized, particularly its exclusive focus on hypogonadal patients. CONCLUSION This study offers reassurance that TRT does not increase mortality risk or worsen cardiovascular outcomes in hypogonadal men. However, further research, especially long-term studies involving diverse populations, is essential to strengthen the evidence base and broaden the applicability of these findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aayushi Sood
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education, Scranton, Pennsylvania.
| | - Alireza Hosseinpour
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Akshit Sood
- Department of Medicine, Navjivan General and Maternity Hospital, Jalandhar, Punjab, India
| | - Sreekant Avula
- Department of Diabetes, Endocrinology & Metabolism, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Jawahar Durrani
- Department of Internal Medicine, The Wright Center for Graduate Medical Education, Scranton, Pennsylvania
| | - Vishal Bhatia
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, St Vincent Medical Group, Evansville, Indiana
| | - Rahul Gupta
- Department of Cardiology, Lehigh Valley Heart Institute, Lehigh Valley Health Network, Allentown, Pennsylvania
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Groti Antonic K, Antonic B, Caliber M, Dhindsa S. Men, testosterone and Covid-19. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2024; 100:56-65. [PMID: 37501254 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14952] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
Men have more severe Coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) outcomes and higher mortality rates than women, and it was suggested that testosterone levels might promote severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection and Covid-19 severity. However, clinical studies have not supported this theory. Studies have consistently shown that serum testosterone concentrations during acute Covid-19 in men are inversely proportional to the inflammatory cytokines and severity of illness. It is likely that lower testosterone concentrations in this setting are a result of acute Covid-19 illness on the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular axis. Clinical trials that attempted to lower testosterone concentrations further or block androgen signaling acutely during Covid-19 in men did not result in improved Covid-19 outcomes. Additionally, pre-existing male hypogonadism, diagnosed before Covid-19 pandemic, was found to be a risk factor for hospitalization from Covid-19. In this review, we also discuss the preclinical and mechanistic studies that have evaluated the role of androgens in SARS-CoV-2 infection and illness. Finally, long-term consequences of Covid-19 on male reproductive health are reviewed. SARS-CoV-2 virus is known to infiltrate testis and induce orchitis in men, but it is unclear if Covid-19 leads to an increase in incidence of male hypogonadism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristina Groti Antonic
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Medical Faculty, University of Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | | | - Monica Caliber
- American Medical Writers Association, Miami, Florida, USA
| | - Sandeep Dhindsa
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Saint Louis University, Saint Louis, Missouri, USA
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Ohlsson C, Nethander M, Norlén AK, Poutanen M, Gudmundsson EF, Aspelund T, Sigurdsson S, Ryberg H, Gudnason V, Tivesten Å. Serum DHEA and Testosterone Levels Associate Inversely With Coronary Artery Calcification in Elderly Men. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:3272-3279. [PMID: 37391895 PMCID: PMC10655543 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Epidemiological and preclinical data support cardiovascular, mainly protective, effects of sex steroids in men, but the mechanisms underlying the cardiovascular actions of sex steroids are poorly understood. Vascular calcification parallels the development of atherosclerosis, but is increasingly recognized as a diversified, highly regulated process, which itself may have pathophysiological importance for clinical cardiovascular events. OBJECTIVE To investigate the association between serum sex steroids and coronary artery calcification (CAC) in elderly men. METHODS We used gas chromatography tandem mass spectrometry to analyze a comprehensive sex steroid profile, including levels of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), androstenedione, estrone, testosterone, estradiol, and dihydrotestosterone, in men from the population-based AGES-Reykjavik study (n = 1287, mean 76 years). Further, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) was assayed and bioavailable hormone levels calculated. CAC score was determined by computed tomography. The main outcome measures were cross-sectional associations between dehydroepiandrosterone, androstenedione, estrone, testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, and estradiol and quintiles of CAC. RESULTS Serum levels of DHEA, androstenedione, testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, and bioavailable testosterone showed significant inverse associations with CAC, while estrone, estradiol, bioavailable estradiol, and SHBG did not. DHEA, testosterone, and bioavailable testosterone remained associated with CAC after adjustment for traditional cardiovascular risk factors. In addition, our results support partially independent associations between adrenal-derived DHEA and testes-derived testosterone and CAC. CONCLUSION Serum levels of DHEA and testosterone are inversely associated with CAC in elderly men, partially independently from each other. These results raise the question whether androgens from both the adrenals and the testes may contribute to male cardiovascular health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claes Ohlsson
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Osteoporosis Centre, Centre for Bone and Arthritis Research at the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, SE-413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Drug Treatment, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Region Västra Götaland, SE-413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Maria Nethander
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Osteoporosis Centre, Centre for Bone and Arthritis Research at the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, SE-413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
- Bioinformatics and Data Centre, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, SE-405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anna-Karin Norlén
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, SE-413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Matti Poutanen
- Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Osteoporosis Centre, Centre for Bone and Arthritis Research at the Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, SE-413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
- Research Centre for Integrative Physiology and Pharmacology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, FI-20520 Turku, Finland
| | | | - Thor Aspelund
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
| | | | - Henrik Ryberg
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, SE-413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Vilmundur Gudnason
- Icelandic Heart Association, 201 Kopavogur, Iceland
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Iceland, 101 Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Åsa Tivesten
- Wallenberg Laboratory for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, SE-413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
- Department of Endocrinology, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Region Västra Götaland, SE-413 45 Gothenburg, Sweden
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Guo F, Mao S, Long Y, Zhou B, Gao L, Huang H. The Influences of Perinatal Androgenic Exposure on Cardiovascular and Metabolic Disease of Offspring of PCOS. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:3179-3189. [PMID: 37380913 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01286-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023]
Abstract
Hyperandrogenism is an endocrine disorder affecting a large population of reproductive-aged women, thus proportionally high number of fetuses are subjected to prenatal androgenic exposure (PNA). The short-term stimulations at critical ontogenetic stages can wield lasting influences on the health. The most commonly diagnosed conditions in reproductive age women is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). PNA may affect the growth and development of many systems in the whole body and disrupts the normal metabolic trajectory in the offspring of PCOS, contributing to the prevalence of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases (CVMD), including myocardial hypertrophy, hypertension, hyperinsulinemia, insulin resistance, hyperglycemia, obesity, and dyslipidemia, which are the leading causes of hospitalizations in young PCOS offspring. In this review, we focus on the effects of prenatal androgenic exposure on the cardiovascular and metabolic diseases in offspring, discuss the possible pathogenesis respectively, and summarize potential management strategies to improve metabolic health of PCOS offspring. It is expected that the incidence of CVMD and the medical burden will be reduced in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei Guo
- Department of Reproduction and Development, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Suqing Mao
- The Quzhou Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Quzhou People's Hospital, Quzhou, China
| | - Yuhang Long
- Department of Reproduction and Development, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Bokang Zhou
- Department of Reproduction and Development, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling Gao
- Department of Reproduction and Development, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
| | - Hefeng Huang
- Department of Reproduction and Development, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China.
- Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China.
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Perusquía M, Herrera N, Jasso-Kamel J, González L, Alejandre N. Hyperandrogenism Protects Against High Blood Pressure by Nongenomic Mechanisms and Obesity Causes Hypertension in Females with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Endocr Res 2023; 48:101-111. [PMID: 37598377 DOI: 10.1080/07435800.2023.2249087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2023] [Revised: 07/17/2023] [Accepted: 08/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Androgens induce vasorelaxation and reduce blood pressure in different mammals, including humans. Most women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), with hyperandrogenism, are obese and exhibit hypertension; thus, the fact that androgens increase blood pressure (BP) is controversial. Our aim was to determine whether hypertension is produced by androgen excess and/or obesity. METHODS Experiments were performed in dehydroepiandrosterone; (DHEA, s.c)-induced PCOS model. BP from nonobese and obese rats with PCOS (fed a normal or high-fat diet, respectively) was evaluated weekly for 10 weeks by plethysmography and compared between them. We determined whether androgen receptors are responsible for androgen action on BP in rats with PCOS; a group of DHEA-treated rats was implanted with pellets of an antiandrogen and was compared with nonobese rats with PCOS. Isometric tension from aortas of nonobese and obese rats was recorded and compared to explore the integrity of the vascular endothelium when acetylcholine-induced endothelium-dependent vascular relaxation on phenylephrine contraction. Additionally, BP was obtained from 30 women diagnosed with PCOS: nonobese (BMI ≤25) and obese women (BMI ≥35) and compared with healthy counterparts; 15 obese and 15 nonobese women. RESULTS Nonobese rats and women with PCOS showed hypotension, while obese rats and women with PCOS displayed hypertension. Healthy obese women were hypertensive and nonobese women remained normotensive. Antiandrogen did not modify the BP values in nonobese rats with PCOS, and obese rats with PCOS revealed marked endothelial dysfunction. CONCLUSIONS Our findings show that obesity is responsible for hypertension in PCOS and partial endothelial damage was observed, which may contribute to elevated BP. Remarkably, hyperandrogenism is capable of regulating BP to low values that are androgen receptor-independent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Perusquía
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Fisiología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México, México
| | - Nieves Herrera
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Fisiología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México, México
| | - Jaime Jasso-Kamel
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Fisiología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México, México
| | - Lorena González
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Fisiología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México, México
| | - Nohemí Alejandre
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Fisiología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad de México, México
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Traish AM. Major cardiovascular disease risk in men with testosterone deficiency (hypogonadism): appraisal of short, medium and long-term testosterone therapy - a narrative review. Sex Med Rev 2023; 11:384-394. [PMID: 37587664 DOI: 10.1093/sxmrev/qead031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2023] [Revised: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 07/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Low testosterone (T) levels are associated with obesity, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes mellitus and altered lipid profiles, thus contributing to increased cardiovascular disease risk. Hence T deficiency has a detrimental effect on men's vascular health, quality of life and increased mortality. OBJECTIVES This review aims to present summary of data in the contemporary clinical literature pertaining to the benefits of T therapy in clinical studies with varying durations on vascular health in men with T deficiency. METHODS A Medline search using PubMed and EMBASE was performed using the following key words: "testosterone deficiency," "testosterone therapy," major cardiovascular adverse events", "cardiovascular disease". Relevant studies were extracted, evaluated, and analyzed. We evaluated findings from clinical trials, observational studies and systematic reviews and meta-analyses to develop a comprehensive account of the critical role of T in maintaining vascular health. RESULTS Considerable evidence beginning with studies published in 1940s concomitant with findings from the utmost recent clinical studies suggests a clinical value of T therapy in maintaining vascular health and reducing cardiovascular mortality. The current scientific and clinical evidence demonstrates strong relationship between low circulating T levels and risk of cardiovascular disease and T therapy is deemed safe in men with hypogonadism when given in the physiological range with no apparent harm. CONCLUSION What emerges from the current clinical literature is that, irrespective of the length of study durations, testosterone therapy provides significant health benefits and reduces risk of cardiovascular disease. More important is that data from many observational and registry studies, demonstrated that longer durations of testosterone therapy were associated with greater health benefits and reduced cardiovascular risk. T therapy in men with T deficiency reduces the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events attributed to improving overall metabolic function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulmaged M Traish
- Department of Biochemistry & Department of Urology, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, United States
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Chen S, Wang S, Ding S, Zhang C. Evaluation of Tibial Hemodynamic Response to Glucose Tolerance Test in Young Healthy Males and Females. Nutrients 2023; 15:4062. [PMID: 37764845 PMCID: PMC10535503 DOI: 10.3390/nu15184062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 09/12/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The relationship between glucose metabolism and bone health remains underexplored despite its clinical relevance. This study utilized the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) and near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) to probe gender-specific disparities in tibial hemodynamic responses among young healthy adults. Twenty-eight healthy participants (14 males) aged 18-28 years old were recruited for this study. After ingesting a 75 g glucose solution, tibial hemodynamic responses were captured using NIRS in combination with a 5 min ischemic reperfusion technique, both before and at 30 min intervals for two hours post-glucose ingestion. Parameters measured included oxidative metabolic rate (via tissue saturation index [TSI]), immediate recovery slope after occlusion release (TSI10), and total recovery magnitude (ΔTSI). Post-glucose ingestion, both genders demonstrated a surge in blood glucose concentrations at every time point compared to baseline (p < 0.001, 0.002, 0.009, and 0.039 for males; p < 0.001, < 0.001, = 0.002, and 0.017 for females). Baseline tibial metabolic rate, TSI10, and ΔTSI did not significantly differ between males and females (p = 0.734, 0.839, and 0.164, respectively), with no discernible temporal effects in any hemodynamic parameters within each gender (p = 0.864, 0.308, and 0.399, respectively, for males; p = 0.973, 0.453, and 0.137, respectively, for females). We found comparable tibial hemodynamic responses to OGTT between genders. This study demonstrated the utility of NIRS in evaluating tibial hemodynamic responses to glucose ingestion through OGTT, enriching our understanding of the body's metabolic responses to glucose intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Si Chen
- School of Physical Education and Sport, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, China; (S.C.); (S.D.)
| | - Shubo Wang
- Globus Medical Inc., Audubon, PA 19403, USA;
| | - Shuqiao Ding
- School of Physical Education and Sport, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, China; (S.C.); (S.D.)
| | - Chuan Zhang
- School of Physical Education and Sport, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, China; (S.C.); (S.D.)
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Bianchi VE, von Haehling S. The treatment of chronic anemia in heart failure: a global approach. Clin Res Cardiol 2023:10.1007/s00392-023-02275-4. [PMID: 37660308 DOI: 10.1007/s00392-023-02275-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
Chronic anemia is an independent risk factor for mortality in patients with heart failure (HF). Restoring physiological hemoglobin (Hb) levels is essential to increase oxygen transport capacity to tissues and improve cell metabolism as well as physical and cardiac performance. Nutritional deficits and iron deficiency are the major causes of chronic anemia, but other etiologies include chronic kidney disease, inflammatory processes, and unexplained anemia. Hormonal therapy, including erythropoietin (EPO) and anabolic treatment in chronic anemia HF patients, may contribute to improving Hb levels and clinical outcomes. Although preliminary studies showed a beneficial effect of EPO therapy on cardiac efficiency and in HF, more recent studies have not confirmed this positive impact of EPO, alluding to its side effect profile. Physical exercise significantly increases Hb levels and the response of anemia to treatment. In malnourished patients and chronic inflammatory processes, low levels of anabolic hormones, such as testosterone and insulin-like growth factor-1, contribute to the development of chronic anemia. This paper aims to review the effect of nutrition, EPO, anabolic hormones, standard HF treatments, and exercise as regulatory mechanisms of chronic anemia and their cardiovascular consequences in patients with HF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vittorio Emanuele Bianchi
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Clinical Center Stella Maris, Strada Rovereta, 42, 47891, Falciano, San Marino.
| | - Stephan von Haehling
- Department of Cardiology and Pneumology, University of Göttingen Medical Center, Göttingen, Germany
- German Center for Cardiovascular Research (DZHK), Partner Site, Göttingen, Germany
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Allalou A, Peng J, Robinson GA, Marruganti C, D’Aiuto F, Butler G, Jury EC, Ciurtin C. Impact of puberty, sex determinants and chronic inflammation on cardiovascular risk in young people. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1191119. [PMID: 37441710 PMCID: PMC10333528 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1191119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Worrying trends of increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in children, adolescents and young people in the Modern Era have channelled research and public health strategies to tackle this growing epidemic. However, there are still controversies related to the dynamic of the impact of sex, age and puberty on this risk and on cardiovascular health outcomes later in life. In this comprehensive review of current literature, we examine the relationship between puberty, sex determinants and various traditional CVD-risk factors, as well as subclinical atherosclerosis in young people in general population. In addition, we evaluate the role of chronic inflammation, sex hormone therapy and health-risk behaviours on augmenting traditional CVD-risk factors and health outcomes, ultimately aiming to determine whether tailored management strategies for this age group are justified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amal Allalou
- University College London Medical School, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Junjie Peng
- Centre for Adolescent Rheumatology Versus Arthritis, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Rheumatology Research, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - George A. Robinson
- Centre for Adolescent Rheumatology Versus Arthritis, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Rheumatology Research, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Crystal Marruganti
- Eastman Dental Hospital, University College London Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Francesco D’Aiuto
- Eastman Dental Hospital, University College London Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gary Butler
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, University College London Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth C. Jury
- Centre for Rheumatology Research, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Coziana Ciurtin
- Centre for Adolescent Rheumatology Versus Arthritis, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Rheumatology Research, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
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Staehr C, Giblin JT, Gutiérrez‐Jiménez E, Guldbrandsen HØ, Tang J, Sandow SL, Boas DA, Matchkov VV. Neurovascular Uncoupling Is Linked to Microcirculatory Dysfunction in Regions Outside the Ischemic Core Following Ischemic Stroke. J Am Heart Assoc 2023; 12:e029527. [PMID: 37232244 PMCID: PMC10381981 DOI: 10.1161/jaha.123.029527] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Background Normal brain function depends on the ability of the vasculature to increase blood flow to regions with high metabolic demands. Impaired neurovascular coupling, such as the local hyperemic response to neuronal activity, may contribute to poor neurological outcome after stroke despite successful recanalization, that is, futile recanalization. Methods and Results Mice implanted with chronic cranial windows were trained for awake head-fixation before experiments. One-hour occlusion of the anterior middle cerebral artery branch was induced using single-vessel photothrombosis. Cerebral perfusion and neurovascular coupling were assessed by optical coherence tomography and laser speckle contrast imaging. Capillaries and pericytes were studied in perfusion-fixed tissue by labeling lectin and platelet-derived growth factor receptor β. Arterial occlusion induced multiple spreading depolarizations over 1 hour associated with substantially reduced blood flow in the peri-ischemic cortex. Approximately half of the capillaries in the peri-ischemic area were no longer perfused at the 3- and 24-hour follow-up (45% [95% CI, 33%-58%] and 53% [95% CI, 39%-66%] reduction, respectively; P<0.0001), which was associated with contraction of an equivalent proportion of peri-ischemic capillary pericytes. The capillaries in the peri-ischemic cortex that remained perfused showed increased point prevalence of dynamic flow stalling (0.5% [95% CI, 0.2%-0.7%] at baseline, 5.1% [95% CI, 3.2%-6.5%] and 3.2% [95% CI, 1.1%-5.3%] at 3- and 24-hour follow-up, respectively; P=0.001). Whisker stimulation at the 3- and 24-hour follow-up led to reduced neurovascular coupling responses in the sensory cortex corresponding to the peri-ischemic region compared with that observed at baseline. Conclusions Arterial occlusion led to contraction of capillary pericytes and capillary flow stalling in the peri-ischemic cortex. Capillary dysfunction was associated with neurovascular uncoupling. Neurovascular coupling impairment associated with capillary dysfunction may be a mechanism that contributes to futile recanalization. Hence, the results from this study suggest a novel treatment target to improve neurological outcome after stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Staehr
- Department of BiomedicineAarhus UniversityAarhusDenmark
- Neurophotonics Center, Department of Biomedical EngineeringBoston UniversityBostonMAUSA
| | - John T. Giblin
- Neurophotonics Center, Department of Biomedical EngineeringBoston UniversityBostonMAUSA
| | - Eugenio Gutiérrez‐Jiménez
- Center of Functionally Integrative Neuroscience, Institute for Clinical MedicineAarhus UniversityAarhusDenmark
| | | | - Jianbo Tang
- Neurophotonics Center, Department of Biomedical EngineeringBoston UniversityBostonMAUSA
- Department of Biomedical EngineeringSouthern University of Science and TechnologyShenzhenChina
| | - Shaun L. Sandow
- Biomedical Science, School of HealthUniversity of the Sunshine CoastSippy DownsAustralia
- Centre for Clinical Research, Faculty of MedicineThe University of QueenslandBrisbaneAustralia
| | - David A. Boas
- Neurophotonics Center, Department of Biomedical EngineeringBoston UniversityBostonMAUSA
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13
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Stallone JN, Oloyo AK. Cardiovascular and metabolic actions of the androgens: Is testosterone a Janus-faced molecule? Biochem Pharmacol 2023; 208:115347. [PMID: 36395900 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.115347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide and in the Western world, one-third of all deaths are attributed to CVD. A conspicuous characteristic of this healthcare epidemic is that most CVD is higher in men than in age-matched premenopausal women, yet reasons for these obvious sex differences remain poorly understood. Driven by clinical case and epidemiological studies and supported by animal experiments, a strong dogma emerged early on that testosterone (TES) exerts deleterious effects on cardiovascular health and exacerbates development of CVD and metabolic dysfunctions in men. In this review, earlier and more recent clinical and experimental animal evidence of cardiovascular and metabolic effects of androgens are discussed. The more recent evidence overwhelmingly suggests that it is progressive, age-dependent declines in TES levels in men that exacerbate CVD and metabolic dysfunctions, while TES exerts beneficial systemic hypotensive effects and protects against metabolic syndrome (MetS) and type2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Recent findings reveal existence of bi-directional modulation of glucose and fat homeostasis by TES in females vs males, such that age-dependent declines in TES levels in males and abnormal increases in normally low TES levels in females both result in similar dysfunction in glucose and fat homeostasis, resulting in development of MetS and T2DM, central risk factors for development of CVD, in men as well as women. These findings suggest that the long-held view that TES is detrimental to male health should be discarded in favor of the view that, at least in men, TES is beneficial to cardiovascular and metabolic health.
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Affiliation(s)
- John N Stallone
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology and Michael E. DeBakey Institute for Comparative Cardiovascular Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX 77843-4466, United States.
| | - Ahmed K Oloyo
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Lagos, Idi-Araba, Lagos 23401, Nigeria
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14
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Wang M, Yang Y, Xu Y. Brain nuclear receptors and cardiovascular function. Cell Biosci 2023; 13:14. [PMID: 36670468 PMCID: PMC9854230 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-023-00962-3] [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: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/12/2023] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Brain-heart interaction has raised up increasing attentions. Nuclear receptors (NRs) are abundantly expressed in the brain, and emerging evidence indicates that a number of these brain NRs regulate multiple aspects of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), including hypertension, heart failure, atherosclerosis, etc. In this review, we will elaborate recent findings that have established the physiological relevance of brain NRs in the context of cardiovascular function. In addition, we will discuss the currently available evidence regarding the distinct neuronal populations that respond to brain NRs in the cardiovascular control. These findings suggest connections between cardiac control and brain dynamics through NR signaling, which may lead to novel tools for the treatment of pathological changes in the CVDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengjie Wang
- grid.508989.50000 0004 6410 7501Department of Pediatrics, USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA
| | - Yongjie Yang
- grid.508989.50000 0004 6410 7501Department of Pediatrics, USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA
| | - Yong Xu
- grid.508989.50000 0004 6410 7501Department of Pediatrics, USDA/ARS Children’s Nutrition Research Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA ,grid.39382.330000 0001 2160 926XDepartment of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX USA
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15
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Ketchem JM, Bowman EJ, Isales CM. Male sex hormones, aging, and inflammation. Biogerontology 2023; 24:1-25. [PMID: 36596999 PMCID: PMC9810526 DOI: 10.1007/s10522-022-10002-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/15/2022] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Adequate levels of androgens (eugonadism), and specifically testosterone, are vital compounds for male quality of life, longevity, and positive health outcomes. Testosterone exerts its effects by binding to the androgen receptor, which is expressed in numerous tissues throughout the body. Significant research has been conducted on the impact of this steroid hormone on skeletal, muscle and adipose tissues and on the cardiovascular, immune, and nervous systems. Testosterone levels have also been studied in relation to the impact of diseases, aging, nutrition and the environment on its circulating levels. Conversely, the impact of testosterone on health has also been evaluated with respect to its cardiac and vascular protective effects, body composition, autoimmunity and all-cause mortality. The male aging process results in decreasing testosterone levels over time. The exact mechanisms and impact of these changes in testosterone levels with age on health- and life-span are still not completely clear. Further research is needed to determine the optimal testosterone and androgen levels to protect from chronic age-related conditions such as frailty and osteoporosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin M. Ketchem
- grid.410427.40000 0001 2284 9329Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912 USA
| | | | - Carlos M. Isales
- grid.410427.40000 0001 2284 9329Departments of Medicine, Neuroscience and Regenerative Medicine, Augusta University, Augusta, GA 30912 USA
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16
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Hauger RL, Saelzler UG, Pagadala MS, Panizzon MS. The role of testosterone, the androgen receptor, and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in depression in ageing Men. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2022; 23:1259-1273. [PMID: 36418656 PMCID: PMC9789012 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-022-09767-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Considerable research has shown that testosterone regulates many physiological systems, modulates clinical disorders, and contributes to health outcome. However, studies on the interaction of testosterone levels with depression and the antidepressant effect of testosterone replacement therapy in hypogonadal men with depression have been inconclusive. Current findings indicate that low circulating levels of total testosterone meeting stringent clinical criteria for hypogonadism and testosterone deficiency induced by androgen deprivation therapy are associated with increased risk for depression and current depressive symptoms. The benefits of testosterone replacement therapy in men with major depressive disorder and low testosterone levels in the clinically defined hypogonadal range remain uncertain and require further investigation. Important considerations going forward are that major depressive disorder is a heterogeneous phenotype with depressed individuals differing in inherited polygenic determinants, onset and clinical course, symptom complexes, and comorbidities that contribute to potential multifactorial differences in pathophysiology. Furthermore, polygenic mechanisms are likely to be critical to the biological heterogeneity that influences testosterone-depression interactions. A genetically informed precision medicine approach using genes regulating testosterone levels and androgen receptor sensitivity will likely be essential in gaining critical insight into the role of testosterone in depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard L Hauger
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health (CESAMH), VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA.
- Center for Behavior Genetics of Aging, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
| | - Ursula G Saelzler
- Center for Behavior Genetics of Aging, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Meghana S Pagadala
- Medical Scientist Training Program, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Biomedical Science Program, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Matthew S Panizzon
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health (CESAMH), VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
- Center for Behavior Genetics of Aging, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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17
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Yassin A, Saad F, Alwani M, Aboumarzouk OM, Al-Zoubi RM, Nettleship J, Kelly D, Al-Ansari A. The effects of long-term testosterone treatment on endocrine parameters in hypogonadal men: 12-year data from a prospective controlled registry study. Aging Male 2022; 25:185-191. [PMID: 35903984 DOI: 10.1080/13685538.2022.2099828] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Testosterone therapy (TTh) is the primary treatment for aging men with functional hypogonadism. Whilst the benefits of testosterone (T) replacement are well-evidenced, the long-term data for TTh on metabolic and endocrine parameters is limited. Here we present the effect of TTh on endocrine parameters in hypogonadal men at a 12-year follow-up. In this single-centre, cumulative, prospective, registry study, 321 hypogonadal men (mean age: 58.9 years) received testosterone undecanoate injections in 12-week intervals for up to 12 years. Blood samples were taken at every other visit to measure levels of total T (TT), calculated free T, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), estradiol, luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), progesterone and prolactin. We observed an increase in TT of 15.5 nmol/L (p < 0.0001), a reduction in SHBG of 10.5 nmol/L (p < 0.0001) and an increase in calculated free T of 383.04 pmol/L (p < 0.0001) over the study period. This was accompanied by an increase in estradiol levels by 14.9 pmol/L (p < 0.0001), and decreases in progesterone (0.2 ng/mL, p < 0.0001), LH (10.4 U/L, p < 0.0001) and FSH (8.4 U/L, p < 0.0001) were demonstrated at 12-years. The levels of prolactin remained unchanged. Long-term TTh altered hormonal parameters to predictably modify the endocrine system. These effects were sustained during the entire observation time of 12 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aksam Yassin
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology/Andrology & Men's Health, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Center of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dresden International University, Dresden, Germany
| | - Farid Saad
- Center of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dresden International University, Dresden, Germany
- Gulf Medical University School of Medicine, Ajman, U.A.E
| | - Mustafa Alwani
- School of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
- Surgical Research Section, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Omar M Aboumarzouk
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology/Andrology & Men's Health, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Raed M Al-Zoubi
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology/Andrology & Men's Health, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Joanne Nettleship
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Medical School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Daniel Kelly
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, Medical School, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
- Biomolecular Research Centre, Sheffield Hallam University, Sheffield, UK
| | - Abdulla Al-Ansari
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology/Andrology & Men's Health, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Center of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dresden International University, Dresden, Germany
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18
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Lucas-Herald AK, Touyz RM. Androgens and Androgen Receptors as Determinants of Vascular Sex Differences Across the Lifespan. Can J Cardiol 2022; 38:1854-1864. [PMID: 36156286 DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2022.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 09/16/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgens, including testosterone and its more potent metabolite dihydrotestosterone, exert multiple actions in the body. Physiologically, they play a critical role in male sex development. In addition, they influence vascular function, including arterial vasodilation and mediation of myogenic tone. Androgens are produced from 9 weeks' gestation in the human fetal testis, as well as in small amounts by the adrenal glands. Serum concentrations vary according to age and sex. The vasculature is a target for direct actions of androgens, which bind to various sex hormone receptors expressed in endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells. Androgens exert both vasoprotective and vasoinjurious effects, depending on multiple factors including sex-specific effects of androgens, heterogeneity of the vascular endothelium, differential expression of androgen and sex hormone receptors in endothelial and vascular smooth muscle cells, and the chronicity of androgen administration. Long-term administration of androgens induces vasoconstriction and influences endothelial permeability, whereas acute administration may have opposite effects. At the cellular level, androgens stimulate endothelial cell production of nitric oxide and inhibit proinflammatory signalling pathways, inducing vasorelaxation and vasoprotection. However, androgens also activate endothelial production of vasoconstrictors and stimulate recruitment of endothelial progenitor cells. In humans, both androgen deficiency and androgen excess are associated with increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. This review discusses how androgens modulate vascular sex differences across the lifespan by considering the actions and production of androgens in both sexes and describes how cardiovascular risk is altered as levels of androgens change with aging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela K Lucas-Herald
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom.
| | - Rhian M Touyz
- Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (RI-MUHC), McGill University, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
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19
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Aribas E, Roeters van Lennep JE, De Rijke YB, Laven JSE, Ikram MA, Peeters RP, Kavousi M. Sex steroids and sex steroid-binding globulin levels amongst middle-aged and elderly men and women from general population. Eur J Clin Invest 2022; 52:e13866. [PMID: 36038500 PMCID: PMC9787498 DOI: 10.1111/eci.13866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 08/06/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Availability of age- and sex-specific reference values for sex steroids and sex steroid-binding globulin (SHBG) levels allows for appropriate interpretation of research findings and their clinical applications. We report the sex-specific distribution and reference levels of sex steroids, including total estradiol, total testosterone and (calculated) free androgen index (cFAI), SHBG and other androgens dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS) and androstenedione across age. METHODS Using data from 3291 participants from the prospective population-based Rotterdam Study (2006-2008), we visualised the distribution of sex steroids and SHBG levels by calculating and depicting the 5th, 25th, 50th, 75th and 95th percentiles per year and per age-year across 5-year age bands to provide reference value ranges in men and women. Total estradiol and SHBG were measured using automated immunoassay and androgens using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). RESULT Mean age was 56.8 (range 45.6-79.9) years in men and 56.9 (range 45.7-79.9) years in women. Amongst men, total estradiol and SHBG showed an increasing trend from 45 years onwards. In women, total estradiol and SHBG showed a decreasing trend from 45 years until the age of 60. From 60 years onwards, SHBG showed an increasing trend. For total testosterone, a clear declining trend was observed amongst men but not women. Other androgens showed a similar decreasing trend in both sexes from 45 years onwards. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Our study underlines sex-specific trends in sex steroids and SHBG levels with ageing. This warrants taking into account sex- and age-specific reference values for sex steroids and SHBG when investigating their impact on health outcomes to prevent controversial results and allow for their appropriate clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elif Aribas
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Yolanda B De Rijke
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Joop S E Laven
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Mohammad Arfan Ikram
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Robin P Peeters
- Department of Internal Medicine, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Maryam Kavousi
- Department of Epidemiology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
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20
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Ali BR, Alameri AN, AL Rumaidh S, Ethaib S. Correlation between reproductive hormones levels and semen quality in patients with diabetes. J Med Life 2022; 15:1507-1510. [PMID: 36762321 PMCID: PMC9884353 DOI: 10.25122/jml-2022-0079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is rarely sought among infertile patients due to a lack of studies and inconsistency regarding its impact on semen quality. This cross-sectional study aimed to determine the influence of T2DM on the pituitary gland hormones (FSH and LH) in males. A total of 60 participants participated in this study, of which 35 were diagnosed with diabetes mellitus, and 25 were without diabetes. Fasting blood sugar, HbA1c, LH, FSH, TT, E2, and prolactin were tested. Diabetic men had lower serum LH, FSH, and TT levels than non-diabetics and higher prolactin and E2 levels. According to the semen examination, including sperm count, PH, motility, and morphology, diabetic patients had considerably lower sperm counts, motility, and morphology than non-diabetic patients. In conclusion, the decrease in the concentration of reproductive hormones in diabetic patients leads to sexual weakness, resulting in abnormal seminal fluid parameters, which are below the normal levels than in apparently healthy persons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baida Rihan Ali
- Department of Pathological Analysis, College of Science, University of Thi-Qar, Al-Nasiriya, Iraq,Corresponding Author: Baida Rihan Ali, Department of Pathological Analysis, College of Science, University of Thi-Qar, Al-Nasiriya, Iraq. E-mail:
| | - Ahmed Nasir Alameri
- Department of Physiology, College of Medicine, University of Thi-Qar, Al-Nasiriya, Iraq
| | - Shaymaa AL Rumaidh
- Department of Pathological Analysis, College of Science, University of Thi-Qar, Al-Nasiriya, Iraq
| | - Saleem Ethaib
- Department of Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, University of Thi-Qar, Al-Nasiriya, Iraq
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21
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Rosato E, Sciarra F, Anastasiadou E, Lenzi A, Venneri MA. Revisiting the physiological role of androgens in women. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2022; 17:547-561. [PMID: 36352537 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2022.2144834] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2022] [Accepted: 11/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Extensive research underlines the critical functions of androgens in females. Nevertheless, the precise mechanisms of their action are poorly understood. Here, we review the existing literature regarding the physiological role of androgens in women throughout life. AREAS COVERED Several studies show that androgen receptors (ARs) are broadly expressed in numerous female tissues. They are essential for many physiological processes, including reproductive, sexual, cardiovascular, bone, muscle, and brain health. They are also involved in adipose tissue and liver function. Androgen levels change with the menstrual cycle and decrease in the first decades of life, independently of menopause. EXPERT OPINION To date, studies are limited by including small numbers of women, the difficulty of dosing androgens, and their cyclical variations. In particular, whether androgens play any significant role in regulating the establishment of pregnancy is poorly understood. The neural functions of ARs have also been investigated less thoroughly, although it is expressed at high levels in brain structures. Moreover, the mechanism underlying the decline of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) with age is unclear. Other factors, including estrogen's effect on adrenal androgen production, reciprocal regulation of ARs, and non-classical effects of androgens, remain to be determined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Rosato
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Sciarra
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Eleni Anastasiadou
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Lenzi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Mary Anna Venneri
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
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22
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Current Management and Controversies Surrounding Andropause. Urol Clin North Am 2022; 49:583-592. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ucl.2022.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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23
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Perusquía M. Androgens and Non-Genomic vascular responses in hypertension. Biochem Pharmacol 2022; 203:115200. [PMID: 35926652 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2022.115200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
Arterial hypertension is a global public health concern. In the last few years, the interest in androgen deficiency has been growing, and the association between androgens and high blood pressure (BP) is still controversial. One purpose of this review was to summarize the available findings in order to clarify whether male sex steroid hormones have beneficial or harmful effect on BP. The second purpose was to enhance the recognition of the acute non-genomic sex-independent vasorelaxing effect of androgens. Remarkably, BP variation is expected to be a consequence of the androgen-induced vasorelaxation which reduces systemic BP; hence the in vivo vasodepressor, hypotensive, and antihypertensive responses of androgens were also analyzed. This article reviews the current understanding of the physiological regulation of vascular smooth muscle contractility by androgens. Additionally, it summarizes older and more recent data on androgens, and some of the possible underlying mechanisms of relaxation, structural-functional differences in the androgen molecules, and their designing ability to induce vasorelaxation. The clinical relevance of these findings in terms of designing future therapeutics mainly the 5-reduced metabolite of testosterone, 5β-dihydrotestosterone, is also highlighted. Literature collected through a PubMed database search, as well as our experimental work, was used for the present review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mercedes Perusquía
- Departamento de Biología Celular y Fisiología, Instituto de Investigaciones Biomédicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, 04510 Ciudad de México, México.
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24
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Liu P, Wei D, Nie L, Fan K, Xu Q, Wang L, Wang J, Song Y, Wang M, Liu X, Hou J, Yu S, Li L, Wang C, Huo W, Fan C, Mao Z. The correlation between testosterone and stroke and the mediating role of blood pressure: The Henan rural cohort study. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2022; 31:106669. [PMID: 35985144 DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2022.106669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2022] [Revised: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 10/15/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS We aimed to investigate the association of serum testosterone with stroke and calculate the proportion explained by blood pressure on this association. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 6175 subjects were included in this study. Serum testosterone was quantified by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. The logistic regression model was used to evaluate the association between serum testosterone and stroke. Linear regression analysis was used to assess the associations of serum testosterone with blood pressure. In addition, mediation analysis was performed to identify the mediation effects of blood pressure on the association of serum testosterone with stroke. Sex-stratified analysis was employed throughout the research. RESULTS After adjusting for multiple variables, serum testosterone levels were negatively associated with stroke in males (per 1 unit natural log-transformed, odds ratio (OR) = 0.81, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.69-0.94; Tertile 3 vs Tertile 1, OR = 0.65, 95% CI:0.44-0.96). Furthermore, blood pressure played a partial mediating role in the relationship between testosterone and stroke in males. The indirect effect/total effect of systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and mean arterial pressure were 7.37%, 9.54% and 9.22%, respectively. Notably, the relationship between testosterone and stroke and the role of blood pressure in regulating them was not observed in females. CONCLUSION This study describes that in rural Chinese males, testosterone can reduce the risk of stroke by affecting blood pressure. To some extent, we provide a new epidemiological evidence for the relationship between testosterone and stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengling Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Dandan Wei
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Luting Nie
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Keliang Fan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Qingqing Xu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Lulu Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Juan Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Yu Song
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Mian Wang
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Xiaotian Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Jian Hou
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Songcheng Yu
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
| | - Linlin Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Chongjian Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Wenqian Huo
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Caini Fan
- Department of Hypertension, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, Zhengzhou University People's Hospital,Henan University People's Hospital, Zhengzhou 450003, China
| | - Zhenxing Mao
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China.
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25
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Wilhelmson AS, Johansson I, Fogelstrand L, Fagman JB, Arnal JF, Karlsson MCI, Tivesten Å. Deficiency of mature B cells does not alter the atherogenic response to castration in male mice. Sci Rep 2022; 12:12931. [PMID: 35902665 PMCID: PMC9334632 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-16846-4] [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: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Testosterone deficiency in men is associated with increased atherosclerosis burden and increased cardiovascular risk. In male mice, testosterone deficiency induced by castration increases atherosclerosis as well as mature B cell numbers in spleen. As B cells are potentially pro-atherogenic, we hypothesized that there may be a link between these effects. To address whether mature B cell deficiency alter the atherogenic response to castration, we studied B cell-deficient μMT and genotype control male mice on an atherosclerosis-prone Apoe-/- background that were castrated or sham-operated pre-pubertally and fed a high-fat diet between 8 and 16 weeks of age to accelerate atherosclerosis development. Genotype did not affect the effects of castration on body weight or weights of fat depots and there were no differences in serum cholesterol levels across the four groups. Atherosclerosis assessed by quantification of lesion area in serial sections of the aortic root was significantly increased by castration and by the μMT mutation, with no significant interaction between genotype and surgery. In conclusion, castration evokes a similar atherogenic response in B cell-deficient μMT and control mice. These data suggest that atherogenesis following castration is unrelated to the effects of androgens on mature B cell numbers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna S Wilhelmson
- Wallenberg Laboratory for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden. .,The Finsen Laboratory, Rigshospitalet, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark. .,Biotech Research and Innovation Center (BRIC), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark. .,Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Stem Cell Biology (DanStem), Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Inger Johansson
- Wallenberg Laboratory for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Linda Fogelstrand
- Wallenberg Laboratory for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Laboratory Medicine, Institute of Biomedicine, Sahlgrenska Academy at University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Chemistry, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Johan Bourghardt Fagman
- Wallenberg Laboratory for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Surgery, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Department of Surgery, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Jean-Francois Arnal
- I2MC, Inserm U1048, CHU de Toulouse and Université de Toulouse, Toulouse, France
| | - Mikael C I Karlsson
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Åsa Tivesten
- Wallenberg Laboratory for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, Institute of Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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26
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Phillips L, Lundholm C, Kvist U, Almqvist C, Nordenskjöld A, Nordenvall AS. Increased androgen-related comorbidity in adolescents and adults born with hypospadias: a population-based study. Andrology 2022; 10:1376-1386. [PMID: 35848332 PMCID: PMC9543378 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13229] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Background Hypospadias is a common congenital malformation often related to the effect of androgens in utero. While hypogonadism is associated with many potential health risks including metabolic and cardiovascular disease, the risk of clinical hypogonadism and comorbidities in men with hypospadias later in life has not been studied. Objectives Investigate the risk of hypogonadism and somatic comorbidities in adolescents and men born with hypospadias. Materials and methods We conducted a population‐based cohort study using Swedish registers. Associations between hypospadias and hypogonadism, delayed puberty, metabolic, and cardiovascular disease respectively were estimated using Cox proportional hazards regression. Body measurements from military conscription were analysed in a subpopulation as indicators of growth and cardiometabolic risk. We used sibling comparison analyses to control for familial confounding. Results Using register data, a total of 2,165,255 men including 9,714 men born with hypospadias were followed from the age of 10 to a maximum of 60 years. We found an association between hypospadias and hypogonadism (Hazard ratio (HR) 3.27, 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.33–4.59) which was more pronounced in proximal hypospadias. Men with hypospadias had shorter average height than their brothers and the general population. We further found an increased risk of delayed puberty (HR 1.49, 95% CI 1.08–2.07), diabetes mellitus type 2 (HR 1.57, 95% CI 1.18–2.09) and cardiovascular disease (HR 1.47, 95% CI 1.27–1.71). Discussion We found an increased risk of hypogonadism, metabolic and cardiovascular disease in men born with hypospadias, increasing with severity of phenotype, as well as impacted growth. These results indicate discruptions in androgen function past childhood, although some of the associations may be due to other underlying aetiologies. Conclusion Hypospadias is associated with an increased risk of androgen‐related comorbidity in adolescence and adulthood. We suggest that this can be considered clinically, while further research is needed, especially in older populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lottie Phillips
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, and Center of Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Lundholm
- Deparment of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ulrik Kvist
- Department of Medicine, Huddinge, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Catarina Almqvist
- Deparment of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology Unit, Astrid Lindgren Children's Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Agneta Nordenskjöld
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, and Center of Molecular Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Pediatric Surgery, Astrid Lindgren Children´s Hospital, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Skarin Nordenvall
- Deparment of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Radiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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27
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Willemars MMA, Nabben M, Verdonschot JAJ, Hoes MF. Evaluation of the Interaction of Sex Hormones and Cardiovascular Function and Health. Curr Heart Fail Rep 2022; 19:200-212. [PMID: 35624387 PMCID: PMC9329157 DOI: 10.1007/s11897-022-00555-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/02/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Purpose of Review Sex hormones drive development and function of reproductive organs or the development of secondary sex characteristics but their effects on the cardiovascular system are poorly understood. In this review, we identify the gaps in our understanding of the interaction between sex hormones and the cardiovascular system. Recent Findings Studies are progressively elucidating molecular functions of sex hormones in specific cell types in parallel with the initiation of crucial large randomized controlled trials aimed at improving therapies for cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) associated with aberrant levels of sex hormones. Summary In contrast with historical assumptions, we now understand that men and women show different symptoms and progression of CVDs. Abnormal levels of sex hormones pose an independent risk for CVD, which is apparent in conditions like Klinefelter syndrome, androgen insensitivity syndrome, and menopause. Moreover, sex hormone–based therapies remain understudied and may not be beneficial for cardiovascular health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myrthe M A Willemars
- Department of Genetics & Cell Biology, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.,CARIM School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Miranda Nabben
- Department of Genetics & Cell Biology, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.,CARIM School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht, the Netherlands.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Job A J Verdonschot
- CARIM School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht, the Netherlands.,Department of Clinical Genetics, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Martijn F Hoes
- CARIM School for Cardiovascular Diseases, Maastricht, the Netherlands. .,Department of Clinical Genetics, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, the Netherlands. .,Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Health, Medicine and Life Sciences, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands.
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28
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Ou ZF, Zhu LK, Liu QW, Jiang J, Jiang R. Effect of low androgen levels on transient receptor potential channels expression in rat penile corpus cavernosum tissue and its relationship with erectile function. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14477. [PMID: 35596534 DOI: 10.1111/and.14477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2022] [Revised: 04/15/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
The exact mechanism by which testosterone deficiency causes ED has not yet been elucidated. TRPC is involved in the process of smooth muscle cell contraction and relaxation. The effect of androgens on TRPCs and their relationship with erectile function are currently unclear. Thirty male SD rats were randomly divided into six groups: control group, castration group, castration + testosterone (T) group (cast + T), control + transfection group (control + trans), control + empty transfection group and castration + transfection group (cast + trans). The transfection group rats were given with lentivirus (1 × 108 TU/mL, 15 μl) carrying the siRNA targeting TRPC4 gene in the rat penile cavernous tissue at 4 weeks after castration. The tests were performed at 5 weeks after castration. Comparing the cast group with the control, the ICPmax/MAP, p-eNOS/eNOS and NO levels in the rat penile tissue were significantly lower (p < 0.01) and the level of TRPC3, TRPC4 and TRPC6 in the rat penile tissue was significantly increased (p < 0.01). When the cast + trans group was compared to the cast group, ICPmax/MAP was markedly higher (p < 0.05), and the level of the TRPC4 was remarkably lower (p < 0.05). Low androgen levels might inhibit an erectile function through up-regulation of the expression of TRPC3, TRPC4 and TRPC6 in rat penile cavernous tissue. Inhibition the level of TRPC4 in rat penile tissue may improve the erectile function in low androgen levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Fu Ou
- Department of Urology, the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Li-Kun Zhu
- Department of Urology, the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Qin-Wen Liu
- Department of Urology, the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Jun Jiang
- Department of Thyroid Surgery, the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China
| | - Rui Jiang
- Department of Urology, the Affiliated Hospital of Southwest Medical University, Luzhou, China.,Nephropathy Clinical Medical Research Center of Sichuan Province, China
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29
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Joury A, Alshehri M, Li LZ, Rezan T. Androgenic steroids dysregulation and the risk of coronary artery disease. Expert Rev Cardiovasc Ther 2022; 20:343-349. [PMID: 35583488 DOI: 10.1080/14779072.2022.2077193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Endogenous testosterone deficiency or excess anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) have been linked to alter the physiology of different organs in the body, more specifically, the vasculature of coronary arteries. Despite the health-related concerns of using synthetic testosterone derivatives, such as AAS, there has been a tremendous increase in the use of AAS among athletes and bodybuilders. AREAS COVERED We have highlighted the three main mechanisms that AAS increase the risk of coronary artery disease (CAD): altering the homeostasis of lipid metabolism which results in dyslipidemia and subsequently atherosclerosis, disturbing the function of platelet which results in platelet aggregation and subsequent thrombosis, and increasing the risk of coronary vasospasm by affecting the physiological function of vascular bed. EXPERT OPINION Despite the restriction of AAS in specific clinical conditions such as testosterone deficiency and cancer therapy, many amateurs' athletes misuse the AAS. Although there has been a strong association between the AAS misuse and risk of developing CAD, the more valued approach would be a randomized clinical double-blind trial. The suggested primary endpoint would be an occurrence of adverse cardiovascular events, such as myocardial infarction, cerebrovascular accidents, and death. Increasing awareness of the risk of missing AAS among high-risk groups is imperative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdulaziz Joury
- Department of Cardiology, Ochsner Health System, New Orleans, LA, US.,King Salman Heart Center, King Fahad Medical City, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mona Alshehri
- Department of Ophthalmology and Vision Sciences, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.,Department of Ophthalmology, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Luke Z Li
- The University of Queensland, Saint Lucia, Australia
| | - Tameem Rezan
- Department of Internal Medicine, Ochsner Health System, New Orleans, LA, US
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30
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Lucas-Herald AK, Montezano AC, Alves-Lopes R, Haddow L, Alimussina M, O’Toole S, Flett M, Lee B, Amjad SB, Steven M, Brooksbank K, McCallum L, Delles C, Padmanabhan S, Ahmed SF, Touyz RM. Vascular dysfunction and increased cardiovascular risk in hypospadias. Eur Heart J 2022; 43:1832-1845. [PMID: 35567552 PMCID: PMC9113289 DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/ehac112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Revised: 12/30/2021] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS Hypogonadism is associated with cardiovascular disease. However, the cardiovascular impact of hypogonadism during development is unknown. Using hypospadias as a surrogate of hypogonadism, we investigated whether hypospadias is associated with vascular dysfunction and is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. METHODS AND RESULTS Our human study spanned molecular mechanistic to epidemiological investigations. Clinical vascular phenotyping was performed in adolescents with hypospadias and controls. Small subcutaneous arteries from penile skin from boys undergoing hypospadias repair and controls were isolated and functional studies were assessed by myography. Vascular smooth muscle cells were used to assess: Rho kinase, reactive oxygen species (ROS), nitric oxide synthase/nitric oxide, and DNA damage. Systemic oxidative stress was assessed in plasma and urine. Hospital episode data compared men with a history of hypospadias vs. controls. In adolescents with hypospadias, systolic blood pressure (P = 0.005), pulse pressure (P = 0.03), and carotid intima-media thickness standard deviation scores (P = 0.01) were increased. Arteries from boys with hypospadias demonstrated increased U46619-induced vasoconstriction (P = 0.009) and reduced acetylcholine-induced endothelium-dependent (P < 0.0001) and sodium nitroprusside-induced endothelium-independent vasorelaxation (P < 0.0001). Men born with hypospadias were at increased risk of arrhythmia [odds ratio (OR) 2.8, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.4-5.6, P = 0.003]; hypertension (OR 4.2, 95% CI 1.5-11.9, P = 0.04); and heart failure (OR 1.9, 95% CI 1.7-114.3, P = 0.02). CONCLUSION Hypospadias is associated with vascular dysfunction and predisposes to hypertension and cardiovascular disease in adulthood. Underlying mechanisms involve perturbed Rho kinase- and Nox5/ROS-dependent signalling. Our novel findings delineate molecular mechanisms of vascular injury in hypogonadism, and identify hypospadias as a cardiovascular risk factor in males.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela K Lucas-Herald
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Centre for Research Excellence, University of Glasgow, 126 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, University of Glasgow, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G45 8TF, UK
| | - Augusto C Montezano
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Centre for Research Excellence, University of Glasgow, 126 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Rheure Alves-Lopes
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Centre for Research Excellence, University of Glasgow, 126 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Laura Haddow
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Centre for Research Excellence, University of Glasgow, 126 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Malika Alimussina
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, University of Glasgow, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G45 8TF, UK
| | - Stuart O’Toole
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G45 8TF, UK
| | - Martyn Flett
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G45 8TF, UK
| | - Boma Lee
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G45 8TF, UK
| | - S Basith Amjad
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G45 8TF, UK
| | - Mairi Steven
- Department of Pediatric Surgery, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G45 8TF, UK
| | - Katriona Brooksbank
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Centre for Research Excellence, University of Glasgow, 126 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Linsay McCallum
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Centre for Research Excellence, University of Glasgow, 126 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Christian Delles
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Centre for Research Excellence, University of Glasgow, 126 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - Sandosh Padmanabhan
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Centre for Research Excellence, University of Glasgow, 126 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
| | - S Faisal Ahmed
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, School of Medicine, Dentistry and Nursing, University of Glasgow, Royal Hospital for Children, 1345 Govan Road, Glasgow G45 8TF, UK
| | - Rhian M Touyz
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, British Heart Foundation Centre for Research Excellence, University of Glasgow, 126 University Avenue, Glasgow G12 8TA, UK
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31
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Ekedahl H, Isaksson S, Ståhl O, Bogefors K, Romerius P, Eberhard J, Giwercman A. Low-grade inflammation in survivors of childhood cancer and testicular cancer and its association with hypogonadism and metabolic risk factors. BMC Cancer 2022; 22:157. [PMID: 35135482 PMCID: PMC8827204 DOI: 10.1186/s12885-022-09253-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In childhood (CCS) and testicular cancer (TCS) survivors, low-grade inflammation may represent a link between testosterone deficiency (hypogonadism) and risk of metabolic syndrome. We aimed to study levels of inflammatory markers in CCS and TCS and the association with hypogonadism and future cardio-metabolic risk factors. Methods Serum levels of inflammatory markers and testosterone were analyzed in CCS (n = 90), and TCS (n = 64, median time from diagnosis: 20 and 2.0 years, respectively), and in controls (n = 44). Differences in levels between patients and controls were calculated using univariate analysis of variance. T-test and logistic regression were applied to compare levels of cardio-metabolic risk factors and odds ratio (OR) of hypogonadism and metabolic syndrome in low and high inflammatory marker groups after 4–12 years of follow up. Adjustment for age, smoking, and active cancer was made. Results TCS and CCS, as compared to controls, had 1.44 (95%CI 1.06–1.96) and 1.25 (95 CI 1.02–1.53) times higher levels of IL-8, respectively. High IL-6 levels were associated with hypogonadism at baseline (OR 2.83, 95%CI 1.25–6.43) and the association was stronger for high IL-6 combined with low IL-10 levels (OR 3.10, 95%CI 1.37–7.01). High IL-6 levels were also associated with higher BMI, waist circumference, insulin, and HbA1c at follow up. High TNF-α was associated with higher diastolic blood pressure. No individual inflammatory marker was significantly associated with risk of metabolic syndrome at follow up. High IL-6 combined with low IL-10 levels were associated with risk of metabolic syndrome (OR 3.83, 95%CI 1.07–13.75), however not statistically significantly after adjustment. Conclusion TCS and CCS present with low-grade inflammation. High IL-6 levels were associated with hypogonadism and cardio-metabolic risk factors. Low IL-10 levels might reinforce the IL-6 mediated risk of developing metabolic syndrome. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12885-022-09253-5.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henrik Ekedahl
- Department of Oncology, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden. .,Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Oncology and Pathology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
| | - Sigrid Isaksson
- Department of Oncology, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Oncology and Pathology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Olof Ståhl
- Department of Oncology, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Oncology and Pathology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Karolina Bogefors
- Department of Oncology, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Oncology and Pathology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Patrik Romerius
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Pediatrics, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Jakob Eberhard
- Department of Oncology, Skåne University Hospital, Lund, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Sciences, Division of Oncology and Pathology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Aleksander Giwercman
- Department of Translational Medicine, Lund University, Malmö, Sweden.,Reproductive Medicine Center, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
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32
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Jayasena CN, Anderson RA, Llahana S, Barth JH, MacKenzie F, Wilkes S, Smith N, Sooriakumaran P, Minhas S, Wu FCW, Tomlinson J, Quinton R. Society for Endocrinology guidelines for testosterone replacement therapy in male hypogonadism. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2022; 96:200-219. [PMID: 34811785 DOI: 10.1111/cen.14633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Male hypogonadism (MH) is a common endocrine disorder. However, uncertainties and variations in its diagnosis and management exist. There are several current guidelines on testosterone replacement therapy that have been driven predominantly by single disciplines. The Society for Endocrinology commissioned this new guideline to provide all care providers with a multidisciplinary approach to treating patients with MH. This guideline has been compiled using expertise from endocrine (medical and nursing), primary care, clinical biochemistry, urology and reproductive medicine practices. These guidelines also provide a patient perspective to help clinicians best manage MH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Channa N Jayasena
- Section of Investigative Medicine, Hammersmith Hospital, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | | | - Sofia Llahana
- School of Health Sciences, City, University of London, London & Department of Endocrinology & Diabetes, University College London Hospitals (UCLH) NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Julian H Barth
- Specialist Laboratory Medicine, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - Finlay MacKenzie
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Scott Wilkes
- School of Medicine, University of Sunderland, Sunderland, UK
| | | | - Prasanna Sooriakumaran
- Department of Uro-oncology, UCLH NHS Foundation Trust, London & Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Sukhbinder Minhas
- Department of Urology, Charing Cross Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Frederick C W Wu
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Gastroenterology, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Jeremy Tomlinson
- Oxford Centre for Diabetes, Endocrinology & Metabolism, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Richard Quinton
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes & Metabolism, Newcastle-upon-Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust & Translational & Clinical Research Institute, University of Newcastle-upon-Tyne, UK
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33
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Csöndör É, Karvaly G, Ligetvári R, Kovács K, Komka Z, Móra Á, Stromájer-Rácz T, Oláh A, Tóth M, Ács P. Adrenal, Gonadal and Peripherally Steroid Changes in Response to Extreme Physical Stress for Characterizing Load Capacity in Athletes. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12020091. [PMID: 35208166 PMCID: PMC8878642 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12020091] [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: 01/01/2022] [Revised: 01/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Athletes are often exposed to extreme physical stress during training or competitions. The consequent activation of the hypothalamus–hypophysis–adrenal (HPA) axis results in intensified steroid hormone production in the adrenal cortex. We determined the impact of an acute extreme physical stress on adrenal and gonadal steroidogenesis in healthy male professional athletes (n = 40). The subjects underwent an extreme physical load test until total voluntary fatigue between 14:00 and 18:00 when the hormone levels are relatively stable. Blood was taken before the start (baseline), at the peak load (peak), and 30 min following completion of the exercise (recovery). The vital parameters, lactate levels, and blood levels of the 14 steroid hormones were recorded. The multivariate statistical analysis of the results revealed that all monitored hormone levels increased upon stress. Significant changes in steroid concentrations were detected at peak versus baseline, peak versus recovery, and at baseline versus recovery. The mineralocorticoid (including aldosterone and corticosterone), glucocorticoid (11-deoxycortisol and cortisol), and androgen (androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone, and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate) pathways, as well as gonadal testosterone synthesis are activated simultaneously under extreme physical load. The profiling of adrenal and gonadal steroid biosynthesis in athletes may help the characterization of their loading capacity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Éva Csöndör
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1089 Budapest, Hungary; (G.K.); (K.K.); (M.T.)
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, 7621 Pécs, Hungary; (R.L.); (Á.M.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Gellért Karvaly
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1089 Budapest, Hungary; (G.K.); (K.K.); (M.T.)
| | - Roland Ligetvári
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, 7621 Pécs, Hungary; (R.L.); (Á.M.)
| | - Krisztián Kovács
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1089 Budapest, Hungary; (G.K.); (K.K.); (M.T.)
| | - Zsolt Komka
- Department of Health Sciences and Sport Medicine, University of Physical Education, 1123 Budapest, Hungary;
- Heart and Vascular Center, Semmelweis University, 1122 Budapest, Hungary
| | - Ákos Móra
- Doctoral School of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, 7621 Pécs, Hungary; (R.L.); (Á.M.)
| | - Tímea Stromájer-Rácz
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, 7621 Pécs, Hungary; (T.S.-R.); (A.O.); (P.Á.)
| | - András Oláh
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, 7621 Pécs, Hungary; (T.S.-R.); (A.O.); (P.Á.)
| | - Miklós Tóth
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Semmelweis University, 1089 Budapest, Hungary; (G.K.); (K.K.); (M.T.)
- Department of Health Sciences and Sport Medicine, University of Physical Education, 1123 Budapest, Hungary;
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, 7621 Pécs, Hungary; (T.S.-R.); (A.O.); (P.Á.)
- János Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Pongrác Ács
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pécs, 7621 Pécs, Hungary; (T.S.-R.); (A.O.); (P.Á.)
- János Szentágothai Research Centre, University of Pécs, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
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Could Lower Testosterone in Older Men Explain Higher COVID-19 Morbidity and Mortalities? Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23020935. [PMID: 35055119 PMCID: PMC8781054 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23020935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 01/06/2022] [Accepted: 01/07/2022] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
The health scourge imposed on humanity by the COVID-19 pandemic seems not to recede. This fact warrants refined and novel ideas analyzing different aspects of the illness. One such aspect is related to the observation that most COVID-19 casualties were older males, a tendency also noticed in the epidemics of SARS-CoV in 2003 and the Middle East respiratory syndrome in 2012. This gender-related difference in the COVID-19 death toll might be directly involved with testosterone (TEST) and its plasmatic concentration in men. TEST has been demonstrated to provide men with anti-inflammatory and immunological advantages. As the plasmatic concentration of this androgen decreases with age, the health benefit it confers also diminishes. Low plasmatic levels of TEST can be determinant in the infection’s outcome and might be related to a dysfunctional cell Ca2+ homeostasis. Not only does TEST modulate the activity of diverse proteins that regulate cellular calcium concentrations, but these proteins have also been proven to be necessary for the replication of many viruses. Therefore, we discuss herein how TEST regulates different Ca2+-handling proteins in healthy tissues and propose how low TEST concentrations might facilitate the replication of the SARS-CoV-2 virus through the lack of modulation of the mechanisms that regulate intracellular Ca2+ concentrations.
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Carlomagno F, Pozza C, Tenuta M, Pofi R, Tarani L, Sesti F, Minnetti M, Gianfrilli D, Isidori AM. Testicular Microvascular Flow Is Altered in Klinefelter Syndrome and Predicts Circulating Testosterone. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:e236-e245. [PMID: 34407199 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Experimental studies on Klinefelter syndrome (KS) reported increased intratesticular testosterone (T) levels coexisting with reduced circulating levels. Abnormalities in testicular microcirculation have been claimed; however, no studies investigated in vivo testicular blood flow dynamics in humans with KS. OBJECTIVE To analyze the testicular microcirculation in KS by contrast-enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) and correlate vascular parameters with endocrine function. DESIGN AND SETTING Prospective study. University setting. PATIENTS Sixty-eight testicular scans, 34 testes from 19 T-naïve subjects with KS and 34 testes from age-matched eugonadal men (control) who underwent CEUS for incidental nonpalpable testicular lesions. MAIN OUTCOMES CEUS kinetic parameters. RESULTS CEUS revealed slower testicular perfusion kinetics in subjects with KS than in age-matched controls. Specifically, the wash-in time (P = 0.018), mean transit time (P = 0.035), time to peak (P < 0.001), and wash-out time (P = 0.004) were all prolonged. Faster testicular blood flow was associated with higher total T levels. Principal component analysis and multiple linear regression analyses confirmed the findings and supported a role for reduced venous blood flow as independent predictor of total T levels. CONCLUSIONS Testicular venous blood flow is altered in KS and independently predicts T peripheral release.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Carlomagno
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Carlotta Pozza
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Marta Tenuta
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Riccardo Pofi
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Tarani
- Department of Pediatrics, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Franz Sesti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Marianna Minnetti
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Daniele Gianfrilli
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea M Isidori
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, 00161, Rome, Italy
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Ahn HK, Lee HS, Park JY, Kim DK, Kim M, Hwang HS, Kim JW, Ha JS, Cho KS. Androgen deprivation therapy may reduce the risk of primary open-angle glaucoma in patients with prostate cancer: a nationwide population-based cohort study. Prostate Int 2021; 9:197-202. [PMID: 35059357 PMCID: PMC8740392 DOI: 10.1016/j.prnil.2021.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 05/10/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background We evaluated the risk of developing primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) according to androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) status in patients with prostate cancer. Materials and methods From the nationwide claims database in South Korea, 218,203 men with prostate cancer were identified between 2008 and 2017. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria, a total of 170,701 patients (42,877 in the ADT and non-ADT groups and 127,824 in the non-ADT group) were included in the analysis. To adjust for comorbidities between cohorts, exact matching was performed. Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to estimate adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of POAG associated with ADT after controlling for potential confounding factors. Results In the matched cohort, the ADT group had a lower proportion of newly developed POAG than the non-ADT group (2.10% vs. 2.88%, respectively; P < 0.0001). Multivariable analysis revealed that the ADT group had a significantly lower risk of POAG than the non-ADT group (HR, 0.808; 95% CI, 0.739–0.884; P < 0.0001). The risk of POAG was lower in patients who underwent ADT for less than 2 years (HR, 0.782; 95% CI, 0.690–0.886; P = 0.0001) and in those receiving ADT for over 2 years (HR, 0.825; 95% CI, 0.744–0.916; P = 0.0003) compared with the non-ADT group. Conclusions The use of ADT was associated with a decreased risk of POAG in Korean patients with prostate cancer. Our findings suggest that testosterone may be involved in the pathophysiology of POAG, and this should be confirmed through further studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Kyu Ahn
- Department of Urology, College of Medicine, Ewha Womans University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hye Sun Lee
- Biostatistics Collaboration Unit, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ju-Young Park
- Department of Statistics and Data Science, Yonsei University, Seoul, Korea
| | - Do Kyung Kim
- Department of Urology, Soonchunhyang University Hospital, Soonchunhyang University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Min Kim
- Department of Ophthalmology, Institute of Vision Research, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Ho Sik Hwang
- Department of Ophthalmology, Yeouido St. Mary's Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea
| | - Jong Won Kim
- Department of Urology, Inha University School of Medicine, Incheon, Korea
| | - Jee Soo Ha
- Department of Urology, Prostate Cancer Center, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kang Su Cho
- Department of Urology, Prostate Cancer Center, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
- Corresponding author. Departments of Urology, Gangnam Severance Hospital, Urological Science Institute, Yonsei University College of Medicine, 211 Eonju-ro, Gangnam-gu, Seoul, 06273, Korea.
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Liu P, Liu X, Wei D, Nie L, Fan K, Zhang L, Wang L, Liu X, Hou J, Yu S, Li L, Wang C, Huo W, Mao Z. Associations of serum androgens with coronary heart disease and interaction with age: The Henan Rural Cohort Study. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2021; 31:3352-3358. [PMID: 34625359 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2021.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2020] [Revised: 07/18/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS We aimed to investigate the associations of testosterone and androstenedione with coronary heart disease, and the interaction effect of testosterone or androstenedione and age on coronary heart disease. METHODS AND RESULTS A total of 6178 participants were included in this study. Serum testosterone and androstenedione were detected by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Logistic regression and restricted cubic splines were used to assess the independent effects of testosterone and androstenedione on coronary heart disease. Interactive plots were employed to examine the interaction effects of testosterone or androstenedione with age on coronary heart disease. After adjusting for multiple variables, serum testosterone and androstenedione levels were negatively associated with coronary heart disease in males (tertile 3 vs tertile 1, odd ratio (OR) = 0.56, 95% confidence interval (CI) (0.33, 0.96), and OR = 0.40, 95% CI (0.22, 0.74)). Per 1 unit increase in ln-testosterone and ln-androstenedione was associated with a 24% (OR = 0.76, 95% CI (0.63, 0.91)) and 30% (OR = 0.69, 95% CI (0.55, 0.86)) lower risk of coronary heart disease, respectively. Additionally, the positive association of age with coronary heart disease was attenuated by increasing concentrations of ln-testosterone and ln-androstenedione concentration in males. CONCLUSIONS The results indicated that serum testosterone and androstenedione were negatively associated with coronary heart disease risk in Chinese rural males. To some extent, this study supports the application of hormone therapy in males with coronary heart disease, which can contribute to reducing the burden of coronary heart disease and related cardiovascular disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengling Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Xue Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Dandan Wei
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Luting Nie
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Keliang Fan
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Li Zhang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Lulu Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Xiaotian Liu
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Jian Hou
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Songcheng Yu
- Department of Nutrition and Food Hygiene, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Linlin Li
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Chongjian Wang
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China
| | - Wenqian Huo
- Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China.
| | - Zhenxing Mao
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, College of Public Health, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, Henan, PR China.
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Ferreira C, Trindade F, Ferreira R, Neves JS, Leite-Moreira A, Amado F, Santos M, Nogueira-Ferreira R. Sexual dimorphism in cardiac remodeling: the molecular mechanisms ruled by sex hormones in the heart. J Mol Med (Berl) 2021; 100:245-267. [PMID: 34811581 DOI: 10.1007/s00109-021-02169-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Revised: 10/16/2021] [Accepted: 11/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Heart failure (HF) is growing in prevalence, due to an increase in aging and comorbidities. Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) is more common in men, whereas heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) has a higher prevalence in women. However, the reasons for these epidemiological trends are not clear yet. Since HFpEF affects mostly postmenopausal women, sex hormones should play a pivotal role in HFpEF development. Furthermore, for HFpEF, contrary to HFrEF, effective therapeutic approaches are missing. Interestingly, studies evidenced that some therapies can have better results in women than in HFpEF men, emphasizing the necessity of understanding these observations at a molecular level. Thus, herein, we review the molecular mechanisms of estrogen and androgen actions in the heart in physiological conditions and explain how its dysregulation can lead to disease development. This clarification is essential in the road for an effective personalized management of HF, particularly HFpEF, towards the development of sex-specific therapeutic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cláudia Ferreira
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Fábio Trindade
- Department of Surgery and Physiology, Cardiovascular R&D Center (UnIC), Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rita Ferreira
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - João Sérgio Neves
- Department of Surgery and Physiology, Cardiovascular R&D Center (UnIC), Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Centro Hospitalar Universitário São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Adelino Leite-Moreira
- Department of Surgery and Physiology, Cardiovascular R&D Center (UnIC), Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, Centro Hospitalar Universitário São João, Porto, Portugal
| | - Francisco Amado
- LAQV-REQUIMTE, Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Mário Santos
- Department of Cardiology, Hospital Santo António, Centro Hospitalar Universitário do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- UMIB - Unidade Multidisciplinar de Investigação Biomédica, ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Rita Nogueira-Ferreira
- Department of Surgery and Physiology, Cardiovascular R&D Center (UnIC), Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal.
- UMIB - Unidade Multidisciplinar de Investigação Biomédica, ICBAS - Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal.
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Akseh S, Karimi MA, Safaie N, Valizadeh A, Rahmanpour D, Pezeshkian M, Nouri M, Faridvand Y, Jodati A. The serum levels of testosterone in coronary artery disease patients; relation to NO, eNOS, endothelin-1, and disease severity. Horm Mol Biol Clin Investig 2021; 43:55-61. [PMID: 34496169 DOI: 10.1515/hmbci-2021-0026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The changes in testosterone level and its correlation with the endothelial nitric oxide systems balance in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) remains uncertain. Therefore, in our study, we aimed to evaluate the levels of testosterone, endothelin-1 (ET-1), nitric oxide (NO), and endothelial NOS (eNOS) in CAD patients, and control group to find the relationship between these parameters and disease severity. METHODS Forty-four patients as CAD group with significant (≥50%) stenosis confirmed by angiography was included in the study, and 40 healthy men were included as the control group. According to the number of vessels obstruction, CAD severity was determined. The serum indicated parameters were assessed to discriminate between patients and controls. RESULTS It was found that testosterone levels in the CDA group were significantly lower than those of the control group (p<0.05). In addition, the level of ET-1 in the CAD group was higher than that in the control group, but levels of NO and eNOS in observation were significantly lower than those in the control group (p<0.05). The correlation analysis revealed that testosterone was passivity correlated with serum NO levels (r=0.550, p=0.001). CONCLUSIONS The current study reports that serum levels of testosterone are closely related to endothelial NO levels and might be of relevance to the pathogenesis of endothelial dysfunction and disease severity in CAD patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeideh Akseh
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad-Ali Karimi
- Student Research Committee, Ahvaz Jundishapur University of Medical Sciences, Ahvaz, Iran
| | - Nasser Safaie
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Amir Valizadeh
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Dara Rahmanpour
- Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Masoud Pezeshkian
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nouri
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Yousef Faridvand
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Student Research Committee, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.,Department of Biochemistry and Clinical Laboratories, Faculty of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Ahmadreza Jodati
- Cardiovascular Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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40
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Alwani M, Yassin A, Talib R, Al-Qudimat A, Aboumarzouk O, Al-Zoubi RM, Saad F, Haider KS, Al Ansari A. Cardiovascular Disease, Hypogonadism and Erectile Dysfunction: Early Detection, Prevention and the Positive Effects of Long-Term Testosterone Treatment: Prospective Observational, Real-Life Data. Vasc Health Risk Manag 2021; 17:497-508. [PMID: 34465997 PMCID: PMC8403087 DOI: 10.2147/vhrm.s309714] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/30/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Erectile dysfunction (ED) is associated with testosterone deficiency and is a symptom of functional hypogonadism. A correlation between ED and cardiovascular disease (CVD) has been recognized, and ED has been proposed as an early marker of CVD. However, the relationship between ED and CVD risk in hypogonadism requires clarification and whether testosterone therapy (TTh) can be a beneficial treatment strategy, but long-term data are limited. This study investigates long-term TTh in men with hypogonadism and ED with a history of CVD. Methods Seventy-seven patients with a history of CVD and diagnosed with functional hypogonadism and erectile dysfunction (erectile function domain score <21 on the International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire (IIEF questions 1–5)) were enrolled and TTh effects on anthropometric and metabolic parameters investigated for a maximum duration of 12 years. All men received long-acting injections of testosterone undecanoate at 3-monthly intervals. Eight-year data were analysed. Data collection registry started in November 2004 till January 2015. Results In hypogonadal men receiving TTh, IIEF increased by 5.4 (p<0.001). Total weight loss was 23.6 ± 0.6 kg after 8 years. HbA1c had declined by an average of 2.0% (P<0.0001). Total cholesterol levels significantly declined following TTh after only 1 year (P<0.0001), and HDL increased from 1.6±0.5 at baseline to 2±0.5 mmol/L following 8 years of TTh (P<0.0001). SBP decreased from 164±14 at baseline to 133±9 mmHg, signifying a reduction of 33±1 mmHg (P<0.0001). Conclusion In hypogonadal men with a history of CVD, TTh improves and preserves erectile function over prolonged periods with concurrent sustained improvements in cardiometabolic risk factors. Measuring ED and testosterone status may serve as an important male health indicator predicting subsequent CVD-related events and mortality and TTh may be an effective add-on treatment in secondary prevention of cardiovascular events in hypogonadal men with a history of CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Alwani
- Jordan University of Science and Technology, School of Medicine, Irbid, Jordan.,Hamad Medical Corporation, Department of Surgery, Division of Urology/Andrology and Section of Surgical Research, Doha, Qatar
| | - Aksam Yassin
- Hamad Medical Corporation, Department of Surgery, Division of Urology/Andrology and Section of Surgical Research, Doha, Qatar.,Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA.,Weill Cornell Medical College, Doha, Qatar
| | - Raidh Talib
- Hamad Medical Corporation, Department of Surgery, Division of Urology/Andrology and Section of Surgical Research, Doha, Qatar
| | - Ahmad Al-Qudimat
- Hamad Medical Corporation, Department of Surgery, Division of Urology/Andrology and Section of Surgical Research, Doha, Qatar
| | - Omar Aboumarzouk
- Hamad Medical Corporation, Department of Surgery, Division of Urology/Andrology and Section of Surgical Research, Doha, Qatar
| | - Raed M Al-Zoubi
- Hamad Medical Corporation, Department of Surgery, Division of Urology/Andrology and Section of Surgical Research, Doha, Qatar.,Jordan University of Science and Technology, Department of Chemistry, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Farid Saad
- Dresden International University, Center of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dresden, Germany
| | - Karim S Haider
- Klinikum Bremen-Mitte, Department of Urology, Bremen, Germany
| | - Abdulla Al Ansari
- Hamad Medical Corporation, Department of Surgery, Division of Urology/Andrology and Section of Surgical Research, Doha, Qatar
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41
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Alwani M, Al-Zoubi RM, Al-Qudimat A, Yassin A, Aboumarzouk O, Al-Rumaihi K, Talib R, Al-Ansari A. The impact of long-term Testosterone Therapy (TTh) in renal function (RF) among hypogonadal men: An observational cohort study. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2021; 69:102748. [PMID: 34471531 PMCID: PMC8387920 DOI: 10.1016/j.amsu.2021.102748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2021] [Revised: 08/20/2021] [Accepted: 08/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Testosterone therapy (TTh) is the main treatment for elderly men with hypogonadism. No evidence of the long-term effectiveness of TTh on renal function is reported to date. METHODS In this study, we evaluated the long-term TTh of testosterone undecanoate (TU) administration on renal function parameters in 496 symptomatic hypogonadal men, with T levels ≤350 ng/dL. The treatment group (T-group) consisted of 312 patients and obtained TU 1000 mg for 12 weeks followed by 6-week intervals and for up to 8 years. The remaining 184 hypogonadal men, who opted against TTh, served as a control group (C-group). The two groups were similar in criteria prior to treatment. We evaluated renal function by calculating serum creatinine, urea, uric acid, and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) according to Mayo Clinic guidelines for 8 years. This study obeys the ethical guidelines of German medical association according to Section 15 of the Professional Code, document for AY- Ref. EK/CH/AU signed on Jun 2015. RESULTS During the study period, the T-group exhibited lower levels of urea (47.0 ± 11.8 to 34.0 ± 13.9 mg/dL), uric acid (6.57 ± 1.2 to 5.49 ± 1.5 mg/dL), serum creatinine (0.90 ± 0.10 to 1.12 ± 0.9 mg/dL), and higher-level in GFR (87.0 ± 12.9 to 98.0 ± 8.0 mL/min/1.73 m2), which were significant. Alternatively, the C-group exhibited an increase in their serum creatinine (1.16 ± 0.31 to 1.19 ± 0.58 mg/dL), an increase in uric acid (5.54 ± 1.2 to 5.44 ± 1.7 mg/dL), and a decrease in GFR (92.0 ± 20.1 to 87.0 ± 26.1 mL/min/1.73 m2). A total of 25 deaths (7.8%) was recorded in the T-group, among them 11 (44%) were cardiovascular. On the other hand, 28 patients (15.2%) died in C-group and all deaths (100%) were found to cardiovascular causes. CONCLUSION The results suggest that long-term TTh could improve renal function in hypogonadal men comparing to slight deterioration observed in patients without intervention. In addition to reduce mortality in cardiovascular patients, almost to the half.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mustafa Alwani
- Surgical Research Section, Department of Surgery Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- School of Medicine, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O.Box 3030, Irbid, 22110, Jordan
| | - Raed M. Al-Zoubi
- Surgical Research Section, Department of Surgery Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Chemistry, Jordan University of Science and Technology, P.O.Box 3030, Irbid, 22110, Jordan
| | - Ahmad Al-Qudimat
- Surgical Research Section, Department of Surgery Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Aksam Yassin
- Surgical Research Section, Department of Surgery Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology/Andrology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
- Center of Medicine and Health Sciences, Dresden International University, Dresden, Germany
| | - Omar Aboumarzouk
- Surgical Research Section, Department of Surgery Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Khaled Al-Rumaihi
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology/Andrology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Raidh Talib
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology/Andrology, Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Abdulla Al-Ansari
- Surgical Research Section, Department of Surgery Hamad Medical Corporation, Doha, Qatar
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van Velzen DM, Smits MM, van Bommel EJM, Muskiet MHA, Tonneijck L, Kramer MHH, Joles JA, den Heijer M, Nokoff N, Bjornstad P, van Raalte DH. Kidney hemodynamic function in men and postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes and preserved kidney function. Am J Physiol Renal Physiol 2021; 320:F1152-F1158. [PMID: 33900855 DOI: 10.1152/ajprenal.00660.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The progression of kidney disease may differ between sexes in type 2 diabetes (T2D), with previous studies reporting a slower decline in women. Glomerular hyperfiltration is a key factor driving the kidney function decline. The current study aimed to investigate the differences in kidney hemodynamic function between men and women with T2D. A cross-sectional analysis of pooled data from three studies compared kidney hemodynamic function between men and postmenopausal women with T2D without overt nephropathy. The outcome measures were glomerular filtration rate (GFR; inulin clearance), effective renal plasma flow (ERPF; p-aminohippurate clearance), filtration fraction (GFR/ERPF), and renal vascular resistance (RVR; mean arterial pressure/renal blood flow). Glomerular hydraulic pressure (PGLO) as well as afferent and efferent vascular resistance were estimated by Gomez formulae. Sex differences were assessed with linear regression models adjusted for systolic blood pressure, glucose, use of renin-angiotensin system blockers, and body mass index. In total, 101 men [age: 63 (58-68) yr, body mass index: 31.5 ± 3.9 kg/m2, GFR: 111 ± 18 mL/min, HbA1c: 7.4 ± 0.7%] and 27 women [age: 66 (62-69) yr, body mass index: 30.9 ± 4.5 kg/m2, GFR: 97 ± 11 mL/min, HbA1c: 7.1 ± 0.5%] were included. GFR was higher in men versus women [11.0 mL/min (95% confidence interval: 3.6, 18.4)]. Although statistically nonsignificant, PGLO trended higher in men [1.9 mmHg (95% confidence interval: -0.1, 4.0)], whereas RVR [-0.012 mmHg/L/min (95% confidence interval: -0.022, -0.002)] and afferent vascular resistance were lower [-361 dyn/s/cm5 (95% confidence interval: -801, 78)]. In conclusion, in adults without overt nephropathy, GFR was higher in men compared with women. PGLO also trended to be higher in men. Both findings are possibly related to afferent vasodilation and suggest greater prevalence of hyperfiltration. This could contribute to accelerated GFR loss over time in men with T2D.NEW & NOTEWORTHY In adults with type 2 diabetes, men had higher markers of hyperfiltration, which could potentially explain the accelerated progression of diabetic kidney disease in men compared with women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daan M van Velzen
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location VU Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mark M Smits
- Diabetes Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location VU Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Erik J M van Bommel
- Diabetes Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location VU Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Marcel H A Muskiet
- Diabetes Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location VU Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Lennart Tonneijck
- Diabetes Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location VU Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Mark H H Kramer
- Diabetes Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location VU Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jaap A Joles
- Department of Nephrology and Hypertension, University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Martin den Heijer
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location VU Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Natalie Nokoff
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Petter Bjornstad
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado.,Division of Renal Diseases and Hypertension, Department of Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Daniël H van Raalte
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location VU Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.,Diabetes Center, Department of Internal Medicine, Amsterdam University Medical Centers, Location VU Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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43
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Álvarez-Maestro M, Eguibar A, Chanca P, Klett-Mingo M, Gómez Rivas J, Buño-Soto A, de Bethencourt FR, Ferrer M. Androgen Deprivation Therapy in Patients With Prostate Cancer Increases Serum Levels of Thromboxane A 2: Cardiovascular Implications. Front Cardiovasc Med 2021; 8:653126. [PMID: 33928136 PMCID: PMC8076684 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2021.653126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2021] [Accepted: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Androgens have been described as important players in the regulation of vascular function/structure through their action on the release and effect of vasoactive factors, such as prostanoids. Patients with prostate cancer (PCa) under androgen deprivation therapies (ADTs) present increased risk of cardiovascular mortality. Since thromboxane A2 (TXA2) is one of the most studied prostanoids and its involvement in different cardiovascular diseases has been described, the aim of this study was to investigate: (i) the effect of ADT on the serum levels of TXA2 in PCa patients and its possible link to the redox status and (ii) the effect of the non-hydrolyzable TXA2 analog U-46619 on the function of the aorta of male rats. Methods: The levels of TXA2 and total antioxidant status in 50 healthy subjects, 54 PCa patients, and 57 PCa under ADT were evaluated. These determinations were accompanied by levels of testosterone and C-reactive protein as an inflammation marker. In aortic segments from male rats, the U46619-induced effects on: (i) the vasomotor responses to acetylcholine (ACh), to the NO donor sodium nitroprusside (SNP), to the carbon monoxide-releasing molecule-3 (CORM-3), and to noradrenaline (NA) and (ii) the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1), and phosphorylated ERK1/2 were analyzed. Results: The serum level of TXA2 in patients with PCa was increased with respect to healthy subjects, which was further increased by ADT. There was no modification in the total antioxidant status among the three experimental groups. In aortic segments from male rats, the TXA2 analog decreased the endothelium-dependent relaxation and the sensitivity of smooth muscle cells to NO, while it increased the vasoconstriction induced by NA; the expression of COX-2, HO-1, and pERK1/2 was also increased. Conclusions: ADT increased, along with other inflammatory/oxidative markers, the serum levels of TXA2. The fact that TXA2 negatively impacts the vascular function of the aorta of healthy male rats suggests that inhibition of TXA2-mediated events could be considered a potential strategy to protect the cardiovascular system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mario Álvarez-Maestro
- Servicio de Urología, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain.,Grupo de Investigación en Urología, IdiPAZ, Madrid, Spain
| | - Aritz Eguibar
- Servicio de Urología, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | - Patricia Chanca
- Servicio de Análisis Clínicos, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Juan Gómez Rivas
- Departamento de Urología, Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Madrid, Spain
| | - Antonio Buño-Soto
- Servicio de Análisis Clínicos, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain.,Grupo de Investigación en Neonatología, IdiPAZ, Madrid, Spain
| | - Fermín R de Bethencourt
- Servicio de Urología, Hospital Universitario La Paz, Madrid, Spain.,Grupo de Investigación en Urología, IdiPAZ, Madrid, Spain
| | - Mercedes Ferrer
- Grupo de Investigación en Urología, IdiPAZ, Madrid, Spain.,Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, UAM, Madrid, Spain
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Qiang W, Gao C, Yao X, Liu J. An ultra-rare case of 47,XXY/48,XXXY/49,XXXXY mosaic Klinefelter syndrome associated with diabetic ketosis and foot ulcer. Int J Diabetes Dev Ctries 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s13410-020-00805-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
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45
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Cannarella R, Barbagallo F, Crafa A, Mongioì LM, Aversa A, Greco E, Condorelli RA, LA Vignera S, Calogero AE. Testosterone replacement therapy in hypogonadal male patients with hypogonadism and heart failure: a meta-analysis of randomized controlled studies. Minerva Urol Nephrol 2021; 74:418-427. [PMID: 33781026 DOI: 10.23736/s2724-6051.21.04307-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The recently published guidelines of the European Academy of Andrology (EAA) recommended not to prescribe testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in male patients with hypotestosteronemia and severe heart failure (HF) [New York Hearth Association (NYHA) class III and IV] since the risk in these patients has not been formally documented. Therefore, the aim of this study was to systematically evaluate the risk of TRT on the cardiac function and angina, in male patients with hypotestosteronemia and HF or coronary heart disease. METHODS Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on male patients with hypotestosteronemia and chronic HF (ejection fraction <40%) or stable angina documenting the effect of TRT on NYHA class, left ventricula ejection fraction (LVEF), adverse events, ST depression and other indexes of cardiovascular function. RESULTS Seven articles were included, for a total of 140 participants with HF (71 on TRT and 69 on placebo or no treatment). Included patients were of NYHA class II and III. TRT had no effect on death and rehospitalization rates of patients with HF and significantly delayed the time to ischemia in patients with chronic angina. TRT had not effect on the NYHA class, the LVEF, and on the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure questionnaire. Although a significant increase of oxygen consumption was found in the TRT group, no improvement to the physical exercise tolerance tests was observed. TRT showed no effect on systolic nor diastolic blood pressure, but it significantly ameliorated the heart rate. It significantly decreased the insulin serum levels and the HOMA index. CONCLUSIONS These results suggest the safety of TRT, in patients with hypotestosteronemia and severe HF (class NYHA II and III). Although deriving from a limited number of studies, these data could prompt to perform other RCTs on the effects of TRT in patients with hypotestosteronemia and severe HFrEF (NYHA class III).
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Affiliation(s)
- Rossella Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Federica Barbagallo
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Andrea Crafa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Laura M Mongioì
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Antonio Aversa
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Medicine, Magna Graecia University, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Emanuela Greco
- Department of Health Sciences, University Magna Græcia of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy
| | - Rosita A Condorelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - Sandro LA Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy -
| | - Aldo E Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
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46
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Mali S, Irani K, Mohammadi SM, Sarebanhassanabadi M. Serum free testosterone level in coronary artery disease in candidates for coronary artery bypass graft surgery: A cross-sectional study. Int J Reprod Biomed 2021; 19:293-302. [PMID: 33842826 PMCID: PMC8023009 DOI: 10.18502/ijrm.v19i3.8577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2020] [Revised: 09/09/2020] [Accepted: 10/20/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Due to the controversy over the effect of serum testosterone levels on coronary artery diseases, this survey explores the serum levels of free testosterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone in candidates for coronary artery bypass graft compared with an age-matched control group and evaluates the associated factors in these participants.
Objective To determine the testosterone level in elective coronary artery bypass grafting participants. Materials and Methods In this cross-sectional study, all male patients aged > 40 yr as candidates for elective coronary artery bypass grafting, who were referred to the Afshar Hospital, Yazd, Iran, from March 2018 to March 2019, were included. In total, 100 men were enrolled (50 cases and 50 controls). Their serum levels of free and total testosterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone were measured and the results were compared. Results The findings indicated a significant difference between the two groups in total and free testosterone (both p < 0.001); they were lower in the case group. There was also a significant difference in the total testosterone of the participants with diabetes mellitus compared with no-diabetic individuals (p = 0.007). Free testosterone of diabetic subjects taking insulin was lower compared with those taking no insulin (p = 0.04). There was also an association between the body mass index and free testosterone, left ventricular ejection fraction and total testosterone, and a significant and negative relation between the duration of hospital admissions and free testosterone (p < 0.05). Conclusion This study illustrates that participants with coronary artery disease bear a significantly low testosterone level in comparison with the healthy control group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahriar Mali
- Yazd Cardiovascular Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Kurosh Irani
- Yazd Cardiovascular Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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47
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Tong TK, Baker JS, Henriquez FL, Shi Q, Zhang H, Kong Z, Nie J. A Combined Approach for Health Assessment in Adolescent Endurance Runners. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:healthcare9020163. [PMID: 33546247 PMCID: PMC7913343 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9020163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been shown that prolonged exhaustive exercise, such as half-marathon running, could lead to transient post-exercise elevation of cardiac troponins, increase in oxidative stress, and mild decline in renal function in adolescent athletes. With increases in sports participation involving young people, there has been much interest in pre and post health evaluations following exercise. Evaluations can be used to identify pre-existing health confounders and to examine any detrimental responses that may occur post exercise. Study purpose & Methods: The purpose of this study was to evaluate pre and post exercise measures of cardiac function, serum albumin, systemic immunoglobulin (Serum IgA and IgG), cortisol and testosterone in adolescent (age: 16.2 ± 0.6) male endurance runners performing in 21-km maximal run. RESULTS Results revealed that cortisol, IgA and IgG levels significantly decreased 2, 4, and 24 h post exercise compared to pre-exercise levels (p < 0.05). Testosterone levels reduced 4 h post exercise (p < 0.05) but were restored to baseline values following 24 h. There were no changes recorded for albumin levels post exercise (p > 0.05). ECG assessments did not show any abnormalities at the T wave axis, ST segments and Q wave pre or post exercise. CONCLUSIONS The findings from this study suggest that a single bout of prolonged maximum running is not likely to induce abnormal electrical activity in the heart, but does decrease serum immunoglobulin, and homeostasis of anabolic and catabolic hormones in trained adolescent endurance runners.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas K. Tong
- Department of Sport, Physical Education and Health, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong 999077, China; (T.K.T.); (J.S.B.)
| | - Julien S. Baker
- Department of Sport, Physical Education and Health, Hong Kong Baptist University, Hong Kong 999077, China; (T.K.T.); (J.S.B.)
| | - Fiona L. Henriquez
- Institute of Biomedical and Environmental Health, School of Science and Sport, University of the West of Scotland, Paisley PA1 2BE, UK;
| | - Qingde Shi
- School of Health Sciences and Sports, Macao Polytechnic Institute, Rua de Luis Gonzaga Gomes, Macao 999078, China;
| | - Haifeng Zhang
- College of Physical Education, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang 050024, China;
| | - Zhaowei Kong
- Faculty of Education, University of Macau, Macao 999078, China;
| | - Jinlei Nie
- School of Health Sciences and Sports, Macao Polytechnic Institute, Rua de Luis Gonzaga Gomes, Macao 999078, China;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +853-8559-6832; Fax: +853-2851-8538
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48
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Isidoro-García L, Villalpando DM, Ferrer M. Vasomotor action of androgens in the mesenteric artery of hypertensive rats. Role of perivascular innervation. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0246254. [PMID: 33529222 PMCID: PMC7853503 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0246254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgens may exert cardiovascular protective actions by regulating the release and function of different vascular factors. In addition, testosterone (TES) and its 5-reduced metabolites, 5α- and 5β-dihydrotestosterone (5α- and 5β-DHT) induce vasorelaxant and hypotensive effects. Furthermore, hypertension has been reported to alter the release and function of the neurotransmitters nitric oxide (NO), calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and noradrenaline (NA). Since the mesenteric arteries possess a dense perivascular innervation and significantly regulate total peripheral vascular resistance, the objective of this study was to analyze the effect of TES, 5α- and 5β-DHT on the neurogenic release and vasomotor function of NO, CGRP and NA. For this purpose, the superior mesenteric artery from male spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) and normotensive Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rats was used to analyze: (i) the effect of androgens (10 nM, incubated for 30 min) on the neurogenic release of NO, CGRP and NA and (ii) the vasoconstrictor-response to NA and the vasodilator responses to the NO donor, sodium nitroprusside (SNP) and exogenous CGRP. The results showed that TES, 5α- or 5β-DHT did not modify the release of NO, CGRP or NA induced by electrical field stimulation (EFS) in the arteries of SHR; however, in the arteries of WKY rats androgens only caused an increase in EFS-induced NO release. Moreover, TES, and especially 5β-DHT, increased the vasodilator response induced by SNP and CGRP in the arteries of SHR. These findings could be contributing to the hypotensive/antihypertensive efficacy of 5β-DHT previously described in conscious SHR and WKY rats, pointing to 5β- DHT as a potential drug for the treatment of hypertension.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucía Isidoro-García
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain
| | - Diva M. Villalpando
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain
| | - Mercedes Ferrer
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Hospital Universitario La Paz (IdiPAZ), Madrid, Spain
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49
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Testosterone stimulates cholesterol clearance from human macrophages by activating LXRα. Life Sci 2021; 269:119040. [PMID: 33453241 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2021.119040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 01/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
AIMS Low testosterone in men is associated with increased cardiovascular events and mortality. Testosterone has beneficial effects on several cardiovascular risk factors including cholesterol, endothelial dysfunction and inflammation as key mediators of atherosclerosis. Although evidence suggests testosterone is anti-atherogenic, its mechanism of action is unknown. The present study investigates whether testosterone exerts anti-atherogenic effects by stimulating cholesterol clearance from macrophages via activation of liver X receptor (LXRα), a nuclear master regulator of cellular cholesterol homeostasis, lipid regulation, and inflammation. MAIN METHODS Using human monocyte THP-1 cells differentiated into macrophages, the effect of testosterone (1-10 nM) treatment (24-72 h) on the expression of LXRα and LXR- targets apolipoprotein E (APOE), ATP-binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1), sterol regulatory element-binding transcription factor 1 (SREBF1) and fatty acid synthase (FAS), was investigated via qPCR and western blotting, with or without androgen receptor blockade with flutamide or LXR antagonism with CPPSS-50. Cholesterol clearance was measured by monitoring fluorescent dehydroergosterol (DHE) cellular clearance and ABCA1 cellular translocation was observed via immunocytochemistry in testosterone treated macrophages. KEY FINDINGS Testosterone increased mRNA and protein expression of LXRα, APOE, ABCA1, SREBF1 and FAS. These effects were blocked by flutamide and independently by LXR antagonism with CPPSS-50. Furthermore testosterone stimulated cholesterol clearance from the macrophages and promoted the translocation of ABCA1 toward the cell membrane. SIGNIFICANCE Testosterone acts via androgen receptor-dependent pathways to stimulate LXRα and downstream targets to induce cholesterol clearance in human macrophages. This may, in part, explain the anti-atherogenic effects of testosterone frequently seen clinically.
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50
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Tedjawirja VN, Nieuwdorp M, Yeung KK, Balm R, de Waard V. A Novel Hypothesis: A Role for Follicle Stimulating Hormone in Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Development in Postmenopausal Women. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:726107. [PMID: 34721292 PMCID: PMC8548664 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.726107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
An abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a dilatation of the abdominal aorta, which can potentially be fatal due to exsanguination following rupture. Although AAA is less prevalent in women, women with AAA have a more severe AAA progression compared to men as reflected by enhanced aneurysm growth rates and a higher rupture risk. Women are diagnosed with AAA at an older age than men, and in line with increased osteoporosis and cardiovascular events, the delayed AAA onset has been attributed to the reduction of the protective effect of oestrogens during the menopausal transition. However, new insights have shown that a high follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) level during menopause may also play a key role in those diseases. In this report we hypothesize that FSH may aggravate AAA development and progression in postmenopausal women via a direct and/or indirect role, promoting aorta pathology. Since FSH receptors (FSHR) are reported on many other cell types than granulosa cells in the ovaries, it is feasible that FSH stimulation of FSHR-bearing cells such as aortic endothelial cells or inflammatory cells, could promote AAA formation directly. Indirectly, AAA progression may be influenced by an FSH-mediated increase in osteoporosis, which is associated with aortic calcification. Also, an FSH-mediated decrease in cholesterol uptake by the liver and an increase in cholesterol biosynthesis will increase the cholesterol level in the circulation, and subsequently promote aortic atherosclerosis and inflammation. Lastly, FSH-induced adipogenesis may lead to obesity-mediated dysfunction of the microvasculature of the aorta and/or modulation of the periaortic adipose tissue. Thus the long term increased plasma FSH levels during the menopausal transition may contribute to enhanced AAA disease in menopausal women and could be a potential novel target for treatment to lower AAA-related events in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Victoria N. Tedjawirja
- Department of Surgery, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: Victoria N. Tedjawirja,
| | - Max Nieuwdorp
- Departments of Internal and Vascular Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Kak Khee Yeung
- Department of Surgery, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Ron Balm
- Department of Surgery, Amsterdam University Medical Center (UMC), University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Vivian de Waard
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam Cardiovascular Sciences, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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