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Babaei M, Rezaei S, Saghafi Khadem S, Shirinbak I, Basir Shabestari S. The Role of Salivary C-Reactive Protein in Systemic and Oral Disorders: A Systematic Review. Med J Islam Repub Iran 2022; 36:138. [PMID: 36479533 PMCID: PMC9719583 DOI: 10.47176/mjiri.36.138] [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: 02/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Blood sampling is expensive, time-consuming, invasive, and requires technical facilities, which can be replaced by more convenient samples such as saliva. C-reactive protein (CRP) is a widely used biomarker in the management of many disorders and plasma CRP (pCRP) is suggested to be replaced by salivary CRP (sCRP). This study aimed to systematically review all available literature on the sCRP levels in systemic and oral disorders and how sCRP and pCRP levels correlate among these patients and healthy individuals. Methods: In this systematic review, a PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Google Scholar search was conducted on October-2021 to identify all research investigating sCRP levels in systemic and oral disorders. Results: A total of 130 publications were analyzed in the review. Most of the studies reported that sCRP and pCRP levels are correlated, and sCRP is a reliable alternative for pCRP level for the diagnosis and management of medical conditions. sCRP has been measured in many different medical and oral disorders and significantly correlated with disease activity in most cases. Conclusion: Salivary CRP is a good alternative for Plasma CRP levels in most cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Babaei
- Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saeid Rezaei
- Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shadi Saghafi Khadem
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology, School of Dentistry, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Iman Shirinbak
- Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Samira Basir Shabestari
- Department of Oral Medicine, School of Dentistry, Firoozgar Clinical Research Development Center, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran, Corresponding author:Samira Basir Shabestari,
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Clephane K, Wilson MC, Heiman JR, Craig AN, Lorenz T. Sexual violence history predicts changes in vaginal immune parameters during sexual arousal. Brain Behav Immun 2022; 104:171-180. [PMID: 35697156 PMCID: PMC9734281 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2022.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 06/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the influence of sexual arousal on vaginal mucosal inflammatory cytokine and antibody production in healthy women with and without histories of childhood and/or adult sexual violence. METHODS Ninety-one premenopausal healthy women (ages 18-42) attended a single laboratory session in which they provided vaginal fluid samples before and after viewing one neutral and one erotic film. While viewing the films, participants' vaginal sexual arousal was recorded using vaginal photoplethysmography. RESULTS Of the 91 participants, 41 (45%) reported no history of sexual violence, 17 (19%) reported a history of childhood sexual abuse (CSA) only, 19 (21%) reported a history of adult sexual assault (ASA) only, and 10 (11%) reported a history of both CSA and ASA, with 4 participants choosing not to provide information on their sexual violence history. For women with a history of ASA but not CSA, there was a significant increase in vaginal IL-1β following arousal, while for women with a history of CSA (with or without ASA), there was a significant decrease. Women without CSA histories had a significant increase in vaginal IgA following sexual arousal, while women with CSA histories had a decrease. CONCLUSION Sexual arousal possibly plays a role in modifying vaginal immune responses in young, healthy women. Moreover, these effects may vary depending upon sexual assault histories, such that relative to women without assault histories, women with a history of early life sexual trauma showed significantly altered vaginal immune responses following sexual arousal. If replicated, these findings may help explain the increased risk for sexually transmitted infections observed among women with sexual assault histories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirstin Clephane
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, United States; Center for Brain, Biology & Behavior, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, United States
| | - M Claire Wilson
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, United States
| | - Julia R Heiman
- Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, United States
| | - Amber N Craig
- Medical College of Wisconsin, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Medicine, United States
| | - Tierney Lorenz
- Department of Psychology, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, United States; Center for Brain, Biology & Behavior, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, United States.
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Clephane K, Lorenz TK. Putative Mental, Physical, and Social Mechanisms of Hormonal Influences on Postpartum Sexuality. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2021; 13:136-148. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-021-00321-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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4
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Clephane K, Wilson MC, Craig AN, Heiman JR, Lorenz TK. Inflammation predicts sexual arousability in healthy women. COMPREHENSIVE PSYCHONEUROENDOCRINOLOGY 2021; 8. [PMID: 35669911 PMCID: PMC9165647 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpnec.2021.100086] [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] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Though many women report sexual arousal difficulties, the mechanisms driving these difficulties are unclear. Sexual response relies on a host of psychophysiological processes that have bidirectional relationships with inflammation. Additionally, chronic inflammation may impair genital blood flow, which in turn may impact sexual arousal. C-reactive protein (CRP) is an acute-phase marker of inflammation produced in response to cytokine signaling throughout the body, which makes it a useful marker of systemic inflammation. Aim The present study examined interactions between inflammation and women's sexual arousal. Methods CRP, self-reported frequency of partnered sexual activity, and subjective and vaginal arousal were assessed in 91 healthy, pre-menopausal women. Data were collected during a single laboratory session. Main outcome measures Subjective sexual arousal and vaginal pulse amplitude (a measure of vaginal arousal) were the main outcome measures. Results Change in subjective sexual arousal in response to a sexual film was unaffected by baseline CRP and sexual frequency. However, there were significant interactions between inflammation and sexual frequency in predicting vaginal arousal during the sexual film. Among women reporting more frequent sexual activity, higher CRP predicted lower magnitude arousal response and longer time to maximum vaginal arousal. Among women reporting less frequent sex, higher CRP predicted shorter time to maximum arousal and greater magnitude of arousal response. Controlling for cortisol strengthened the effects seen for time to maximum vaginal arousal but weakened those observed for percent change. Conclusions Among healthy young women, higher CRP may be associated with vaginal arousal, but not subjective sexual arousal. Specifically, our results suggest that higher baseline CRP is associated with lower genital sexual arousal for women who have sex frequently, which is consistent with clinical evidence that elevated inflammation can be detrimental to sexual function. Among healthy young women, higher CRP may be associated with vaginal sexual arousal, but not subjective sexual arousal. Frequency of sexual activity interacts with CRP levels to contribute to vaginal arousal in healthy women. Higher CRP predicted lower genital sexual arousal in women who engage in sexual activity more than once a week. However, higher CRP predicted greater genital sexual arousal in women who engage in sexual activity less than once a week.
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Gianotten WL, Alley JC, Diamond LM. The Health Benefits of Sexual Expression. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF SEXUAL HEALTH : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE WORLD ASSOCIATION FOR SEXUAL HEALTH 2021; 33:478-493. [PMID: 38595776 PMCID: PMC10903655 DOI: 10.1080/19317611.2021.1966564] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 04/11/2024]
Abstract
Objective Sexual activity is a fundamental human function with short-term and long-term emotional, social, and physical benefits. Yet within healthcare, sexuality has been marginalized and many HCPs are unaware of its beneficial implications for immediate and long-term health. Methods To challenge this assumption we combined the data that already had been collected by the authors with an extensive search of articles on the various health benefits of sexual activity. The results of this process are displayed according to short-term, intermediate-term, and long-term benefits with some explanation about potential causal relationships. Results For the time being, it cannot yet be proved that "good sex promotes good health" since good health also favors good sex. Conclusions Despite lacking such convincing evidence, the article concludes with recommendations for the relevant professions. The balance of research supports that sexuality anyhow deserves greater attention among HCPs and that sexuality research needs better integration within health research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Woet L. Gianotten
- Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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Granda D, Szmidt MK, Kaluza J. Is Premenstrual Syndrome Associated with Inflammation, Oxidative Stress and Antioxidant Status? A Systematic Review of Case-Control and Cross-Sectional Studies. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10040604. [PMID: 33919885 PMCID: PMC8070917 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10040604] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Revised: 04/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a cyclically occurring combination of various symptoms, leading to decreased life quality among approximately 30% of women of childbearing age. PMS etiology remains unknown; however, there are some suggestions that inappropriate inflammatory response and oxidative stress are involved. This study aimed to systematically review case–control and cross-sectional studies investigating inflammation markers, oxidative stress, and antioxidant status among women with PMS and controls. The study protocol was registered with PROSPERO (no. CRD42020178545), and the authors followed the guidelines for performing a systemic review recommended by Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). By searching PubMed and Scopus databases (up to 8 January 2021), six case–control studies and five cross-sectional studies of medium or high quality were classified to the review. The systematic review included 652 women with PMS and 678 controls, for whom 36 eligible markers were determined. Limited evidence indicates increased levels of inflammatory parameters and suggests decreased antioxidant status in PMS women. Insufficient data with inconsistent results made it impossible to formulate a firm conclusion on the contribution of oxidative stress in PMS occurrence. To acknowledge the role of inflammation, oxidative stress, and antioxidant status in the pathophysiology of PMS, further research with case–control design and large study groups is needed.
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Elidottir AS, Sveinsdottir K, Ingadottir B, Geirsdottir OG, Jonsson PV, Rothenberg E, Hardardottir I, Freysdottir J, Ramel A. Seaweed Extract Improves Carbohydrate Metabolism in Overweight and Obese Adults. CURRENT NUTRITION & FOOD SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.2174/1573401316999200706012619] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Background:
Background: Obesity is characterized by chronic low-grade inflammation and associated
with type 2 diabetes. Seaweed is one of the largest producers of biomass in the marine environment
and is a rich arsenal of functional ingredients that may possess the potential to prevent type 2 diabetes.
Objective:
The aim was to investigate the effects of seaweed extract on glucose metabolism and
markers of inflammation in overweight and obese individuals.
Methods:
Participants (N=76, ≥40 years, body mass index ≥25 kg/m2) who volunteered for this 10-
week randomized, controlled, doubly blinded intervention study, were randomized into an intervention
group (seaweed extract, 3 capsules=1200 mg/day) or a control group (placebo, 3 capsules/day).
The extract derived from the brown seaweed bladder wrack (Fucus vesiculosus). At baseline and
endpoint of the study, fasting samples were analysed for blood glucose, insulin, inflammation markers,
liver enzymes and creatinine (renal function).
Results:
Drop out was 11.8% and not significantly different between groups. Fasting blood glucose
and insulin were improved at the endpoint in the intervention group, but no changes were observed in
the control group (corrected endpoint differences between groups: glucose=0.61 mmol/L, P=0.038;
insulin=0.72 μU/L, P=0.038). Measures of inflammation, liver enzymes and renal function did not
change significantly during the study.
Conclusion:
Ingestion of seaweed extract over 10 weeks improves glucose metabolism without affecting
measures of inflammation, liver function or renal function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anita S. Elidottir
- Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | | | | | - Olof G. Geirsdottir
- Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Palmi V. Jonsson
- The Icelandic Gerontological Research Institute, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Elisabeth Rothenberg
- Department of Food and Meal Science, Kristianstad University, kristianstad, Sweden
| | | | - Jona Freysdottir
- Department of Immunology, Landspitali-The National University Hospital of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
| | - Alfons Ramel
- Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition, University of Iceland, Reykjavik, Iceland
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8
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Oxygen saturation during sleep as a predictor of inflammation in anovulatory women. Sleep Breath 2020; 25:1247-1255. [PMID: 33083921 DOI: 10.1007/s11325-020-02233-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2020] [Revised: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 10/16/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the inflammatory profile of premenopausal women with anovulatory cycles, regular menstrual cycles, or using contraceptives, and the associations with sleep and health-related parameters. METHODS Subjects completed questionnaires including the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index and the Epworth sleepiness scale, underwent whole-night polysomnography, and had blood collected for analysis of inflammatory, cardiovascular, and hormonal parameters. Women of reproductive age were categorized into three groups for comparisons: anovulatory menstrual cycles, regular menstrual cycles, and hormonal contraceptive use. RESULTS Women with anovulatory menstrual cycles (n = 20) had higher circulating levels of the proinflammatory cytokine IL-6 compared with women who had regular menstrual cycles (n = 191) and those on hormonal contraception (n = 72). No other classical marker of low-grade inflammation was significantly different. Subjective and objective sleep data were similar among groups. However, the mean peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) during sleep was reduced in anovulatory women. The analysis of associated variables of the inflammatory profile demonstrated that mean SpO2 during sleep was a predictive factor of IL-6 levels. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that in premenopausal women with anovulation, a proinflammatory condition mediated by IL-6 is associated with lower oxygen levels during sleep. These findings reflect the balance between gynecological status, the immune system, and sleep, pointing to the need to control for these factors in clinical practice and research contexts.
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9
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McNabney SM, Wiese GN, Rowland DL. From Table to Bedroom: Nutritional Status, Dietary Interventions, and Women’s Sexual Function. CURRENT SEXUAL HEALTH REPORTS 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s11930-019-00224-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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10
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Bannister E. There is increasing evidence to suggest that brain inflammation could play a key role in the aetiology of psychiatric illness. Could inflammation be a cause of the premenstrual syndromes PMS and PMDD? Post Reprod Health 2019; 25:157-161. [PMID: 31630609 DOI: 10.1177/2053369119875386] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
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11
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Barrientos RM, Brunton PJ, Lenz KM, Pyter L, Spencer SJ. Neuroimmunology of the female brain across the lifespan: Plasticity to psychopathology. Brain Behav Immun 2019; 79:39-55. [PMID: 30872093 PMCID: PMC6591071 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbi.2019.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Revised: 02/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/09/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The female brain is highly dynamic and can fundamentally remodel throughout the normal ovarian cycle as well as in critical life stages including perinatal development, pregnancy and old-age. As such, females are particularly vulnerable to infections, psychological disorders, certain cancers, and cognitive impairments. We will present the latest evidence on the female brain; how it develops through the neonatal period; how it changes through the ovarian cycle in normal individuals; how it adapts to pregnancy and postpartum; how it responds to illness and disease, particularly cancer; and, finally, how it is shaped by old age. Throughout, we will highlight female vulnerability to and resilience against disease and dysfunction in the face of environmental challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- R M Barrientos
- Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, Wexner Medical Centre, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, United States; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Wexner Medical Centre, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, United States; Chronic Brain Injury Program, Discovery Themes Initiative, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
| | - P J Brunton
- Centre for Discovery Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Hugh Robson Building, George Square, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, Scotland, UK; Zhejiang University-University of Edinburgh Joint Institute, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, International Campus, Haining, Zhejiang 314400, PR China
| | - K M Lenz
- Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, Wexner Medical Centre, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, United States; Department of Psychology, Department of Neuroscience, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
| | - L Pyter
- Institute for Behavioral Medicine Research, Wexner Medical Centre, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, United States; Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health, Wexner Medical Centre, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, United States
| | - S J Spencer
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Melbourne, Vic. 3083, Australia.
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12
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Lorenz TK, Heiman JR, Demas GE. Interactions Among Sexual Activity, Menstrual Cycle Phase, and Immune Function in Healthy Women. JOURNAL OF SEX RESEARCH 2018; 55:1087-1095. [PMID: 29161177 PMCID: PMC5962389 DOI: 10.1080/00224499.2017.1394961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Past research has found menstrual-cycle-related changes in functional immune response; we examined if sexual activity also changed markers of immune defense. We followed 32 naturally cycling women (15 sexually active with a partner ≥ 1 time/week, 17 sexually abstinent for the last four months) over one menstrual cycle. Participants provided serum and saliva samples at menses and ovulation, and additional saliva samples at midfollicular and midluteal phases. At each phase, participants also self-reported symptoms associated with colds, flu, pain, menstrual discomfort, and premenstrual syndrome. We tested saliva and serum for ability to kill Escherichia coli or Candida albicans, and serum for complement protein activity. For serum-mediated pathogen killing, among sexually active women only, there was a significant midcycle decrease in killing of E. coli. For saliva-mediated pathogen killing, among abstinent women only, there was a significant midcycle decrease in killing of E. coli, and midcycle increase in killing of C. albicans. Sexually active women had significantly lower complement activity than abstinent women overall. Finally, both groups reported lower physical symptoms at midcycle and higher symptoms at menses. There may be important differences in immune function between healthy women who are sexually active versus abstinent. Further replication is warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tierney K Lorenz
- a Department of Psychological Science , University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- b The Kinsey Institute , Indiana University
- c Center for Integrative Study for Animal Behavior , Indiana University
| | - Julia R Heiman
- b The Kinsey Institute , Indiana University
- d Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences , Indiana University
| | - Gregory E Demas
- c Center for Integrative Study for Animal Behavior , Indiana University
- e Department of Biology , Indiana University
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Alvergne A, Högqvist Tabor V. Is Female Health Cyclical? Evolutionary Perspectives on Menstruation. Trends Ecol Evol 2018; 33:399-414. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tree.2018.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2017] [Revised: 03/23/2018] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Sylvia KE, Lorenz TK, Heiman JR, Demas GE. Physiological predictors of leptin vary during menses and ovulation in healthy women. Reprod Biol 2018; 18:132-136. [PMID: 29454804 PMCID: PMC6310005 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2018.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2017] [Revised: 01/17/2018] [Accepted: 01/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Although research has shown interactions between the reproductive system and energy homeostasis, it is not clear how environmental or behavioral factors may factor into these associations. Here we aimed to determine how changes in reproductive state (i.e., phase of the menstrual cycle) and other behavioral and physiological factors may influence leptin levels in healthy women, as well as how sexual activity may play a role in leptin modulation. We collected serum and saliva from 32 healthy women and measured leptin, estradiol, and progesterone. Participants also completed surveys of demographics, health and sexual behaviors, and physical activity. Leptin was predicted by meals per day and missed meals at both menses and ovulation. However, estradiol and physical activity were stronger predictors of leptin at menses, while sexual activity was a stronger predictor of leptin at ovulation. These findings suggest that predictors of serum leptin, and possibly energy storage and expenditure, vary across the menstrual cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristyn E Sylvia
- Department of Biology, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA; Center for the Integrative Study of Animal Behavior, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA.
| | - Tierney K Lorenz
- Center for the Integrative Study of Animal Behavior, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA; Kinsey Institute for Research on Sex, Gender, and Reproduction, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Julia R Heiman
- Center for the Integrative Study of Animal Behavior, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA; Kinsey Institute for Research on Sex, Gender, and Reproduction, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA; Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
| | - Gregory E Demas
- Department of Biology, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA; Center for the Integrative Study of Animal Behavior, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA; Kinsey Institute for Research on Sex, Gender, and Reproduction, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN 47405, USA
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15
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Lorenz TK, Heiman JR, Demas GE. Testosterone and immune-reproductive tradeoffs in healthy women. Horm Behav 2017; 88:122-130. [PMID: 27865788 PMCID: PMC5303633 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2016.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2016] [Revised: 10/14/2016] [Accepted: 11/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Although testosterone (T) has been characterized as universally immunosuppressive across species and sexes, recent ecoimmunology research suggests that T's immunomodulatory effects (enhancing/suppressing) depend on the organism's reproductive context. Very little is known about the immune effects of T in healthy females, and even less about how reproductive effort modulates the immune effects of T in humans. We investigated how the interaction between endogenous T and sexual activity predicted menstrual cycle-related changes in several measures of immunity: inflammation (indexed by interleukin-6, IL-6), adaptive immunity (indexed by immunoglobulin A, IgA), and functional immunity (indexed by bactericidal assay). Thirty-two healthy women (sexually abstinent, N=17; sexually active with one male partner, N=15) provided saliva samples at four points in the menstrual cycle: menses, follicular, ovulation, and luteal phases. Among sexually abstinent women, T was positively associated with IL-6 across the cycle; for sexually active women, however, T was positively associated with IL-6 in the luteal phase only, and negatively associated with IL-6 at ovulation. High T predicted higher IgA among women who reported infrequent intercourse, but lower IgA among women who reported very frequent intercourse. Finally, across groups, T was positively associated with greater bacterial killing at menses, but negatively associated in the luteal phase. Overall, rather than being universally immunosuppressive, T appeared to signal immunomodulation relevant to reproduction (e.g., lowering inflammation at ovulation, potentially preventing immune interference with conception). Our findings support the hypothesis that the immunomodulatory effects of endogenous T in healthy females depend on sexual and reproductive context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tierney K Lorenz
- Center for Integrative Study for Animal Behavior, Indiana University, 409 N. Park Ave, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States; The Kinsey Institute, Indiana University, 1165 E 3rd St., Bloomington, IN 47405, United States; Department of Psychology, University of North Carolina at Charlotte, 9201 University City Blvd., Charlotte, NC 28223, United States.
| | - Julia R Heiman
- Center for Integrative Study for Animal Behavior, Indiana University, 409 N. Park Ave, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States; The Kinsey Institute, Indiana University, 1165 E 3rd St., Bloomington, IN 47405, United States; Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, 1101 E. 10th St., Bloomington, IN 47405, United States.
| | - Gregory E Demas
- Center for Integrative Study for Animal Behavior, Indiana University, 409 N. Park Ave, Bloomington, IN 47405, United States; Department of Biology, Indiana University, 1001 E 3rd St., Bloomington, IN 47405, United States.
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16
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Lorenz TK, Demas GE, Heiman JR. Interaction of menstrual cycle phase and sexual activity predicts mucosal and systemic humoral immunity in healthy women. Physiol Behav 2015; 152:92-8. [PMID: 26394125 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2015.09.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2015] [Revised: 08/14/2015] [Accepted: 09/18/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Several studies have documented shifts in humoral immune parameters (e.g., immunoglobulins) across the menstrual cycle in healthy women. It is thought that these shifts may reflect dynamic balancing between reproduction and pathogen defense, as certain aspects of humoral immunity may disrupt conception and may be temporarily downregulated at ovulation. If so, one could expect maximal cycle-related shifts of humoral immunity in individuals invested in reproduction - that is, women who are currently sexually active - and less pronounced shifts in women who are not reproductively active (i.e., abstinent). We investigated the interaction of sexual activity, menstrual cycle phase, and humoral immunity in a sample of 32 healthy premenopausal women (15 sexually active, 17 abstinent). Participants provided saliva samples during their menses, follicular phase, ovulation (as indicated by urine test for LH surge), and luteal phase, from which IgA was assayed. Participants also provided blood samples at menses and ovulation, from which IgG was assayed. Sexually active participants provided records of their frequency of sexual activity as well as condom use. At ovulation, sexually active women had higher IgG than abstinent women (d=0.77), with women reporting regular condom use showing larger effects (d=0.63) than women reporting no condom use (d=0.11). Frequency of sexual activity predicted changes in IgA (Cohen's f(2)=0.25), with women reporting high frequency of sexual activity showing a decrease in IgA at ovulation, while women reporting low frequency or no sexual activity showing an increase in IgA at ovulation. Taken together, these findings support the hypothesis that shifts in humoral immunity across the menstrual cycle are associated with reproductive effort, and could contribute to the mechanisms by which women's physiology navigates tradeoffs between reproduction and immunity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tierney K Lorenz
- Center for Integrative Study for Animal Behavior, Indiana University, Bloomington, 409 N Park Ave, Bloomington, IN, United States; The Kinsey Institute, Indiana University, Bloomington, 1165 E 3rd St., Bloomington, IN 47405, United States.
| | - Gregory E Demas
- Center for Integrative Study for Animal Behavior, Indiana University, Bloomington, 409 N Park Ave, Bloomington, IN, United States; Department of Biology, Indiana University, Bloomington, 1001 E 3rd St, Bloomington, IN, United States; Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, 1101 E 10th St., Bloomington, IN, United States.
| | - Julia R Heiman
- Center for Integrative Study for Animal Behavior, Indiana University, Bloomington, 409 N Park Ave, Bloomington, IN, United States; The Kinsey Institute, Indiana University, Bloomington, 1165 E 3rd St., Bloomington, IN 47405, United States; Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, 1101 E 10th St., Bloomington, IN, United States.
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Lorenz TK, Heiman JR, Demas GE. Sexual activity modulates shifts in TH1/TH2 cytokine profile across the menstrual cycle: an observational study. Fertil Steril 2015; 104:1513-21.e1-4. [PMID: 26385401 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2015] [Revised: 09/01/2015] [Accepted: 09/01/2015] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate if sexual activity moderated menstrual cycle-related shifts in cytokines associated with T-helper type 1 (TH1) cells (e.g., interferon [IFN] γ) and T-helper type 2 (TH2) cells (e.g., interleukin [IL] 4). Immune activity shifts across the menstrual cycle, with higher follicular-phase TH1-cell activity but higher luteal-phase TH2-cell activity. Little is known about how social behaviors alter TH1-TH2 ratios, despite evidence that psychosocial factors can influence immunity. Of particular interest is how sexual activity influences immune responses that may support conception, such as the TH1-TH2 balance. DESIGN Participants provided saliva samples at four time points (menstrual, follicular, ovulatory, and luteal phases), which were assayed by means of ELISA. SETTING Academic laboratory. PARTICIPANT(S) Thirty healthy premenopausal women (16 sexually abstinent, 14 sexually active) not taking hormonal or immunoactive medications. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Salivary E2, P, IFN-γ, and IL-4. RESULT(S) Sexually active, but not abstinent, women were significantly more likely to express TH2-like cytokine ratios (IFN-γ < IL-4) in the luteal phase than in other phases. Similarly, sexually active women had significantly higher P, and higher P-E2 ratios, in the luteal phase than did abstinent women. The P-E2 ratio mediated menstrual variations in cytokine ratios in sexually active women. CONCLUSION(S) These results support the hypothesis that shifts in immune response across the menstrual cycle may reflect tradeoffs between reproduction and immunity. These findings point to the need for further research on the interaction between sexual behavior, the menstrual cycle, and immune response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tierney K Lorenz
- Center for Integrative Study for Animal Behavior, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana; Kinsey Institute for Research on Sex, Gender, and Reproduction, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana.
| | - Julia R Heiman
- Center for Integrative Study for Animal Behavior, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana; Kinsey Institute for Research on Sex, Gender, and Reproduction, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana; Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana
| | - Gregory E Demas
- Center for Integrative Study for Animal Behavior, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana; Department of Biology, Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana
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