1
|
Sherman KK, Beaulieu-McCoy NE, Wurster EL, Wells RS, Smith CR, Barleycorn AA, Allen JB, Kellar NM. Serum correlation, demographic differentiation, and seasonality of blubber testosterone in common bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops truncatus, in Sarasota Bay, FL. Sci Rep 2021; 11:8941. [PMID: 33903714 PMCID: PMC8076180 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-88602-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Blubber and serum testosterone levels were compared among 55 individual common bottlenose dolphins, Tursiops truncatus, in Sarasota Bay, FL during 2011–2019. A significant positive relationship between the matrices was found in male testosterone concentrations in 29 paired samples (r2 = 0.932). Mature males (n = 17) had 300 times greater mean testosterone concentration in serum than immature males (n = 17). A comparison of blubber samples, including 12 females, 24 immature males, and 19 mature males, revealed significant differences in mean blubber testosterone values among all three demographics. Immature males had greater than 6 times the average blubber testosterone concentration of females and mature males had almost 100 times that of immature males. Estimated testis volume was highly correlated with blubber testosterone concentration and mature males had 60 times greater average testis volume than immature males. We observed seasonal variation in blubber testosterone in mature males, consistent with known reproductive patterns. These data suggest males can be distinguished from females and designated as mature or immature via blubber testosterone concentrations, an observation that validates dart biopsy sampling as a means of obtaining demographic data.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kathryn K Sherman
- Environmental Assessment Services, LLC, Southwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 8901 La Jolla Shores Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA.
| | - Nicole E Beaulieu-McCoy
- Volunteer With Southwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 8901 La Jolla Shores Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Elyse L Wurster
- Environmental Assessment Services, LLC, Southwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 8901 La Jolla Shores Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| | - Randall S Wells
- Chicago Zoological Society's Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, c/o Mote Marine Laboratory, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL, 34236, USA
| | - Cynthia R Smith
- National Marine Mammal Foundation, 2240 Shelter Island Drive, Suite 200, San Diego, CA, 92106, USA
| | - Aaron A Barleycorn
- Chicago Zoological Society's Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, c/o Mote Marine Laboratory, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL, 34236, USA
| | - Jason B Allen
- Chicago Zoological Society's Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, c/o Mote Marine Laboratory, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, FL, 34236, USA
| | - Nicholas M Kellar
- Southwest Fisheries Science Center, National Marine Fisheries Service, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, 8901 La Jolla Shores Drive, La Jolla, CA, 92037, USA
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Constantinescu G, Langton K, Conrad C, Amar L, Assié G, Gimenez-Roqueplo AP, Blanchard A, Larsen CK, Mulatero P, Williams TA, Prejbisz A, Fassnacht M, Bornstein S, Ceccato F, Fliedner S, Dennedy M, Peitzsch M, Sinnott R, Januszewicz A, Beuschlein F, Reincke M, Zennaro MC, Eisenhofer G, Deinum J. Glucocorticoid Excess in Patients with Pheochromocytoma Compared with Paraganglioma and Other Forms of Hypertension. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5866040. [PMID: 32609829 PMCID: PMC7413598 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgaa423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [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] [Received: 03/06/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Catecholamines and adrenocortical steroids are important regulators of blood pressure. Bidirectional relationships between adrenal steroids and catecholamines have been established but whether this is relevant to patients with pheochromocytoma is unclear. OBJECTIVE This study addresses the hypothesis that patients with pheochromocytoma and paraganglioma (PPGL) have altered steroid production compared with patients with primary hypertension. DESIGN Multicenter cross-sectional study. SETTING Twelve European referral centers. PATIENTS Subjects included 182 patients with pheochromocytoma, 36 with paraganglioma and 270 patients with primary hypertension. Patients with primary aldosteronism (n = 461) and Cushing syndrome (n = 124) were included for additional comparisons. INTERVENTION In patients with PPGLs, surgical resection of tumors. OUTCOME MEASURES Differences in mass spectrometry-based profiles of 15 adrenal steroids between groups and after surgical resection of PPGLs. Relationships of steroids to plasma and urinary metanephrines and urinary catecholamines. RESULTS Patients with pheochromocytoma had higher (P < .05) circulating concentrations of cortisol, 11-deoxycortisol, 11-deoxycorticosterone, and corticosterone than patients with primary hypertension. Concentrations of cortisol, 11-deoxycortisol, and corticosterone were also higher (P < .05) in patients with pheochromocytoma than with paraganglioma. These steroids correlated positively with plasma and urinary metanephrines and catecholamines in patients with pheochromocytoma, but not paraganglioma. After adrenalectomy, there were significant decreases in cortisol, 11-deoxycortisol, corticosterone, 11-deoxycorticosterone, aldosterone, and 18-oxocortisol. CONCLUSIONS This is the first large study in patients with PPGLs that supports in a clinical setting the concept of adrenal cortical-medullary interactions involving an influence of catecholamines on adrenal steroids. These findings could have implications for the cardiovascular complications of PPGLs and the clinical management of patients with the tumors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Georgiana Constantinescu
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Grigore T. Popa University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Iasi, Romania
- Correspondence and Reprint Requests: Georgiana Constantinescu, Department of Medicine III, Technische Universität Dresden, Fetscherstraße 74, 01307 Dresden, Germany. E-mail:
| | - Katharina Langton
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Catleen Conrad
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Laurence Amar
- Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Hypertension Unit, APHP, Paris, France
- Cardiovascular Research Center INSERM, Paris, France
- Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Guillaume Assié
- Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Department of Endocrinology, Center for Rare Adrenal Diseases, Hôpital Cochin, APHP, Paris, France
- Institut Cochin, INSERM, Paris, France
| | - Anne-Paule Gimenez-Roqueplo
- Cardiovascular Research Center INSERM, Paris, France
- Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Genetics Unit, Paris, France
| | - Anne Blanchard
- Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- INSERM, Centre d’Investigations Cliniques, Paris, France
| | | | - Paolo Mulatero
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hypertension, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Italy
| | - Tracy Ann Williams
- Division of Internal Medicine and Hypertension, Department of Medical Sciences, University of Turin, Italy
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | | | - Martin Fassnacht
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, University Hospital, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
- Comprehensive Cancer Center Mainfranken, University of Würzburg, Würzburg, Germany
| | - Stefan Bornstein
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Division of Diabetes & Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King’s College London, London, UK
- Klinik für Endokrinologie, Diabetologie und Klinische Ernährung, University Hospital, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Filippo Ceccato
- Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine DIMED, Padova University Hospital, Padua, Italy
| | - Stephanie Fliedner
- First Department of Medicine, University Medical Center Schleswig-Holstein, Lübeck, Germany
| | - Michael Dennedy
- The Discipline of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, School of Medicine, National University of Ireland Galway, Galway, Ireland
| | - Mirko Peitzsch
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Richard Sinnott
- School of Computing and Information Systems, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
| | | | - Felix Beuschlein
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany
- Klinik für Endokrinologie, Diabetologie und Klinische Ernährung, University Hospital, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Martin Reincke
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Maria-Christina Zennaro
- Cardiovascular Research Center INSERM, Paris, France
- Paris Descartes University, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Hôpital Européen Georges Pompidou, Genetics Unit, Paris, France
| | - Graeme Eisenhofer
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Institute of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Jaap Deinum
- Department of Medicine III, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
- Department of Internal Medicine, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Guo F, Fang A, Fan Y, Fu X, Lan Y, Liu M, Cao S, An G. Role of treatment with human chorionic gonadotropin and clinical parameters on testicular sperm recovery with microdissection testicular sperm extraction and intracytoplasmic sperm injection outcomes in 184 Klinefelter syndrome patients. Fertil Steril 2020; 114:997-1005. [PMID: 32868102 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.05.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Revised: 07/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate whether preoperative human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) treatment can help predict the outcomes of microdissection testicular sperm extraction (micro-TESE) and affect fertility outcomes in non-mosaic Klinefelter syndrome (KS) patients. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING University-affiliated fertility center. PATIENT(S) A total of 184 non-mosaic KS patients who underwent micro-TESE with or without preoperative hCG treatment from January 2016 to July 2019. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Sperm retrieval rate (SRR) with and without hCG treatment, logistic models analysis. RESULT(S) Eighty KS patients (43.5%) had successful sperm retrievals after micro-TESE. There was no statistically significant difference in the SRR between the group who received hCG treatment and the group that did not (44.0% vs. 43.3%). Logistic regression analyses demonstrated that the hCG treatment had no statistically significant effect on successful sperm retrieval. However, higher preoperative testosterone (T) levels seemed to be associated with a higher probability of successful sperm retrieval (multivariate adjusted odds ratio 1.09; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.04-1.16). The prediction model for SRR on KS patients had an area under the curve of 67.3% (95% CI, 59.3-75.3%). In the hCG treatment group, the data indicated that the three parameters of testicular volume, pretreatment T level, and alterations of T were associated with the probability of successful sperm retrieval. Moreover, hCG therapy did not affect intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) outcomes. No differences in the pregnancy rate or live-birth rate were observed between the two groups. CONCLUSION(S) Therapy with hCG does not affect SRR or ICSI outcomes of non-mosaic KS patients. However, preoperative T levels, whether treated with hCG or not, can predict the chance of sperm retrieval with micro-TESE.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Feixiang Guo
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Aiping Fang
- Department of Nutrition, School of Public Health, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Fan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Fu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yu Lan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Min Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuqi Cao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Geng An
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China; Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Gaum PM, Vida VS, Schettgen T, Esser A, Kraus T, Gube M, Lang J. Cross-Sectional and Longitudinal Effects of PCB Exposure on Human Stress Hormones in the German HELPcB Surveillance Program. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17134708. [PMID: 32629959 PMCID: PMC7370098 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17134708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Multiple pathological associations are attributed to PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls). Research shows a positive association of PCBs with dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) concentration but the results on the stress hormone cortisol have been inconsistent so far. This study is the first to examine not only the cross-sectional but also the longitudinal effects of PCB exposure on the stress hormones DHEAS and cortisol. Over a period of three years, 112 former employees occupationally exposed to PCBs were tested for their body burden with different types of PCBs (lower and higher chlorinated, dioxin-like and hydroxylated) and for their stress hormone concentration. Highly exposed employees showed a significantly higher risk for higher DHEAS values. Multiple linear regression analysis revealed a positive relationship between the exposure to lower chlorinated PCBs and DHEAS. Mixed models also revealed a significantly positive correlation between lower chlorinated PCBs with DHEAS when controlled for a cross-section. However, an effect for cortisol was not found. These results suggest a causal pathophysiological relationship between PCB exposure and DHEAS concentration, but not with cortisol. The health consequences of high DHEAS concentrations are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Petra Maria Gaum
- Institute for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, North Rhine Westphalia, Germany; (V.S.V.); (T.S.); (A.E.); (T.K.); (M.G.); (J.L.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +49-(0)241-80-89040
| | - Viktoria Stefanie Vida
- Institute for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, North Rhine Westphalia, Germany; (V.S.V.); (T.S.); (A.E.); (T.K.); (M.G.); (J.L.)
| | - Thomas Schettgen
- Institute for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, North Rhine Westphalia, Germany; (V.S.V.); (T.S.); (A.E.); (T.K.); (M.G.); (J.L.)
| | - André Esser
- Institute for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, North Rhine Westphalia, Germany; (V.S.V.); (T.S.); (A.E.); (T.K.); (M.G.); (J.L.)
| | - Thomas Kraus
- Institute for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, North Rhine Westphalia, Germany; (V.S.V.); (T.S.); (A.E.); (T.K.); (M.G.); (J.L.)
| | - Monika Gube
- Institute for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, North Rhine Westphalia, Germany; (V.S.V.); (T.S.); (A.E.); (T.K.); (M.G.); (J.L.)
- Health Authority of the City and Area of Aachen, Trierer Straße 1, 52070 Aachen, Germany
| | - Jessica Lang
- Institute for Occupational, Social and Environmental Medicine, RWTH Aachen University, Pauwelsstraße 30, 52074 Aachen, North Rhine Westphalia, Germany; (V.S.V.); (T.S.); (A.E.); (T.K.); (M.G.); (J.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Yang WP, Chang HH, Li HY, Lai YC, Huang TY, Tsai KS, Lin KH, Lin DT, Jou ST, Lu MY, Yang YL, Chou SW, Shih SR. Iron Overload Associated Endocrine Dysfunction Leading to Lower Bone Mineral Density in Thalassemia Major. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5697444. [PMID: 31907538 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgz309] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Accepted: 01/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Patients with thalassemia major (TM) have a lower bone mineral density (BMD) and higher risk of fracture than the general population. The possible mechanisms include anemia, iron overload, malnutrition, and hormonal deficiency, but these have not been thoroughly investigated. OBJECTIVE To identify major mineral and hormonal factors related to BMD in adult TM patients to provide human evidence for the proposed mechanisms. DESIGN Retrospective study. SETTING Referral center. PATIENTS Twenty-nine patients with β-TM, aged 23 to 44 years who were followed-up during 2017 to 2018 were enrolled. OUTCOME MEASUREMENTS Endocrine profiles, including thyroid, parathyroid, and pituitary function, glucose, vitamin D, calcium, phosphate, and fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23) were obtained. The relationships among the above parameters, body height, fractures, and BMD were analyzed. RESULTS Abnormal BMD was observed in 42.9% of women and 23.1% of men. The mean final heights of women and men were 3.7 cm and 7.3 cm lower than the mean expected values, respectively. Fracture history was recorded in 26.7% of women and 35.7% of men. BMD was negatively correlated with parathyroid hormone, FGF23, thyrotropin, and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) levels, and positively correlated with testosterone, IGF-1, and corticotropin levels (all P < .05). Moreover, hypothyroidism was associated with lower BMD in both the lumbar spine (P = .024) and the femoral neck (P = .004). Patients with hypothyroidism had a higher percentage of abnormal BMD (P = .016). CONCLUSION Hypothyroidism, higher HbA1c, and lower adrenocorticotropin were predictors of abnormal BMD in patients with β-TM. Whether the correction of these factors improves BMD warrants further research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Ping Yang
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan/ University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Taipei City Hospital, Ren-Ai branch, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsiu-Hao Chang
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hung-Yuan Li
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan/ University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Ying-Chuen Lai
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan/ University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Tse-Ying Huang
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan/ University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Keh-Sung Tsai
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan/ University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Far Eastern Polyclinic, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kai-Hsin Lin
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Dong-Tsamn Lin
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shiann-Tarng Jou
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Meng-Yao Lu
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Yung-Li Yang
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shu-Wei Chou
- Division of Hematology and Oncology, Department of Pediatrics, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shyang-Rong Shih
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan/ University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Internal Medicine, National Taiwan University College of Medicine, Taipei, Taiwan
- Center of Anti-Aging and Health Consultation, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Lu X, Yan Z, Cai R, Khor S, Wu L, Sun L, Wang Y, Xu Y, Tian H, Chen Q, Qiao J, Li B, Chen B, Cao Y, Lyu Q, Wang L, Kuang Y. Pregnancy and Live Birth In Women With Pathogenic LHCGR Variants Using Their Own Oocytes. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2019; 104:5877-5892. [PMID: 31393569 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2019-01276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/02/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The LH/chorionic gonadotropin receptor (LHCGR) is mainly expressed in gonads and plays important roles in estradiol production, ovulation, and luteal formation. Women with pathogenic LHCGR variants suffer from infertility, and successful fertility treatments for such women have never been reported. OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to determine whether women with pathogenic LHCGR variants can achieve successful pregnancies through in vitro fertilization. DESIGN Three women with LH resistance and infertility and their parents underwent exome sequencing. The biochemical characteristics and functional effects of LHCGR mutation were assessed in transfected human embryonic kidney -293T cells and primary granulosa cells. RESULTS All affected women harbored pathogenic LHCGR variants. The LHCGR variants lacked cell surface localization and signal transduction abilities in vitro and in vivo. After dual triggering and prolonging the interval between triggering and oocyte pick-up, all three patients achieved oocytes and high-quality embryos. After frozen embryo transfer, one woman successfully birthed twins, and one woman successfully birthed a live boy. Apart from difficulties in oocyte retrieval, no obvious abnormalities in fertilization or during embryo development and pregnancy were identified in these patients. CONCLUSIONS This study is, to our knowledge, the first to report successful assisted reproductive treatment of women with pathogenic LHCGR variants using their own oocytes. Our results supported that defects in LHCGR disrupted ovulation but had no effect on fertilization and embryo development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xuefeng Lu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Zheng Yan
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Renfei Cai
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Shuzin Khor
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling Wu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lihua Sun
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yun Wang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yao Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, MOE Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology and Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hui Tian
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai East Hospital, Shanghai Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiuju Chen
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Jie Qiao
- Department of Endocrinology, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Bing Li
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Biaobang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, MOE Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology and Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Cao
- Shanghai Institute of Precision Medicine, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Qifeng Lyu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Lei Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, MOE Key Laboratory of Contemporary Anthropology and Collaborative Innovation Center of Genetics and Development, School of Life Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanping Kuang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Mustieles V, Ocón-Hernandez O, Mínguez-Alarcón L, Dávila-Arias C, Pérez-Lobato R, Calvente I, Arrebola JP, Vela-Soria F, Rubio S, Hauser R, Olea N, Fernández MF. Bisphenol A and reproductive hormones and cortisol in peripubertal boys: The INMA-Granada cohort. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 618:1046-1053. [PMID: 29100688 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2017.09.093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Revised: 09/10/2017] [Accepted: 09/10/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Bisphenol A (BPA) is a well-known endocrine disrupting compound. Although several studies have investigated the effect of BPA exposure and reproductive hormones in humans, results have been inconsistent. OBJECTIVE To explore the cross-sectional relationship between bisphenol A (BPA) exposure and reproductive hormones/cortisol among peripubertal boys. MATERIAL AND METHODS Urinary BPA and serum hormones were assessed in 172 boys belonging to the INMA "Environment and Childhood" Granada birth cohort in their follow-up at 9-11years of age. BPA concentrations were quantified by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, and levels of serum total testosterone (TT), luteinizing hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and cortisol were measured by electrochemiluminescence immunoassay. RESULT(S) After adjustment for confounders, linear regression models showed that each natural-log unit increase in urinary BPA concentrations was associated with a 19% increase in geometric mean (GM) serum TT levels, and a 16% decrease in GM serum cortisol levels. When urinary BPA concentrations were categorized in tertiles, boys in the 3rd tertile showed 49% higher TT levels and 23% lower cortisol concentrations compared to boys in the 1st tertile. Additionally, urinary BPA concentrations were also significantly associated with higher TT:LH and TT:cortisol ratios, but not with serum LH or FSH levels. CONCLUSION(S) Our results suggest the possible endocrine disrupting potential of BPA during this important period of development. Although action at the testis or pituitary cannot be ruled out, our findings are compatible with a possible involvement of BPA at the adrenal gland, resulting in a differential production of androgens/cortisol. However, given the cross-sectional design of our study, the heterogeneous results reported in the literature, and the scant experimental research on BPA effects at the adrenal gland, the present findings should be interpreted with caution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vicente Mustieles
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria (ibs.GRANADA), Hospitales Universitarios de Granada, Spain; University of Granada, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Granada, Spain
| | - Olga Ocón-Hernandez
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria (ibs.GRANADA), Hospitales Universitarios de Granada, Spain; University of Granada, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Granada, Spain
| | - Lidia Mínguez-Alarcón
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Cristina Dávila-Arias
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria (ibs.GRANADA), Hospitales Universitarios de Granada, Spain
| | - Rocío Pérez-Lobato
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria (ibs.GRANADA), Hospitales Universitarios de Granada, Spain
| | - Irene Calvente
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria (ibs.GRANADA), Hospitales Universitarios de Granada, Spain
| | - Juan P Arrebola
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria (ibs.GRANADA), Hospitales Universitarios de Granada, Spain; University of Granada, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Granada, Spain; CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Spain
| | - Fernando Vela-Soria
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria (ibs.GRANADA), Hospitales Universitarios de Granada, Spain
| | - Soledad Rubio
- University of Córdoba, Institute of Fine Chemistry and Nanochemistry, 14017 Córdoba, Spain
| | - Russ Hauser
- Department of Environmental Health, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Vincent Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Nicolás Olea
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria (ibs.GRANADA), Hospitales Universitarios de Granada, Spain; University of Granada, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Granada, Spain; CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Spain
| | - Mariana F Fernández
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria (ibs.GRANADA), Hospitales Universitarios de Granada, Spain; University of Granada, Centro de Investigación Biomédica, Granada, Spain; CIBER de Epidemiología y Salud Pública (CIBERESP), Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Adrenocorticotropic hormone levels before treatment predict recurrence of Cushing's disease. J Formos Med Assoc 2016; 116:441-447. [PMID: 28029519 DOI: 10.1016/j.jfma.2016.08.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2016] [Revised: 06/30/2016] [Accepted: 08/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE Cushing's disease (CD) is the most common cause of endogenous Cushing's syndrome. Transsphenoidal surgery (TSS) is the first choice of treatment. Predicting prognosis after treatment can benefit further strategies of management, but currently there is no convenient predictor. This study aims to investigate characteristic changes after treatment and to identify potential prognostic predictors. METHODS We retrospectively studied the records of CD patients presenting to the National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan between 1992 and 2011. They were categorized according to treatment response. Clinical features and examination findings were compared between groups. RESULTS Forty-one patients with CD were included. The follow-up time was 0.26-19.3 years. The time interval between the onset of symptoms and diagnosis was 2.1-120.0 months. The initial remission rate of CD after the first treatment was 82.9%. Mean body mass index (BMI) was 27.4 kg/m2 before treatment and 26.0 kg/m2 3 months after treatment. The patients in remission had a greater decrease in BMI after treatment and lower dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) levels before treatment, compared with the recurrent group (both p < 0.05). Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) levels before treatment showed a significant positive correlation with recurrent diseases (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION A larger decrease in BMI after treatment and lower DHEAS levels before treatment were noted for the patients who stayed in CD remission. Higher ACTH levels before treatment predicted a recurrence of CD. These are potentially simple and practical predictors of prognosis.
Collapse
|
9
|
Vinson GP. Functional Zonation of the Adult Mammalian Adrenal Cortex. Front Neurosci 2016; 10:238. [PMID: 27378832 PMCID: PMC4908136 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2016.00238] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2016] [Accepted: 05/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
The standard model of adrenocortical zonation holds that the three main zones, glomerulosa, fasciculata, and reticularis each have a distinct function, producing mineralocorticoids (in fact just aldosterone), glucocorticoids, and androgens respectively. Moreover, each zone has its specific mechanism of regulation, though ACTH has actions throughout. Finally, the cells of the cortex originate from a stem cell population in the outer cortex or capsule, and migrate centripetally, changing their phenotype as they progress through the zones. Recent progress in understanding the development of the gland and the distribution of steroidogenic enzymes, trophic hormone receptors, and other factors suggests that this model needs refinement. Firstly, proliferation can take place throughout the gland, and although the stem cells are certainly located in the periphery, zonal replenishment can take place within zones. Perhaps more importantly, neither the distribution of enzymes nor receptors suggest that the individual zones are necessarily autonomous in their production of steroid. This is particularly true of the glomerulosa, which does not seem to have the full suite of enzymes required for aldosterone biosynthesis. Nor, in the rat anyway, does it express MC2R to account for the response of aldosterone to ACTH. It is known that in development, recruitment of stem cells is stimulated by signals from within the glomerulosa. Furthermore, throughout the cortex local regulatory factors, including cytokines, catecholamines and the tissue renin-angiotensin system, modify and refine the effects of the systemic trophic factors. In these and other ways it more and more appears that the functions of the gland should be viewed as an integrated whole, greater than the sum of its component parts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gavin P Vinson
- School of Biological and Chemical Sciences, Queen Mary University of London London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Belli S, Santi D, Leoni E, Dall'Olio E, Fanelli F, Mezzullo M, Pelusi C, Roli L, Tagliavini S, Trenti T, Granata AR, Pagotto U, Pasquali R, Rochira V, Carani C, Simoni M. Human chorionic gonadotropin stimulation gives evidence of differences in testicular steroidogenesis in Klinefelter syndrome, as assessed by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Eur J Endocrinol 2016; 174:801-11. [PMID: 27188454 DOI: 10.1530/eje-15-1224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2015] [Accepted: 03/30/2016] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Men with Klinefelter syndrome (KS) show hypergonadotropic hypogonadism, but the pathogenesis of hypotestosteronemia remains unclear. Testicular steroidogenesis in KS men was evaluated over three decades ago after human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) stimulation, but inconclusive results were obtained. Intriguingly, some recent studies show increased intratesticular testosterone concentrations in men with KS. OBJECTIVE To analyze serum steroid profile, as a proxy of testicular steroidogenesis, after hCG stimulation in KS compared with control men. DESIGN A prospective, longitudinal, case-control, clinical trial. METHODS Thirteen KS patients (36±9 years) not receiving testosterone (TS) replacement therapy and 12 eugonadic controls (32±8 years) were enrolled. Serum steroids were measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) at baseline and for five consecutive days after intramuscular injection of 5000IU hCG. RESULTS Progesterone (P), 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP), TS, and estradiol (E2) showed a significant increase (P<0.001) after hCG stimulation in both groups. On the contrary, androstenedione (AS) and dehydroepiandrosterone did not increase after hCG stimulation. The 17OHP/P ratio increased in both groups (P<0.001), the TS/AS ratio (17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 3 (17βHSD3) activity) did not increase after hCG in any group, and the E2/TS ratio (aromatase activity) increased significantly in both groups (P=0.009 in KS and P<0.001 in controls). Luteinizing hormone decreased after hCG in both groups (P=0.014 in KS and P<0.001 in controls), whereas follicle-stimulating hormone decreased only in control men (P<0.001). CONCLUSION This study demonstrates for the first time using LC-MS/MS that Leydig cells of KS men are able to respond to hCG stimulation and that the first steps of steroidogenesis are fully functional. However, the TS production in KS men is impaired, possibly related to reduced hydroxysteroid deydrogenase activity due to an unfavorable intratesticular metabolic state.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Belli
- Unit of EndocrinologyDepartment of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - D Santi
- Unit of EndocrinologyDepartment of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy Department of MedicineEndocrinology, Metabolism and Geriatrics, Azienda USL of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - E Leoni
- Unit of EndocrinologyDepartment of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - E Dall'Olio
- Unit of EndocrinologyDepartment of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - F Fanelli
- Unit of EndocrinologyDepartment of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Centre for Applied Biomedical Research, Unit S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Alma Mater University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - M Mezzullo
- Unit of EndocrinologyDepartment of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Centre for Applied Biomedical Research, Unit S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Alma Mater University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - C Pelusi
- Unit of EndocrinologyDepartment of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Centre for Applied Biomedical Research, Unit S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Alma Mater University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - L Roli
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathological AnatomyAzienda USL of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - S Tagliavini
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathological AnatomyAzienda USL of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - T Trenti
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathological AnatomyAzienda USL of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - A R Granata
- Department of MedicineEndocrinology, Metabolism and Geriatrics, Azienda USL of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - U Pagotto
- Unit of EndocrinologyDepartment of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Centre for Applied Biomedical Research, Unit S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Alma Mater University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - R Pasquali
- Unit of EndocrinologyDepartment of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Centre for Applied Biomedical Research, Unit S. Orsola-Malpighi Hospital, Alma Mater University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - V Rochira
- Unit of EndocrinologyDepartment of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy Department of MedicineEndocrinology, Metabolism and Geriatrics, Azienda USL of Modena, Modena, Italy
| | - C Carani
- Unit of EndocrinologyDepartment of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | - M Simoni
- Unit of EndocrinologyDepartment of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy Department of MedicineEndocrinology, Metabolism and Geriatrics, Azienda USL of Modena, Modena, Italy Center for Genomic ResearchUniversity of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Abstract
The adrenal gland is one of the prominent sites for steroid hormone synthesis. Lipoprotein-derived cholesterol esters (CEs) delivered via SR-B1 constitute the dominant source of cholesterol for steroidogenesis, particularly in rodents. Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulates steroidogenesis through downstream actions on multiple components involved in steroidogenesis. Both acute and chronic ACTH treatments can modulate SR-B1 function, including its transcription, posttranscriptional stability, phosphorylation and dimerization status, as well as the interaction with other protein partners, all of which result in changes in the ability of SR-B1 to mediate HDL-CE uptake and the supply of cholesterol for conversion to steroids. Here, we provide a review of the recent findings on the regulation of adrenal SR-B1 function by ACTH.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Jun Shen
- The Division of Endocrinology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Salman Azhar
- The Division of Endocrinology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Fredric B. Kraemer
- The Division of Endocrinology, Stanford University, Stanford, CA, USA
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Veterans Affairs Palo Alto Health Care System, Palo Alto, CA, USA
- *Correspondence: Fredric B. Kraemer,
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Shirtcliff EA, Dismukes AR, Marceau K, Ruttle PL, Simmons JG, Han G. A dual-axis approach to understanding neuroendocrine development. Dev Psychobiol 2015. [PMID: 26220016 DOI: 10.1002/dev.21337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
This introduction sets out to present a series of paper about a novel perspective regarding stress and sex hormones, or what the authors within this special issue term "coupling" of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal and--gonadal axes. This view postulates that these axes do not necessarily operate in opposition, but can operate together as evidenced empirically as a positive within-person association between stress hormones like cortisol or sex hormones like testosterone. A wealth of papers within the special issue demonstrate positive coupling across acute, diurnal, basal, and longitudinal timeframes and across several different types of contexts. Reviews were meant to challenge whether this was physiologically plausible. Consistently, sophisticated statistical models were utilized in order to show a template for how to model positive coupling and to ensure that coupling was a within-person phenomenon. We cautiously considered positive coupling until the consistency of observing coupling was robust enough for us to consider challenging the prevailing oppositional view of these axes. We do so to acknowledge that there are contexts, moments and stages in which the function of these axes should work together: for example when contexts are both stressful and challenging or at developmental stages (like adolescence) in which the youth must grow up despite the storm and stress of youth. We hope that by putting forward a functional dual-axis approach, the field will be able to consider when and how these axes work together.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Andrew R Dismukes
- Human Development Family Studies, Iowa State University, Ames, IA, 50011
| | | | | | - Julian G Simmons
- Melbourne School of Psychological Sciences, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, 3071
| | - Georges Han
- Department of Psychology, University of California, Davis, CA, 95616
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Sukocheva OA, Li B, Due SL, Hussey DJ, Watson DI. Androgens and esophageal cancer: What do we know? World J Gastroenterol 2015; 21:6146-6156. [PMID: 26034350 PMCID: PMC4445092 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v21.i20.6146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2015] [Revised: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 04/17/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Significant disparities exist between genders for the development and progression of several gastro-intestinal (GI) diseases including cancer. Differences in incidence between men vs women for colon, gastric and hepatocellular cancers suggest a role for steroid sex hormones in regulation of GI carcinogenesis. Involvement of intrinsic gender-linked mechanisms is also possible for esophageal adenocarcinoma as its incidence is disproportionally high among men. However, the cause of the observed gender differences and the potential role of androgens in esophageal carcinogenesis remains unclear, even though the cancer-promoting role of androgen receptors (AR) shown in other cancers such as prostate and bladder suggests this aspect warrants exploration. Several studies have demonstrated expression of ARs in esophageal cancer. However, only one study has suggested a potential link between AR signaling and outcome - poorer prognosis. Two groups have analyzed data from cohorts with prostate cancer and one of these found a decreased incidence of esophageal squamous and adenocarcinoma after androgen deprivation therapy. However, very limited information is available about the effects of androgen and AR-initiated signaling on esophageal cancer cell growth in vitro and in vivo. Possible mechanisms for androgens/AR involvement in the regulation of esophageal cancer growth are considered, and the potential use of AR as a prognostic factor and clinical target is highlighted, although insufficient evidence is available to support clinical trials of novel therapies. As esophageal adenocarcinoma is a gender linked cancer with a large male predominance further studies are warranted to clarify the role of androgens and ARs in shaping intracellular signaling and genomic responses in esophageal cancer.
Collapse
|
14
|
Effect of age and sex on plasma cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone concentrations in the dog (Canis familiaris). Res Vet Sci 2014; 96:33-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2013.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2012] [Revised: 07/23/2013] [Accepted: 10/26/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
15
|
Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels reflect endogenous luteinizing hormone production and response to human chorionic gonadotropin challenge in older female macaque (Macaca fascicularis). Menopause 2013; 20:329-35. [PMID: 23435031 DOI: 10.1097/gme.0b013e3182698f80] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We propose that the adrenal gland of an older higher primate female animal model will respond to human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) hormone challenge by secreting additional dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS). Such a response in surgically and chemically castrated animals will provide proof of concept and a validated animal model for future studies to explore the rise in DHEAS during the menopausal transition of women. METHODS Twenty-four 18- to 26-year-old female cynomolgus monkeys were screened for ovarian function and then either ovariectomized (n = 4) or treated with a gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRHa; n = 20) to block ovarian steroid production. After a recovery period from surgical procedure or down-regulation, a single-dose challenge (1,000 IU/animal, IM) of hCG was then administered to determine if luteinizing hormone (LH)/chorionic gonadotropin could accelerate circulating DHEAS production. Serum DHEAS, bioactive LH, and urinary metabolites of ovarian sex steroids were monitored before, during, and after these treatments. RESULTS Circulating LH bioactivity and immunoreactive DHEAS concentrations were suppressed in all animals 14 days postadministration of GnRHa. Urinary metabolites of estradiol and progesterone remained low after the surgical procedure or a flare reaction to GnRHa. Circulating DHEAS levels were increased after hCG administration, and the increase in individual animals was proportional to the pretreatment DHEAS at baseline. Circulating DHEAS concentrations were positively correlated to endogenous LH bioactive concentrations prior to hCG challenge and were subsequently further elevated by the hCG challenge while no concomitant change in ovarian steroid hormone excretion was observed. CONCLUSIONS These data demonstrate a positive adrenal androgen response to LH/chorionic gonadotropin in older female higher primates and suggest a mechanism for the rise in adrenal androgen production during the menopausal transition in women. These results also illustrate that the nonhuman primate animal model can be effectively used to investigate this phenomenon.
Collapse
|
16
|
Key TJ, Appleby PN, Reeves GK, Roddam AW, Helzlsouer KJ, Alberg AJ, Rollison DE, Dorgan JF, Brinton LA, Overvad K, Kaaks R, Trichopoulou A, Clavel-Chapelon F, Panico S, Duell EJ, Peeters PHM, Rinaldi S, Fentiman IS, Dowsett M, Manjer J, Lenner P, Hallmans G, Baglietto L, English DR, Giles GG, Hopper JL, Severi G, Morris HA, Hankinson SE, Tworoger SS, Koenig K, Zeleniuch-Jacquotte A, Arslan AA, Toniolo P, Shore RE, Krogh V, Micheli A, Berrino F, Barrett-Connor E, Laughlin GA, Kabuto M, Akiba S, Stevens RG, Neriishi K, Land CE, Cauley JA, Lui LY, Cummings SR, Gunter MJ, Rohan TE, Strickler HD. Circulating sex hormones and breast cancer risk factors in postmenopausal women: reanalysis of 13 studies. Br J Cancer 2011; 105:709-22. [PMID: 21772329 PMCID: PMC3188939 DOI: 10.1038/bjc.2011.254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 277] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Breast cancer risk for postmenopausal women is positively associated with circulating concentrations of oestrogens and androgens, but the determinants of these hormones are not well understood. Methods: Cross-sectional analyses of breast cancer risk factors and circulating hormone concentrations in more than 6000 postmenopausal women controls in 13 prospective studies. Results: Concentrations of all hormones were lower in older than younger women, with the largest difference for dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS), whereas sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) was higher in the older women. Androgens were lower in women with bilateral ovariectomy than in naturally postmenopausal women, with the largest difference for free testosterone. All hormones were higher in obese than lean women, with the largest difference for free oestradiol, whereas SHBG was lower in obese women. Smokers of 15+ cigarettes per day had higher levels of all hormones than non-smokers, with the largest difference for testosterone. Drinkers of 20+ g alcohol per day had higher levels of all hormones, but lower SHBG, than non-drinkers, with the largest difference for DHEAS. Hormone concentrations were not strongly related to age at menarche, parity, age at first full-term pregnancy or family history of breast cancer. Conclusion: Sex hormone concentrations were strongly associated with several established or suspected risk factors for breast cancer, and may mediate the effects of these factors on breast cancer risk.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
-
- Endogenous Hormones and Breast Cancer Collaborative Group, Cancer Epidemiology Unit, Nuffield Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Oxford, Richard Doll Building, Roosevelt Drive, Oxford OX3 7LF, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Cellular cholesterol delivery, intracellular processing and utilization for biosynthesis of steroid hormones. Nutr Metab (Lond) 2010; 7:47. [PMID: 20515451 PMCID: PMC2890697 DOI: 10.1186/1743-7075-7-47] [Citation(s) in RCA: 286] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2010] [Accepted: 06/01/2010] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Steroid hormones regulate diverse physiological functions such as reproduction, blood salt balance, maintenance of secondary sexual characteristics, response to stress, neuronal function and various metabolic processes. They are synthesized from cholesterol mainly in the adrenal gland and gonads in response to tissue-specific tropic hormones. These steroidogenic tissues are unique in that they require cholesterol not only for membrane biogenesis, maintenance of membrane fluidity and cell signaling, but also as the starting material for the biosynthesis of steroid hormones. It is not surprising, then, that cells of steroidogenic tissues have evolved with multiple pathways to assure the constant supply of cholesterol needed to maintain optimum steroid synthesis. The cholesterol utilized for steroidogenesis is derived from a combination of sources: 1) de novo synthesis in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER); 2) the mobilization of cholesteryl esters (CEs) stored in lipid droplets through cholesteryl ester hydrolase; 3) plasma lipoprotein-derived CEs obtained by either LDL receptor-mediated endocytic and/or SR-BI-mediated selective uptake; and 4) in some cultured cell systems from plasma membrane-associated free cholesterol. Here, we focus on recent insights into the molecules and cellular processes that mediate the uptake of plasma lipoprotein-derived cholesterol, events connected with the intracellular cholesterol processing and the role of crucial proteins that mediate cholesterol transport to mitochondria for its utilization for steroid hormone production. In particular, we discuss the structure and function of SR-BI, the importance of the selective cholesterol transport pathway in providing cholesterol substrate for steroid biosynthesis and the role of two key proteins, StAR and PBR/TSO in facilitating cholesterol delivery to inner mitochondrial membrane sites, where P450scc (CYP11A) is localized and where the conversion of cholesterol to pregnenolone (the common steroid precursor) takes place.
Collapse
|
18
|
El-Tawil AM. Is the DHEAS/cortisol ratio a potential filter for non-operable constipated cases? World J Gastroenterol 2010; 16:659-62. [PMID: 20135712 PMCID: PMC2817052 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.v16.i6.659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Constipation is a significant manifestation of a number of psychological disorders. Published papers recommend using self-assessment questionnaires for discriminating psychological from non-psychological constipated patients before operating on them but reports from major surveys revealed that general practitioners failed to diagnose 70% of depressed patients using self-assessment questionnaires. Lower circulating concentrations of progesterone, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, cortisol, testosterone, androstenedione, and dehydroepiandrostenedione sulfate (DHEAS) during the follicular phase in constipated young women compared with respective controls were found during the follicular phase of the menstrual cycles. During the luteal phase of the cycle, reductions were identified in estriol, cortisol and testosterone in the constipated group. Likewise, circulating concentrations of DHEAS were found to be lower in depressed patients than comparable healthy controls. DHEAS/cortisol ratios in morning serum and salivary samples were lower than those retrieved during other times of the day in depressed patients. The idea of recognizing major depression in constipated patients by measuring DHEAS/cortisol ratios in saliva and serum may be plausible but this possibility needs to be confirmed in well-designed studies.
Collapse
|
19
|
Maninger N, Wolkowitz OM, Reus VI, Epel ES, Mellon SH. Neurobiological and neuropsychiatric effects of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and DHEA sulfate (DHEAS). Front Neuroendocrinol 2009; 30:65-91. [PMID: 19063914 PMCID: PMC2725024 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2008.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 516] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2008] [Revised: 11/10/2008] [Accepted: 11/11/2008] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
DHEA and DHEAS are steroids synthesized in human adrenals, but their function is unclear. In addition to adrenal synthesis, evidence also indicates that DHEA and DHEAS are synthesized in the brain, further suggesting a role of these hormones in brain function and development. Despite intensifying research into the biology of DHEA and DHEAS, many questions concerning their mechanisms of action and their potential involvement in neuropsychiatric illnesses remain unanswered. We review and distill the preclinical and clinical data on DHEA and DHEAS, focusing on (i) biological actions and putative mechanisms of action, (ii) differences in endogenous circulating concentrations in normal subjects and patients with neuropsychiatric diseases, and (iii) the therapeutic potential of DHEA in treating these conditions. Biological actions of DHEA and DHEAS include neuroprotection, neurite growth, and antagonistic effects on oxidants and glucocorticoids. Accumulating data suggest abnormal DHEA and/or DHEAS concentrations in several neuropsychiatric conditions. The evidence that DHEA and DHEAS may be fruitful targets for pharmacotherapy in some conditions is reviewed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Maninger
- Department of Psychiatry, University of California San Francisco, School of Medicine, San Francisco 94143, USA
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
20
|
Kumar A, Magoffin D, Munir I, Azziz R. Effect of insulin and testosterone on androgen production and transcription of SULT2A1 in the NCI-H295R adrenocortical cell line. Fertil Steril 2008; 92:793-7. [PMID: 18684447 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2008.05.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2008] [Revised: 05/21/2008] [Accepted: 05/21/2008] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine changes in adrenal androgen (AA) production, and transcription of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) sulfotransferase (SULT2A1) in the NCI-H295R human adrenocortical cell line in response to insulin and testosterone, an environment mimicking the polycystic ovary syndrome state. DESIGN In vitro experiment using NCI-H295R adrenocortical cell lines. SETTING Academic medical center. PATIENT(S) NCI-H295R human adrenocortical cell line. INTERVENTION(S) The transcriptional activity of SULT2A1 and adrenal steroid production was quantified after exposure to various treatments (e.g., forskolin, insulin, testosterone, and combinations thereof). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Quantification of mRNA for DHEA sulfotransferase (SULT2A1) by real-time reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction and measurement of steroid production by radioimmunoassay. RESULT(S) Testosterone decreased DHEAS and cortisol, and increased DHEA secretion by H295R cells; the inhibitory effects of testosterone on DHEAS and cortisol production were augmented by insulin. There was a trend toward an increase in the transcription of SULT2A1 by insulin and testosterone. CONCLUSION(S) Testosterone and insulin appear to be modulators of adrenal androgen production in this human adrenocortical cell model. These results suggest that testosterone may augment DHEA secretion in the human adrenal, although they do not support the role of this sex steroid or insulin on the elevated DHEAS levels frequently observed in polycystic ovary syndrome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashim Kumar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California, USA
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Holst JP, Soldin OP, Guo T, Soldin SJ. Steroid hormones: relevance and measurement in the clinical laboratory. Clin Lab Med 2004; 24:105-18. [PMID: 15157559 PMCID: PMC3636985 DOI: 10.1016/j.cll.2004.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Steroid hormones are synthesized in the adrenal cortex, the gonads, and the placenta; are all derived from cholesterol and many are of clinical importance. This article addresses the relevance and methods of measurement of steroid hormones in the clinical laboratory.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer P. Holst
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Georgetown University, 4000 Reservoir Road Northwest, Washington, DC 20007, USA
| | - Offie P. Soldin
- Division of Cancer Genetics and Epidemiology, Lombardy Cancer Center, Georgetown University, 3800 Reservoir Road Northwest, Washington DC 20007, USA
| | - Tiedong Guo
- Bioanalytical Core Laboratory, Georgetown Clinical Research Center, Georgetown University, 3900 Reservoir Road Northwest, Washington DC, 20007, USA
| | - Steven J. Soldin
- Bioanalytical Core Laboratory, Georgetown Clinical Research Center, Georgetown University, 3900 Reservoir Road Northwest, Washington DC, 20007, USA
- Department of Endocrinology and Pharmacology, Georgetown University, 4000 Resevoir Road, Washington, DC 20007, USA
- Departments of Laboratory Medicine, Childrens National Medical Center, 111 Michigan Avenue Northwest, Washington, DC 20010, USA
- Corresponding author. Department of Laboratory Medicine, Children’s National Medical Center, 111 Michigan Avenue Northwest, Washington, DC 20010. (S.J. Soldin)
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Affiliation(s)
- Faustino R Pérez-López
- Departamento de Obstetricia y Ginecología. Hospital Clínico Universitario. Facultad de Medicina. Zaragoza. España.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Piltonen T, Koivunen R, Morin-Papunen L, Ruokonen A, Huhtaniemi IT, Tapanainen JS. Ovarian and adrenal steroid production: regulatory role of LH/HCG. Hum Reprod 2002; 17:620-4. [PMID: 11870113 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/17.3.620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The contribution of the adrenal glands to the total circulating steroid pool in women is not well known. There is evidence that human adrenals express the LH receptor gene and that LH may affect adrenal androgen secretion. METHODS HCG stimulation tests (a single dose of 5000 IU i.m.) were performed in women at reproductive age (group 1, n = 6, age 21--39 years) before and after treatment with a GnRH agonist for 3 weeks, and in oophorectomized post-menopausal women (group 2, n = 6, 47--59 years) during and after estrogen replacement therapy (ERT). RESULTS HCG did not stimulate the secretion of cortisol, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS) in group 2. In contrast, in group 1, the basal concentrations of serum 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP), androstenedione, testosterone and estradiol (E(2)) were stimulated significantly (17-OHP 105%, androstenedione 31%, testosterone 20%, E(2) 136%) by HCG, and the treatment with GnRH agonist decreased the responses. The basal serum concentrations of these steroids were significantly lower in oophorectomized women (17-OHP 57%, androstenedione 46%, testosterone 25%), and HCG did not increase these levels. It can be approximated that the ovarian contribution to the circulating levels of 17-OHP, androstenedione and testosterone is 25--30%, and that the adrenals are the primary source of cortisol, DHEA and DHEAS. CONCLUSION LH/HCG does not have a major role in the regulation of adrenal steroid synthesis in endocrinologically healthy women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- T Piltonen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Oulu University Hospital, P.O. Box 5000, FIN-90014 University of Oulu, Finland
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Frank LA, Schmeitzel LP, Oliver JW. Steroidogenic response of adrenal tissues after administration of ACTH to dogs with hypercortisolemia. J Am Vet Med Assoc 2001; 218:214-6. [PMID: 11195825 DOI: 10.2460/javma.2001.218.214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate adrenal sex hormone concentrations in neutered dogs with hypercortisolemia. DESIGN Case series. ANIMALS 11 neutered dogs with hypercortisolemia. PROCEDURE Serum samples obtained before and 1 hour after administration of ACTH were evaluated for concentrations of cortisol, progesterone, testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate or androstenedione or both, and 17-hydroxyprogesterone. RESULTS For all dogs, concentrations of 1 or more adrenal sex hormones were substantially greater than reference range values before or after administration of ACTH. Testosterone concentration was not greater than reference range values in any of the dogs. CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results emphasize the importance of ruling out hypercortisolemia before measuring adrenal sex hormone concentrations as a means of diagnosing adrenal hyperplasia syndrome (alopecia X) in dogs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L A Frank
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tennessee, Knoxville 37901, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Abstract
Androgens are secreted by both the ovaries and adrenal glands in response to their respective trophic hormones LH and ACTH. Androgens in women are not specifically under negative feedback control by these pituitary hormones because they are by-products of estradiol and cortisol secretion. Rather, androgen secretion seems to be regulated mostly by intraglandular mechanisms. Functional ovarian hyperandrogenism is found in about 70% of patients with PCOS. It is characterized by excessive secretion of 17-hydroxyprogesterone in response to GnRH agonist or hCG stimulation. Failure of dexamethasone to suppress plasma free testosterone normally in the presence of normal adrenocortical suppression is also typical. Functional adrenal hyperandrogenism is found in about half of patients with PCOS. It is most often characterized by moderately increased secretion of the 17-ketosteroid DHEA in response to ACTH. The most likely cause of the excessive androgen secretion by both glands seems to be abnormal regulation (dysregulation) of the 17-hydroxylase and 17,20-lyase activities of P-450c17, the rate-limiting step in androgen biosynthesis. There are also subtle generalized disturbances of steroid metabolism, including tendencies toward excessive estrogen and cortisol secretion. The cause of dysregulation of steroidogenesis is unknown. The hyperinsulinemia that is compensatory for resistance to the glucose-metabolic effect of insulin seems to have a role in many cases. In most cases, intrinsic intraovarian or intra-adrenal autocrine or paracrine regulatory mechanisms are most likely malfunctioning.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R L Rosenfield
- Department of Pediatrics, Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Illinois
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Molloy ES, Clarke DM, Fearon UM, Cunningham SK, McKenna TJ. Non-ACTH POMC fragments stimulate aldosterone production by human adrenal cells in vitro. Steroids 1998; 63:459-63. [PMID: 9727092 DOI: 10.1016/s0039-128x(98)00048-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The possibility that non-ACTH proopiomelanocortin-derived fragments may stimulate aldosterone production has previously been studied using nonhuman cells with inconsistent results. We have examined the response of aldosterone to beta-endorphin (beta-End) and joining peptide (JP) and compared these with the response to ACTH using eight cell suspensions prepared from human adrenal glands. ACTH, 10(-6), 10(-8), and 10(-10) M, consistently stimulated aldosterone accumulation above that occurring in unstimulated cells (150 +/- 83, 120 +/- 62, and 77 +/- 32 fmol/10(4) cells above basal, respectively; mean +/- SE; p < 0.05). beta-End significantly stimulated aldosterone production at 10(-6) and 10(-8) M (114 +/- 84 and 50 +/- 24 fmol/10(4) cells above basal; p < 0.05); 10(-10) M beta-End did not provide significant stimulation. Furthermore, JP stimulated aldosterone biosynthesis (41 +/- 16 fmol/10(4) cells above basal; p < 0.05), only at the highest concentration used, 10(-6) M. The addition of 10(-8) M ACTH plus 10(-6) and 10(-10) M beta-End to human adrenal cells yielded values significantly greater than those achieved with either agent alone (267 +/- 152 and 183 +/- 89 fmol/10(4) cells above basal; p < 0.05). These data indicate for the first time that beta-End and JP have the capacity to stimulate aldosterone production in human adrenal cells in vitro. The physiological and potential clinical significance of these observations has yet to be elucidated.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E S Molloy
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Mellitus, St. Vincent's Hospital, Elm Park, Dublin, Ireland
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|