1
|
Davis SR, Azene ZN, Tonkin AM, Woods RL, McNeil JJ, Islam RM. Higher testosterone is associated with higher HDL-cholesterol and lower triglyceride concentrations in older women: an observational study. Climacteric 2024; 27:282-288. [PMID: 38345304 DOI: 10.1080/13697137.2024.2310530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 05/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to determine whether concentrations of testosterone and its main precursor after menopause, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), are associated with lipoproteins and other lipids in community-dwelling older women. METHODS The Sex Hormones in Older Women (SHOW) study was an observational study of 6358 Australian women, aged at least 70 years, with no prior major adverse cardiovascular event who had sex hormones measured by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Associations between hormones and lipids were examined using multilinear regression adjusted for potential confounders. RESULTS The cross-sectional analyses included 3231 participants, median age 74.0 (interquartile range 71.7-77.9) years. Compared with concentrations in the lowest quartile (Q1), testosterone concentrations in the highest quartiles (Q3 and Q4) were positively associated with high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (p = 0.002 and p < 0.001, respectively) while Q4 testosterone concentrations were positively associated with total cholesterol (p = 0.038). Q2, Q3 and Q4 testosterone concentrations were significantly inversely associated with triglycerides (TG) (p = 0.024, p = 0.003 and p < 0.001, respectively). For DHEA, Q4 concentrations was positively associated with non-HDL-C (p = 0.024). CONCLUSIONS In older women, higher endogenous testosterone concentrations are significantly associated with higher HDL-C and lower TG, indicating a less atherogenic profile. These findings suggest a neutral, or potentially protective, cardiovascular disease effect of testosterone in older women.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S R Davis
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Alfred Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Z N Azene
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - A M Tonkin
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - R L Woods
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - J J McNeil
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - R M Islam
- Women's Health Research Program, School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
- School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Allalou A, Peng J, Robinson GA, Marruganti C, D’Aiuto F, Butler G, Jury EC, Ciurtin C. Impact of puberty, sex determinants and chronic inflammation on cardiovascular risk in young people. Front Cardiovasc Med 2023; 10:1191119. [PMID: 37441710 PMCID: PMC10333528 DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2023.1191119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/21/2023] [Accepted: 06/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Worrying trends of increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in children, adolescents and young people in the Modern Era have channelled research and public health strategies to tackle this growing epidemic. However, there are still controversies related to the dynamic of the impact of sex, age and puberty on this risk and on cardiovascular health outcomes later in life. In this comprehensive review of current literature, we examine the relationship between puberty, sex determinants and various traditional CVD-risk factors, as well as subclinical atherosclerosis in young people in general population. In addition, we evaluate the role of chronic inflammation, sex hormone therapy and health-risk behaviours on augmenting traditional CVD-risk factors and health outcomes, ultimately aiming to determine whether tailored management strategies for this age group are justified.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amal Allalou
- University College London Medical School, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Junjie Peng
- Centre for Adolescent Rheumatology Versus Arthritis, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Rheumatology Research, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - George A. Robinson
- Centre for Adolescent Rheumatology Versus Arthritis, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Rheumatology Research, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Crystal Marruganti
- Eastman Dental Hospital, University College London Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Francesco D’Aiuto
- Eastman Dental Hospital, University College London Hospital, London, United Kingdom
| | - Gary Butler
- Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, University College London Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- Institute of Child Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Elizabeth C. Jury
- Centre for Rheumatology Research, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Coziana Ciurtin
- Centre for Adolescent Rheumatology Versus Arthritis, University College London, London, United Kingdom
- Centre for Rheumatology Research, Division of Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Rosano GMC, Vitale C, Fini M. Testosterone in men with hypogonadism and high cardiovascular risk, Pros. Endocrine 2015; 50:320-5. [PMID: 25749966 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-015-0561-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2014] [Accepted: 02/21/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Although numerous randomized studies have shown that testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) improves intermediate outcomes in patients at risk and in those with proven cardiovascular disease (CVD), results derived mainly from registries and observational studies have suggested an increased cardiovascular risk in elderly men receiving often supra-therapeutic doses of testosterone. Recent meta-analyses have shown that when testosterone has been used in patients with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions, the effect on the disease has been either beneficial or neutral. Similar results have been reported in hypo- and eugonadal men. Contrasting results have been reported by two trials of testosterone treatment in frail elderly men. Reports from poorly analyzed databases have reported an increased risk of cardiovascular events with testosterone use. More recently, a population-based study showed no increased cardiovascular risk of testosterone replacement in hypogonadal men. Available data from controlled clinical trials suggest that the use of testosterone in elderly men does not increase cardiovascular risk nor the risk of events. Studies in men with CVD, angina, or heart failure report a benefit from testosterone replacement in men with or without hypogonadism. Therefore, at present, the cardiovascular benefits of TRT in elderly men outweigh the risks. This is particularly evident in those men with pre-existing CVD.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe M C Rosano
- Cardiovascular and Cell Sciences Research Institute, St George's University of London, London, UK.
- Centre for Clinical and Basic Research, Department of Medical Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, via della Pisana, 235, 00163, Rome, Italy.
| | - Cristiana Vitale
- Centre for Clinical and Basic Research, Department of Medical Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, via della Pisana, 235, 00163, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Fini
- Centre for Clinical and Basic Research, Department of Medical Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, via della Pisana, 235, 00163, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Effectiveness of Panax ginseng on Acute Myocardial Ischemia Reperfusion Injury Was Abolished by Flutamide via Endogenous Testosterone-Mediated Akt Pathway. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2013; 2013:817826. [PMID: 24282438 PMCID: PMC3824556 DOI: 10.1155/2013/817826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2013] [Accepted: 09/09/2013] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Mechanisms for Panax ginseng's cardioprotective effect against ischemia reperfusion injury involve the estrogen-mediated pathway, but little is known about the role of androgen. A standardized Panax ginseng extract (RSE) was orally given with or without flutamide in a left anterior descending coronary artery ligation rat model. Infarct size, CK and LDH activities were measured. Time-related changes of NO, PI3K/Akt/eNOS signaling, and testosterone concentration were also investigated. RSE (80 mg/kg) significantly inhibited myocardial infarction and CK and LDH activities, while coadministration of flutamide abolished this effect of RSE. NO was increased by RSE and reached a peak after 15 min of ischemia; however, flutamide cotreatment suppressed this elevation. Western blot analysis showed that RSE significantly reversed the decreases of expression and activation of PI3K, Akt, and eNOS evoked by ischemia, whereas flutamide attenuated the effects of these protective mechanisms induced by RSE. RSE completely reversed the dropping of endogenous testosterone level induced by I/R injury. Flutamide plus RSE treatment not only abolished RSE's effect but also produced a dramatic change on endogenous testosterone level after pretreatment and ischemia. Our results for the first time indicate that blocking androgen receptor abolishes the ability of Panax ginseng to protect the heart from myocardial I/R injury.
Collapse
|
5
|
Spoletini I, Caprio M, Vitale C, Rosano GMC. Androgens and cardiovascular disease: Gender-related differences. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 19:82-6. [DOI: 10.1177/1754045313487720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Androgens are known to play a pivotal role in cardiovascular function. However, a definitive explanation as to how their impact differs between genders is yet to be provided. In this review, the existing studies on the link between androgens and cardiovascular disease have been analysed, with a particular focus on the gender-specific differences. Several studies agree that both direct and indirect effects of testosterone on cardiovascular function show a gender-related dimorphism. Consistently, men and women display different responses to androgen supplementation treatment. Post-menopausal women may particularly benefit from testosterone supplementation therapy. Future studies should further clarify the optimal dose and route of administration of testosterone, and more women should be included in clinical trials, in order to identify novel gender-specific targets, and finally to develop therapeutic strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ilaria Spoletini
- Centre for Clinical and Basic Research, Department of Medical Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Caprio
- Centre for Clinical and Basic Research, Department of Medical Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristiana Vitale
- Centre for Clinical and Basic Research, Department of Medical Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe MC Rosano
- Centre for Clinical and Basic Research, Department of Medical Sciences, IRCCS San Raffaele Pisana, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Vascular Physiology, IRCCS San Raffaele, London, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Aversa A, Bruzziches R, Francomano D, Natali M, Lenzi A. Testosterone and phosphodiesterase type-5 inhibitors: new strategy for preventing endothelial damage in internal and sexual medicine? Ther Adv Urol 2011; 1:179-97. [PMID: 21789066 DOI: 10.1177/1756287209344992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Normal vascular endothelium is essential for the synthesis and release of substances affecting vascular tone (e.g. nitric oxide; NO), cell adhesion (e.g. endothelins, interleukins), and the homeostasis of clotting and fibrinolysis (e.g. plasminogen inhibitors, von Willebrand factor). The degeneration of endothelial integrity promotes adverse events (AEs) leading to increased atherogenesis and to the development of vascular systemic and penile end-organ disease. Testosterone (T) is an important player in the regulation of vascular tone through non-genomic actions exerted via blockade of extracellular-calcium entry or activation of potassium channels; also, adequate T concentrations are paramount for the regulation of phosphodiesterase type-5 (PDE5) expression and finally, for the actions exerted by hydrogen sulphide, a gas involved in the alternative pathway controlling vasodilator responses in penile tissue. It is known that an age-related decline of serum T is reported in approximately 20 to 30% of men whereas T deficiency is reported in up to 50% of men with metabolic syndrome or diabetes. A number of laboratory and human studies have shown the combination of T and other treatments for erectile dysfunction (ED), such as PDE5 inhibitors, to be more beneficial in patients with ED and hypogonadism, who fail monotherapy for sexual disturbances.The aim of this review is to show evidence on the role of T and PDE5 inhibitors, alone or in combination, as potential boosters of endothelial function in internal medicine diseases associated with reduced T or NO bioavailability, i.e. metabolic syndrome, obesity, diabetes, coronary artery disease, hyperhomocysteinemia, that share common risk factors with ED. Furthermore, the possibility of such a strategy to prevent endothelial dysfunction in men at increased cardiovascular risk is discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Aversa
- Dip.to Fisiopatologia Medica, Room 37, Viale Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome Italy
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
7
|
Traish AM, Kypreos KE. Testosterone and cardiovascular disease: An old idea with modern clinical implications. Atherosclerosis 2011; 214:244-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2010.08.078] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2010] [Revised: 08/24/2010] [Accepted: 08/25/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
|
8
|
Corona G, Boddi V, Balercia G, Rastrelli G, De Vita G, Sforza A, Forti G, Mannucci E, Maggi M. The Effect of Statin Therapy on Testosterone Levels in Subjects Consulting for Erectile Dysfunction. J Sex Med 2010; 7:1547-56. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2009.01698.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
|
9
|
Abstract
Second-to-fourth digit ratio, a marker for prenatal testosterone levels, has been shown to be associated with sporting achievement in men. It is unclear, however, whether digit ratio makes a contribution over and above salient personality variables. The present study, which included female participants, measured four personality traits and one cognitive ability (mental rotation) that have been linked to both sports achievement and sex. The significant relationship between digit ratio and sporting achievement was nearly identical in women and men. A multiple regression showed that when significant correlates of sporting ability (weight, height, years playing, hours per week training, social potency, and mental rotation) were entered first, the contribution of digit ratio remained highly significant. We suggest that physiological as well as psychological factors may be an important avenue for future study.
Collapse
|
10
|
Turhan S, Tulunay C, Güleç S, Ozdöl C, Kilickap M, Altin T, Gerede M, Erol C. The association between androgen levels and premature coronary artery disease in men. Coron Artery Dis 2007; 18:159-62. [PMID: 17429287 DOI: 10.1097/mca.0b013e328012a928] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The relationship between androgens and the risk of development of coronary artery disease has not been clarified well. This study was planned to determine the relationship between serum androgen levels and premature development of coronary artery disease in men. METHODS Sixty-nine men below 45 years of age with documented coronary artery disease (mean age 41.0+/-4.7) constituted the study group. Control group consisted of 56 men with similar age and normal coronary angiograms (mean age 41.3+/-3.8). Total and free testosterone, estradiol, and fasting plasma total, low-density lipoprotein, and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglyceride levels were measured, and compared between the two groups. RESULTS Mean age, body mass index, and the frequency of hypertension were similar between the two groups; however, diabetes mellitus, smoking, hyperlipidemia, and family history of coronary artery disease were more frequent in the coronary artery disease group. Total and free testosterone levels of the patients with coronary artery disease were significantly lower than those of controls, whereas estradiol levels did not differ. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that free testosterone levels (P=0.014; odds ratio=0.90; 95% confidence interval=0.87-0.99), hyperlipidemia (P<0.001; odds ratio=8.2; 95% confidence interval=3.17-21.0), and smoking (P=0.026; odds ratio=3.12; 95% confidence interval=1.15-8.48) were independent predictors of premature coronary artery disease. Moreover, using receiver operating characteristic analysis, patients with free testosterone levels below the cut-off value of 17.3 pg/ml had an adjusted 3.3-fold risk of developing premature coronary artery disease compared to those with free testosterone levels above the cut-off level (odds ratio=3.3; 95% confidence interval=1.57-6.87). CONCLUSION A low level of free testosterone may be related to the development of premature coronary artery disease.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sibel Turhan
- Department of Cardiology, Ankara University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey.
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
11
|
Greco EA, Spera G, Aversa A. Combining Testosterone and PDE5 Inhibitors in Erectile Dysfunction: Basic Rationale and Clinical Evidences. Eur Urol 2006; 50:940-7. [PMID: 16979814 DOI: 10.1016/j.eururo.2006.06.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2006] [Accepted: 06/29/2006] [Indexed: 01/29/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Erectile dysfunction (ED) and decline of testosterone levels are frequently observed with age and also in illnesses with a common basis of endothelial damage. OBJECTIVES To review molecular mechanisms underlying androgen action upon its receptor and phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) expression and regulation by testosterone in cavernous tissue and their clinical implication in the treatment of ED refractory to PDE5 inhibitors (PDE5-Is). METHODS From January 2003 to May 2006 [corrected] we performed an extensive, unsystematic MEDLINE literature search reviewing relevant data on basic and clinical studies regarding the efficacy of combination therapies. RESULTS Most trials using testosterone alone for treatment of ED in hypogonadal men suffer from methodologic problems and report inconsistent results, but overall the trials suggest that testosterone is superior to placebo. Orally effective PDE5-Is, such as sildenafil, tadalafil, or vardenafil, may be ineffective depending on the demonstration of testosterone regulation of PDE5 expression in human corpus cavernous, and their efficacy may be enhanced by testosterone adjunction whenever necessary. CONCLUSIONS Screening for hypogonadism in all men with ED is necessary to identify men with severe hypogonadism and some cases of mild to moderate hypogonadism, who may benefit from testosterone treatment. Identification of threshold values for testosterone supplementation to appropriately benefit from PDE5-Is failure may improve clinical management of unresponsive patients with minimization of unwanted effects.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Emanuela A Greco
- Department of Medical Pathophysiology, University of Rome La Sapienza, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
|
13
|
Rosano GMC, Sheiban I, Massaro R, Pagnotta P, Marazzi G, Vitale C, Mercuro G, Volterrani M, Aversa A, Fini M. Low testosterone levels are associated with coronary artery disease in male patients with angina. Int J Impot Res 2006; 19:176-82. [PMID: 16943795 DOI: 10.1038/sj.ijir.3901504] [Citation(s) in RCA: 124] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Historically, high androgen levels have been linked with an increased risk for coronary artery disease (CAD). However, more recent data suggest that low androgen levels are associated with adverse cardiovascular risk factors, including an atherogenic lipid profile, obesity and insulin resistance. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between plasma sex hormone levels and presence and degree of CAD in patients undergoing coronary angiography and in matched controls. We evaluated 129 consecutive male patients (mean age 58+/-4 years, range 43-72 years) referred for diagnostic coronary angiography because of symptoms suggestive of CAD, but without acute coronary syndromes or prior diagnosis of hypogonadism. Patients were matched with healthy volunteers. Out of 129 patients, 119 had proven CAD; in particular, 32 of them had one, 63 had two and 24 had three vessel disease, respectively. Patients had significantly lower levels of testosterone than controls (9.8+/-6.5 and 13.5+/-5.4 nmol/l, P<0.01) and higher levels of gonadotrophin (12.0+/-1.5 vs 6.6+/-1.9 IU/l and 7.9+/-2.1 vs 4.4+/-1.4, P<0.01 for follicle-stimulating hormone and luteinizing hormone, respectively). Also, both bioavailable testosterone and plasma oestradiol levels were lower in patients as compared to controls (0.84+/-0.45 vs 1.19+/-0.74 nmol/l, P<0.01 and 10.7+/-1.4 vs 13.3+/-3.5 pg/ml, P<0.05). Hormone levels were compared in cases with one, two or three vessel disease showing significant differences associated with increasing severity of coronary disease. An inverse relationship between the degree of CAD and plasma testosterone levels was found (r=-0.52, P<0.01). In conclusion, patients with CAD have lower testosterone and oestradiol levels than healthy controls. These changes are inversely correlated to the degree of CAD, suggesting that low plasma testosterone may be involved with the increased risk of CAD in men.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- G M C Rosano
- Centre for Clinical and Basic Research, IRCCS San Raffaele, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Hönekopp J, T Manning J, Müller C. Digit ratio (2D:4D) and physical fitness in males and females: Evidence for effects of prenatal androgens on sexually selected traits. Horm Behav 2006; 49:545-9. [PMID: 16403410 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2005.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2005] [Revised: 11/17/2005] [Accepted: 11/28/2005] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
It has been suggested that male achievement in sports and athletics is correlated with a putative measure of prenatal testosterone the 2nd to 4th digit ratio (2D:4D). It is not known whether this association also extends to females, or whether the association results from an effect of testosterone on behavior (such as exercise frequency) or on physical fitness. Here, we report for the first time data from two studies which consider associations between 2D:4D and physical fitness in females in addition to males: Study I--in a sample of teenage boys (n = 114) and girls (n = 175), their 'physical education grade' was negatively associated with 2D:4D of the right hand (boys), and right and left hand (girls), and Study II-among a sample of young men (n = 102) and women (n = 77), a composite measure of physical fitness was negatively related to right hand 2D:4D in men and left hand 2D:4D in women. We conclude that 2D:4D is negatively related to physical fitness in both men and women. In Study II, there was evidence that the relationship between physical fitness and 2D:4D in men was mediated through an association with exercise frequency. Thus, 2D:4D in males may be a negative correlate of frequent exercise which then relates to achievement in sports and athletics.
Collapse
|
15
|
A Rationale for the Use of Testosterone “Salvage” in Treatment of Men With Erectile Dysfunction Failing Phosphodiesterase Inhibitors. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005. [DOI: 10.1097/01.ten.0000157887.08246.5a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
|
16
|
Muller M, van den Beld AW, Bots ML, Grobbee DE, Lamberts SWJ, van der Schouw YT. Endogenous sex hormones and progression of carotid atherosclerosis in elderly men. Circulation 2004; 109:2074-9. [PMID: 15096452 DOI: 10.1161/01.cir.0000125854.51637.06] [Citation(s) in RCA: 236] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The burden of atherosclerosis especially afflicts the increasing older segment of the population. Recent evidence has emphasized a protective role of endogenous sex hormones in the development of atherosclerosis in aging men. METHODS AND RESULTS We studied the association between endogenous sex hormones and progression of atherosclerosis in 195 independently living elderly men. Participants underwent measurements of carotid intima-media thickness (IMT) at baseline in 1996 and again in 2000. At baseline, serum concentrations of testosterone (total and free) and estradiol (total and free E2) were measured. Serum free testosterone concentrations were inversely related to the mean progression of IMT of the common carotid artery after adjustment for age (beta=-3.57; 95% CI, -6.34 to -0.80). Higher serum total and free E2 levels were related to progression of IMT of the common carotid artery after adjustment for age (beta=0.38; 95% CI, -0.11 to 0.86; and beta=0.018; 95% CI, -0.002 to 0.038, respectively). These associations were independent of body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, presence of hypertension and diabetes, smoking, and serum cholesterol levels CONCLUSIONS Low free testosterone levels were related to IMT of the common carotid artery in elderly men independently of cardiovascular risk factors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Majon Muller
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
17
|
Hanna FW. Bimonthly update. Hyperlipidaemia and cardiovascular disease. Curr Opin Lipidol 2001; 12:85-7. [PMID: 11176208 DOI: 10.1097/00041433-200102000-00015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
|
18
|
Manning JT, Taylor RP. Second to fourth digit ratio and male ability in sport: implications for sexual selection in humans. EVOL HUM BEHAV 2001; 22:61-69. [PMID: 11182575 DOI: 10.1016/s1090-5138(00)00063-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 254] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Fetal and adult testosterone may be important in establishing and maintaining sex-dependent abilities associated with male physical competitiveness. There is evidence that the ratio of the length of the 2nd and 4th digits (2D:4D) is a negative correlate of prenatal and adult testosterone. We use ability in sports, and particularly ability in football, as a proxy for male physical competitiveness. Compared to males with high 2D:4D ratio, men with low ratio reported higher attainment in a range of sports and had higher mental rotation scores (a measure of visual-spatial ability). Professional football players had lower 2D:4D ratios than controls. Football players in 1st team squads had lower 2D:4D than reserves or youth team players. Men who had represented their country had lower ratios than those who had not, and there was a significant (one-tailed) negative association between 2D:4D and number of international appearances after the effect of country was removed. We suggest that prenatal and adult testosterone promotes the development and maintenance of traits which are useful in sports and athletics disciplines and in male:male fighting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J T. Manning
- Population and Evolutionary Biology Research Unit, School of Biological Sciences, University of Liverpool, L69 3BX, Liverpool, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|