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Bulanov VS, Litvinov AV, Gorobets LN, Akhmedova AA. [Pathogenetic interrelations of hypogonadism and depression in men]. Zh Nevrol Psikhiatr Im S S Korsakova 2025; 125:17-23. [PMID: 39930672 DOI: 10.17116/jnevro202512501117] [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] [Indexed: 05/08/2025]
Abstract
The study of the relationship between depression and functional hypogonadism in men is an interesting and difficult task. The purpose of the presented review was to identify the problem of functional male hypogonadism, to show a complex multi-stage neurohumoral mechanism of regulation of its potential to influence the affective sphere and to address the influence of pharmacotherapy on the formation of sexual disorders in men. The primary search for literature data was conducted using PubMed (Medline), PsycINFO and Cochrane CENTRAL, e-library.ru, databases using the keywords «hypogonadism», «depression», «testosterone», «antidepressants», «antipsychotics». As a result, 63 sources of information were selected and analyzed. Among the selected papers, there were 2 meta-analyses, 12 reviews and 42 comparative studies, including longitudinal, cross-sectional and controlled studies, 7 practical manuals. Based on the data obtained, it is possible to draw conclusions about the relationship between depression and functional hypogonadism as well as about the possibility of pathogenetic mechanisms of depression to cause changes in the state of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, leading to hypogonadism and vice versa, the ability of hypogonadism to form and enhance depressive symptoms. The concept of the mechanisms of regulation of steroidogenesis can allow the development of alternative methods of therapy and augmentation of depressive disorders, minimization of the number of sexual dysfunctions of psychopharmacotherapy. Further large-scale studies are needed for an in-depth study of this topic and the resolution of a number of contradictions.
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Affiliation(s)
- V S Bulanov
- Moscow Research Institute of Psychiatry - Serbsky National Medical Research Center, Moscow, Russia
| | - A V Litvinov
- Moscow Research Institute of Psychiatry - Serbsky National Medical Research Center, Moscow, Russia
| | - L N Gorobets
- Moscow Research Institute of Psychiatry - Serbsky National Medical Research Center, Moscow, Russia
| | - A A Akhmedova
- Moscow Research Institute of Psychiatry - Serbsky National Medical Research Center, Moscow, Russia
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2
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McGuirt AF, Brezing CA. Opioid-induced hypogonadism in opioid use disorder, its role in negative reinforcement, and implications for treatment and retention. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF DRUG AND ALCOHOL ABUSE 2024; 50:132-138. [PMID: 38320237 DOI: 10.1080/00952990.2023.2292012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/03/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
Hypogonadism is a highly prevalent complication of chronic opioid use associated with a constellation of affective, algesic, and cognitive symptoms as well as decreased quality of life. Given that the mainstays of pharmacologic opioid use disorder (OUD) treatment - methadone and buprenorphine - are themselves agonists or partial agonists at the mu opioid receptor, opioid-induced hypogonadism (OIH) remains an underappreciated clinical concern throughout the course of OUD treatment. Prominent theoretical frameworks for OUD emphasize the importance of negative reinforcement and hyperkatifeia, defined as the heightened salience of negative emotional and motivational states brought on by chronic opioid use. In this perspective article, we highlight the striking parallels between the symptom domains of hyperfakifeia and hypogonadism in males, who comprise the vast majority of existing clinical research on OIH. By extension we propose that future research and ultimately clinical care should focus on the identification and treatment of OIH in OUD patients to help address the longstanding paradox of poor treatment retention despite efficacious therapies, particularly in the setting of the current opioid overdose epidemic driven by high potency synthetic opioids such as fentanyl. We then review evidence from chronic pain patients that testosterone replacement provides clinically significant benefits to men with OIH. Finally, using this framework, we compare extant OUD therapeutics and discuss critical gaps in the clinical literature-including the relative dearth of data regarding hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal function in females who use opioids-where future study should be focused.
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Affiliation(s)
- Avery F McGuirt
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
| | - Christina A Brezing
- Department of Psychiatry, Columbia University Irving Medical Center, New York, NY, USA
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3
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Hauger RL, Saelzler UG, Pagadala MS, Panizzon MS. The role of testosterone, the androgen receptor, and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis in depression in ageing Men. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2022; 23:1259-1273. [PMID: 36418656 PMCID: PMC9789012 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-022-09767-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Considerable research has shown that testosterone regulates many physiological systems, modulates clinical disorders, and contributes to health outcome. However, studies on the interaction of testosterone levels with depression and the antidepressant effect of testosterone replacement therapy in hypogonadal men with depression have been inconclusive. Current findings indicate that low circulating levels of total testosterone meeting stringent clinical criteria for hypogonadism and testosterone deficiency induced by androgen deprivation therapy are associated with increased risk for depression and current depressive symptoms. The benefits of testosterone replacement therapy in men with major depressive disorder and low testosterone levels in the clinically defined hypogonadal range remain uncertain and require further investigation. Important considerations going forward are that major depressive disorder is a heterogeneous phenotype with depressed individuals differing in inherited polygenic determinants, onset and clinical course, symptom complexes, and comorbidities that contribute to potential multifactorial differences in pathophysiology. Furthermore, polygenic mechanisms are likely to be critical to the biological heterogeneity that influences testosterone-depression interactions. A genetically informed precision medicine approach using genes regulating testosterone levels and androgen receptor sensitivity will likely be essential in gaining critical insight into the role of testosterone in depression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard L Hauger
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health (CESAMH), VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA.
- Center for Behavior Genetics of Aging, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA.
| | - Ursula G Saelzler
- Center for Behavior Genetics of Aging, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Meghana S Pagadala
- Medical Scientist Training Program, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
- Biomedical Science Program, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
| | - Matthew S Panizzon
- Center of Excellence for Stress and Mental Health (CESAMH), VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, CA, USA
- Center for Behavior Genetics of Aging, Department of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA, USA
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Nayana J, Shankaranarayana Rao BS, Srikumar BN. Mifepristone's effects on depression- and anxiety-like behavior in rodents. Steroids 2022; 184:109058. [PMID: 35679911 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2022.109058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Mifepristone is a non-selective progesterone (PR), glucocorticoid (GR), and androgen receptor (AR) antagonist with antidepressant and anxiolytic effects. The dose and duration of mifepristone administration vary in rodent preclinical studies to evaluate depression-like and anxiety-like behavior. This review summarizes the findings so far and attempts to reconcile some of the differences in the results. While a few studies assessed basal depression- and anxiety-like behavior, several studies have used mifepristone in conjunction with stress, corticosterone/dexamethasone (after adrenalectomy), or progesterone administration. The effect of mifepristone on depression-like behavior appears to depend not only on the dose and duration of administration but also on the intensity or type of stress. In addition, the anxiolytic effects may depend on the species and strain of the experimental animals. More reports assess antidepressant-like or anxiolytic-like effects following acute than chronic administration. These effects are dependent on the paradigms and the nature of stressors. Most mifepristone studies implicate the role of GRs, yet only two reports have confirmed its role using a genetic approach, whereas none implicate the role of PRs/ARs. There are several novel selective GR antagonists whose effects on depression- and anxiety-like behavior are yet to be studied. Future studies could aim to confirm the role of GRs and evaluate the contribution of PRs/ARs to the effects of mifepristone. Such studies will contribute to a better understanding of depression, anxiety, and other mood disorders and develop novel strategies, particularly for treatment-resistant conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Nayana
- Department of Neurophysiology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru 560029, India
| | - B S Shankaranarayana Rao
- Department of Neurophysiology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru 560029, India
| | - B N Srikumar
- Department of Neurophysiology, National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bengaluru 560029, India.
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5
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Schmidt MK, Rohayem J, Zitzmann M, Gelhorn H, Schneider G. German version of the Hypogonadism Impact of Symptoms Questionnaire: Psychometric properties and association with testosterone levels. Andrologia 2022; 54:e14370. [DOI: 10.1111/and.14370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Revised: 12/17/2021] [Accepted: 12/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Martina Kathrin Schmidt
- Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy Department of Mental Health University Hospital Münster Münster Germany
| | - Julia Rohayem
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology University Hospital Münster Münster Germany
| | - Michael Zitzmann
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology University Hospital Münster Münster Germany
| | | | - Gudrun Schneider
- Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy Department of Mental Health University Hospital Münster Münster Germany
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Lunenfeld B, Mskhalaya G, Zitzmann M, Corona G, Arver S, Kalinchenko S, Tishova Y, Morgentaler A. Recommendations on the diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of testosterone deficiency in men. Aging Male 2021; 24:119-138. [PMID: 34396893 DOI: 10.1080/13685538.2021.1962840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
The relative proportional increase of the elderly population within many countries will become one of the most significant social transformations of the twenty-first century and, for the first time in history, persons aged 65 or above outnumbered children under five years of age globally. One in four persons living in Europe and Northern America will be aged 65 or over. One of the goals of ISSAM is to raise awareness of the special health needs of older men. Since a significant number of aging men will eventually become testosterone deficient, the Hypogonadism panel of ISSAM updates its guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Lunenfeld
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | | | - Michael Zitzmann
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology/Clinical and Surgical Andrology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Giovanni Corona
- Medical Department, Endocrinology Unit, Maggiore Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Stefan Arver
- Department of Medicine/Huddinge Karolinska Institutet and ANOVA, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Svetlana Kalinchenko
- Department of Endocrinology, People's Friendship University of Russia, Moscow, Russia
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Genetic Variation in the Androgen Receptor Modifies the Association Between Testosterone and Vitality in Middle-Aged Men. J Sex Med 2020; 17:2351-2361. [PMID: 33011098 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2020.08.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2020] [Revised: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low vitality is a common symptom of testosterone deficiency; however, clinical trial results remain inconclusive regarding the responsiveness of this symptom to hormone replacement. AIM The aim of the present study was to determine if the relationship between circulating testosterone levels and vitality would be moderated by the CAG repeat length in the androgen receptor (AR) gene, which influences the receptor's sensitivity to testosterone. METHODS We examined 676 men in the Vietnam Era Twin Study of Aging when they were, on average, 55.4 years old (SD = 2.5). Salivary testosterone levels were measured by using 3 samples collected at waking on 3 nonconsecutive days. The average testosterone level was classified as low, normal, or high based on 1-SD cutoffs. Analyses were conducted using multilevel, mixed linear models, which accounted for the nonindependence of the twin data, and adjusted for the effects of age, ethnicity, BMI, chronic health conditions, depressive symptoms, and sleep quality. OUTCOMES Vitality was measured using the 36-item Short Form (SF-36) vitality subscale. RESULTS We observed a significant interaction between salivary testosterone and the AR-CAG repeat length. When the repeat length was short, men with low testosterone had significantly lower vitality. As the AR-CAG repeat length increased, the magnitude of the testosterone effect decreased. CLINICAL TRANSLATION The observed interaction between testosterone and variation in the AR gene suggests that men with more sensitive ARs, as indicated by a shorter AR-CAG repeat, are more likely to experience symptoms of age-related testosterone deficiency. STRENGTHS & LIMITATIONS Strengths of the present study include our use of a large community-based sample, the use of multiple testosterone measurements, and the availability of a comprehensive set of covariates that may impact the association of interest. Limitations include the homogeneous nature of the sample with respect to ethnicity, the brevity of the 36-item Short Form vitality subscale, and our inability to establish change in testosterone levels because of the cross-sectional nature of data. CONCLUSIONS The association between testosterone and vitality appears to be clinically meaningful and is in part dependent on variation in the AR gene. Panizzon MS, Bree K, Hsieh T-C, et al. Genetic Variation in the Androgen Receptor Modifies the Association Between Testosterone and Vitality in Middle-Aged Men. J Sex Med 2020;17:2351-2361.
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8
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Zitzmann M. Testosterone, mood, behaviour and quality of life. Andrology 2020; 8:1598-1605. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12867] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Revised: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/09/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael Zitzmann
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology/Clinical Andrology University Hospital Münster Germany
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Owens SJ, Purves-Tyson TD, Webster MJ, Shannon Weickert C. Evidence for enhanced androgen action in the prefrontal cortex of people with bipolar disorder but not schizophrenia or major depressive disorder. Psychiatry Res 2019; 280:112503. [PMID: 31446215 DOI: 10.1016/j.psychres.2019.112503] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2019] [Revised: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 07/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Anxiety and depressive disorders are more prevalent in hypogonadal men. Low testosterone levels are associated with greater negative symptoms and impaired cognition in men with schizophrenia. Thus, androgens may contribute to brain pathophysiology in psychiatric disorders. We investigated androgen-related mRNAs in post-mortem dorsolateral prefrontal cortex of psychiatric disorders. We also assessed androgen receptor (AR) CAG trinucleotide repeat length, a functional AR gene variant associated with AR gene expression, receptor activity, and circulating testosterone. AR CAG repeat length was determined from genomic DNA and AR and 5α-reductase mRNAs measured using quantitative PCR in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and control cases [n = 35/group; Stanley Medical Research Institute (SMRI) Array collection]. Layer-specific AR gene expression was determined using in situ hybridisation in schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, major depressive disorder and control cases (n = 15/group; SMRI Neuropathology Consortium). AR mRNA was increased in bipolar disorder, but was unchanged in schizophrenia, relative to controls. AR and 5α-reductase mRNAs were significantly positively correlated in bipolar disorder. AR CAG repeat length was significantly shorter in bipolar disorder relative to schizophrenia. AR mRNA expression was highest in cortical layers IV and V, but no layer-specific diagnostic differences were detected. Together, our results suggest enhanced cortical androgen action in people with bipolar disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha J Owens
- Schizophrenia Research Laboratory, Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick NSW 2031, Australia; School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney NSW 2052, Australia.
| | - Tertia D Purves-Tyson
- Schizophrenia Research Laboratory, Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick NSW 2031, Australia; School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Maree J Webster
- Laboratory of Brain Research, Stanley Medical Research Institute, MD 20815, USA
| | - Cynthia Shannon Weickert
- Schizophrenia Research Laboratory, Neuroscience Research Australia, Randwick NSW 2031, Australia; School of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales, Sydney NSW 2052, Australia; Department of Neuroscience & Physiology, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, NY 13210, USA.
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10
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Deficiency in Androgen Receptor Aggravates the Depressive-Like Behaviors in Chronic Mild Stress Model of Depression. Cells 2019; 8:cells8091021. [PMID: 31480771 PMCID: PMC6769639 DOI: 10.3390/cells8091021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2019] [Revised: 08/22/2019] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
While androgen receptor (AR) and stress may influence the development of the major depressive disorder (MDD), the detailed relationship, however, remains unclear. Here we found loss of AR accelerated development of depressive-like behaviors in mice under chronic mild stress (CMS). Mechanism dissection indicated that AR might function via altering the expression of miR-204-5p to modulate the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) expression to influence the depressive-like behaviors in the mice under the CMS. Adding the antiandrogen flutamide with the stress hormone corticosterone can additively decrease BDNF mRNA in mouse hippocampus mHippoE-14 cells, which can then be reversed via down-regulating the miR-204-5p expression. Importantly, targeting this newly identified AR-mediated miR-204-5p/BDNF/AKT/MAPK signaling with small molecules including 7,8-DHF and fluoxetine, all led to alter the depressive-like behavior in AR knockout mice under CMS exposure. Together, results from these preclinical studies conclude that decreased AR may accelerate the stress-induced MDD via altering miR-204-5p/BDNF/AKT/MAPK signaling, and targeting this newly identified signaling may help in the development of better therapeutic approaches to reduce the development of MDD.
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Salonia A, Rastrelli G, Hackett G, Seminara SB, Huhtaniemi IT, Rey RA, Hellstrom WJG, Palmert MR, Corona G, Dohle GR, Khera M, Chan YM, Maggi M. Paediatric and adult-onset male hypogonadism. Nat Rev Dis Primers 2019; 5:38. [PMID: 31147553 PMCID: PMC6944317 DOI: 10.1038/s41572-019-0087-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 167] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis is of relevance in many processes related to the development, maturation and ageing of the male. Through this axis, a cascade of coordinated activities is carried out leading to sustained testicular endocrine function, with gonadal testosterone production, as well as exocrine function, with spermatogenesis. Conditions impairing the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis during paediatric or pubertal life may result in delayed puberty. Late-onset hypogonadism is a clinical condition in the ageing male combining low concentrations of circulating testosterone and specific symptoms associated with impaired hormone production. Testosterone therapy for congenital forms of hypogonadism must be lifelong, whereas testosterone treatment of late-onset hypogonadism remains a matter of debate because of unclear indications for replacement, uncertain efficacy and potential risks. This Primer focuses on a reappraisal of the physiological role of testosterone, with emphasis on the critical interpretation of the hypogonadal conditions throughout the lifespan of the male individual, with the exception of hypogonadal states resulting from congenital disorders of sex development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Salonia
- Division of Experimental Oncology, Unit of Urology, URI, IRCCS Ospedale San Raffaele, Milan, Italy.
- Università Vita-Salute San Raffaele, Milan, Italy.
| | - Giulia Rastrelli
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit Department of Experimental Clinical and Biomedical Sciences 'Mario Serio', University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Geoffrey Hackett
- Department of Urology, University of Bedfordshire, Bedfordshire, UK
| | - Stephanie B Seminara
- Harvard Reproductive Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Ilpo T Huhtaniemi
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, London, UK
- Department of Physiology, Institute of Biomedicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Rodolfo A Rey
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas 'Dr César Bergadá' (CEDIE), CONICET - FEI - División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños R. Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Wayne J G Hellstrom
- Department of Urology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, USA
| | - Mark R Palmert
- Division of Endocrinology, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Departments of Paediatrics and Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Giovanni Corona
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit Department of Experimental Clinical and Biomedical Sciences 'Mario Serio', University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Endocrinology Unit, Medical Department, Azienda Usl Bologna Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - Gert R Dohle
- Department of Urology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, Netherlands
| | - Mohit Khera
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Yee-Ming Chan
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Mario Maggi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit Department of Experimental Clinical and Biomedical Sciences 'Mario Serio', University of Florence, Florence, Italy
- Istituto Nazionale Biostrutture e Biosistemi (INBB), Rome, Italy
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Owens SJ, Weickert TW, Purves-Tyson TD, Ji E, White C, Galletly C, Liu D, O'Donnell M, Shannon Weickert C. Sex-Specific Associations of Androgen Receptor CAG Trinucleotide Repeat Length and of Raloxifene Treatment with Testosterone Levels and Perceived Stress in Schizophrenia. MOLECULAR NEUROPSYCHIATRY 2019; 5:28-41. [PMID: 31019916 PMCID: PMC6465742 DOI: 10.1159/000495062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2018] [Accepted: 11/01/2018] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Lower testosterone levels are associated with greater negative symptoms in men with schizophrenia. Testosterone signals via androgen receptor (AR). A functional variant in the AR gene (CAG trinucleotide repeat polymorphism) is associated with circulating testosterone and mood-related symptoms in healthy people. Raloxifene increases testosterone in healthy males and reduces symptom severity and improves cognition in schizophrenia; however, whether raloxifene increases testosterone in men with schizophrenia is unknown. We assessed the interaction of a functional AR gene variant and adjunctive raloxifene on peripheral testosterone and symptom severity in schizophrenia. Patients with schizophrenia (59 males and 38 females) participated in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial of adjunctive raloxifene (120 mg/day). Healthy adults (46 males and 41 females) were used for baseline comparison. Baseline circulating testosterone was decreased in male patients compared to male controls and positively correlated with CAG repeat length in male controls and female patients. Male patients with short, compared to long, CAG repeat length had higher stress scores. Raloxifene treatment increased testosterone in male patients, but was unrelated to AR CAG repeat length, suggesting that raloxifene's effects may not depend on AR activity. Sex-specific alterations of the relationship between AR CAG repeat length and testosterone suggest that altered AR activity may impact perceived stress in men with schizophrenia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha J. Owens
- Schizophrenia Research Laboratory, Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Thomas W. Weickert
- Schizophrenia Research Laboratory, Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tertia D. Purves-Tyson
- Schizophrenia Research Laboratory, Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ellen Ji
- Schizophrenia Research Laboratory, Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Christopher White
- Department of Endocrinology, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Cherrie Galletly
- Discipline of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Northern Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Dennis Liu
- Discipline of Psychiatry, School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- Northern Adelaide Local Health Network, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Maryanne O'Donnell
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Cynthia Shannon Weickert
- Schizophrenia Research Laboratory, Neuroscience Research Australia, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- School of Psychiatry, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Department of Neuroscience and Physiology, Upstate Medical University, Syracuse, New York, USA
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13
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British Society for Sexual Medicine Guidelines on Adult Testosterone Deficiency, With Statements for UK Practice. J Sex Med 2017; 14:1504-1523. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jsxm.2017.10.067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2017] [Revised: 10/14/2017] [Accepted: 10/19/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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14
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Maney DL. Polymorphisms in sex steroid receptors: From gene sequence to behavior. Front Neuroendocrinol 2017; 47:47-65. [PMID: 28705582 PMCID: PMC6312198 DOI: 10.1016/j.yfrne.2017.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2017] [Revised: 07/05/2017] [Accepted: 07/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Sex steroid receptors have received much interest as potential mediators of human behaviors and mental disorders. Candidate gene association studies have identified about 50 genetic variants of androgen and estrogen receptors that correlate with human behavioral phenotypes. Because most of these polymorphisms lie outside coding regions, discerning their effect on receptor function is not straightforward. Thus, although discoveries of associations improve our ability to predict risk, they have not greatly advanced our understanding of underlying mechanisms. This article is intended to serve as a starting point for psychologists and other behavioral biologists to consider potential mechanisms. Here, I review associations between polymorphisms in sex steroid receptors and human behavioral phenotypes. I then consider ways in which genetic variation can affect processes such as mRNA transcription, splicing, and stability. Finally, I suggest ways that hypotheses about mechanism can be tested, for example using in vitro assays and/or animal models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Donna L Maney
- Department of Psychology, 36 Eagle Row, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 30322, USA.
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Gettler LT, Ryan CP, Eisenberg DTA, Rzhetskaya M, Hayes MG, Feranil AB, Bechayda SA, Kuzawa CW. The role of testosterone in coordinating male life history strategies: The moderating effects of the androgen receptor CAG repeat polymorphism. Horm Behav 2017; 87:164-175. [PMID: 27794482 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2016.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2016] [Revised: 10/20/2016] [Accepted: 10/23/2016] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Partnered fathers often have lower testosterone than single non-parents, which is theorized to relate to elevated testosterone (T) facilitating competitive behaviors and lower T contributing to nurturing. Cultural- and individual-factors moderate the expression of such psychobiological profiles. Less is known about genetic variation's role in individual psychobiological responses to partnering and fathering, particularly as related to T. We examined the exon 1 CAG (polyglutamine) repeat (CAGn) within the androgen receptor (AR) gene. AR CAGn shapes T's effects after it binds to AR by affecting AR transcriptional activity. Thus, this polymorphism is a strong candidate to influence individual-level profiles of "androgenicity." While males with a highly androgenic profile are expected to engage in a more competitive-oriented life history strategy, low androgenic men are at increased risk of depression, which could lead to similar outcomes for certain familial dynamics, such as marriage stability and parenting. Here, in a large longitudinal study of Filipino men (n=683), we found that men who had high androgenicity (elevated T and shorter CAGn) or low androgenicity (lower T and longer CAGn) showed elevated likelihood of relationship instability over the 4.5-year study period and were also more likely be relatively uninvolved with childcare as fathers. We did not find that CAGn moderated men's T responses to the fatherhood transition. In total, our results provide evidence for invested fathering and relationship stability at intermediate levels of androgenicity and help inform our understanding of variation in male reproductive strategies and the individual hormonal and genetic differences that underlie it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee T Gettler
- Department of Anthropology, University of Notre Dame, Notre Dame, IN, United States; The Eck Institute for Global Health, University of Notre Dame, United States.
| | - Calen P Ryan
- Department of Anthropology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, United States
| | - Dan T A Eisenberg
- Department of Anthropology, University of Washington, Seattle, United States; Center for Studies in Demography and Ecology, University of Washington, Seattle, United States
| | - Margarita Rzhetskaya
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
| | - M Geoffrey Hayes
- Department of Anthropology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, United States; Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, United States; Center for Genetic Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
| | - Alan B Feranil
- USC Office of Population Studies Foundation and Department of Anthropology, Sociology, and History, College of Arts and Sciences, University of San Carlos, Talamban Cebu City, Philippines
| | - Sonny Agustin Bechayda
- USC Office of Population Studies Foundation and Department of Anthropology, Sociology, and History, College of Arts and Sciences, University of San Carlos, Talamban Cebu City, Philippines
| | - Christopher W Kuzawa
- Department of Anthropology, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, United States; Institute for Policy Research, Northwestern University, Evanston, IL 60208, United States
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Lašaitė L, Čeponis J, Preikša RT, Žilaitienė B. Effects of two-year testosterone replacement therapy on cognition, emotions and quality of life in young and middle-aged hypogonadal men. Andrologia 2016; 49. [PMID: 27545990 DOI: 10.1111/and.12633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/11/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the study was to examine the effects of two-year testosterone replacement therapy on cognitive functioning, emotional state and quality of life in young and middle-aged men with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. Nineteen males diagnosed with hypogonadotropic hypogonadism participated in the study. Cognitive functions were assessed by Trail Making Test and Digit Span Test of Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale. Emotional state was evaluated by Profile of Mood States. Quality of life was evaluated by WHO Brief Quality of Life Questionnaire. Changes after two-year testosterone replacement therapy were detected in Trail Making A (42.9 ± 22.3 vs. 36.2 ± 22.5, p = .050) and B (90.6 ± 55.3 vs. 65.6 ± 21.4, p = .025) tests, showing improvement in attention and visual scanning abilities, executive function and psychomotor speed, as well as in Digit Span Test forward score (5.4 ± 2.0 vs. 6.1 ± 2.6, p = .046), showing improvement in attention capacity and psychomotor speed. No significant differences were observed in emotional state and quality of life. In conclusion, beneficial effect in cognitive functioning (improved attention and visual scanning ability, executive function and psychomotor speed), but not in emotional state and quality of life, was observed in young and middle-aged hypogonadal men after two-year testosterone replacement therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Lašaitė
- Institute of Endocrinology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - J Čeponis
- Institute of Endocrinology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - R T Preikša
- Institute of Endocrinology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
| | - B Žilaitienė
- Institute of Endocrinology, Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas, Lithuania
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17
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Ryan CP, McDade TW, Gettler LT, Eisenberg DTA, Rzhetskaya M, Hayes MG, Kuzawa CW. Androgen receptor CAG repeat polymorphism and hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal function in Filipino young adult males. Am J Hum Biol 2016; 29. [PMID: 27417274 DOI: 10.1002/ajhb.22897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2016] [Revised: 05/30/2016] [Accepted: 06/22/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Testosterone (T), the primary androgenic hormone in males, is stimulated through pulsatile secretion of LH and regulated through negative feedback inhibition at the hypothalamus and pituitary. The hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis also controls sperm production through the secretion of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). Negative feedback in the HPG axis is achieved in part through the binding of T to the androgen receptor (AR), which contains a highly variable trinucleotide repeat polymorphism (AR-CAGn). The number of repeats in the AR-CAGn inversely correlates with transcriptional activity of the AR. Thus, we predicted longer AR-CAGn to be associated with higher T, LH, and FSH levels. METHODS We examined the relationship between AR-CAGn and total plasma T, LH, and FSH, as well as "bioavailable" morning (AM-T) and evening (PM-T) testosterone in 722 young (21.5 ± 0.5 years) Filipino males. RESULTS There was no relationship between AR-CAGn and total T, AM-T, or LH (P > .25 for all). We did observe a marginally non-significant (P = .066) correlation between AR-CAGn and PM-T in the predicted direction, and a negative correlation between AR-CAGn and FSH (P = .005). CONCLUSIONS Our results both support and differ from previous findings in this area, and study parameters that differ between our study and others, such as participant age, sample time, and the role of other hormones should be considered when interpreting our findings. While our data point to a modest effect of AR-CAGn on HPG regulation at best, the AR-CAGn may still affect somatic traits by regulating androgenic activity at peripheral tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Calen P Ryan
- Department of Anthropology, Northwestern University, Evanston, 60208, Illinois
| | - Thomas W McDade
- Department of Anthropology, Northwestern University, Evanston, 60208, Illinois.,Institute for Policy Research, Northwestern University, Evanston, 60208, Illinois
| | - Lee T Gettler
- Department of Anthropology, University of Notre Dame, South Bend, Indiana
| | - Dan T A Eisenberg
- Department of Anthropology, University of Washington, Seattle, Washington
| | - Margarita Rzhetskaya
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, 60611, Illinois
| | - M Geoffey Hayes
- Department of Anthropology, Northwestern University, Evanston, 60208, Illinois.,Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, 60611, Illinois.,Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Center for Genetic Medicine, Chicago, 60611, Illinois
| | - Christopher W Kuzawa
- Department of Anthropology, Northwestern University, Evanston, 60208, Illinois.,Institute for Policy Research, Northwestern University, Evanston, 60208, Illinois
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18
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Walther A, Rice T, Kufert Y, Ehlert U. Neuroendocrinology of a Male-Specific Pattern for Depression Linked to Alcohol Use Disorder and Suicidal Behavior. Front Psychiatry 2016; 7:206. [PMID: 28096796 PMCID: PMC5206577 DOI: 10.3389/fpsyt.2016.00206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2016] [Accepted: 12/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Epidemiological studies show low rates of diagnosed depression in men compared to women. At the same time, high rates of alcohol use disorders (AUDs) and completed suicide are found among men. These data suggest that a male-specific pattern for depression may exist that is linked to AUDs and suicidal behavior. To date, no underlying neuroendocrine model for this specific pattern of male depression has been suggested. In this paper, we integrate findings related to this specific pattern of depression with underlying steroid secretion patterns, polymorphisms, and methylation profiles of key genes in order to detail an original neuroendocrine model of male-specific depression. Low circulating levels of sex steroids seem to increase the vulnerability for male depression, while concomitant high levels of glucocorticoids further intensify this vulnerability. Interactions of hypothalamus-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) and hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenocortical (HPA) axis-related hormones seem to be highly relevant for a male-specific pattern of depression linked to AUDs and suicidal behavior. Moreover, genetic variants and the epigenetic profiles of the androgen receptor gene, well-known depression related genes, and HPA axis-related genes were shown to further interact with men's steroid secretion and thus may further contribute to the proposed male-specific pattern for depression. This mini-review points out the multilevel interactions between the HPG and HPA axis for a male-specific pattern of depression linked to AUDs and suicidal behavior. An integration of multilevel interactions within the three-hit concept of vulnerability and resilience concludes the review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Walther
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Zurich , Zurich , Switzerland
| | - Timothy Rice
- Department of Psychiatry - Child and Adolescent Inpatient Service, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , New York, NY , USA
| | - Yael Kufert
- Department of Psychiatry - Child and Adolescent Inpatient Service, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai , New York, NY , USA
| | - Ulrike Ehlert
- Clinical Psychology and Psychotherapy, University of Zurich , Zurich , Switzerland
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Lunenfeld B, Mskhalaya G, Zitzmann M, Arver S, Kalinchenko S, Tishova Y, Morgentaler A. Recommendations on the diagnosis, treatment and monitoring of hypogonadism in men. Aging Male 2015; 18:5-15. [PMID: 25657080 PMCID: PMC4648196 DOI: 10.3109/13685538.2015.1004049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 212] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2014] [Accepted: 12/26/2014] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Hypogonadism or Testosterone Deficiency (TD) in adult men as defined by low levels of serum testosterone accompanied by characteristic symptoms and/or signs as detailed further on can be found in long-recognized clinical entities such as Klinefelter syndrome, Kallmann syndrome, pituitary or testicular disorders, as well as in men with idiopathic, metabolic or iatrogenic conditions that result in testosterone deficiency. These recommendations do not encompass the full range of pathologies leading to hypogonadism (testosterone deficiency), but instead focus on the clinical spectrum of hypogonadism related to metabolic and idiopathic disorders that contribute to the majority of cases that occur in adult men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bruno Lunenfeld
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - George Mskhalaya
- Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat Gan, Israel
| | - Michael Zitzmann
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University Clinics Muenster, Münster, Germany
| | - Stefan Arver
- Centre for Andrology and Sexual Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital and Karolinska Institutet Stockholm, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Svetlana Kalinchenko
- Clinical Endocrinology, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia, Moscow, Russian Federation
| | - Yuliya Tishova
- Clinical Endocrinology, Peoples' Friendship University of Russia, Moscow, Russian Federation
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Tirabassi G, Cignarelli A, Perrini S, delli Muti N, Furlani G, Gallo M, Pallotti F, Paoli D, Giorgino F, Lombardo F, Gandini L, Lenzi A, Balercia G. Influence of CAG Repeat Polymorphism on the Targets of Testosterone Action. Int J Endocrinol 2015; 2015:298107. [PMID: 26421011 PMCID: PMC4572434 DOI: 10.1155/2015/298107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2015] [Accepted: 08/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last decade, ample evidence has demonstrated the growing importance of androgen receptor (AR) CAG repeat polymorphism in andrology. This genetic parameter is able to condition the peripheral effects of testosterone and therefore to influence male sexual function and fertility, cardiovascular risk, body composition, bone metabolism, the risk of prostate and testicular cancer, the psychiatric status, and the onset of neurodegenerative disorders. In this review, we extensively discuss the literature data and identify a role for AR CAG repeat polymorphism in conditioning the systemic testosterone effects. In particular, our main purpose was to provide an updated text able to shed light on the many and often contradictory findings reporting an influence of CAG repeat polymorphism on the targets of testosterone action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Angelo Cignarelli
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Section of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Andrology, and Metabolic Diseases, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Sebastio Perrini
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Section of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Andrology, and Metabolic Diseases, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Nicola delli Muti
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Giorgio Furlani
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Mariagrazia Gallo
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “La Sapienza”, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Pallotti
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “La Sapienza”, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Donatella Paoli
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “La Sapienza”, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Giorgino
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Section of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Andrology, and Metabolic Diseases, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Francesco Lombardo
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “La Sapienza”, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Loredana Gandini
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “La Sapienza”, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Lenzi
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “La Sapienza”, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Balercia
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, 60126 Ancona, Italy
- *Giancarlo Balercia:
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21
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Muschler MAN, Lenz B, Hillemacher T, Kraus C, Kornhuber J, Frieling H, Bleich S. CAGn repeat of the androgen receptor is linked to proopiomelanocortin promoter methylation-relevance for craving of male alcohol-dependent patients? Psychopharmacology (Berl) 2014; 231:2059-66. [PMID: 24271034 DOI: 10.1007/s00213-013-3349-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2013] [Accepted: 10/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Previous findings of the Franconian Alcoholism Research Studies showed that both the CAGn of the androgen receptor (AR) and the promoter methylation of the hypothalamic peptide proopiomelanocortin (POMC) were associated with craving of male alcohol-dependent patients. OBJECTIVES Based on the strong interactions between the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) and the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA), this study investigated the relationships between the CAGn repeat of the AR, POMC promoter methylation and craving of male alcohol-dependent patients. METHODS This analysis covers 84 male patients with a diagnosis of alcohol dependence (DSM-IV). We sequenced the POMC gene promoter using bisulfite modified DNA to display the methylation status. Furthermore, we sequenced the CAGn repeat within exon 1 of the AR gene. Craving was quantified by the Obsessive Compulsive Drinking Scale. RESULTS We found an inverse correlation between the number of CAGn repeats of the AR and the POMC methylation status in this study. Altogether, the POMC promoter methylation accounted for 33 % of the relationship between CAGn AR polymorphism and craving. CONCLUSIONS This work shows that the AR and the POMC gene might functionally interact with each other and subsequently mediate craving in alcohol-dependent patients. The paper discusses different mechanisms which might underlie our findings involving sex hormones' and sex determining region of Y-gene's regulatory function on DNA-methyltransferase activity. In conclusion, the results give insight in the interaction between HPG and HPA axis. This study is a further step on the way to a better understanding of genetic and non-genetic factors underlying craving for alcohol.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Andre Nicolas Muschler
- Department of Psychiatry, Socialpsychiatry and Psychotherapy, Center for Addiction Research, Hannover Medical School, Carl-Neuberg-Straße 1, 30625, Hannover, Germany,
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22
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Schneider G, Zitzmann M, Gromoll J, Ladwig KH, Berger K. The relation between sex hormone levels, the androgen receptor CAGn-polymorphism and depression and mortality in older men in a community study. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2013; 38:2083-90. [PMID: 23602133 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2013.03.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2012] [Revised: 03/21/2013] [Accepted: 03/24/2013] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sex hormones levels and the androgen receptor CAGn polymorphism have been shown to be involved in depressed mood in aging men. But the few prior studies found inconsistent results on the role of both factors. METHODS 186 male participants aged ≥65 years from the community based Memory and Morbidity in Augsburg Elderly (MEMO) Study underwent a physical examination, and a medical interview including two scales (Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D); Activities of Daily Living Scale (ADL). Testosterone, SHBG and LH levels were measured and the androgen receptor CAGn polymorphism was genotyped. χ(2), Mann-Whitney U-test, Pearson's correlations and multivariable linear and logistic regression were used in the analysis. RESULTS Higher depressive scores were significantly associated with higher SHBG-levels (beta coefficient 0.25, p<0.001). SHBG alone explained 8% of variance of the CES-D depression score. Mortality at 10 years follow-up was predicted by higher SHBG levels, higher ADL-scores, older age, current smoking and the depression score at baseline. This model explained 35% of the variance of mortality. The number of CAG repeats was neither related to depression scores nor to mortality. CONCLUSIONS We found positive associations between SHBG levels and old age male depression as well as mortality. Whether SHBG has a testosterone independent effect in this context should be investigated further.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gudrun Schneider
- Department of Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Muenster, Muenster, Germany.
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23
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Jannini EA, Isidori AM, Aversa A, Lenzi A, Althof SE. Which Is First? The Controversial Issue of Precedence in the Treatment of Male Sexual Dysfunctions. J Sex Med 2013; 10:2359-69. [DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
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24
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Zitzmann M. Hypogonadism: Biochemical Diagnosis, Treatment, and the Myth of Uniform Thresholds. JOURNAL OF MEN'S HEALTH 2013. [DOI: 10.1089/jomh.2009.00030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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[Anxiety and depression in the elderly]. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR PSYCHOSOMATISCHE MEDIZIN UND PSYCHOTHERAPIE 2013; 58:336-56. [PMID: 23224953 DOI: 10.13109/zptm.2012.58.4.336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This paper deals with diagnostics and prevalence of depression and anxiety in the elderly, their biological, psychological, and social risk factors, and the effectiveness of psychotherapy and pharmacotherapy. METHODS The results are based on an overview of the literature reflecting reviews and meta-analyses. RESULTS In the elderly, there is a substantial danger of confounding psychogenic with medical or drug-induced symptoms. Self-assessment scales may be useful for screening, but the results should be confirmed by an expert interview. Based on the available research, we cannot yet be sure whether the prevalence of depression and anxiety in the elderly population is in fact higher, lower, or equal to younger age groups. More women are afflicted with depression or anxiety than men. Pharmacotherapy (preferably antidepressants) and psychotherapy are effective for treating anxiety and depression in the elderly, with medium to high effect sizes. To date it is not possible to provide evidence-based treatment recommendations for the type or the setting of psychotherapy. DISCUSSION More research on this topic is needed.
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26
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Buvat J, Maggi M, Guay A, Torres LO. Testosterone Deficiency in Men: Systematic Review and Standard Operating Procedures for Diagnosis and Treatment. J Sex Med 2013; 10:245-84. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2012.02783.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 186] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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Kawada T, Otsuka T. Psychological well-being using the 12-item General Health Questionnaire (GHQ12) and age in Japanese working men. J Psychiatr Ment Health Nurs 2012; 19:758-60. [PMID: 22646138 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2850.2012.01936.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- T Kawada
- Department of Hygiene and Public Health, Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
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28
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Sankar JS, Hampson E. Testosterone levels and androgen receptor gene polymorphism predict specific symptoms of depression in young men. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 9:232-43. [PMID: 22728214 DOI: 10.1016/j.genm.2012.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2011] [Revised: 05/11/2012] [Accepted: 05/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Testosterone (T) has been hypothesized to modulate the expression of depressive symptoms in men; however, support for this proposition is mixed. OBJECTIVE To investigate bioavailable T, measured from saliva, and androgen receptor gene (AR) polymorphism (the number of glutamine [CAG] repeats in exon 1 of AR) and their relation to discrete symptoms of depression in 150 men aged 17 to 27 years who varied in mood status from depressed to nondepressed. METHODS Participants completed the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale and the Patient Health Questionnaire-9. Principal components analysis of the scales identified 5 factors: Negative Affect, Social/Evaluative, Cognitive, Sleep, and Appetite. RESULTS Across the sample as a whole, higher ratings on sleep symptoms of depression were predicted by lower T concentrations and shorter CAG lengths. The association between T, CAG length, and sleep symptoms was confirmed among the subgroup of men who reported moderate to severe depression. In this subgroup, CAG repeats and T concentrations also emerged as significant predictors of negative affect scores, with the number of CAG repeats making the primary contribution. CONCLUSIONS These findings suggest that androgens may influence specific symptoms of depression in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Janani S Sankar
- Department of Psychology, University of Western Ontario, 1151 Richmond St, London, ON, Canada.
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29
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Current world literature. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes 2012; 19:233-47. [PMID: 22531108 DOI: 10.1097/med.0b013e3283542fb3] [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: 11/26/2022]
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30
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Giltay EJ, Enter D, Zitman FG, Penninx BWJH, van Pelt J, Spinhoven P, Roelofs K. Salivary testosterone: associations with depression, anxiety disorders, and antidepressant use in a large cohort study. J Psychosom Res 2012; 72:205-13. [PMID: 22325700 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpsychores.2011.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2011] [Revised: 11/21/2011] [Accepted: 11/22/2011] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Low circulating levels of testosterone have been associated with major depression, but there is more limited evidence for differences in patients with anxiety disorders. The use of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and other antidepressants is associated with sexual side effects, warranting testing for interactions with testosterone. METHODS Data are from 722 male and 1380 female participants of The Netherlands Study of Depression and Anxiety (NESDA), who were recruited from the community, general practice care, and specialized mental health care. Depressive and anxiety diagnoses were assessed using the DSM-IV Composite International Diagnostic Interview. To smooth the episodic secretion, the four morning saliva samples per participant and the two evening samples were pooled before testosterone analysis. RESULTS Morning median testosterone levels were 25.2 pg/ml in men and 16.2 pg/ml in women, with lower evening levels of 18.2 and 14.1 pg/ml, respectively. Significant determinants of testosterone levels were sex, age, time of the day, use of contraceptives, and smoking status. Female patients with a current (1-month) depressive disorder (effect size 0.29; P=0.002), generalized anxiety disorder (0.25; P=0.01), social phobia (0.30; P<0.001), and agoraphobia without panic disorder (0.30; P=0.02) had lower salivary testosterone levels than female controls. Higher testosterone levels were found in male and female participants using SSRIs than in non-users (effect size 0.26; P<0.001). CONCLUSION Salivary testosterone levels are lower in female patients with a depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, social phobia, and agoraphobia as compared to female controls. SSRIs may increase salivary testosterone in men and women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erik J Giltay
- Department of Psychiatry, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands.
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Schneider G, Nienhaus K, Gromoll J, Heuft G, Nieschlag E, Zitzmann M. Sex hormone levels, genetic androgen receptor polymorphism, and anxiety in ≥50-year-old males. J Sex Med 2011; 8:3452-64. [PMID: 21883946 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2011.02443.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION While associations between somatic changes and sex hormone levels in aging men have been explored in many studies, the association of testosterone and estradiol with psychic symptoms other than depression and the role of the genetically determined CAG repeat (CAGn) polymorphism of the androgen receptor (AR) have received much less attention. AIM The purpose of this article is to investigate the associations between general anxiety, phobic anxiety and panic with sex hormone levels and the genetic androgen receptor polymorphism in aging males. METHODS This cross-sectional study of males aged ≥50 years included 120 consecutive patients of the Department of Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, 76 consecutive patients of the Andrology Clinic, and 100 participants from the general population; all of them completed the Brief Symptom Inventory (BSI), the Aging Males' Symptoms (AMS) Scale, and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). Morning blood samples were analyzed for total and free testosterone, estradiol, sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), and the CAGn AR polymorphism. Psychosomatic patients also underwent psychiatric assessment. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Scores on the Anxiety subscales of the BSI and PHQ, Anxiety disorders according to International Classification of Diseases, 10th revision (ICD-10). RESULTS The two clinical samples had significantly longer CAGn of the AR and higher anxiety levels compared to the population sample. Anxiety scores were positively correlated with CAGn in psychosomatic patients and in andrological patients, in the latter also with estradiol levels, while the population sample showed no significant correlations between anxiety scores, CAGn and sex hormones. Anxiety cases according to BSI, PHQ, and ICD-10 had significantly longer CAGn of the AR when compared to the other participants, but there were no significant differences in testosterone or free testosterone levels. CONCLUSIONS Our results indicate that genetically determined long CAGn of the AR is an independent risk factor for higher anxiety, panic and phobic anxiety levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gudrun Schneider
- Department of Psychosomatics and Psychotherapy, University of Münster, Münster, Germany.
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