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Azumah R, Hummitzsch K, Anderson RA, Rodgers RJ. Genes in loci genetically associated with polycystic ovary syndrome are dynamically expressed in human fetal gonadal, metabolic and brain tissues. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1149473. [PMID: 37223019 PMCID: PMC10201802 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1149473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous disorder, affecting around 10% of women of reproductive age, with infertility, depression or anxiety, obesity, insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes as risk factors. The cause of PCOS is not known but there is a predisposition to developing PCOS in adult life that arises during fetal or perinatal life. PCOS also has a genetic predisposition and a number of genetic loci associated with PCOS have been identified. These loci contain 25 candidate genes which are currently being studied to define the syndrome. Although the name PCOS suggests a syndrome of the ovary, PCOS has also been associated with the central nervous system and other organ systems in the body due to the wide variety of symptoms it presents. Methods Here, we examined the expression patterns of PCOS candidate genes in gonadal (ovary and testis), metabolic (heart, liver and kidney) and brain (brain and cerebellum) tissues during the first half of human fetal development and postnatally until adulthood using public RNA sequencing data. This study is an initial step for more comprehensive and translational studies to define PCOS. Results We found that the genes were dynamically expressed in the fetal tissues studied. Some genes were significantly expressed in gonadal tissues, whilst others were expressed in metabolic or brain tissues at different time points prenatally and/or postnatally. HMGA2, FBN3 and TOX3 were highly expressed during the early stages of fetal development in all tissues but least during adulthood. Interestingly, correlation between expression of HMGA2/YAP1 and RAD50/YAP1 were significant in at least 5 of the 7 fetal tissues studied. Notably, DENND1A, THADA, MAPRE1, RAB5B, ARL14EP, KRR1, NEIL2 and RAD50 were dynamically expressed in all postnatal tissues studied. Conclusions These findings suggest that these genes have tissue- or development-specific roles in multiple organs, possibly resulting in the various symptoms associated with PCOS. Thus the fetal origin of a predisposition to PCOS in adulthood could arise via the effects of PCOS candidate genes in the development of multiple organs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafiatu Azumah
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Katja Hummitzsch
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Richard A. Anderson
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, Queen’s Medical Research Institute, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Raymond J. Rodgers
- Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
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Risal S, Li C, Luo Q, Fornes R, Lu H, Eriksson G, Manti M, Ohlsson C, Lindgren E, Crisosto N, Maliqueo M, Echiburú B, Recabarren S, Petermann TS, Benrick A, Brusselaers N, Qiao J, Deng Q, Stener-Victorin E. Transgenerational transmission of reproductive and metabolic dysfunction in the male progeny of polycystic ovary syndrome. Cell Rep Med 2023; 4:101035. [PMID: 37148878 DOI: 10.1016/j.xcrm.2023.101035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
The transgenerational maternal effects of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in female progeny are being revealed. As there is evidence that a male equivalent of PCOS may exists, we ask whether sons born to mothers with PCOS (PCOS-sons) transmit reproductive and metabolic phenotypes to their male progeny. Here, in a register-based cohort and a clinical case-control study, we find that PCOS-sons are more often obese and dyslipidemic. Our prenatal androgenized PCOS-like mouse model with or without diet-induced obesity confirmed that reproductive and metabolic dysfunctions in first-generation (F1) male offspring are passed down to F3. Sequencing of F1-F3 sperm reveals distinct differentially expressed (DE) small non-coding RNAs (sncRNAs) across generations in each lineage. Notably, common targets between transgenerational DEsncRNAs in mouse sperm and in PCOS-sons serum indicate similar effects of maternal hyperandrogenism, strengthening the translational relevance and highlighting a previously underappreciated risk of transmission of reproductive and metabolic dysfunction via the male germline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanjiv Risal
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Congru Li
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Qing Luo
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Romina Fornes
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Haojiang Lu
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Gustaw Eriksson
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Maria Manti
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Claes Ohlsson
- Centre for Bone and Arthritis Research, Department of Internal Medicine and Clinical Nutrition, Institute of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden; Department of Drug Treatment, Region Västra Götaland, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Eva Lindgren
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Nicolas Crisosto
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Laboratory, West Division, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Carlos Schachtebeck 299, Interior Quinta Normal, Santiago, Chile; Endocrinology Unit, Department of Medicine, Clínica Alemana de Santiago, Faculty of Medicine, Clinica Alemana, Universidad del Desarrollo, Santiago, Chile
| | - Manuel Maliqueo
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Laboratory, West Division, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Carlos Schachtebeck 299, Interior Quinta Normal, Santiago, Chile
| | - Barbara Echiburú
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Laboratory, West Division, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Carlos Schachtebeck 299, Interior Quinta Normal, Santiago, Chile
| | - Sergio Recabarren
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Endocrinology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - Teresa Sir Petermann
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Laboratory, West Division, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Carlos Schachtebeck 299, Interior Quinta Normal, Santiago, Chile
| | - Anna Benrick
- Department of Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden; School of Health Sciences, University of Skövde, Skövde, Sweden
| | - Nele Brusselaers
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Global Health Institute, Antwerp University, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Jie Qiao
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Qiaolin Deng
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden; Center for Molecular Medicine, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.
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Levine H, Jørgensen N, Martino-Andrade A, Mendiola J, Weksler-Derri D, Jolles M, Pinotti R, Swan SH. Temporal trends in sperm count: a systematic review and meta-regression analysis of samples collected globally in the 20th and 21st centuries. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:157-176. [PMID: 36377604 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 118.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Numerous studies have reported declines in semen quality and other markers of male reproductive health. Our previous meta-analysis reported a significant decrease in sperm concentration (SC) and total sperm count (TSC) among men from North America-Europe-Australia (NEA) based on studies published during 1981-2013. At that time, there were too few studies with data from South/Central America-Asia-Africa (SAA) to reliably estimate trends among men from these continents. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The aim of this study was to examine trends in sperm count among men from all continents. The broader implications of a global decline in sperm count, the knowledge gaps left unfilled by our prior analysis and the controversies surrounding this issue warranted an up-to-date meta-analysis. SEARCH METHODS We searched PubMed/MEDLINE and EMBASE to identify studies of human SC and TSC published during 2014-2019. After review of 2936 abstracts and 868 full articles, 44 estimates of SC and TSC from 38 studies met the protocol criteria. Data were extracted on semen parameters (SC, TSC, semen volume), collection year and covariates. Combining these new data with data from our previous meta-analysis, the current meta-analysis includes results from 223 studies, yielding 288 estimates based on semen samples collected 1973-2018. Slopes of SC and TSC were estimated as functions of sample collection year using simple linear regression as well as weighted meta-regression. The latter models were adjusted for predetermined covariates and examined for modification by fertility status (unselected by fertility versus fertile), and by two groups of continents: NEA and SAA. These analyses were repeated for data collected post-2000. Multiple sensitivity analyses were conducted to examine assumptions, including linearity. OUTCOMES Overall, SC declined appreciably between 1973 and 2018 (slope in the simple linear model: -0.87 million/ml/year, 95% CI: -0.89 to -0.86; P < 0.001). In an adjusted meta-regression model, which included two interaction terms [time × fertility group (P = 0.012) and time × continents (P = 0.058)], declines were seen among unselected men from NEA (-1.27; -1.78 to -0.77; P < 0.001) and unselected men from SAA (-0.65; -1.29 to -0.01; P = 0.045) and fertile men from NEA (-0.50; -1.00 to -0.01; P = 0.046). Among unselected men from all continents, the mean SC declined by 51.6% between 1973 and 2018 (-1.17: -1.66 to -0.68; P < 0.001). The slope for SC among unselected men was steeper in a model restricted to post-2000 data (-1.73: -3.23 to -0.24; P = 0.024) and the percent decline per year doubled, increasing from 1.16% post-1972 to 2.64% post-2000. Results were similar for TSC, with a 62.3% overall decline among unselected men (-4.70 million/year; -6.56 to -2.83; P < 0.001) in the adjusted meta-regression model. All results changed only minimally in multiple sensitivity analyses. WIDER IMPLICATIONS This analysis is the first to report a decline in sperm count among unselected men from South/Central America-Asia-Africa, in contrast to our previous meta-analysis that was underpowered to examine those continents. Furthermore, data suggest that this world-wide decline is continuing in the 21st century at an accelerated pace. Research on the causes of this continuing decline and actions to prevent further disruption of male reproductive health are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hagai Levine
- Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Hadassah Medical Center, The Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC), Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | - Jaime Mendiola
- Division of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Murcia School of Medicine and Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca-UMU), Murcia, Spain
| | - Dan Weksler-Derri
- Clalit Health Services, Kiryat Ono, Israel.,Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva, Israel
| | - Maya Jolles
- Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Hadassah Medical Center, The Faculty of Medicine, Hebrew University of Jerusalem, Jerusalem, Israel
| | - Rachel Pinotti
- Gustave L. and Janet W. Levy Library, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Shanna H Swan
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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Impaired Carbohydrate Metabolism and Excess of Lipid Accumulation in Offspring of Hyperandrogenic Mice. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12121182. [PMID: 36557220 PMCID: PMC9788294 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12121182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 11/05/2022] [Accepted: 11/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is an endocrine-metabolic disorder of unknown etiology. Hyperandrogenism (HA) is the main diagnostic criteria for PCOS, in addition to being a risk factor for developing several disorders throughout the patient's life, including pregnancy. However, the impact on offspring is little known. Therefore, the aim of this work was to evaluate the effect of maternal HA on glucose metabolism and hepatic lipid accumulation in adult offspring. We used Balb/c mice treated with dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) for 20 consecutive days. The ovary of DHEA-treated mice showed hemorrhagic bodies, an increased number of atretic follicles, and greater expression of genes related to meiotic cell cycle and DNA repair. The DHEA offspring (O-DHEA) had low birth weight, and some pups showed malformations. However, O-DHEA individuals gained weight rapidly, and the differences between them and the control group became significantly greater in adulthood. Moreover, O-DHEA presented higher serum glucose after a 6 h fast and a larger area under glucose, insulin, and pyruvate tolerance test curves. Oil Red O staining showed a more significant accumulation of fat in the liver but no changes in serum cholesterol and triacylglycerol levels. In summary, our results show that HA, induced by DHEA, affects gene expression in oocyte, which in turn generates defects in embryonic development, insulin resistance, and alteration in hepatic gluconeogenesis and lipid metabolism in O-DHEA, thereby increasing the risk of developing metabolic diseases.
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Dapas M, Dunaif A. Deconstructing a Syndrome: Genomic Insights Into PCOS Causal Mechanisms and Classification. Endocr Rev 2022; 43:927-965. [PMID: 35026001 PMCID: PMC9695127 DOI: 10.1210/endrev/bnac001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is among the most common disorders in women of reproductive age, affecting up to 15% worldwide, depending on the diagnostic criteria. PCOS is characterized by a constellation of interrelated reproductive abnormalities, including disordered gonadotropin secretion, increased androgen production, chronic anovulation, and polycystic ovarian morphology. It is frequently associated with insulin resistance and obesity. These reproductive and metabolic derangements cause major morbidities across the lifespan, including anovulatory infertility and type 2 diabetes (T2D). Despite decades of investigative effort, the etiology of PCOS remains unknown. Familial clustering of PCOS cases has indicated a genetic contribution to PCOS. There are rare Mendelian forms of PCOS associated with extreme phenotypes, but PCOS typically follows a non-Mendelian pattern of inheritance consistent with a complex genetic architecture, analogous to T2D and obesity, that reflects the interaction of susceptibility genes and environmental factors. Genomic studies of PCOS have provided important insights into disease pathways and have indicated that current diagnostic criteria do not capture underlying differences in biology associated with different forms of PCOS. We provide a state-of-the-science review of genetic analyses of PCOS, including an overview of genomic methodologies aimed at a general audience of non-geneticists and clinicians. Applications in PCOS will be discussed, including strengths and limitations of each study. The contributions of environmental factors, including developmental origins, will be reviewed. Insights into the pathogenesis and genetic architecture of PCOS will be summarized. Future directions for PCOS genetic studies will be outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Dapas
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Andrea Dunaif
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Bone Disease, Department of Medicine, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
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Stener-Victorin E. Update on Animal Models of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Endocrinology 2022; 163:6750034. [PMID: 36201611 PMCID: PMC9631972 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqac164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex disease affecting up to 15% of women of reproductive age. Women with PCOS suffer from reproductive dysfunctions with excessive androgen secretion and irregular ovulation, leading to reduced fertility and pregnancy complications. The syndrome is associated with a wide range of comorbidities including type 2 diabetes, obesity, and psychiatric disorders. Despite the high prevalence of PCOS, its etiology remains unclear. To understand the pathophysiology of PCOS, how it is inherited, and how to predict PCOS, and prevent and treat women with the syndrome, animal models provide an important approach to answering these fundamental questions. This minireview summarizes recent investigative efforts on PCOS-like rodent models aiming to define underlying mechanisms of the disease and provide guidance in model selection. The focus is on new genetic rodent models, on a naturally occurring rodent model, and provides an update on prenatal and peripubertal exposure models.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabet Stener-Victorin
- Correspondence: Elisabet Stener-Victorin, PhD, Professor, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institutet, Biomedicum, B5, 171 77 Stockholm, Sweden.
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Anti-Müllerian Hormone and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Women and Its Male Equivalent. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10102506. [PMID: 36289767 PMCID: PMC9599141 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10102506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 09/30/2022] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
This article reviews the main findings on anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and its involvement in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and its male equivalent. In women, AMH is produced by granulosa cells from the mid-fetal life to menopause and is a reliable indirect marker of ovarian reserve. AMH protects follicles from atresia, inhibits their differentiation in the ovary, and stimulates gonadotrophin-releasing hormone neurons pulsatility. AMH overexpression in women with PCOS likely contributes to the increase of the follicle cohort and of androgen levels, leading to follicular arrest and anovulation. In the male, AMH is synthesized at high levels by Sertoli cells from fetal life to puberty when serum AMH falls to levels similar to those observed in women. AMH is involved in the differentiation of the genital tract during fetal life and plays a role in Sertoli and Leydig cells differentiation and function. Serum AMH is used to assess Sertoli cell function in children with disorders of sex development and various conditions affecting the hypothalamic–pituitary–testicular axis. Although the reproductive function of male relative of women with PCOS has been poorly investigated, adolescents have elevated levels of AMH which could play a detrimental role on their fertility.
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Siemienowicz KJ, Filis P, Thomas J, Fowler PA, Duncan WC, Rae MT. Hepatic Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Risk of Liver Disease in an Ovine Model of “PCOS Males”. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10061291. [PMID: 35740312 PMCID: PMC9220073 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10061291] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 05/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
First-degree male relatives of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) sufferers can develop metabolic abnormalities evidenced by elevated circulating cholesterol and triglycerides, suggestive of a male PCOS equivalent. Similarly, male sheep overexposed to excess androgens in fetal life develop dyslipidaemia in adolescence. Dyslipidaemia, altered lipid metabolism, and dysfunctional hepatic mitochondria are associated with the development of non-alcoholic liver disease (NAFLD). We therefore dissected hepatic mitochondrial function and lipid metabolism in adolescent prenatally androgenized (PA) males from an ovine model of PCOS. Testosterone was directly administered to male ovine fetuses to create prenatal androgenic overexposure. Liver RNA sequencing and proteomics occurred at 6 months of age. Hepatic lipids, glycogen, ATP, reactive oxygen species (ROS), DNA damage, and collagen were assessed. Adolescent PA males had an increased accumulation of hepatic cholesterol and glycogen, together with perturbed glucose and fatty acid metabolism, mitochondrial dysfunction, with altered mitochondrial transport, decreased oxidative phosphorylation and ATP synthesis, and impaired mitophagy. Mitochondrial dysfunction in PA males was associated with increased hepatic ROS level and signs of early liver fibrosis, with clinical relevance to NAFLD progression. We conclude that excess in utero androgen exposure in male fetuses leads to a PCOS-like metabolic phenotype with dysregulated mitochondrial function and likely lifelong health sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katarzyna J. Siemienowicz
- School of Applied Science, Edinburgh Napier University, Edinburgh EH11 4BN, UK; (J.T.); (M.T.R.)
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK;
- Correspondence:
| | - Panagiotis Filis
- Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK; (P.F.); (P.A.F.)
| | - Jennifer Thomas
- School of Applied Science, Edinburgh Napier University, Edinburgh EH11 4BN, UK; (J.T.); (M.T.R.)
| | - Paul A. Fowler
- Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen AB25 2ZD, UK; (P.F.); (P.A.F.)
| | - W. Colin Duncan
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK;
| | - Mick T. Rae
- School of Applied Science, Edinburgh Napier University, Edinburgh EH11 4BN, UK; (J.T.); (M.T.R.)
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Shan D, Han J, Cai Y, Zou L, Xu L, Shen Y. Reproductive Health in First-degree Relatives of Patients With Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Review and Meta-analysis. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:273-295. [PMID: 34453540 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgab640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a highly heritable disease. Emerging evidence elucidated the elevated prevalence of reproductive abnormalities in first-degree relatives (FDRs) of patients with PCOS. OBJECTIVE To explore the reproductive health in FDRs of patients with PCOS. METHODS Ten databases were searched in December 2020 (PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, ClinicalTrials.gov, Chinese Biological Medical Literature, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure, Chinese Journals Full-text Database, WanFang, and World Health Organization international clinical trials registry platform). This study included cohort, case-control, or cross-sectional studies. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis statement was followed. Dichotomous data from each of the eligible studies were combined by the Mantel-Haenszel model. Standard mean differences with 95% CIs were assessed. Heterogeneities were assessed using I2 statistics, and the quality of evidence was evaluated by a US Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality Evidence-based Practice Center program and Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach. RESULTS Thirty-eight studies were included. The prevalence of PCOS (0.22; 95% CI, 0.16 to 0.29), menstrual irregularities (0.28; 95% CI, 0.22 to 0.34, P < .01), and ovary morphological changes were elevated in female PCOS FDRs. Female FDRs also presented with increased levels of luteinizing hormone, total testosterone (standard mean difference, 0.53; 95% CI, 0.28 to 0.78, P < .01), unconjugated testosterone, free androgen index, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), and antimüllerian hormone levels. Subgroup analyses indicated that some of these changes begun in pubertal girls. Furthermore, fathers of PCOS patients had a higher risk of premature baldness. The DHEAS level was elevated in male FDRs. CONCLUSION The findings of this analysis suggested that FDRs of patients with PCOS suffered from reproductive endocrinological dysregulations. Thus, more attention should be focused on this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dan Shan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Regulation Laboratory, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Jinbiao Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Regulation Laboratory, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yitong Cai
- West China School of Medicine, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Li Zou
- Department of Paediatric Surgery, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Liangzhi Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Regulation Laboratory, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
| | - Yongchun Shen
- Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, West China Hospital of Sichuan University, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
- State Key Laboratory of Biotherapy of China, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
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Ho EV, Shi C, Cassin J, He MY, Nguyen RD, Ryan GE, Tonsfeldt KJ, Mellon PL. Reproductive Deficits Induced by Prenatal Antimüllerian Hormone Exposure Require Androgen Receptor in Kisspeptin Cells. Endocrinology 2021; 162:6371276. [PMID: 34529765 PMCID: PMC8507963 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqab197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common reproductive disorder characterized by elevated androgens and antimüllerian hormone (AMH). These hormones remain elevated throughout pregnancy, and potential effects of hormone exposure on offspring from women with PCOS remain largely unexplored. Expanding on recent reports of prenatal AMH exposure in mice, we have fully characterized the reproductive consequences of prenatal AMH (pAMH) exposure throughout the lifespan of first- and second-generation offspring of both sexes. We also sought to elucidate mechanisms underlying pAMH-induced reproductive effects. There is a known reciprocal relationship between AMH and androgens, and in PCOS and PCOS-like animal models, androgen feedback is dysregulated at the level of the hypothalamus. Kisspeptin neurons express androgen receptors and play a critical role in sexual development and function. We therefore hypothesized that pAMH-induced reproductive phenotypes would be mediated by androgen signaling at the level of kisspeptin cells. We tested the pAMH model in kisspeptin-specific androgen receptor knockout (KARKO) mice and found that virtually all pAMH-induced phenotypes assayed are eliminated in KARKO offspring compared to littermate controls. By demonstrating the necessity of androgen receptor in kisspeptin cells to induce pAMH phenotypes, we have advanced understanding of the interactions between AMH and androgens in the context of prenatal exposure, which could have significant implications for children of women with PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily V Ho
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Chengxian Shi
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Jessica Cassin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Michelle Y He
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Ryan D Nguyen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Genevieve E Ryan
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Karen J Tonsfeldt
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
| | - Pamela L Mellon
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California 92093, USA
- Correspondence: Pamela L. Mellon, PhD, Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Center for Reproductive Science and Medicine, University of California, San Diego, 9500 Gilman Dr, La Jolla, CA 92093-0674, USA.
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11
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Hanem LGE, Salvesen Ø, Madsen A, Sagen JV, Mellgren G, Juliusson PB, Carlsen SM, Vanky E, Ødegård R. Maternal PCOS status and metformin in pregnancy: Steroid hormones in 5-10 years old children from the PregMet randomized controlled study. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257186. [PMID: 34499672 PMCID: PMC8428669 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2020] [Accepted: 08/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder, with potential effects on offspring both genetically and through altered intrauterine environment. Metformin, which ameliorate hormonal disturbances in non-pregnant women with PCOS is increasingly used in pregnancy. It passes the placenta, and the evidence on potential consequences for offspring endocrine development is scarce. We explore the potential effects of maternal PCOS status and intrauterine metformin exposure on offspring steroid hormone levels. Design This is a follow-up study of 5–10 years old children from the PregMet-study–a randomized controlled trial comparing metformin (2000 mg/day) to placebo during PCOS pregnancies. Of the 255 children invited, 117 (46%) were included. Methods There was no intervention in this follow-up study. Outcomes were serum levels of androstenedione, testosterone, SHBG, cortisol, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, 11-deoxycortisol and calculated free testosterone converted to gender-and age adjusted z-scores from a Norwegian reference population. These were compared in i) placebo-exposed children versus children from the reference population (z-score zero) by the deviation in z-score by one-sample t-tests and ii) metformin versus placebo-exposed children by two-sample t-tests. Holm-Bonferroni adjustments were performed to account for multiple endpoints. Results Girls of mothers with PCOS (n = 30) had higher mean z-scores of androstenedione (0.73 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.41 to 1.06), p<0.0001), testosterone (0.76 (0.51 to 1.00), p<0.0001), and free testosterone (0.99 (0.67 to 1.32), p<0.0001) than the reference population. Metformin-exposed boys (n = 31) tended to have higher 11-deoxycortisol z-score than placebo-exposed boys (n = 24) (mean difference 0.65 (95% CI 0.14–1.17), p = 0.014). Conclusion Maternal PCOS status was associated with elevated androgens in 5- to 10-year-old daughters, which might indicate earlier maturation and increased risk of developing PCOS. An impact of metformin in pregnancy on steroidogenesis in children born to mothers with PCOS cannot be excluded. Our findings need confirmation in studies that include participants that have entered puberty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liv Guro Engen Hanem
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Children’s clinic, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
- * E-mail:
| | - Øyvind Salvesen
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - André Madsen
- Hormone Laboratory, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Pediatrics, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Jørn V. Sagen
- Hormone Laboratory, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Gunnar Mellgren
- Hormone Laboratory, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- KG Jebsen Centre for Diabetes Research, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Petur Benedikt Juliusson
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Pediatrics, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
- Department of Health Registries, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Bergen, Norway
| | - Sven Magnus Carlsen
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Endocrinology, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Eszter Vanky
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Rønnaug Ødegård
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Children’s clinic, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
- Centre for Obesity Research, Dept. of Surgery St. Olav University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
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12
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Abstract
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) presents as a constellation of clinical manifestations that can be varied among patients; however, the hormonal derangement associated with PCOS is uniformly characterized by excess androgens and abnormal insulin activity. The alteration in the normal hormonal milieu in these patients and subsequently during their pregnancies is theorized to alter the normal development of the fetus. This in utero exposure and its relationship with behavioral development, metabolic disease, and reproductive outcomes in male and female offspring of mothers with PCOS are under investigation and remains controversial.
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13
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Gunning MN, Sir Petermann T, Crisosto N, van Rijn BB, de Wilde MA, Christ JP, Uiterwaal CSPM, de Jager W, Eijkemans MJC, Kunselman AR, Legro RS, Fauser BCJM. Cardiometabolic health in offspring of women with PCOS compared to healthy controls: a systematic review and individual participant data meta-analysis. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 26:103-117. [PMID: 31867675 PMCID: PMC7007319 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2019] [Revised: 07/28/2019] [Accepted: 08/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Women diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) suffer from an unfavorable cardiometabolic risk profile, which is already established by child-bearing age. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE The aim of this systematic review along with an individual participant data meta-analysis is to evaluate whether cardiometabolic features in the offspring (females and males aged 1–18 years) of women with PCOS (OPCOS) are less favorable compared to the offspring of healthy controls. SEARCH METHODS PubMed, Embase and gray literature databases were searched by three authors independently (M.N.G., M.A.W and J.C.) (last updated on 1 February 2018). Relevant key terms such as ‘offspring’ and ‘PCOS’ were combined. Outcomes were age-specific standardized scores of various cardiometabolic parameters: BMI, blood pressure, glucose, insulin, lipid profile and the sum scores of various cardiometabolic features (metabolic sum score). Linear mixed models were used for analyses with standardized beta (β) as outcome. OUTCOMES Nine relevant observational studies could be identified, which jointly included 1367 children: OPCOS and controls, originating from the Netherlands, Chile and the USA. After excluding neonates, duplicate records and follow-up screenings, a total of 885 subjects remained. In adjusted analyses, we observed that OPCOS (n = 298) exhibited increased plasma levels of fasting insulin (β = 0.21(95%CI: 0.01–0.41), P = 0.05), insulin-resistance (β = 0.21(95%CI: 0.01–0.42), P = 0.04), triglycerides (β = 0.19(95%CI: 0.02–0.36), P = 0.03) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol concentrations (β = 0.31(95%CI: 0.08–0.54), P < 0.01), but a reduced birthweight (β = −116(95%CI: −195 to 38), P < 0.01) compared to controls (n = 587). After correction for multiple testing, however, differences in insulin and triglycerides lost their statistical significance. Interaction tests for sex revealed differences between males and females when comparing OPCOS versus controls. A higher 2-hour fasting insulin was observed among female OPCOS versus female controls (estimated difference for females (βf) = 0.45(95%CI: 0.07 to 0.83)) compared to the estimated difference between males ((βm) = −0.20(95%CI: −0.58 to 0.19)), with interaction-test: P = 0.03. Low-density lipoprotein–cholesterol differences in OPCOS versus controls were lower among females (βf = −0.39(95%CI: −0.62 to 0.16)), but comparable between male OPCOS and male controls (βm = 0.27(95%CI: −0.03 to 0.57)), with interaction-test: P < 0.01. Total cholesterol differences in OPCOS versus controls were also lower in females compared to the difference in male OPCOS and male controls (βf = −0.31(95%CI: −0.57 to 0.06), βm = 0.28(95%CI: −0.01 to 0.56), interaction-test: P = 0.01). The difference in HDL-cholesterol among female OPCOS versus controls (βf = 0.53(95%CI: 0.18–0.88)) was larger compared to the estimated mean difference among OPCOS males and the male controls (βm = 0.13(95%CI: −0.05−0.31), interaction-test: P < 0.01). Interaction test in metabolic sum score revealed a significant difference between females (OPCOS versus controls) and males (OPCOS versus controls); however, sub analyses performed in both sexes separately did not reveal a difference among females (OPCOS versus controls: βf = −0.14(95%CI: −1.05 to 0.77)) or males (OPCOS versus controls: βm = 0.85(95%CI: −0.10 to 1.79)), with P-value < 0.01. WIDER IMPLICATIONS We observed subtle signs of altered cardiometabolic health in OPCOS. Therefore, the unfavorable cardiovascular profile of women with PCOS at childbearing age may—next to a genetic predisposition—influence the health of their offspring. Sensitivity analyses revealed that these differences were predominantly observed among female offspring aged between 1 and 18 years. Moreover, studies with minimal risk of bias should elucidate the influence of a PCOS diagnosis in mothers on both sexes during fetal development and subsequently during childhood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marlise N Gunning
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Teresa Sir Petermann
- Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Unit of Endocrinology, Clinica Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
| | - Nicolas Crisosto
- Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile.,Unit of Endocrinology, Clinica Las Condes, Santiago, Chile
| | - Bas B van Rijn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus Medical Center, University Medical Center Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Obstetrics, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, The Netherlands
| | - Marlieke A de Wilde
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Jacob P Christ
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - C S P M Uiterwaal
- Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Wilco de Jager
- Department of Pediatric Immunology, Centre for Molecular and Cellular Intervention, University Medical Centre Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Marinus J C Eijkemans
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands.,Julius Centre for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Allen R Kunselman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Richard S Legro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Penn State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA, USA
| | - Bart C J M Fauser
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht University, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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14
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Insulin sensitivity in male sheep born to ewes treated with testosterone during pregnancy. J Dev Orig Health Dis 2020; 12:456-464. [PMID: 32662387 DOI: 10.1017/s2040174420000665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
In animal models, exposure to excess testosterone during gestation induces polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)-like reproductive and metabolic traits in female offspring, suggesting that the hyperandrogenemic intrauterine environment may have a role in the etiology of PCOS. Additionally, few studies have also addressed metabolic and reproductive outcomes in male offspring. In the present study, the intravenous glucose tolerance test (IGTT) was used to assess the insulin-glucose homeostasis at various ages during sexual development in male sheep born to testosterone-treated ewes. To further analyze the programming effect of testosterone on insulin-glucose homeostasis, indexes of insulin sensitivity were assessed in orchidectomized post-pubertal males born to testosterone-treated ewes (Torq-males) and orchidectomized post-puberal controls (Corq-males) before and 48 h after a testosterone injection. There was no difference in insulin sensitivity indexes between males born to testosterone-treated ewes (T-males) and control males born to control ewes (C-males) at 5, 10, 20 and 30 weeks of age, representing the infantile, early and late pre-pubertal, and early post-pubertal stage of sexual development, respectively. In orchidectomized males, basal levels of insulin and glucose were not different between both groups before and after the testosterone injection; however, Torq-males released more insulin before and after T challenge during the first 20 min of the test. Despite this, plasma glucose concentrations were not different in both groups during IVGTT, resulting in an insulin sensitivity index composite similar between groups. We concluded that the effect of prenatal exposure to excess testosterone may reprogram the pancreatic β-cells insulin release in ovine males, with effects more evident in castrated males versus intact males.
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15
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New insights into anti-Müllerian hormone role in the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis and neuroendocrine development. Cell Mol Life Sci 2020; 78:1-16. [PMID: 32564094 PMCID: PMC7867527 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-020-03576-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2020] [Revised: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Research into the physiological actions of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) has rapidly expanded from its classical role in male sexual differentiation to the regulation of ovarian function, routine clinical use in reproductive health and potential use as a biomarker in the diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). During the past 10 years, the notion that AMH could act exclusively at gonadal levels has undergone another paradigm shift as several exciting studies reported unforeseen AMH actions throughout the Hypothalamic–Pituitary–Gonadal (HPG) axis. In this review, we will focus on these findings reporting novel AMH actions across the HPG axis and we will discuss their potential impact and significance to better understand human reproductive disorders characterized by either developmental alterations of neuroendocrine circuits regulating fertility and/or alterations of their function in adult life. Finally, we will summarize recent preclinical studies suggesting that elevated levels of AMH may potentially be a contributing factor to the central pathophysiology of PCOS and other reproductive diseases.
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16
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Echiburú B, Milagro F, Crisosto N, Pérez-Bravo F, Flores C, Arpón A, Salas-Pérez F, Recabarren SE, Sir-Petermann T, Maliqueo M. DNA methylation in promoter regions of genes involved in the reproductive and metabolic function of children born to women with PCOS. Epigenetics 2020; 15:1178-1194. [PMID: 32283997 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2020.1754674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Clinical and experimental evidences indicate that epigenetic modifications induced by the prenatal environment are related to metabolic and reproductive derangements in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Alterations in the leptin and adiponectin systems, androgen signalling and antimüllerian hormone (AMH) levels have been observed in PCOS women and in their offspring. Using a targeted Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS), we studied DNA methylation in promoter regions of the leptin (LEP), leptin receptor (LEPR), adiponectin (ADIPOQ), adiponectin receptor 1 and 2 (ADIPOR1 and ADIPOR2), AMH and androgen receptor (AR) genes in 24 sons and daughters of women with PCOS (12 treated with metformin during pregnancy) and 24 children born to non-PCOS women during early infancy (2-3 months of age). Genomic DNA was extracted from whole blood, bisulphite converted and sequenced by NGS. Girls showed differences between groups in 1 CpG site of LEPR, 2 of LEP, 1 of ADIPOR2 and 2 of AR. Boys showed differences in 5 CpG sites of LEP, 3 of AMH and 9 of AR. Maternal metformin treatment prevented some of these changes in LEP, ADIPOR2 and partially in AR in girls, and in LEP and AMH in boys. Maternal BMI at early pregnancy was inversely correlated with the methylation levels of the ChrX-67544981 site in the whole group of girls (r = -0.530, p = 0.008) and with the global Z-score in all boys (r = -0.539, p = 0.007). These data indicate that the intrauterine PCOS environment predisposes the offspring to acquire certain sex-dependent DNA methylation patterns in the promoter regions of metabolic and reproductive genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bárbara Echiburú
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Laboratory, West Division, School of Medicine, University of Chile , Santiago, Chile
| | - Fermín Milagro
- Department of Nutrition, Food Science and Physiology, Center for Nutrition Research, University of Navarra , Pamplona, Spain.,Centro De Investigación Biomédica En Red Fisiopatología De La Obesidad Y Nutrición (Ciberobn), Instituto De Salud Carlos III , Madrid, Spain
| | - Nicolás Crisosto
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Laboratory, West Division, School of Medicine, University of Chile , Santiago, Chile.,Unit of Endocrinology, Clínica Las , Santiago, Chile
| | - Francisco Pérez-Bravo
- Laboratory of Nutritional Genomics, Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile , Santiago, Chile
| | - Cristian Flores
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Laboratory, West Division, School of Medicine, University of Chile , Santiago, Chile
| | - Ana Arpón
- Department of Nutrition, Food Science and Physiology, Center for Nutrition Research, University of Navarra , Pamplona, Spain
| | - Francisca Salas-Pérez
- Department of Nutrition, Food Science and Physiology, Center for Nutrition Research, University of Navarra , Pamplona, Spain
| | - Sergio E Recabarren
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Endocrinology, Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Concepcion , Chillán, Chile
| | - Teresa Sir-Petermann
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Laboratory, West Division, School of Medicine, University of Chile , Santiago, Chile
| | - Manuel Maliqueo
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Laboratory, West Division, School of Medicine, University of Chile , Santiago, Chile
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17
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James WH, Grech V. Is exposure to high levels of maternal intrauterine testosterone a causal factor common to male sex, autism, gender dysphoria, and non-right-handedness? Early Hum Dev 2020; 141:104872. [PMID: 31492544 DOI: 10.1016/j.earlhumdev.2019.104872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
We present evidence that male sex, autism, gender dysphoria and non-right-handedness share a common cause, viz. high levels of maternal first-trimester intrauterine testosterone. This provides an explanation for the (as yet unexplained) co-occurrences and co-morbidities between these conditions and pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- William H James
- Galton Laboratory, Department of Genetics, Evolution and Environment, University College London, United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
| | - Victor Grech
- Department of Paediatrics, Medical School, Mater Dei Hospital, Malta.
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18
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Siemienowicz KJ, Filis P, Shaw S, Douglas A, Thomas J, Mulroy S, Howie F, Fowler PA, Duncan WC, Rae MT. Fetal androgen exposure is a determinant of adult male metabolic health. Sci Rep 2019; 9:20195. [PMID: 31882954 PMCID: PMC6934666 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-56790-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2019] [Accepted: 12/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgen signalling is a critical driver of male development. Fetal steroid signalling can be dysregulated by a range of environmental insults and clinical conditions. We hypothesised that poor adult male health was partially attributable to aberrant androgen exposure during development. Testosterone was directly administered to developing male ovine fetuses to model excess prenatal androgenic overexposure associated with conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Such in utero androgen excess recreated the dyslipidaemia and hormonal profile observed in sons of PCOS patients. 1,084 of 15,134 and 408 of 2,766 quantifiable genes and proteins respectively, were altered in the liver during adolescence, attributable to fetal androgen excess. Furthermore, prenatal androgen excess predisposed to adolescent development of an intrahepatic cholestasis-like condition with attendant hypercholesterolaemia and an emergent pro-fibrotic, pro-oxidative stress gene and protein expression profile evident in both liver and circulation. We conclude that prenatal androgen excess is a previously unrecognised determinant of lifelong male metabolic health.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Panagiotis Filis
- Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Sophie Shaw
- Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Alex Douglas
- Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - Jennifer Thomas
- School of Applied Science, Edinburgh Napier University, Edinburgh, EH11 4BN, UK
| | - Sally Mulroy
- School of Applied Science, Edinburgh Napier University, Edinburgh, EH11 4BN, UK
| | - Forbes Howie
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Paul A Fowler
- Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, AB25 2ZD, UK
| | - W Colin Duncan
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - Mick T Rae
- School of Applied Science, Edinburgh Napier University, Edinburgh, EH11 4BN, UK.
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19
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Holland S, Prescott M, Pankhurst M, Campbell RE. The influence of maternal androgen excess on the male reproductive axis. Sci Rep 2019; 9:18908. [PMID: 31827225 PMCID: PMC6906411 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-55436-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Prenatal androgen excess is suspected to contribute to the development of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women. Evidence from preclinical female animal models links maternal androgen excess with the development of PCOS-like features and associated alterations in the neuronal network regulating the reproductive axis. There is some evidence suggesting that maternal androgen excess leads to similar reproductive axis disruptions in men, despite the critical role that androgens play in normal sexual differentiation. Here, the specific impact of maternal androgen excess on the male hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis was investigated using a prenatal androgenization protocol in mice shown to model PCOS-like features in females. Reproductive phenotyping of prenatally androgenised male (PNAM) mice revealed no discernible impact of maternal androgen excess at any level of the reproductive axis. Luteinising hormone pulse characteristics, daily sperm production, plasma testosterone and anti-Müllerian hormone levels were not different in the male offspring of dams administered dihydrotestosterone (DHT) during late gestation compared to controls. Androgen receptor expression was quantified through the hypothalamus and identified as unchanged. Confocal imaging of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons revealed that in contrast with prenatally androgenised female mice, PNAM mice exhibited no differences in the density of putative GABAergic innervation compared to controls. These data indicate that a maternal androgen environment capable of inducing reproductive dysfunction in female offspring has no evident impact on the reproductive axis of male littermates in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Holland
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Melanie Prescott
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Michael Pankhurst
- Department of Anatomy, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand
| | - Rebecca E Campbell
- Centre for Neuroendocrinology and Department of Physiology, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Otago, Dunedin, 9054, New Zealand.
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20
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Tadaion Far F, Jahanian Sadatmahalleh S, Ziaei S, Kazemnejad A. Comparison of the umbilical cord Blood's anti-Mullerian hormone level in the newborns of mothers with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and healthy mothers. J Ovarian Res 2019; 12:111. [PMID: 31735163 PMCID: PMC6858970 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-019-0583-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine diseases. At present, the cause of the disease is not fully understood, but many studies have shown that PCOS is associated with genetic and environmental factors. The present study aimed to assess the umbilical cord blood’s Anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) level in the newborns of mothers suffering from PCOS comparing to healthy mothers. Methods This prospective cohort study was conducted on 120 pregnant women with PCOS, who were selected through Rotterdam criteria, and 60 healthy pregnant women as the control group. The subjects in each group were divided into obese and non-obese mothers according to their body mass index (BMI) before pregnancy. The cord blood samples were collected from the offsprings on the time of childbirth. Finally, the circulating concentrations of AMH in both sexes of the newborns were determined by specific assays. Results The research results showed that the blood level of AMH was higher in the neonates of obese mothers with PCOS comparing to the controls (P < 0.001). Mean AMH level was higher in male neonates born from non-obese PCOS mothers than in the controls (P < 0.001); however, there was not a significant difference in the level of AMH in female neonates between these two groups (P = 0.264). Also the level of the above biomarker was higher in both sexes of the neonates belonging to obese PCOS mothers compared with the neonates born from non-obese PCOS mothers (P < 0.001). Conclusion(s) It can be said that the cord blood AMH level of neonates from obese women with PCOS is higher than that in the newborns of non-obese PCOS mothers. Further longitudinal studies are needed to confirm the clinical findings of the present research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faezeh Tadaion Far
- Department of Reproductive Health and Midwifery, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Saeideh Ziaei
- Department of Reproductive Health and Midwifery, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Anoshirvan Kazemnejad
- Department of Biostatistics, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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Vanky E, Engen Hanem LG, Abbott DH. Children born to women with polycystic ovary syndrome-short- and long-term impacts on health and development. Fertil Steril 2019; 111:1065-1075. [PMID: 31056313 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2019] [Revised: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Maternal PCOS status may negatively influence offspring infant and childhood growth, cardiometabolic health, reproductive health, and neurodevelopment. Current findings across studies are divergent, often because of small numbers of subjects, as well as heterogeneous selection criteria, ethnicities, and definitions of control groups. Coexisting maternal obesity, pregnancy complications, and comorbidity make it difficult to identify the contribution of maternal PCOS. Large, prospective, international, multiethnic studies with standardized investigation protocols and questionnaires on PCOS offspring health and development are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eszter Vanky
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway; Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, St. Olav's Hospital, Trondheim, Norway.
| | - Liv Guro Engen Hanem
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - David H Abbott
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Wisconsin National Primate Research Center, University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin
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22
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Crisosto N, Ladrón de Guevara A, Echiburú B, Maliqueo M, Cavada G, Codner E, Paez F, Sir-Petermann T. Higher luteinizing hormone levels associated with antimüllerian hormone in postmenarchal daughters of women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Fertil Steril 2018; 111:381-388. [PMID: 30527840 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2018] [Revised: 09/25/2018] [Accepted: 10/08/2018] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the reproductive and metabolic differences between daughters of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOSd) and control women (Cd) after menarche. DESIGN Case-control study. SETTING Clinical endocrinology unit. PATIENT(S) We studied 43 PCOSd and 28 Cd 1.5-6 years after menarche. INTERVENTION(S) Determination of anthropometry, pubertal development, hirsutism, oral glucose tolerance test, and GnRH analogue test. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Ferriman score, sex steroids, gonadotropins, antimüllerian hormone (AMH), ovarian volumes, and glucose and insulin levels. RESULT(S) The groups were similar in chronologic, gynecologic, and menarchal ages and anthropometric variables. Ferriman score, ovarian volumes, and AMH were higher in PCOSd. Propensity score analysis showed that there were significant differences in LH, LH-FSH ratio, T and free androgen index, post-stimulated LH and LH-FSH ratio, and 2-hour insulin that could be attributed only to the fact of being a PCOS daughter. The generalized linear model showed that higher LH levels were positively associated with AMH and T levels. CONCLUSION(S) We found that higher LH, androgen, and insulin levels are present in PCOSd during the postmenarchal period, which may establish the basis for the development of PCOS during adulthood. Moreover, LH levels were associated with AMH levels, which supports that the neuroendocrine feedback proposed for AMH and LH is present in humans and that this feature is probably programed in utero, as recently shown in mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolás Crisosto
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Laboratory, West Division, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile; Endocrinology Unit, Clinica Las Condes, Santiago, Chile.
| | - Amanda Ladrón de Guevara
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Laboratory, West Division, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Bárbara Echiburú
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Laboratory, West Division, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Manuel Maliqueo
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Laboratory, West Division, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Gabriel Cavada
- Public Health Department, University of Chile and University Finis Terrae, Santiago, Chile
| | - Ethel Codner
- Institute of Maternal and Child Research (IDIMI), University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Francisco Paez
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Laboratory, West Division, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Teresa Sir-Petermann
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Laboratory, West Division, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Yilmaz B, Vellanki P, Ata B, Yildiz BO. Diabetes mellitus and insulin resistance in mothers, fathers, sisters, and brothers of women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Fertil Steril 2018; 110:523-533.e14. [PMID: 29960703 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.04.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Revised: 04/02/2018] [Accepted: 04/16/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE(S) To analyze whether first-degree relatives (FDR) of patients with polysystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have an increased risk of insulin resistance and glucose intolerance. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. SETTING None. PATIENT(S) Parents and siblings of women with and without PCOS. INTERVENTION(S) Search of PubMed database from 1960 to September 2017 with cross-checking of references of relevant articles in English. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and impaired glucose tolerance, and levels of fasting insulin, 2-hour insulin levels, and homeostatic model assessment insulin resistance (HOMA IR). RESULT(S) Our search retrieved 4,796 articles of which 19 were included. The prevalence of T2DM was significantly increased in mothers and fathers of PCOS probands (rate ratio [RR] 2.43; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.58-3.75, and RR 2.27; 95% CI, 1.25-4.12). Moreover, the fasting insulin (in mothers, fathers, and sisters) and HOMA IR (in mothers, fathers, and sisters) levels were statistically significantly higher in parents and siblings of PCOS patients. The sisters (RR 1.34; 95% CI, 0.59-3.03) and brothers (RR 1.51; 95% CI, 0.63-3.62) had a higher prevalence of T2DM than the control subjects, but the difference was not statistically significant. CONCLUSION(S) Our meta-analysis provides quantitative evidence demonstrating clustering of T2DM and insulin resistance in the parents and siblings of PCOS probands. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION NUMBER PROSPERO 2016 CRD42016048551.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bulent Yilmaz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, School of Medicine, Izmir Katip Celebi University, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Priyathama Vellanki
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Molecular Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Baris Ata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, School of Medicine, Koc University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Bulent Okan Yildiz
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, School of Medicine, Hacettepe University, Ankara, Turkey.
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Shahab M, Lippincott M, Chan YM, Davies A, Merino PM, Plummer L, Mericq V, Seminara S. Discordance in the Dependence on Kisspeptin Signaling in Mini Puberty vs Adolescent Puberty: Human Genetic Evidence. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2018; 103:1273-1276. [PMID: 29452377 PMCID: PMC6276658 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2017-02636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Hypothalamic kisspeptin signaling plays a critical role in the initiation and maintenance of reproductive function. Biallelic mutations in the coding sequence of KISS1R (GPR54) have been identified in patients with idiopathic hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, but it is unknown whether biallelic variants can also be associated with related reproductive disorders. CASE DESCRIPTION A missense homozygous variant (c.890G>T p.R297L) in KISS1R was identified in a child who presented with microphallus and bilateral cryptorchidism. This variant has been reported to reduce, but not abolish, postreceptor signaling in vitro. Biochemical evaluation during the neonatal period revealed low testosterone levels. By 11 years and 8 months, the boy began demonstrating increases in testicular volume. By 17 years and 3 months, his testicular volume was 20 mL; his penile length was 7.3 cm; and he had adult levels of circulating gonadotropins and testosterone. CONCLUSION This case report associates biallelic loss-of-function mutations in KISS1R with normal timing of adolescent puberty. Because these coding sequence variants occurred in a patient with microphallus and cryptorchidism, they demonstrate different levels of dependence of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal cascade on kisspeptin signaling at distinct times in the reproductive life span. The suppression of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal cascade during early life but not adolescence suggests that the mini puberty of infancy depends more on kisspeptin-induced, gonadotropin-releasing hormone-induced luteinizing hormone secretion than does adolescent puberty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Shahab
- Harvard Reproductive Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit,
Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Margaret Lippincott
- Harvard Reproductive Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit,
Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Yee-Ming Chan
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, Boston Children’s Hospital,
Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Addie Davies
- Harvard Reproductive Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit,
Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Paulina M Merino
- Institute of Maternal and Child Research, University of Chile, Santiago,
Chile
| | - Lacey Plummer
- Harvard Reproductive Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit,
Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Veronica Mericq
- Institute of Maternal and Child Research, University of Chile, Santiago,
Chile
| | - Stephanie Seminara
- Harvard Reproductive Sciences Center and Reproductive Endocrine Unit,
Department of Medicine, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts
- Correspondence and Reprint Requests: Stephanie Seminara, MD, Reproductive Endocrine Unit, Massachusetts General
Hospital, 55 Fruit Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02114. E-mail:
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25
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Hanem LGE, Stridsklev S, Júlíusson PB, Salvesen Ø, Roelants M, Carlsen SM, Ødegård R, Vanky E. Metformin Use in PCOS Pregnancies Increases the Risk of Offspring Overweight at 4 Years of Age: Follow-Up of Two RCTs. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2018; 103:1612-1621. [PMID: 29490031 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2017-02419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 108] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 01/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Metformin is used in pregnancy in women with gestational diabetes mellitus, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and obesity. Metformin passes the placenta. OBJECTIVE To explore the effects of metformin use in PCOS pregnancies on offspring growth to 4 years of age. DESIGN Follow-up study of two randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials. SETTING Secondary care centers. Eleven public hospitals in Norway. PARTICIPANTS One hundred eighty-two children of mothers with PCOS who participated in two randomized controlled trials. INTERVENTION Metformin 1700 or 2000 mg/d or placebo from first trimester to delivery in the original studies. No intervention in the current study. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Height, weight, body mass index (BMI), and overweight/obesity at 4 years of age and head circumference at 1 year of age, converted to z scores. RESULTS The difference in height z score means between the groups at 4 years of age was nonsignificant (0.07 [95% confidence interval (CI): -0.22 to 0.36]; P = 0.651). At 4 years of age, the metformin group had higher weight z score than the placebo group [difference in means: 0.38 (0.07 to 0.69); P = 0.017] and higher BMI z score [difference in means: 0.45 (0.11 to 0.78); P = 0.010]. There were more overweight/obese children in the metformin group [26 (32%)] than in the placebo group [14 (18%)] at 4 years of age [odds ratio: 2.17 (1.04 to 4.61); P = 0.038]. The difference in mean head circumference z score at 1 year of age was 0.27 (-0.04 to 0.58; P = 0.093). CONCLUSION Metformin-exposed children had higher BMI and increased prevalence of overweight/obesity at 4 years of age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liv Guro Engen Hanem
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Solhild Stridsklev
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Pétur B Júlíusson
- Department of Clinical Science, University of Bergen, Bergen, Norway
| | - Øyvind Salvesen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Mathieu Roelants
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, KU Leuven-University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Sven M Carlsen
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Endocrinology, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Rønnaug Ødegård
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Children's Clinic, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Eszter Vanky
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
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26
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Levine H, Jørgensen N, Martino-Andrade A, Mendiola J, Weksler-Derri D, Mindlis I, Pinotti R, Swan SH. Temporal trends in sperm count: a systematic review and meta-regression analysis. Hum Reprod Update 2018; 23:646-659. [PMID: 28981654 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmx022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 705] [Impact Index Per Article: 117.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2017] [Accepted: 06/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Reported declines in sperm counts remain controversial today and recent trends are unknown. A definitive meta-analysis is critical given the predictive value of sperm count for fertility, morbidity and mortality. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE To provide a systematic review and meta-regression analysis of recent trends in sperm counts as measured by sperm concentration (SC) and total sperm count (TSC), and their modification by fertility and geographic group. SEARCH METHODS PubMed/MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched for English language studies of human SC published in 1981-2013. Following a predefined protocol 7518 abstracts were screened and 2510 full articles reporting primary data on SC were reviewed. A total of 244 estimates of SC and TSC from 185 studies of 42 935 men who provided semen samples in 1973-2011 were extracted for meta-regression analysis, as well as information on years of sample collection and covariates [fertility group ('Unselected by fertility' versus 'Fertile'), geographic group ('Western', including North America, Europe Australia and New Zealand versus 'Other', including South America, Asia and Africa), age, ejaculation abstinence time, semen collection method, method of measuring SC and semen volume, exclusion criteria and indicators of completeness of covariate data]. The slopes of SC and TSC were estimated as functions of sample collection year using both simple linear regression and weighted meta-regression models and the latter were adjusted for pre-determined covariates and modification by fertility and geographic group. Assumptions were examined using multiple sensitivity analyses and nonlinear models. OUTCOMES SC declined significantly between 1973 and 2011 (slope in unadjusted simple regression models -0.70 million/ml/year; 95% CI: -0.72 to -0.69; P < 0.001; slope in adjusted meta-regression models = -0.64; -1.06 to -0.22; P = 0.003). The slopes in the meta-regression model were modified by fertility (P for interaction = 0.064) and geographic group (P for interaction = 0.027). There was a significant decline in SC between 1973 and 2011 among Unselected Western (-1.38; -2.02 to -0.74; P < 0.001) and among Fertile Western (-0.68; -1.31 to -0.05; P = 0.033), while no significant trends were seen among Unselected Other and Fertile Other. Among Unselected Western studies, the mean SC declined, on average, 1.4% per year with an overall decline of 52.4% between 1973 and 2011. Trends for TSC and SC were similar, with a steep decline among Unselected Western (-5.33 million/year, -7.56 to -3.11; P < 0.001), corresponding to an average decline in mean TSC of 1.6% per year and overall decline of 59.3%. Results changed minimally in multiple sensitivity analyses, and there was no statistical support for the use of a nonlinear model. In a model restricted to data post-1995, the slope both for SC and TSC among Unselected Western was similar to that for the entire period (-2.06 million/ml, -3.38 to -0.74; P = 0.004 and -8.12 million, -13.73 to -2.51, P = 0.006, respectively). WIDER IMPLICATIONS This comprehensive meta-regression analysis reports a significant decline in sperm counts (as measured by SC and TSC) between 1973 and 2011, driven by a 50-60% decline among men unselected by fertility from North America, Europe, Australia and New Zealand. Because of the significant public health implications of these results, research on the causes of this continuing decline is urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hagai Levine
- Braun School of Public Health and Community Medicine, Hadassah-Hebrew University, the Hebrew University Center of Excellence in Agriculture and Environmental Health, Ein Kerem Campus, PO BOX 12272, Jerusalem 9110202, Israel.,Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA
| | - Niels Jørgensen
- University Department of Growth and Reproduction, University of Copenhagen, Rigshospitalet, CopenhagenDK-2100, Denmark
| | - Anderson Martino-Andrade
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY 10029, USA.,Department of Physiology, Federal University of Parana, Curitiba 81531-980, Brazil
| | - Jaime Mendiola
- Division of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Murcia School of Medicine and Biomedical Research Institute of Murcia (IMIB-Arrixaca-UMU), Murcia30100, Spain
| | - Dan Weksler-Derri
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer Sheva6676814, Israel
| | - Irina Mindlis
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY10029, USA
| | - Rachel Pinotti
- Gustave L. and Janet W. Levy Library, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY10029, USA
| | - Shanna H Swan
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY10029, USA
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27
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Yilmaz B, Vellanki P, Ata B, Yildiz BO. Metabolic syndrome, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia in mothers, fathers, sisters, and brothers of women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Fertil Steril 2018; 109:356-364.e32. [PMID: 29331234 PMCID: PMC5983376 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2017] [Revised: 10/15/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To provide an evidence-based assessment of metabolic syndrome, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia in first-degree relatives of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. SETTING Not applicable. PATIENT(S) Mothers, fathers, sisters, and brothers of women with and without PCOS. INTERVENTION(S) An electronic-based search with the use of PubMed from 1960 to June 2015 and cross-checked references of relevant articles. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Metabolic syndrome, hypertension and dyslipidemia, and surrogate markers, including systolic blood pressure (BP), diastolic BP, total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, and triglycerides. RESULT(S) Fourteen of 3,346 studies were included in the meta-analysis. Prevalence of the following was significantly increased in relatives of women with PCOS: metabolic syndrome (risk ratio [RR] 1.78 [95% confidence interval 1.37, 2.30] in mothers, 1.43 [1.12, 1.81] in fathers, and 1.50 [1.12, 2.00] in sisters), hypertension (RR 1.93 [1.58, 2.35] in fathers, 2.92 [1.92, 4.45] in sisters), and dyslipidemia (RR 3.86 [2.54, 5.85] in brothers and 1.29 [1.11, 1.50] in fathers). Moreover, systolic BP (mothers, sisters, and brothers), total cholesterol (mothers and sisters), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (sisters), and triglycerides (mothers and sisters) were significantly higher in first-degree relatives of PCOS probands than in controls. CONCLUSION(S) Our results show evidence of clustering for metabolic syndrome, hypertension, and dyslipidemia in mothers, fathers, sisters, and brothers of women with PCOS. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION NUMBER PROSPERO 2016 CRD42016048557.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bulent Yilmaz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Izmir Katip Celebi University School of Medicine, Izmir, Turkey
| | - Priyathama Vellanki
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Lipids, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Baris Ata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Koc University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Bulent Okan Yildiz
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Hacettepe University School of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey.
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28
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Cannarella R, Condorelli RA, Mongioì LM, La Vignera S, Calogero AE. Does a male polycystic ovarian syndrome equivalent exist? J Endocrinol Invest 2018; 41:49-57. [PMID: 28711970 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-017-0728-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2017] [Accepted: 07/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence of a genetic background in the etiology of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) represents the rational basis to postulate the existence of a male PCOS equivalent. Hormonal and metabolic abnormalities have been described in male relatives of women with PCOS. These males also have a higher prevalence of early onset (<35 years) androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Hence, this feature has been proposed as a clinical sign of the male PCOS equivalent. Clinical evidence has shown that men with early onset AGA have hormonal and metabolic abnormalities. Large cohort studies have clearly shown a higher prevalence of type II diabetes mellitus (DM II) and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in elderly men with early onset AGA. In addition, prostate cancer, benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) and prostatitis have been described. These findings support the existence of the male PCOS equivalent, which may represent an endocrine syndrome with a metabolic background, and might predispose to the development of DM II, CVDs, prostate cancer, BPH and prostatitis later in life. Its acknowledgment would be helpful for the prevention of these long-term complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico "G. Rodolico", via S. Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - R A Condorelli
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico "G. Rodolico", via S. Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - L M Mongioì
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico "G. Rodolico", via S. Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - S La Vignera
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico "G. Rodolico", via S. Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy
| | - A E Calogero
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, Policlinico "G. Rodolico", via S. Sofia 78, 95123, Catania, Italy.
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29
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Scully CM, Estill CT, Amodei R, McKune A, Gribbin KP, Meaker M, Stormshak F, Roselli CE. Early prenatal androgen exposure reduces testes size and sperm concentration in sheep without altering neuroendocrine differentiation and masculine sexual behavior. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2018; 62:1-9. [PMID: 28843181 PMCID: PMC5705409 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2017.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2017] [Revised: 07/24/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Prenatal androgens are largely responsible for growth and differentiation of the genital tract and testis and for organization of the control mechanisms regulating male reproductive physiology and behavior. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact of inappropriate exposure to excess testosterone (T) during the first trimester of fetal development on the reproductive function, sexual behavior, and fertility potential of rams. We found that biweekly maternal T propionate (100 mg) treatment administered from Day 30-58 of gestation significantly decreased (P < 0.05) postpubertal scrotal circumference and sperm concentration. Prenatal T exposure did not alter ejaculate volume, sperm motility and morphology or testis morphology. There was, however, a trend for more T-exposed rams than controls to be classified as unsatisfactory potential breeders during breeding soundness examinations. Postnatal serum T concentrations were not affected by prenatal T exposure, nor was the expression of key testicular genes essential for spermatogenesis and steroidogenesis. Basal serum LH did not differ between treatment groups, nor did pituitary responsiveness to GnRH. T-exposed rams, like control males, exhibited vigorous libido and were sexually attracted to estrous females. In summary, these results suggest that exposure to exogenous T during the first trimester of gestation can negatively impact spermatogenesis and compromise the reproductive fitness of rams.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Scully
- Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - C T Estill
- Department of Animal and Rangeland Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331-4501, USA; College of Veterinary Medicine, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331-4501, USA
| | - R Amodei
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239-3098, USA
| | - A McKune
- Department of Animal and Rangeland Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331-4501, USA
| | - K P Gribbin
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239-3098, USA
| | - M Meaker
- Department of Animal and Rangeland Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331-4501, USA
| | - F Stormshak
- Department of Animal and Rangeland Sciences, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331-4501, USA
| | - C E Roselli
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, OR 97239-3098, USA.
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30
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Crisosto N, Echiburú B, Maliqueo M, Luchsinger M, Rojas P, Recabarren S, Sir-Petermann T. Reproductive and metabolic features during puberty in sons of women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Endocr Connect 2017; 6:607-613. [PMID: 28912339 PMCID: PMC5640572 DOI: 10.1530/ec-17-0218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Accepted: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Intrauterine life may be implicated in the origin of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) modifying the endocrine and metabolic functions of children born to PCOS mothers independently of the genetic inheritance and gender. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the reproductive and metabolic functions in sons of women with PCOS during puberty. METHODS Sixty-nine PCOS sons (PCOSs) and 84 control sons of 7-18 years old matched by the Tanner stage score were studied. A complete physical examination was conducted including anthropometric measurements (weight, height, waist, hip and body mass index). An oral glucose tolerance test was performed and circulating concentrations of luteinizing hormone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), sex hormone-binding globulin, testosterone, androstenedione (A4), 17α-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) and AMH were determined in the fasting sample. RESULTS Waist-to-hip ratio, FSH and androstenedione levels were significantly higher in the PCOSs group compared to control boys during the Tanner stage II-III. In Tanner stages II-III and IV-V, PCOSs showed significantly higher total cholesterol and LDL levels. Propensity score analysis showed that higher LDL levels were attributable to the PCOSs condition and not to other metabolic factors. AMH levels were comparable during all stages. The rest of the parameters were comparable between both groups. CONCLUSIONS Sons of women with PCOS show increased total cholesterol and LDL levels during puberty, which may represent latent insulin resistance. Thus, this is a group that should be followed and studied looking for further features of insulin resistance and cardiovascular risk markers. Reproductive markers, on the other hand, are very similar to controls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolás Crisosto
- Endocrinology and Metabolism LaboratoryWest Division, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Bárbara Echiburú
- Endocrinology and Metabolism LaboratoryWest Division, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Manuel Maliqueo
- Endocrinology and Metabolism LaboratoryWest Division, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Marta Luchsinger
- Endocrinology and Metabolism LaboratoryWest Division, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - Pedro Rojas
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and EndocrinologyFaculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - Sergio Recabarren
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and EndocrinologyFaculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - Teresa Sir-Petermann
- Endocrinology and Metabolism LaboratoryWest Division, School of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Increased insulin resistance in men with unexplained infertility. Reprod Biomed Online 2017; 35:571-575. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2017.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2017] [Revised: 08/02/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
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Dulka EA, Moenter SM. Prepubertal Development of Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone Neuron Activity Is Altered by Sex, Age, and Prenatal Androgen Exposure. Endocrinology 2017; 158:3943-3953. [PMID: 28938422 PMCID: PMC5695838 DOI: 10.1210/en.2017-00768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2017] [Accepted: 09/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) neurons regulate reproduction though pulsatile hormone release. Disruption of GnRH release as measured via luteinizing hormone (LH) pulses occurs in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and in young hyperandrogenemic girls. In adult prenatally androgenized (PNA) mice, which exhibit many aspects of PCOS, increased LH is associated with increased GnRH neuron action potential firing. How GnRH neuron activity develops over the prepubertal period and whether this is altered by sex or prenatal androgen treatment are unknown. We hypothesized GnRH neurons are active before puberty and that this activity is sexually differentiated and altered by PNA. Dams were injected with dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on days 16 to 18 post copulation to generate PNA mice. Action potential firing of GFP-identified GnRH neurons in brain slices from 1-, 2-, 3-, and 4-week-old and adult mice was monitored. GnRH neurons were active at all ages tested. In control females, activity increased with age through 3 weeks, then decreased to adult levels. In contrast, activity did not change in PNA females and was reduced at 3 weeks. Activity was higher in control females than males from 2 to 3 weeks. PNA did not affect GnRH neuron firing rate in males at any age. Short-term action potential patterns were also affected by age and PNA treatment. GnRH neurons are thus typically more active during the prepubertal period than adulthood, and PNA reduces prepubertal activity in females. Prepubertal activity may play a role in establishing sexually differentiated neuronal networks upstream of GnRH neurons; androgen-induced changes during this time may contribute to the adult PNA, and possibly PCOS, phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eden A. Dulka
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109
| | - Suzanne M. Moenter
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109
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Recabarren SE, Recabarren M, Sandoval D, Carrasco A, Padmanabhan V, Rey R, Richter HG, Perez-Marin CC, Sir-Petermann T, Rojas-Garcia PP. Puberty arises with testicular alterations and defective AMH expression in rams prenatally exposed to testosterone. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2017; 61:100-107. [PMID: 28783504 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2017.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2017] [Revised: 06/15/2017] [Accepted: 06/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The male gonadal tissue can be a sensitive target to the reprogramming effects of testosterone (T) during prenatal development. We have demonstrated that male lambs born to dams receiving T during pregnancy-a model system to the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)-show a decreased number of germ cells early in life, and when adult, a reduced amount of sperm and ejaculate volume. These findings are a key to put attention to the male offspring of women bearing PCOS, as they are exposed to increased levels of androgen during pregnancy which can reprogram their reproductive outcome. A possible origin of these defects can be a disruption in the expression of the anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), due to its critical role in gonadal function at many postnatal stages. Therefore, we addressed the impact of prenatal T excess on the expression of AMH and factors related to its expression like AP2, SOX9, FSHR, and AR in the testicular tissue through real-time PCR during the peripubertal age. We also analyzed the testicular morphology and quantified the number of Sertoli cells and germ cells to evaluate any further defect in the testicle. Experiments were performed in rams at 24 wk of age, hence, prior puberty. The experimental animals (T-males) consisted of rams born to mothers receiving 30 mg testosterone twice a wk from Day 30 to 90 of pregnancy and then increased to 40 mg until Day 120 of pregnancy. The control males (C-males) were born to mothers receiving the vehicle of the hormone. We found a significant increase in the expression of the mRNA of AMH and SOX9, but not of the AP2, FHSR nor AR, in the T-males. Moreover, T-males showed a dramatic decrease in the number of germ cells, together with a decrease in the weight of their testicles. The findings of the present study show that before puberty, T-males are manifesting clear signs of disruption in the gonadal functions probably due to an alteration in the expression pattern of the AMH gene. The precise way by which T reprograms the expression of AMH gene remains to be established.
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Affiliation(s)
- S E Recabarren
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Endocrinology (FISENLAB), Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - M Recabarren
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Endocrinology (FISENLAB), Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - D Sandoval
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Endocrinology (FISENLAB), Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - A Carrasco
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Endocrinology (FISENLAB), Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Concepción, Chillán, Chile
| | - V Padmanabhan
- Departments of Pediatrics and the Reproductive Sciences Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - R Rey
- Centro de Investigaciones Endocrinológicas "Dr. César Bergadá" (CEDIE), CONICET - FEI - División de Endocrinología, Hospital de Niños Ricardo Gutiérrez, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Departamento de Biología Celular, Histología, Embriología y Genética, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - H G Richter
- Laboratory of Developmental Chronobiology (LDC), Institute of Anatomy, Histology and Pathology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia, Chile
| | - C C Perez-Marin
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Cordoba, Cordoba, Spain
| | - T Sir-Petermann
- Laboratory of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Western Faculty of Medicine, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
| | - P P Rojas-Garcia
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Endocrinology (FISENLAB), Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Concepción, Chillán, Chile.
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Gorsic LK, Kosova G, Werstein B, Sisk R, Legro RS, Hayes MG, Teixeira JM, Dunaif A, Urbanek M. Pathogenic Anti-Müllerian Hormone Variants in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2017; 102:2862-2872. [PMID: 28505284 PMCID: PMC5546867 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2017-00612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2017] [Accepted: 05/08/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a common endocrine condition, is the leading cause of anovulatory infertility. OBJECTIVE Given that common disease-susceptibility variants account for only a small percentage of the estimated PCOS heritability, we tested the hypothesis that rare variants contribute to this deficit in heritability. DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS Unbiased whole-genome sequencing (WGS) of 80 patients with PCOS and 24 reproductively normal control subjects identified potentially deleterious variants in AMH, the gene encoding anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH). Targeted sequencing of AMH of 643 patients with PCOS and 153 control patients was used to replicate WGS findings. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Dual luciferase reporter assays measured the impact of the variants on downstream AMH signaling. RESULTS We found 24 rare (minor allele frequency < 0.01) AMH variants in patients with PCOS and control subjects; 18 variants were specific to women with PCOS. Seventeen of 18 (94%) PCOS-specific variants had significantly reduced AMH signaling, whereas none of 6 variants observed in control subjects showed significant defects in signaling. Thus, we identified rare AMH coding variants that reduced AMH-mediated signaling in a subset of patients with PCOS. CONCLUSION To our knowledge, this study is the first to identify rare genetic variants associated with a common PCOS phenotype. Our findings suggest decreased AMH signaling as a mechanism for the pathogenesis of PCOS. AMH decreases androgen biosynthesis by inhibiting CYP17 activity; a potential mechanism of action for AMH variants in PCOS, therefore, is to increase androgen biosynthesis due to decreased AMH-mediated inhibition of CYP17 activity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lidija K. Gorsic
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611
| | - Gulum Kosova
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611
| | - Brian Werstein
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611
| | - Ryan Sisk
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611
| | - Richard S. Legro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Penn State College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania 17033
| | - M. Geoffrey Hayes
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611
- Center for Genetic Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611
- Department of Anthropology, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208
| | - Jose M. Teixeira
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, College of Human Medicine, Michigan State University, Grand Rapids, Michigan 48824
| | - Andrea Dunaif
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611
| | - Margrit Urbanek
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Molecular Medicine, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611
- Center for Genetic Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois 60611
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Zubeldia-Brenner L, Roselli CE, Recabarren SE, Gonzalez Deniselle MC, Lara HE. Developmental and Functional Effects of Steroid Hormones on the Neuroendocrine Axis and Spinal Cord. J Neuroendocrinol 2016; 28:10.1111/jne.12401. [PMID: 27262161 PMCID: PMC4956521 DOI: 10.1111/jne.12401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2015] [Revised: 06/03/2016] [Accepted: 06/03/2016] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
This review highlights the principal effects of steroid hormones at central and peripheral levels in the neuroendocrine axis. The data discussed highlight the principal role of oestrogens and testosterone in hormonal programming in relation to sexual orientation, reproductive and metabolic programming, and the neuroendocrine mechanism involved in the development of polycystic ovary syndrome phenotype. Moreover, consistent with the wide range of processes in which steroid hormones take part, we discuss the protective effects of progesterone on neurodegenerative disease and the signalling mechanism involved in the genesis of oestrogen-induced pituitary prolactinomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Zubeldia-Brenner
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - C E Roselli
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Oregon Health and Science University Portland, Portland, OR, USA
| | - S E Recabarren
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Endocrinology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Concepcion, Chillán, Chile
| | - M C Gonzalez Deniselle
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental-CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
- Departamento de Ciencias Fisiológicas, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - H E Lara
- Laboratory of Neurobiochemistry Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Chemical and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Chile, Santiago, Chile
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Torchen LC, Kumar A, Kalra B, Savjani G, Sisk R, Legro RS, Dunaif A. Increased antimüllerian hormone levels and other reproductive endocrine changes in adult male relatives of women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Fertil Steril 2016; 106:50-55. [PMID: 27042970 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2015] [Revised: 03/01/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2016] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate for differences in reproductive hormone levels in male relatives of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). DESIGN Cross-sectional study. SETTING Academic medical center. PATIENT(S) Sixty-three fathers and 66 brothers of women with PCOS as well as two groups of control men of comparable age to fathers (older control, n = 30) and brothers (younger control, n = 58). INTERVENTION(S) A single early morning fasting blood sample was obtained for the measurement of reproductive hormone levels. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Testosterone, LH, FSH, antimüllerian hormone (AMH), inhibin B, estradiol (E2), and estrone (E1) levels were measured. RESULT(S) The AMH, LH, and FSH levels were significantly increased in male relatives compared with their respective control groups. The levels of E2, E1, T, and inhibin B did not differ between the groups. CONCLUSION(S) The AMH, LH, and FSH levels were increased in adult male relatives of women with PCOS, suggesting that they may have altered testicular function and changes in neuroendocrine regulation of gonadotropin secretion. These changes may reflect effects of PCOS susceptibility genes such as the recently mapped chromosome 11p14.1 locus in the region of the FSH B polypeptide gene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura C Torchen
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | | | | | | | - Ryan Sisk
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Richard S Legro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, Pennsylvania
| | - Andrea Dunaif
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois.
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Udhane SS, Flück CE. Regulation of human (adrenal) androgen biosynthesis-New insights from novel throughput technology studies. Biochem Pharmacol 2015; 102:20-33. [PMID: 26498719 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2015.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2015] [Accepted: 10/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Androgens are precursors for sex steroids and are predominantly produced in the human gonads and the adrenal cortex. They are important for intrauterine and postnatal sexual development and human reproduction. Although human androgen biosynthesis has been extensively studied in the past, exact mechanisms underlying the regulation of androgen production in health and disease remain vague. Here, the knowledge on human androgen biosynthesis and regulation is reviewed with a special focus on human adrenal androgen production and the hyperandrogenic disorder of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Since human androgen regulation is highly specific without a good animal model, most studies are performed on patients harboring inborn errors of androgen biosynthesis, on human biomaterials and human (tumor) cell models. In the past, most studies used a candidate gene approach while newer studies use high throughput technologies to identify novel regulators of androgen biosynthesis. Using genome wide association studies on cohorts of patients, novel PCOS candidate genes have been recently described. Variant 2 of the DENND1A gene was found overexpressed in PCOS theca cells and confirmed to enhance androgen production. Transcriptome profiling of dissected adrenal zones established a role for BMP4 in androgen synthesis. Similarly, transcriptome analysis of human adrenal NCI-H295 cells identified novel regulators of androgen production. Kinase p38α (MAPK14) was found to phosphorylate CYP17 for enhanced 17,20 lyase activity and RARB and ANGPTL1 were detected in novel networks regulating androgens. The discovery of novel players for androgen biosynthesis is of clinical significance as it provides targets for diagnostic and therapeutic use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sameer S Udhane
- Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology of the Department of Pediatrics and Department of Clinical Research, University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland
| | - Christa E Flück
- Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology of the Department of Pediatrics and Department of Clinical Research, University of Bern, 3010 Bern, Switzerland.
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Liu DM, Torchen LC, Sung Y, Paparodis R, Legro RS, Grebe SK, Singh RJ, Taylor RL, Dunaif A. Evidence for gonadotrophin secretory and steroidogenic abnormalities in brothers of women with polycystic ovary syndrome. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:2764-72. [PMID: 25336708 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are there abnormalities in gonadotrophin secretion, adrenal steroidogenesis and/or testicular steroidogenesis in brothers of women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)? SUMMARY ANSWER Brothers of women with PCOS have increased gonadotrophin responses to gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist stimulation and alterations in adrenal and gonadal steroidogenesis. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY PCOS is a complex genetic disease. Male as well as female first-degree relatives have reproductive features of the syndrome. We previously reported that brothers of affected women have elevated circulating dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This was a case-control study performed in 29 non-Hispanic white brothers of 22 women with PCOS and 18 control men. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS PCOS brothers and control men were of comparable age, weight and ethnicity. Adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) and GnRH agonist stimulation tests were performed. Gonadotrophin responses to GnRH agonist as well as changes in precursor-product steroid pairs (delta, Δ) across steroidogenic pathways in response to ACTH and GnRH agonist were examined. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Basal total (T) levels did not differ, but dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) levels (0.13 ± 0.08 brothers versus 0.22 ± 0.09 controls, nmol/l, P = 0.03) were lower in brothers compared with control men. ACTH-stimulated Δ17-hydroxypregnenolone (17Preg)/Δ17-hydroxyprogesterone (17Prog) (7.8 ± 24.2 brothers versus 18.9 ± 21.3 controls, P = 0.04) and ΔDHEA/Δandrostenedione (AD) (0.10 ± 0.05 brothers versus 0.14 ± 0.08 controls, P = 0.04) were lower in brothers than in the controls. GnRH agonist-stimulated Δ17Prog/ΔAD (0.28 ± 8.47 brothers versus 4.79 ± 10.28 controls, P = 0.003) was decreased and luteinizing hormone (38.6 ± 20.6 brothers versus 26.0 ± 9.8 controls, IU/l, P = 0.02), follicle-stimulating hormone (10.2 ± 7.5 brothers versus 4.8 ± 4.1 controls, IU/l P = 0.002), AD (1.7 ± 1.4 brothers versus 0.9 ± 1.5 controls, nmol/l, P = 0.02) and ΔAD/ΔT (0.16 ± 0.14 brothers versus 0.08 ± 0.12 controls, P = 0.005) responses were increased in brothers compared with controls. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The modest sample size may have limited our ability to observe other possible differences in steroidogenesis between PCOS brothers and control men. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Decreased ACTH-stimulated Δ17Preg/Δ17Prog and ΔDHEA/ΔAD responses suggested increased adrenal 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity in the brothers. Decreased Δ17Prog/ΔAD and increased ΔAD/ΔT responses to GnRH agonist stimulation suggested increased gonadal 17,20-lyase and decreased gonadal 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity in the brothers. Increased LH and FSH responses to GnRH agonist stimulation suggested neuroendocrine alterations in the regulation of gonadotrophin secretion similar to those in their proband sisters. These changes in PCOS brothers may reflect the impact of PCOS susceptibility genes and/or programming effects of the intrauterine environment. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This research was supported by P50 HD044405 (A.D.), K12 HD055884 (L.C.T.), U54 HD034449 (A.D., R.S.L.) from the National Institute of Child Health and Development. Some hormone assays were performed at the University of Virginia Center for Research in Reproduction Ligand Assay and Analysis Core that is supported by U54 HD28934 from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. Partial support for some of the clinical studies was provided by UL1 RR025741 and UL1 TR000150 (Northwestern University Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute) from the National Center for Research Resources, National Institutes of Health, which is now the National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences. The authors have no conflict of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- D M Liu
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - L C Torchen
- Division of Endocrinology, Ann & Robert H Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
| | - Y Sung
- Division of Endocrinology, Ewha Womans University College of Medicine, Seoul, 158-710, Korea
| | - R Paparodis
- Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53705, USA
| | - R S Legro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Pennsylvania State University College of Medicine, Hershey, PA 17033, USA
| | - S K Grebe
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology and Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - R J Singh
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - R L Taylor
- Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathology, Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
| | - A Dunaif
- Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Molecular Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, IL 60611, USA
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Teresa Sir P, Jessica Preisler R, Amiram Magendzo N. Síndrome de ovario poliquístico. diagnóstico y manejo. REVISTA MÉDICA CLÍNICA LAS CONDES 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/s0716-8640(13)70229-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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40
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Ramezani Tehrani F, Noroozzadeh M, Zahediasl S, Ghasemi A, Piryaei A, Azizi F. Prenatal testosterone exposure worsen the reproductive performance of male rat at adulthood. PLoS One 2013; 8:e71705. [PMID: 23967236 PMCID: PMC3744450 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0071705] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2013] [Accepted: 07/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The reproductive system is extremely susceptible to environmental insults, for example exogenous steroids during gestational development and differentiation. Experimental induction of androgen excess during prenatal life in female animal models reprograms their reproductive physiology, however the fetal programming of the male reproductive system by androgen excess has not been well studied. We aimed to determine the effect of prenatal exposure of two different doses of testosterone on different gestational days, on the male reproductive system using a rat model. Sixteen pregnant rats were randomly divided into two experimental groups and two control groups. Experimental group І were subcutaneously injected with 3 mg free testosterone on gestational days 16-19 and its controls received solvent for that time; experimental group П were subcutaneously injected with 20 mg free testosterone on day 20 of gestational period and its controls received solvent at the same time. The reproductive system morphology and function of 32 male offspring of these study groups were compared at days 6-30-60 of age and after puberty. The anogenital distance of the male offspring of both experimental groups had no significant differences on the different days of measurement, compared with controls. In the offspring of experimental group І, the testes weight, number of Sertoli, Spermatocyte and Spermatid cells, sperm count and motility and the serum concentration of testosterone after puberty were significantly decreased; except for reduction of sperm motility (p< 0.01), the other effects were not observed in the offspring of experimental group ІІ. In summary, our data show that prenatal exposure of male rat fetuses to excess testosterone disrupted reproductive function, an effect highly dependent on the time, duration and level of exposure. It seems that the reproductive system in individuals exposed to high levels of androgens during fetal life should be evaluated at puberty and likely to be treated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fahimeh Ramezani Tehrani
- Reproduction Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Noroozzadeh
- Reproduction Endocrinology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Saleh Zahediasl
- Endocrine Physiology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- * E-mail:
| | - Asghar Ghasemi
- Endocrine Physiology Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Abbas Piryaei
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fereidoun Azizi
- Endocrine Research Center, Research Institute for Endocrine Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Rojas-García PP, Recabarren MP, Sir-Petermann T, Rey R, Palma S, Carrasco A, Perez-Marin CC, Padmanabhan V, Recabarren SE. Altered testicular development as a consequence of increase number of sertoli cell in male lambs exposed prenatally to excess testosterone. Endocrine 2013; 43:705-13. [PMID: 23076741 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-012-9818-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2012] [Accepted: 10/09/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
The reprograming effects of prenatal testosterone (T) treatment on postnatal reproductive parameters have been studied extensively in females of several species but similar studies in males are limited. We recently found that prenatal T treatment increases Sertoli cell number and reduced spermatogenesis in adult rams. If such disruptions are manifested early in life and involve changes in testicular paracrine environment remain to be explored. This study addresses the impact of prenatal T excess on testicular parameters in infant males, including Sertoli cell number and expression of critical genes [FSH receptor (FSHR), androgen receptor (AR), transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFB1), 3 (TGFB3), transforming growth factor beta type 1 receptor, (TGFBR1), and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH)] modulating testicular function. At 4 week of age, male lambs born to dams treated with 30 mg of T propionate twice weekly from day 30 to 90, followed by 40 mg of T propionate from day 90 to 120 of pregnancy (T-males), had a higher number of Sertoli cells/testis (P = 0.035) than control males (C-males) born to dams treated with the vehicle. While no differences were observed in the expression of FSHR and TGFB3, testicular TGFBR1 expression was found to be lower in T-males (P = 0.03) compared to C-males. Expression level of AMH, TGFB1, and AR also tended to be lower in T-males. These findings provide evidence that impact of fetal exposure to T excess is evident early in postnatal life, mainly characterized by an increase in Sertoli cell number. This could explain the testicular dysfunction observed in adult rams.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro P Rojas-García
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Endocrinology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Concepción, Av. Vicente Mendez 595, Chillán, Chile.
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42
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Connolly F, Rae MT, Bittner L, Hogg K, McNeilly AS, Duncan WC. Excess androgens in utero alters fetal testis development. Endocrinology 2013; 154:1921-33. [PMID: 23546603 DOI: 10.1210/en.2012-2153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Prenatal androgenization induces a polycystic ovary syndrome-like phenotype in adult female offspring, which is associated with alterations that can be detected in the fetal ovary, suggesting gestational origins of this condition. We therefore investigated whether increased prenatal androgen exposure also altered testicular development using ovine animal models. Biweekly maternal testosterone propionate (TP; 100 mg) from day 62 to day 70/day 90 of gestation altered male developmental trajectory. In male fetuses serum LH was decreased (P < .01), and testicular STAR, CYP11, and CYP17 abundance were reduced. Coincident with this, basal testicular T synthesis was decreased in vitro (P < .001). Leydig cell distribution was severely perturbed in all testes prenatally exposed to TP (P < .001). To examine the contribution of estrogens, fetuses were injected with TP (20 mg), the potent estrogen agonist, diethylstilbestrol (DES; 20 mg), or vehicle control at day 62 and day 82 and assessed at day 90. The effects of fetal (direct) TP treatment, but not DES, paralleled maternal (indirect) TP exposure, supporting a direct androgen effect. Cessation of maternal androgenization at day 102 returned Leydig cell distribution to normal but increased basal T output, at day 112, demonstrating Leydig cell developmental plasticity. Earlier maternal androgen exposure from day 30 similarly influenced Leydig cell development at day 90 but additionally affected the expression of Sertoli and germ cell markers. We show in this study that increased prenatal androgen exposure alters development and function of Leydig cells at a time when androgen production is paramount for male development. This supports the concept that gestational antecedents associated with polycystic ovary syndrome may have effects on the male fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Connolly
- Medical Research Council Centre for Reproductive Health, The Queen’s Medical Research Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, United Kingdom.
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43
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Nugent BM, Tobet SA, Lara HE, Lucion AB, Wilson ME, Recabarren SE, Paredes AH. Hormonal programming across the lifespan. Horm Metab Res 2012; 44:577-86. [PMID: 22700441 PMCID: PMC3756611 DOI: 10.1055/s-0032-1312593] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Hormones influence countless biological processes across an animal's lifespan. Many hormone-mediated events occur within developmental sensitive periods, during which hormones have the potential to cause permanent tissue-specific alterations in anatomy and physiology. There are numerous selective critical periods in development with different targets being affected during different periods. This review outlines the proceedings of the Hormonal Programming in Development session at the US-South American Workshop in Neuroendocrinology in August 2011. Here we discuss how gonadal steroid hormones impact various biological processes within the brain and gonads during early development and describe the changes that take place in the aging female ovary. At the cellular level, hormonal targets in the brain include neurons, glia, or vasculature. On a genomic/epigenomic level, transcription factor signaling and epigenetic changes alter the expression of critical hormone receptor genes across development and following ischemic brain insult. In addition, organizational hormone exposure alters epigenetic processes in specific brain nuclei and may be an important mediator of sexual differentiation of the neonatal brain. Brain targets of hormonal programming, such as the paraventricular nucleus of the hypothalamus, may be critical in influencing the development of peripheral targets, such as the ovary. Exposure to excess hormones can cause abnormalities in the ovary during development leading to polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Exposure to excess androgens during fetal development also has a profound effect on the development of the male reproductive system. In addition, increased activity of the sympathetic nerve and stress during early life have been linked to PCOS symptomology in adulthood. Finally, we describe how age-related decreases in fertility are linked to high levels of nerve growth factor (NGF), which enhances sympathetic nerve activity and alters ovarian function.
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Affiliation(s)
- B M Nugent
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.
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Crisosto N, Echiburú B, Maliqueo M, Pérez V, Ladrón de Guevara A, Preisler J, Sánchez F, Sir-Petermann T. Improvement of hyperandrogenism and hyperinsulinemia during pregnancy in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: possible effect in the ovarian follicular mass of their daughters. Fertil Steril 2012; 97:218-24. [PMID: 22088206 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2011] [Revised: 10/03/2011] [Accepted: 10/06/2011] [Indexed: 10/15/2022]
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Chen W, Obermayer-Pietsch B, Hong JB, Melnik BC, Yamasaki O, Dessinioti C, Ju Q, Liakou AI, Al-Khuzaei S, Katsambas A, Ring J, Zouboulis CC. Acne-associated syndromes: models for better understanding of acne pathogenesis. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2010; 25:637-46. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1468-3083.2010.03937.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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Rojas-García PP, Recabarren MP, Sarabia L, Schön J, Gabler C, Einspanier R, Maliqueo M, Sir-Petermann T, Rey R, Recabarren SE. Prenatal testosterone excess alters Sertoli and germ cell number and testicular FSH receptor expression in rams. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2010; 299:E998-E1005. [PMID: 20858754 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00032.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Exposure to excess testosterone (T) during fetal life has a profound impact on the metabolic and reproductive functions in the female's postnatal life. However, less is known about the effects of excess testosterone in males. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact (consequences) of an excess of T during fetal development on mature male testis. The testicular evaluation was by histological analysis and by determination of mRNA expression of the FSH receptor (FSH-R), transforming growth factor-β type I receptor (TβR-I), and two members of the TGF-β superfamily, transforming growth factor-β3 (TGFβ3) and anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) in males born to mothers receiving an excess of T during pregnancy. At 42 wk of age, postpubertal males born to mothers treated with 30 mg of T propionate twice weekly from day 30 to 90, followed by 40 mg of T propionate from day 90 to 120 of pregnancy (T males), showed higher concentrations of FSH in response to a GnRH analog, a higher number of Sertoli cells/seminiferous tubule cross-section, and a lower number of germ cells/tubules (P < 0.05) than control males (C males) born to mothers treated with the vehicle. The mRNA expression of FSH-R and of TβR-I was higher in T males compared with C males (P < 0.05). Moreover, in T males, AMH expression level correlated negatively with the expression level of TGFβ3. In C males, this latter correlation was not observed. These results suggest that prenatal exposure to an excess of T can negatively modify some histological and molecular characteristics of the mature testis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro P Rojas-García
- Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, Univ. of Concepción, Casilla 537, Chillán, Chile.
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Recabarren SE, Rojas-García PP, Recabarren MP, Alfaro VH, Smith R, Padmanabhan V, Sir-Petermann T. Prenatal testosterone excess reduces sperm count and motility. Endocrinology 2008; 149:6444-8. [PMID: 18669598 DOI: 10.1210/en.2008-0785] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The reproductive system is extremely susceptible to insults from exposure to exogenous steroids during development. Excess prenatal testosterone exposure programs neuroendocrine, ovarian, and metabolic deficits in the female, features seen in women with polycystic ovary disease. The objective of this study was to determine whether prenatal testosterone excess also disrupts the male reproductive system, using sheep as a model system. The extent of reproductive disruption was tested by assessing sperm quantity and quality as well as Leydig cell responsiveness to human chorionic gonadotropin. Males born to mothers treated with 30 mg testosterone propionate twice weekly from d 30 to 90 and with 40 mg testosterone propionate from d 90 to 120 of pregnancy (T-males) showed a significant reduction (P < 0.05) in body weight, scrotal circumference, and sperm count compared with control males. Mean straight line velocity of sperms was also lower in T-males (P < 0.05). Circulating testosterone levels in response to the human chorionic gonadotropin did not differ between groups. These findings demonstrate that exposure to excess testosterone during fetal development has a negative impact on reproductive health of the male offspring, raising concerns relative to unintended human exposure to steroidal mimics in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sergio E Recabarren
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Endocrinology, Faculty of Veterinary Sciences, University of Concepcion, Casilla 537, Chillan, Chile.
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