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Aristides RP, Pons AJ, Cerdeira HA, Masoller C, Tirabassi G. Parameter and coupling estimation in small networks of Izhikevich's neurons. Chaos 2023; 33:043123. [PMID: 37097937 DOI: 10.1063/5.0144499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Nowadays, experimental techniques allow scientists to have access to large amounts of data. In order to obtain reliable information from the complex systems that produce these data, appropriate analysis tools are needed. The Kalman filter is a frequently used technique to infer, assuming a model of the system, the parameters of the model from uncertain observations. A well-known implementation of the Kalman filter, the unscented Kalman filter (UKF), was recently shown to be able to infer the connectivity of a set of coupled chaotic oscillators. In this work, we test whether the UKF can also reconstruct the connectivity of small groups of coupled neurons when their links are either electrical or chemical synapses. In particular, we consider Izhikevich neurons and aim to infer which neurons influence each other, considering simulated spike trains as the experimental observations used by the UKF. First, we verify that the UKF can recover the parameters of a single neuron, even when the parameters vary in time. Second, we analyze small neural ensembles and demonstrate that the UKF allows inferring the connectivity between the neurons, even for heterogeneous, directed, and temporally evolving networks. Our results show that time-dependent parameter and coupling estimation is possible in this nonlinearly coupled system.
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Affiliation(s)
- R P Aristides
- Instituto de Física Teórica, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Rua Dr. Bento Teobaldo Ferraz 271, Bloco II, Barra Funda, 01140-070 São Paulo, Brazil
- Departament de Fisica, Universitat Politecnica de Catalunya, St. Nebridi 22, 08222 Terrassa, Spain
| | - A J Pons
- Departament de Fisica, Universitat Politecnica de Catalunya, St. Nebridi 22, 08222 Terrassa, Spain
| | - H A Cerdeira
- Instituto de Física Teórica, Universidade Estadual Paulista, Rua Dr. Bento Teobaldo Ferraz 271, Bloco II, Barra Funda, 01140-070 São Paulo, Brazil
| | - C Masoller
- Departament de Fisica, Universitat Politecnica de Catalunya, St. Nebridi 22, 08222 Terrassa, Spain
| | - G Tirabassi
- Departament de Fisica, Universitat Politecnica de Catalunya, St. Nebridi 22, 08222 Terrassa, Spain
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2
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Forero-Ortiz E, Tirabassi G, Masoller C, Pons AJ. Inferring the connectivity of coupled chaotic oscillators using Kalman filtering. Sci Rep 2021; 11:22376. [PMID: 34789794 PMCID: PMC8599661 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-01444-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Inferring the interactions between coupled oscillators is a significant open problem in complexity science, with multiple interdisciplinary applications. While the Kalman filter (KF) technique is a well-known tool, widely used for data assimilation and parameter estimation, to the best of our knowledge, it has not yet been used for inferring the connectivity of coupled chaotic oscillators. Here we demonstrate that KF allows reconstructing the interaction topology and the coupling strength of a network of mutually coupled Rössler-like chaotic oscillators. We show that the connectivity can be inferred by considering only the observed dynamics of a single variable of the three that define the phase space of each oscillator. We also show that both the coupling strength and the network architecture can be inferred even when the oscillators are close to synchronization. Simulation results are provided to show the effectiveness and applicability of the proposed method.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Forero-Ortiz
- Departament de Física, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, St. Nebridi 22, 08222, Terrassa, Barcelona, Spain
| | - G Tirabassi
- Departament de Física, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, St. Nebridi 22, 08222, Terrassa, Barcelona, Spain
| | - C Masoller
- Departament de Física, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, St. Nebridi 22, 08222, Terrassa, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A J Pons
- Departament de Física, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, St. Nebridi 22, 08222, Terrassa, Barcelona, Spain.
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3
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Tirabassi G, Sudano M, Salvio G, Cutini M, Muscogiuri G, Corona G, Balercia G. Vitamin D and Male Sexual Function: A Transversal and Longitudinal Study. Int J Endocrinol 2018; 2018:3720813. [PMID: 29531528 PMCID: PMC5817208 DOI: 10.1155/2018/3720813] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effects of vitamin D on sexual function are very unclear. Therefore, we aimed at evaluating the possible association between vitamin D and sexual function and at assessing the influence of vitamin D administration on sexual function. METHODS We retrospectively studied 114 men by evaluating clinical, biochemical, and sexual parameters. A subsample (n = 41) was also studied longitudinally before and after vitamin D replacement therapy. RESULTS In the whole sample, after performing logistic regression models, higher levels of 25(OH) vitamin D were significantly associated with high values of total testosterone and of all the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire parameters. On the other hand, higher levels of total testosterone were positively and significantly associated with high levels of erectile function and IIEF total score. After vitamin D replacement therapy, total and free testosterone increased and erectile function improved, whereas other sexual parameters did not change significantly. At logistic regression analysis, higher levels of vitamin D increase (Δ-) were significantly associated with high values of Δ-erectile function after adjustment for Δ-testosterone. CONCLUSIONS Vitamin D is important for the wellness of male sexual function, and vitamin D administration improves sexual function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, Umberto I Hospital, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Maurizio Sudano
- Diabetology and Endocrinology Unit, S. Maria della Misericordia General Hospital, Via Comandino 70, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Gianmaria Salvio
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, Umberto I Hospital, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Melissa Cutini
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, Umberto I Hospital, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | | | - Giovanni Corona
- Endocrinology Unit, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Medical Department, Azienda USL di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Balercia
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, Umberto I Hospital, 60126 Ancona, Italy
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Tirabassi G, Cutini M, Muscogiuri G, Delli Muti N, Corona G, Galdiero M, Pivonello R, Colao A, Balercia G. Association between vitamin D and sperm parameters: Clinical evidence. Endocrine 2017; 58:194-198. [PMID: 27942975 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-016-1198-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2016] [Accepted: 12/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, Umberto I Hospital, Ancona, 60126, Italy
| | - Melissa Cutini
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, Umberto I Hospital, Ancona, 60126, Italy
| | | | - Nicola Delli Muti
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, Umberto I Hospital, Ancona, 60126, Italy
| | - Giovanni Corona
- Endocrinology Unit, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Medical Department, Azienda-Usl Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Rosario Pivonello
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Via S. Pansini, 5, Naples, Italy
| | - Annamaria Colao
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università Federico II di Napoli, Via S. Pansini, 5, Naples, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Balercia
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, Umberto I Hospital, Ancona, 60126, Italy.
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Sarno G, Nappi R, Altieri B, Tirabassi G, Muscogiuri E, Salvio G, Paschou SA, Ferrara A, Russo E, Vicedomini D, Vincenzo C, Vryonidou A, Della Casa S, Balercia G, Orio F, De Rosa P. Current evidence on vitamin D deficiency and kidney transplant: What's new? Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2017; 18:323-334. [PMID: 28281103 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-017-9418-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Kidney transplant is the treatment of choice for end-stage chronic kidney disease. Kidneys generate 1,25-dihydroxyvitamin D (calcitriol) from 25-hydroxyvitamin D (calcidiol) for circulation in the blood to regulate calcium levels. Transplant patients with low calcidiol levels have an increased risk of metabolic and endocrine problems, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes mellitus, poor graft survival, bone disorders, cancer, and mortality rate. The recommended calcidiol level after transplant is at least 30 ng/mL (75 nmol/L), which could require 1000-3000 IU/d vitamin D3 to achieve. Vitamin D3 supplementation studies have found improved endothelial function and acute rejection episodes. However, since kidney function may still be impaired, raising calcidiol levels may not lead to normal calcitriol levels. Thus, supplementation with calcitriol or an analog, alfacalcidiol, is often employed. Some beneficial effects found include possible improved bone health and reduced risk of chronic allograft nephropathy and cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerardo Sarno
- General Surgery and Transplantation Unit - "San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi D'Aragona" University Hospital, Scuola Medica Salernitana, 84131, Salerno, Italy.
| | - Riccardo Nappi
- General Surgery and Transplantation Unit - "San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi D'Aragona" University Hospital, Scuola Medica Salernitana, 84131, Salerno, Italy
- Nephrology and Dialisys Unit - "Santa Maria della Misericordia" Hospital, ASUIUD - Udine, Udine, Italy
| | - Barbara Altieri
- Institute of Medical Pathology, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Giacomo Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | | | - Gianmaria Salvio
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Stavroula A Paschou
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, "Aghia Sophia" Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Aristide Ferrara
- General Surgery and Transplantation Unit - "San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi D'Aragona" University Hospital, Scuola Medica Salernitana, 84131, Salerno, Italy
| | - Enrico Russo
- General Surgery and Transplantation Unit - "San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi D'Aragona" University Hospital, Scuola Medica Salernitana, 84131, Salerno, Italy
| | - Daniela Vicedomini
- General Surgery and Transplantation Unit - "San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi D'Aragona" University Hospital, Scuola Medica Salernitana, 84131, Salerno, Italy
| | - Cerbone Vincenzo
- General Surgery and Transplantation Unit - "San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi D'Aragona" University Hospital, Scuola Medica Salernitana, 84131, Salerno, Italy
| | - Andromachi Vryonidou
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Hellenic Red Cross Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Silvia Della Casa
- Institute of Medical Pathology, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Balercia
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Francesco Orio
- Endocrinology, Department of Sports Science and Wellness, "Parthenope" University Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Paride De Rosa
- General Surgery and Transplantation Unit - "San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi D'Aragona" University Hospital, Scuola Medica Salernitana, 84131, Salerno, Italy
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Altieri B, Muscogiuri G, Barrea L, Mathieu C, Vallone CV, Mascitelli L, Bizzaro G, Altieri VM, Tirabassi G, Balercia G, Savastano S, Bizzaro N, Ronchi CL, Colao A, Pontecorvi A, Della Casa S. Does vitamin D play a role in autoimmune endocrine disorders? A proof of concept. Rev Endocr Metab Disord 2017; 18:335-346. [PMID: 28070798 DOI: 10.1007/s11154-016-9405-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In the last few years, more attention has been given to the "non-calcemic" effect of vitamin D. Several observational studies and meta-analyses demonstrated an association between circulating levels of vitamin D and outcome of many common diseases, including endocrine diseases, chronic diseases, cancer progression, and autoimmune diseases. In particular, cells of the immune system (B cells, T cells, and antigen presenting cells), due to the expression of 1α-hydroxylase (CYP27B1), are able to synthesize the active metabolite of vitamin D, which shows immunomodulatory properties. Moreover, the expression of the vitamin D receptor (VDR) in these cells suggests a local action of vitamin D in the immune response. These findings are supported by the correlation between the polymorphisms of the VDR or the CYP27B1 gene and the pathogenesis of several autoimmune diseases. Currently, the optimal plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration that is necessary to prevent or treat autoimmune diseases is still under debate. However, experimental studies in humans have suggested beneficial effects of vitamin D supplementation in reducing the severity of disease activity. In this review, we summarize the evidence regarding the role of vitamin D in the pathogenesis of autoimmune endocrine diseases, including type 1 diabetes mellitus, Addison's disease, Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Graves' disease and autoimmune polyendocrine syndromes. Furthermore, we discuss the supplementation with vitamin D to prevent or treat autoimmune diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Altieri
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Institute of Medical Pathology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy.
| | - Giovanna Muscogiuri
- Ios and Coleman Medicina Futura Medical Center, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Luigi Barrea
- Ios and Coleman Medicina Futura Medical Center, University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Chantal Mathieu
- Clinical and Experimental Endocrinology, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Carla V Vallone
- Emergency Department, Fondazione Poliambulanza Istituto Ospedaliero, Brescia, Italy
| | - Luca Mascitelli
- Comando Brigata Alpina Julia/Multinational Land Force, Medical Service, Udine, Italy
| | | | | | - Giacomo Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Balercia
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Silvia Savastano
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Nicola Bizzaro
- Laboratory of Clinical Pathology, San Antonio Hospital, Tolmezzo, Italy
| | - Cristina L Ronchi
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Annamaria Colao
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University "Federico II", Naples, Italy
| | - Alfredo Pontecorvi
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Institute of Medical Pathology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Della Casa
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Institute of Medical Pathology, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
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Abstract
An emerging branch of research is examining the linkage between Vitamin D and nonskeletal disorders, including endocrine diseases. In this regard, a still little studied aspect concerns the involvement of vitamin D in adrenal gland disorders. Adrenal gland disorders, which might be theoretically affected by vitamin D unbalance, include adrenal insufficiency, Cushing's syndrome, adrenocortical tumors and hyperaldosteronism. In this review, we provide an updated document, which tries to collect and discuss the limited evidence to be found in the literature about the relationship between vitamin D and adrenal disorders. We conclude that there is insufficient evidence proving a causal relationship between vitamin D levels and adrenal disorders. Evidence coming from cross-sectional clinical studies can hardly clarify what comes first between vitamin D unbalance and adrenal disease. On the other hand, longitudinal studies monitoring the levels of vitamin D in patients with adrenal disorders or, conversely, the possible development of adrenal pathologies in subjects affected by impaired vitamin D levels would be able to elucidate this still unclear issue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy.
| | - Gianmaria Salvio
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Barbara Altieri
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina L Ronchi
- Department of Internal Medicine I, Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, University Hospital of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Silvia Della Casa
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Alfredo Pontecorvi
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Balercia
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
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Tirabassi G, Cutini M, Salvio G, Cerqueni G, Lenzi A, Balercia G. Influence of vitamin D levels on the cardiovascular profile of hypogonadal men. J Endocrinol Invest 2017; 40:1007-1014. [PMID: 28391585 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-017-0671-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2017] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE A large body of evidence suggests a role for vitamin D in conditioning cardiovascular risk. Therefore, it can be hypothesized that vitamin D might also play a role in influencing the metabolic profile of hypogonadal men. In this work, we aimed at evaluating if any relationship exists between vitamin D levels and cardiovascular parameters in male hypogonadism. METHODS Hypogonadal patients attending our andrology unit were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical and biochemical parameters were evaluated. RESULTS 103 patients were studied (51 non-diabetic and 52 diabetic subjects). Mean age of the whole sample was 65 years (standard error of the mean: 0.62). Significant correlations of age, total testosterone, parathyroid hormone (PTH), calcemia, and 25-OH vitamin D with the metabolic profile were found. In logistic regression models including age, total testosterone, PTH, calcemia and 25-OH vitamin D as independent variables, lower levels of 25-OH vitamin D were associated with high values of body mass index (BMI) [odds ratio (OR) 0.910, p 0.019], insulin (OR 0.918, p 0.034), homeostatic model assessment (HOMA) index (OR 0.918, p 0.030), total cholesterol (OR 0.819, p < 0.001), triglycerides (OR 0.820, p < 0.001), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (OR 0.923, p 0.034). In non-diabetic subjects, lower levels of 25-OH vitamin D were associated with high values of BMI, insulin, HOMA, triglycerides, systolic, and diastolic blood pressure. On the other hand, in diabetic subjects, lower levels of 25-OH vitamin D were associated with high values of total cholesterol and triglycerides. CONCLUSIONS Our work shows the influence of vitamin D on cardiovascular profile in male hypogonadism. This effect seems to be more relevant in non-diabetic subjects. If these data were to be confirmed, vitamin D assessment might become mandatory in the clinical evaluation of cardiovascular profile in male hypogonadism.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Tirabassi
- Andrology Unit, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, 60126, Ancona, Italy
| | - M Cutini
- Andrology Unit, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, 60126, Ancona, Italy
| | - G Salvio
- Andrology Unit, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, 60126, Ancona, Italy
| | - G Cerqueni
- Istology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - A Lenzi
- Andrology, Pathophysiology of Reproduction and Endocrine Diagnosis Unit, Policlinic Umberto I, University of Rome ''La Sapienza'', Rome, Italy
| | - G Balercia
- Andrology Unit, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, 60126, Ancona, Italy.
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Muscogiuri G, Balercia G, Barrea L, Cignarelli A, Giorgino F, Holst JJ, Laudisio D, Orio F, Tirabassi G, Colao A. Gut: A key player in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes? Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2017; 58:1294-1309. [PMID: 27892685 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2016.1252712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The gut regulates glucose and energy homeostasis; thus, the presence of ingested nutrients into the gut activates sensing mechanisms that affect both glucose homeostasis and regulate food intake. Increasing evidence suggest that gut may also play a key role in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes which may be related to both the intestinal microbiological profile and patterns of gut hormones secretion. Intestinal microbiota includes trillions of microorganisms but its composition and function may be adversely affected in type 2 diabetes. The intestinal microbiota may be responsible of the secretion of molecules that may impair insulin secretion/action. At the same time, intestinal milieu regulates the secretion of hormones such as GLP-1, GIP, ghrelin, gastrin, somatostatin, CCK, serotonin, peptide YY, GLP-2, all of which importantly influence metabolism in general and in particular glucose metabolism. Thus, the aim of this paper is to review the current evidence on the role of the gut in the pathogenesis of type 2 diabetes, taking into account both hormonal and microbiological aspects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giancarlo Balercia
- b Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences , Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche , Ancona , Italy
| | | | - Angelo Cignarelli
- c Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Section of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Andrology, and Metabolic Diseases , University of Bari Aldo Moro , Bari , Italy
| | - Francesco Giorgino
- c Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Section of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Andrology, and Metabolic Diseases , University of Bari Aldo Moro , Bari , Italy
| | - Jens J Holst
- d NNF Center for Basic Metabolic Research and Department of Biomedical Sciences , Panum Institute, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen , Denmark
| | | | - Francesco Orio
- e Endocrinology, Department of Sports Science and Wellness , "Parthenope" University Naples , Naples , Italy
| | - Giacomo Tirabassi
- b Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences , Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche , Ancona , Italy
| | - Annamaria Colao
- f Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery , "Federico II" University of Naples , Naples , Italy
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Corona G, Tirabassi G, Santi D, Maseroli E, Gacci M, Dicuio M, Sforza A, Mannucci E, Maggi M. Sexual dysfunction in subjects treated with inhibitors of 5α-reductase for benign prostatic hyperplasia: a comprehensive review and meta-analysis. Andrology 2017; 5:671-678. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12353] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2016] [Revised: 12/14/2016] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- G. Corona
- Endocrinology Unit; Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital; Medical Department; Azienda-Usl Bologna; Bologna Italy
| | - G. Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology; Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences; Umberto I Hospital; Polytechnic University of Marche; Ancona Italy
| | - D. Santi
- Unit of Endocrinology & Metabolism; Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences; University of Modena and Reggio Emilia; Modena Italy
| | - E. Maseroli
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit; Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences; University of Florence; Florence Italy
| | - M. Gacci
- Department of Urology; University of Florence; Florence Italy
| | - M. Dicuio
- Urology Unit; Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital; Surgical Department; Azienda-Usl Bologna; Bologna Italy
- Department of Urology; Sahlgrenska University Hospital; Göteborg Sweden
| | - A. Sforza
- Endocrinology Unit; Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital; Medical Department; Azienda-Usl Bologna; Bologna Italy
| | - E. Mannucci
- Diabetology; Careggi Teaching Hospital; Florence Italy
| | - M. Maggi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit; Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences; University of Florence; Florence Italy
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Muscogiuri G, Annweiler C, Duval G, Karras S, Tirabassi G, Salvio G, Balercia G, Kimball S, Kotsa K, Mascitelli L, Bhattoa HP, Colao A. Vitamin D and cardiovascular disease: From atherosclerosis to myocardial infarction and stroke. Int J Cardiol 2016; 230:577-584. [PMID: 28043680 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijcard.2016.12.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2016] [Revised: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 12/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
There continues to be interest in understanding the role of vitamin D in the pathogenesis, epidemiology and prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD). In fact vitamin D deficiency has been associated to an increased risk of developing CVD given to the relationship between low vitamin D levels and obesity, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidaemia, endothelial dysfunction and hypertension. However, although vitamin D has been identified as a potentially important marker of CVD, the mechanisms through which vitamin D deficiency leads from endothelial dysfunction to myocardial infarction and stroke are not fully understood. Thus, the goal of this review is to provide an updated review of the literature on the basic science of how vitamin D may affect the cardiovascular system and in particular to analyze the role that vitamin D may have in the whole dynamic process from the initiation of endothelial dysfunction to the development of myocardial infarction and stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cedric Annweiler
- Department of Neuroscience, Division of Geriatric Medicine, Angers University Hospital, Angers, France; University Memory Clinic, UPRES EA 4638, University of Angers, UNAM, Angers, France; Robarts Research Institute, Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, the University of Western Ontario, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Guillaume Duval
- Department of Neuroscience, Division of Geriatric Medicine, Angers University Hospital, Angers, France
| | - Spyridon Karras
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, AHEPA Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Giacomo Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Gianmaria Salvio
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Balercia
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | | | - Kalliopi Kotsa
- Department of Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, AHEPA Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - Luca Mascitelli
- Comando Brigata alpina "Julia"/Multinational Land Force, Medical Service, Udine, Italy
| | - Harjit Pal Bhattoa
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Endocrinology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Hungary
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13
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Tirabassi G, Cutini M, Beltrami B, Delli Muti N, Lenzi A, Balercia G. Androgen receptor GGC repeat might be more involved than CAG repeat in the regulation of the metabolic profile in men. Intern Emerg Med 2016; 11:1067-1075. [PMID: 27251588 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-016-1479-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2016] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The influence of androgen receptor (AR) GGC repeat polymorphism on the metabolic profile of men has been much less studied than the one of CAG tract polymorphism. Therefore, in this study, we looked for the association of GGC and CAG tract with cardiovascular risk factors in men. Ninety-eight men followed by our andrological unit were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical and biochemical parameters on cardiovascular risk were considered. AR CAG and GGC polymorphisms were studied. GGC triplets were found to be positively and significantly correlated with several cardiovascular risk factors. On the other hand, inverse and significant correlations of CAG triplets were found with insulin and HOMA. As expected, age was positively correlated with cardiovascular risk, whereas total testosterone was inversely correlated with metabolic profile. Estradiol was not found to be correlated with any of the metabolic parameters. In the total sample, multivariate linear regression analysis confirms the positive and independent association of GGC triplets with glycemia, glycated hemoglobin, total cholesterol, triglycerides and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA), whereas CAG repeat length is negatively associated with insulin and HOMA. Such associations are also substantially confirmed in non-diabetic subjects, whereas in diabetic patients only the GGC tract seems to be involved in the metabolic profile regulation. Our work shows a relevant role for GGC repeat tract in conditioning male cardiovascular risk, thus rendering necessary a deeper analysis on the role of GGC polymorphism both from the molecular and the clinical point of view.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Via Conca 71, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60126, Ancona, Italy
| | - Melissa Cutini
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Via Conca 71, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60126, Ancona, Italy
| | - Benedetta Beltrami
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Via Conca 71, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60126, Ancona, Italy
| | - Nicola Delli Muti
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Via Conca 71, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60126, Ancona, Italy
| | - Andrea Lenzi
- Andrology, Pathophysiology of Reproduction and Endocrine Diagnosis Unit, Policlinic Umberto I, University of Rome ''La Sapienza'', Rome, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Balercia
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Via Conca 71, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60126, Ancona, Italy.
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14
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Muscogiuri G, Altieri B, Annweiler C, Balercia G, Pal HB, Boucher BJ, Cannell JJ, Foresta C, Grübler MR, Kotsa K, Mascitelli L, März W, Orio F, Pilz S, Tirabassi G, Colao A. Vitamin D and chronic diseases: the current state of the art. Arch Toxicol 2016; 91:97-107. [PMID: 27425218 DOI: 10.1007/s00204-016-1804-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2016] [Accepted: 07/07/2016] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
The objective was to provide the current state of the art regarding the role of vitamin D in chronic diseases (osteoporosis, cancer, cardiovascular diseases, dementia, autism, type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus, male and female fertility). The document was drawn up by panelists that provided their contribution according to their own scientific expertise. Each scientific expert supplied a first draft manuscript on a specific aspect of the document's topic that was subjected to voting by all experts as "yes" (agreement with the content and/or wording) or "no" (disagreement). The adopted rule was that statements supported by ≥75 % of votes would be immediately accepted, while those with <25 % would be rejected outright. Others would be subjected to further discussion and subsequent voting, where ≥67 % support or, in an eventual third round, a majority of ≥50 % would be needed. This document finds that the current evidence support a role for vitamin D in bone health but not in other health conditions. However, subjects with vitamin D deficiency have been found to be at high risk of developing chronic diseases. Therefore, although at the present time there is not sufficient evidence to recommend vitamin D supplementation as treatment of chronic diseases, the treatment of vitamin D deficiency should be desiderable in order to reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giovanna Muscogiuri
- Ios and Coleman Medicina Futura Medical Center, University "Federico II", Naples, Italy.
| | - Barbara Altieri
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Catholic University of the Sacred Heart, Rome, Italy
| | - Cedric Annweiler
- Division of Geriatric Medicine, Department of Neuroscience, Angers University Hospital, University Memory Clinic, UPRES EA 4638, University of Angers, UNAM, Angers, France.,Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Robarts Research Institute, The University of Western Ontario, London, ON, Canada
| | - Giancarlo Balercia
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - H B Pal
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Debrecen, Debrecen, Hungary
| | - Barbara J Boucher
- The Blizard Institute, Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK
| | | | - Carlo Foresta
- Department of Medicine, Operative Unit of Andrology and Medicine of Human Reproduction, University of Padova, Padua, Italy
| | - Martin R Grübler
- Department of Cardiology, Swiss Cardiovascular Center Bern, Bern University Hospital, Bern, Switzerland.,Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Kalliopi Kotsa
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, AHEPA University Hospital, Thessaloníki, Greece
| | - Luca Mascitelli
- Comando Brigata Alpina "Julia"/Multinational Land Force, Medical Service, Udine, Italy
| | - Winfried März
- Medical Clinic V (Nephrology, Hypertensiology, Endocrinology, Diabetology, Rheumatology), Mannheim Medical Faculty, University of Heidelberg, Mannheim, Germany.,Clinical Institute of Medical and Chemical Laboratory Diagnostics, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.,Synlab Academy, Synlab Holding Germany GmbH, Mannheim, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Francesco Orio
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Fertility Techniques Structure, University Hospital "S. Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi d'Aragona", Salerno, Italy.,Department of Sports Science and Wellness, "Parthenope" University Naples, Naples, Italy
| | - Stefan Pilz
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Internal Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.,Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, EMGO Institute for Health and Care Research, VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Giacomo Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Annamaria Colao
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University "Federico II", Naples, Italy
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15
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Tirabassi G, Corona G, Lamonica GR, Lenzi A, Maggi M, Balercia G. Diabetes Mellitus-Associated Functional Hypercortisolism Impairs Sexual Function in Male Late-Onset Hypogonadism. Horm Metab Res 2016; 48:48-53. [PMID: 25951320 DOI: 10.1055/s-0035-1548870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Functional hypercortisolism is generated by conditions able to chronically activate hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and has been proven to have a negative role in several complications. However, no study has evaluated the possible influence of diabetes mellitus-associated functional hypercortisolism on male hypogonadism and sexual function. We aimed to identify any association of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysregulation measures with testosterone and sexual function in men simultaneously affected by diabetes mellitus and late-onset hypogonadism. Fifteen diabetes mellitus and late-onset hypogonadism subjects suffering from functional hypercortisolism and fifteen diabetes mellitus and late-onset hypogonadism subjects who were free of functional hypercortisolism were retrospectively reviewed. Clinical, hormonal, and sexual parameters were considered. Hypercortisolemic subjects showed higher values of body mass index, waist, and glycated hemoglobin and lower ones of testosterone compared to normocortisolemic ones. All sexual parameters, except for orgasmic function, were significantly worse in hypercortisolemic than in normocortisolemic subjects. Hypercortisolemic patients showed higher values of cortisol after dexamethasone and urinary free cortisol as well as a lesser ACTH response after corticotropin releasing hormone test (ACTH area under curve) compared to normocortisolemic ones. No significant association was found at Poisson regression analysis between hormonal and sexual variables in normocortisolemic patients. In hypercortisolemic subjects, negative and significant associations of cortisol response after corticotropin releasing hormone (cortisol area under curve) with erectile function (β: -0.0008; p: 0.015) and total international index of erectile function score (β: -0.0006; p: 0.001) were evident. This study suggests for the first time the impairing influence of the dysregulated hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis on sexual function in diabetes mellitus-associated late-onset hypogonadism.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Tirabassi
- Andrology Unit, Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - G Corona
- Endocrinology Unit, Azienda Usl di Bologna, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy
| | - G R Lamonica
- Department of Economy, School of Economy, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - A Lenzi
- Andrology, Pathophysiology of Reproduction and Endocrine Diagnosis Unit, Policlinic Umberto I, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - M Maggi
- Department of Clinical Physiopathology, Andrology Unit, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - G Balercia
- Andrology Unit, Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
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16
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Tirabassi G, Chelli FM, Ciommi M, Lenzi A, Balercia G. Influence of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis dysregulation on the metabolic profile of patients affected by diabetes mellitus-associated late onset hypogonadism. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2016; 26:53-59. [PMID: 26643209 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2015.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2015] [Revised: 09/16/2015] [Accepted: 10/11/2015] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Functional hypercortisolism (FH) is generated by clinical states able to chronically activate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis [e.g. diabetes mellitus (DM)]. No study has evaluated FH influence in worsening the metabolic profile of male patients affected by DM-associated hypogonadism. In this retrospective work, we assess the possible association between HPA axis-dysregulation and cardiovascular risk factors in men simultaneously affected by DM and late-onset hypogonadism (LOH). METHODS AND RESULTS Fourteen DM and LOH subjects affected by FH (Hypercort-DM-LOH) and fourteen DM and LOH subjects who were not suffering from FH (Normocort-DM-LOH) were retrospectively considered. Clinical, hormonal and metabolic parameters were retrieved. All metabolic parameters, except for systolic blood pressure, were significantly worse in Hypercort-DM-LOH than in Normocort-DM-LOH. After adjustment for body mass index, waist and total testosterone, Hypercort-DM-LOH subjects showed significantly worse metabolic parameters than Normocort-DM-LOH ones. In Normocort-DM-LOH, no significant correlation between general/hormonal parameters and metabolic variables was present. In Hypercort-DM-LOH, positive and significant correlations of cortisol area under the curve (AUC) after corticotropin releasing hormone with glycemia, triglycerides and blood pressure were evident; on the other hand, negative and significant correlation was present between cortisol AUC and high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. The associations of AUC cortisol with glycemia, HDL cholesterol and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) were further confirmed at quantile regression after adjustment for therapy. CONCLUSIONS FH may determine a worsening of the metabolic profile in DM-associated hypogonadism.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - F M Chelli
- Department of Economics and Social Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - M Ciommi
- Department of Economics and Social Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - A Lenzi
- Andrology, Pathophysiology of Reproduction and Endocrine Diagnosis Unit, Policlinic Umberto I, University of Rome "La Sapienza", Rome, Italy
| | - G Balercia
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy.
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17
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Tirabassi G, Corona G, Falzetti S, delli Muti N, Maggi M, Balercia G. Influence of Androgen Receptor Gene CAG and GGC Polymorphisms on Male Sexual Function: A Cross-Sectional Study. Int J Endocrinol 2016; 2016:5083569. [PMID: 28243253 PMCID: PMC5274699 DOI: 10.1155/2016/5083569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2016] [Revised: 11/10/2016] [Accepted: 11/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background. No study has assessed the possible involvement of GGC androgen receptor (AR) polymorphism in sexual function. Our aim is to evaluate the association between CAG and GGC AR polymorphisms in this function. Methods. We retrospectively examined eighty-five outpatients. Clinical, biochemical, and genetic parameters were considered. Sexual assessment was performed using the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) which evaluates erectile function (EF), orgasmic function (OF), sexual desire (SD), intercourse satisfaction (IS), and overall satisfaction (OS). Results. In the whole sample, CAG repeats were inversely correlated with EF, OF, and total IIEF-15 score, whereas GGC tracts did not show any significant correlation with sexual function. CAG relationship with IIEF items retained significance only in the eugonadal but not in the hypogonadal cohort. On the other hand, GGC tracts were not found to be significantly correlated with IIEF variables in either eugonadal or hypogonadal subjects. In eugonadal subjects, logistic regression pointed out that a higher number of CAG triplets were associated with lower values of EF, OF, SD, OS, and total IIEF independently from other confounders. Conclusions. GGC polymorphism seems not to exert any influence on sexual function, whereas CAG polymorphism appears to affect sexual parameters only in eugonadal subjects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Giovanni Corona
- Endocrinology Unit, Medical Department, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Azienda-Usl Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Sara Falzetti
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Nicola delli Muti
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Mario Maggi
- Sexual Medicine and Andrology Unit, Department of Experimental, Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Balercia
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, 60126 Ancona, Italy
- *Giancarlo Balercia:
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18
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Altieri B, Tirabassi G, Della Casa S, Ronchi CL, Balercia G, Orio F, Pontecorvi A, Colao A, Muscogiuri G. Adrenocortical tumors and insulin resistance: What is the first step? Int J Cancer 2015; 138:2785-94. [PMID: 26637955 DOI: 10.1002/ijc.29950] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2015] [Revised: 11/05/2015] [Accepted: 11/23/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
The pathogenetic mechanisms underlying the onset of adrenocortical tumors (ACTs) are still largely unknown. Recently, more attention has been paid to the role of insulin and insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system on general tumor development and progression. Increased levels of insulin, IGF-1 and IGF-2 are associated with tumor cell growth and increased risk of cancer promotion and progression in patients with type 2 diabetes. Insulin resistance and compensatory hyperinsulinemia may play a role in adrenal tumor growth through the activation of insulin and IGF-1 receptors. Interestingly, apparently non-functioning ACTs are often associated with a high prevalence of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. However, it is unclear if ACT develops from a primary insulin resistance and compensatory hyperinsulinemia or if insulin resistance is only secondary to the slight cortisol hypersecretion by ACT. The aim of this review is to summarize the current evidence regarding the relationship between hyperinsulinemia and adrenocortical tumors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Altieri
- Institute of Medical Pathology, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Giacomo Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Silvia Della Casa
- Institute of Medical Pathology, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina L Ronchi
- Endocrine and Diabetes Unit, Department of Internal Medicine I, University Hospital, University of Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg, Germany
| | - Giancarlo Balercia
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Francesco Orio
- Department of Sports Science and Wellness, Parthenope University, Naples, Italy.,Department of Endocrinology and Diabetology, Fertility Techniques Structure, University Hospital S. Giovanni Di Dio E Ruggi D'aragona, Salerno, Italy
| | - Alfredo Pontecorvi
- Institute of Medical Pathology, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, Catholic University, Rome, Italy
| | - Annamaria Colao
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Endocrinology, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanna Muscogiuri
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Section of Endocrinology, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
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Sarno G, Daniele G, Tirabassi G, Chavez AO, Ojo OO, Orio F, Kahleova H, Balercia G, Grant WB, De Rosa P, Colao A, Muscogiuri G. The impact of vitamin D deficiency on patients undergoing kidney transplantation: focus on cardiovascular, metabolic, and endocrine outcomes. Endocrine 2015; 50:568-74. [PMID: 25999028 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-015-0632-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 05/13/2015] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Vitamin D deficiency is common among kidney transplant (KT) recipients because of reduced sunlight exposure, low intake of vitamin D, the immunosuppressive drug regimen administered, and steroid therapy. Glucocorticoids regulate expression of genes coding for enzymes that catabolize vitamin D, further reducing its level in serum. Although vitamin D primarily regulates calcium homeostasis, vitamin D deficiency is associated with the risk of several diseases, such as diabetes mellitus and tuberculosis. Aim of this review is to highlight endocrine and metabolic alterations due to the vitamin D deficiency by evaluating the mechanisms involved in the development of KT-related disease (cardiovascular, bone mineral density, and new-onset diabetes after transplantation). Next, we review evidence to support a link between low vitamin D status and KT-related diseases. Finally, we briefly highlight strategies for restoring vitamin D status in KT patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gerardo Sarno
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation Unit, San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi D'Aragona University Hospital, Scuola Medica Salernitana, Salerno, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Daniele
- Divisions of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Giacomo Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, School of Medicine, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - Alberto O Chavez
- Divisions of Diabetes and Endocrinology, Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX, USA
| | - Opeolu O Ojo
- Faculty of Life and Health Sciences, School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Ulster, Coleraine, BT52 1SA, UK
| | - Francesco Orio
- Sports Science and Wellness, University Parthenope Naples, Naples, Italy
- Endocrinology and Diabetology, San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi D'Aragona University Hospital, Scuola Medica Salernitana, Salerno, Italy
| | - Hana Kahleova
- Institute for Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Videnska 1958/9, 140 21, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Giancarlo Balercia
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, School of Medicine, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - William B Grant
- Sunlight, Nutrition, and Health Research Center, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Paride De Rosa
- Department of General Surgery and Transplantation Unit, San Giovanni di Dio e Ruggi D'Aragona University Hospital, Scuola Medica Salernitana, Salerno, Italy
| | - Annamaria Colao
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University Hospital, Federico II University, Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanna Muscogiuri
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, Federico II University Hospital, Federico II University, Naples, Italy.
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Ficcadenti A, Zallocco F, Neri R, Giovannini L, Tirabassi G, Balercia G. Bone density assessment in a cohort of pediatric patients affected by 22q11DS. J Endocrinol Invest 2015; 38:1093-8. [PMID: 25916433 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-015-0295-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2015] [Accepted: 04/15/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Hypoparathyroidism and hypocalcemia are two of the most frequent clinical characteristics of 22q11-deletion syndrome (22q11DS). The aim of this study was to evaluate bone metabolism and density in a cohort of patients affected by 22q11DS. METHODS In 8 pediatric patients (mean age 11.5 years; range 7-16.4) affected by 22q11DS, creatinine, albumin, total and ionized calcium, phosphate, 25(OH) vitamin D, parathyroid hormone, osteocalcin, C-terminal telopeptide and interleukin 6 were assessed. Furthermore, bone mineral density (BMD) was determined by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry procedure. 14 healthy children were considered as controls. RESULTS Most of the studied subjects were overweight and lacked quality physical activity. 40 % of the subjects had reduced calcium levels in the absence of related clinical symptoms and all patients also had inadequate levels of Vitamin D. The values of L1-L4 BMD were within the reference range in all patients (z score <2). However, after comparing the age-matched indexes of bone mineralization of patients with those of controls, the former had lower bone mineralization indexes than the latter. CONCLUSIONS In pediatric patients with 22q11DS, an initial and slight bone loss is evident. The incidence of hypocalcemia is underestimated because hypocalcemia is asymptomatic. Several factors contribute to bone impairment in children who still have to achieve bone mass peak. Therefore, we suggest strict monitoring of bone metabolism as well as BMD measurement in patients affected by 22q11DS.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ficcadenti
- Paediatric Department, Salesi Children Hospital, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - F Zallocco
- Paediatric Department, Salesi Children Hospital, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - R Neri
- Paediatric Department, Salesi Children Hospital, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - L Giovannini
- Andrology Unit, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, 60126, Ancona, Italy
| | - G Tirabassi
- Andrology Unit, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, 60126, Ancona, Italy
| | - G Balercia
- Andrology Unit, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, 60126, Ancona, Italy.
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Tirabassi G, Vignini A, Tiano L, Buldreghini E, Brugè F, Silvestri S, Orlando P, D'Aniello A, Mazzanti L, Lenzi A, Balercia G. Protective effects of coenzyme Q10 and aspartic acid on oxidative stress and DNA damage in subjects affected by idiopathic asthenozoospermia. Endocrine 2015; 49:549-52. [PMID: 25338200 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-014-0432-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2014] [Accepted: 09/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, School of Medicine, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Tronto 10/A, 60126, Ancona, Italy
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Muscogiuri G, Cignarelli A, Giorgino F, Prodam F, Santi D, Tirabassi G, Balercia G, Modica R, Faggiano A, Colao A. Erratum to: GLP-1: benefits beyond pancreas. J Endocrinol Invest 2015; 38:115. [PMID: 25362628 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-014-0188-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- G Muscogiuri
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University ''Federico II'', Via Sergio Pansini, 5, Naples, Italy.
| | - A Cignarelli
- Section of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Andrology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - F Giorgino
- Section of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Andrology and Metabolic Diseases, Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Bari, Italy
| | - F Prodam
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Health Sciences, University of Piemonte Orientale ''A. Avogadro'', Alessandria, Italy
| | - D Santi
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neural Sciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Via Campi 287, 41125, Modena, Italy
| | - G Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - G Balercia
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - R Modica
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University ''Federico II'', Via Sergio Pansini, 5, Naples, Italy
| | - A Faggiano
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University ''Federico II'', Via Sergio Pansini, 5, Naples, Italy
| | - A Colao
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University ''Federico II'', Via Sergio Pansini, 5, Naples, Italy
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Giovannini L, Tirabassi G, Muscogiuri G, Di Somma C, Colao A, Balercia G. Impact of adult growth hormone deficiency on metabolic profile and cardiovascular risk [Review]. Endocr J 2015; 62:1037-48. [PMID: 26300280 DOI: 10.1507/endocrj.ej15-0337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Adult growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is a well defined clinical condition, which is characterized by abnormal body composition, impaired physical activity and decreased quality of life. In addition, in recent years, growing interest has been shown towards cardiovascular risks in adult patients affected by GHD. In this regard, GHD is widely known to be associated with increased mortality, likely due to the increase of risk factors, such as central obesity, impaired lipid and glucose profiles and other less-known risk factors, such as inflammatory cytokines, endothelial dysfunction and oxidative stress. However, very few papers have recently discussed this topic. In this review, the aim is to clarify this issue by discussing evidence regarding the effects of adult GHD on metabolic and cardiovascular profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Giovannini
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, School of Medicine, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
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Tirabassi G, Cignarelli A, Perrini S, delli Muti N, Furlani G, Gallo M, Pallotti F, Paoli D, Giorgino F, Lombardo F, Gandini L, Lenzi A, Balercia G. Influence of CAG Repeat Polymorphism on the Targets of Testosterone Action. Int J Endocrinol 2015; 2015:298107. [PMID: 26421011 PMCID: PMC4572434 DOI: 10.1155/2015/298107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2015] [Accepted: 08/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last decade, ample evidence has demonstrated the growing importance of androgen receptor (AR) CAG repeat polymorphism in andrology. This genetic parameter is able to condition the peripheral effects of testosterone and therefore to influence male sexual function and fertility, cardiovascular risk, body composition, bone metabolism, the risk of prostate and testicular cancer, the psychiatric status, and the onset of neurodegenerative disorders. In this review, we extensively discuss the literature data and identify a role for AR CAG repeat polymorphism in conditioning the systemic testosterone effects. In particular, our main purpose was to provide an updated text able to shed light on the many and often contradictory findings reporting an influence of CAG repeat polymorphism on the targets of testosterone action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Angelo Cignarelli
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Section of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Andrology, and Metabolic Diseases, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Sebastio Perrini
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Section of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Andrology, and Metabolic Diseases, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Nicola delli Muti
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Giorgio Furlani
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Mariagrazia Gallo
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “La Sapienza”, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Pallotti
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “La Sapienza”, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Donatella Paoli
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “La Sapienza”, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Giorgino
- Department of Emergency and Organ Transplantation, Section of Internal Medicine, Endocrinology, Andrology, and Metabolic Diseases, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Piazza Giulio Cesare 11, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Francesco Lombardo
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “La Sapienza”, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Loredana Gandini
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “La Sapienza”, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Lenzi
- Laboratory of Seminology-Sperm Bank, Department of Experimental Medicine, University of Rome “La Sapienza”, Viale del Policlinico 155, 00161 Rome, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Balercia
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, 60126 Ancona, Italy
- *Giancarlo Balercia:
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Muscogiuri G, Tirabassi G, Bizzaro G, Orio F, Paschou SA, Vryonidou A, Balercia G, Shoenfeld Y, Colao A. Vitamin D and thyroid disease: to D or not to D? Eur J Clin Nutr 2014; 69:291-6. [DOI: 10.1038/ejcn.2014.265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2014] [Revised: 10/16/2014] [Accepted: 11/18/2014] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Tirabassi G, Corona G, Biagioli A, Buldreghini E, delli Muti N, Maggi M, Balercia G. Influence of androgen receptor CAG polymorphism on sexual function recovery after testosterone therapy in late-onset hypogonadism. J Sex Med 2014; 12:381-8. [PMID: 25443437 DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Androgen receptor (AR) CAG polymorphism has been found to influence sexual function. However, no study has evaluated its potential to condition sexual function recovery after testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in a large cohort of hypogonadic subjects. AIM To evaluate the role of this polymorphism in sexual function improvement after TRT in late-onset hypogonadism (LOH). METHODS Seventy-three men affected by LOH were retrospectively considered. Evaluations were performed before TRT started (time 0) and before the sixth undecanoate testosterone injection. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF) questionnaire (erectile function [EF], orgasmic function [OF], sexual desire [SD], intercourse satisfaction [IS], overall satisfaction [OS], and total IIEF-15 score); total and free testosterone and estradiol; AR gene CAG repeat number. RESULTS TRT induced a significant increase in total and free testosterone and estradiol. All IIEF domains significantly improved after TRT. AR CAG repeats negatively and significantly correlated with all the variations (Δ-) of sexual function domains, except for Δ-OS. Conversely, Δ-total testosterone was found to be positively and significantly correlated with sexual function domain variations, except for Δ-IS and Δ-OS. Δ-estradiol did not correlate significantly with any of the variations of sexual function domains. After inclusion in generalized linear models, the number of AR gene CAG triplets was found to be independently and negatively associated with Δ-EF, Δ-SD, Δ-IS, and Δ-Total IIEF-15 score, whereas Δ-total testosterone was independently and positively associated with Δ-EF, Δ-OF, Δ-SD, and Δ-Total IIEF-15 score. However, after including time 0 total testosterone in the model, AR gene CAG triplets remained independently and negatively associated only with Δ-EF and Δ-Total IIEF-15 score, whereas Δ-total testosterone was independently and positively associated only with Δ-EF. CONCLUSIONS Longer length of AR gene CAG repeat tract seems to lower TRT-induced improvement of sexual function in LOH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Tirabassi
- Andrology Unit, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
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Muscogiuri G, Cignarelli A, Giorgino F, Prodam F, Santi D, Tirabassi G, Balercia G, Modica R, Faggiano A, Colao A. GLP-1: benefits beyond pancreas. J Endocrinol Invest 2014; 37:1143-53. [PMID: 25107343 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-014-0137-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2014] [Accepted: 07/10/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Glucagon-like peptide 1 (GLP-1) is an intestinal hormone secreted after the ingestion of various nutrients. The main role of GLP-1 is to stimulate insulin secretion in a glucose-dependent manner. However, the expression of GLP-1 receptor was found to be expressed in a variety of tissues beyond pancreas such as lung, stomach, intestine, kidney, heart and brain. Beyond pancreas, a beneficial effect of GLP-1 on body weight reduction has been shown, suggesting its role for the treatment of obesity. In addition, GLP-1 has been demonstrated to reduce cardiovascular risk factors and to have a direct cardioprotective effect, fostering heart recovery after ischemic injury. Further, data from both experimental animal models and human studies have shown beneficial effect of GLP-1 on bone metabolism, either directly or indirectly on bone cells. MATERIALS AND METHODS We review here the recent findings of the extra-pancreatic effects of GLP-1 focusing on both basic and clinical studies, thus opening future perspectives to the use of GLP-1 analogs for the treatment of disease beyond type 2 diabetes. CONCLUSION Finally, the GLP-1 has been demonstrated to have a beneficial effect on both vascular, degenerative diseases of central nervous system and psoriasis.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Muscogiuri
- Section of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University "Federico II", Via Sergio Pansini, 5, Naples, Italy,
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Raffaelli F, Borroni F, Alidori A, Tirabassi G, Faloia E, Rabini RA, Giulietti A, Mazzanti L, Nanetti L, Vignini A. Effects of in vitro supplementation with Syzygium cumini (L.) on platelets from subjects affected by diabetes mellitus. Platelets 2014; 26:720-5. [PMID: 25384023 DOI: 10.3109/09537104.2014.980797] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the in vitro effects of Syzygium cumini (L.) (Sc) incubation on platelets from patients with diabetes, in order to test its efficacy as a potential adjuvant therapy. This study was performed on 77 patients with diabetes [29 in good (DMgc) and 48 in poor glycemic control (DMpc)] and 85 controls. In patients, platelets were analyzed at recruitment and after in vitro Sc incubation (final concentration of 200 µg/ml for 3 hours at 37 °C), whereas in controls only basal evaluation was performed. Lipoperoxide and nitric oxide (NO) levels, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and Na(+)/K(+) ATPase activities, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and membrane fluidity tested by anisotropy of fluorescent probes 1-(4-trimethylaminophenyl)-6-phenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene (TMA-DPH) and 1-6-phenyl-1,3,5-hexatriene (DPH) were determined. Collagen-induced platelet aggregation was also evaluated. In vitro Sc activity counteracts oxidative damage, by improving platelet function through augmented membrane fluidity and Na(+)/K(+) ATPase activity; it also enhances antioxidant system functionality by increasing NO levels, SOD activity, and TAC and by decreasing lipoperoxide levels both in whole samples and in DMgc and DMpc. In addition, a slight tendency towards collagen-induced platelet aggregation decrease after Sc was observed. However, all these parameters, even after improvement, did not reach the levels of control subjects. Our results suggest that Sc may have a preventive and protective effect in oxidative damage progression associated with diabetes mellitus and its complications. If our data will be confirmed, Sc supplementation might become a further tool in the management of this disease, especially in view of its easy availability, safety, low cost, and absence of side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Raffaelli
- a Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, Biology and Physics , Marche Polytechnic University , Ancona , Italy
| | - Francesca Borroni
- a Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, Biology and Physics , Marche Polytechnic University , Ancona , Italy
| | - Alessandro Alidori
- a Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, Biology and Physics , Marche Polytechnic University , Ancona , Italy
| | - Giacomo Tirabassi
- b Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Division of Endocrinology , Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria, Ospedali Riuniti, Marche Polytechnic University , Ancona , Italy , and
| | - Emanuela Faloia
- b Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Division of Endocrinology , Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria, Ospedali Riuniti, Marche Polytechnic University , Ancona , Italy , and
| | - Rosa Anna Rabini
- c Diabetology Department , INRCA Geriatric Hospital , Via della Montagnola , Ancona , Italy
| | - Alessia Giulietti
- a Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, Biology and Physics , Marche Polytechnic University , Ancona , Italy
| | - Laura Mazzanti
- a Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, Biology and Physics , Marche Polytechnic University , Ancona , Italy
| | - Laura Nanetti
- a Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, Biology and Physics , Marche Polytechnic University , Ancona , Italy
| | - Arianna Vignini
- a Faculty of Medicine, Department of Clinical Sciences, Section of Biochemistry, Biology and Physics , Marche Polytechnic University , Ancona , Italy
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delli Muti N, Tirabassi G, Lamonica GR, Lenzi A, Balercia G. Diabetes mellitus and late-onset hypogonadism: the role of Glu298Asp endothelial nitric oxide synthase polymorphism. Andrologia 2014; 47:867-71. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/15/2014] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- N. delli Muti
- Andrology Unit; Endocrinology; Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences; Umberto I Hospital; School of Medicine; Polytechnic University of Marche; Ancona Italy
| | - G. Tirabassi
- Andrology Unit; Endocrinology; Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences; Umberto I Hospital; School of Medicine; Polytechnic University of Marche; Ancona Italy
| | - G. R. Lamonica
- Department of Economy; School of Economy; Polytechnic University of Marche; Ancona Italy
| | - A. Lenzi
- Andrology; Pathophysiology of Reproduction and Endocrine Diagnosis Unit; Policlinic Umberto I; University of Rome “La Sapienza”; Rome Italy
| | - G. Balercia
- Andrology Unit; Endocrinology; Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences; Umberto I Hospital; School of Medicine; Polytechnic University of Marche; Ancona Italy
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Delli Muti N, Tirabassi G, Buldreghini E, Lenzi A, Balercia G. Synergistic effect of androgen receptor (CAG repeat length) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (Glu298Asp variant) gene polymorphisms on seminal parameters in men with idiopathic oligoasthenozoospermia. Endocrine 2014; 47:322-4. [PMID: 24522616 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-014-0193-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2013] [Accepted: 01/28/2014] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Nicola Delli Muti
- Andrology Unit, Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, School of Medicine, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Tronto 10/A, 60126, Ancona, Italy
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Tirabassi G, delli Muti N, Buldreghini E, Lenzi A, Balercia G. Central body fat changes in men affected by post-surgical hypogonadotropic hypogonadism undergoing testosterone replacement therapy are modulated by androgen receptor CAG polymorphism. Nutr Metab Cardiovasc Dis 2014; 24:908-913. [PMID: 24787905 DOI: 10.1016/j.numecd.2014.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2013] [Revised: 02/05/2014] [Accepted: 02/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Little is known about the effect of androgen receptor (AR) gene CAG repeat polymorphism in conditioning body composition changes after testosterone replacement therapy (TRT). In this study, we aimed to clarify this aspect by focussing our attention on male post-surgical hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, a condition often associated with partial or total hypopituitarism. METHODS AND RESULTS Fourteen men affected by post-surgical hypogonadotropic hypogonadism and undergoing several replacement hormone therapies were evaluated before and after TRT. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA)-derived body composition measurements, pituitary-dependent hormones and AR gene CAG repeat polymorphism were considered. While testosterone and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels increased after TRT, cortisol concentration decreased. No anthropometric or body composition parameters varied significantly, except for abdominal fat decrease. The number of CAG triplets was positively and significantly correlated with this abdominal fat decrease, while the opposite occurred between the latter and Δ-testosterone. No correlation of IGF-1 or cortisol variation (Δ-) with Δ-abdominal fat was found. At multiple linear regression, after correction for Δ-testosterone, the positive association between CAG triplet number and abdominal fat change was confirmed. CONCLUSIONS In male post-surgical hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, shorter length of AR CAG repeat tract is independently associated with a more marked decrease of abdominal fat after TRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - N delli Muti
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - E Buldreghini
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
| | - A Lenzi
- Andrology, Pathophysiology of Reproduction and Endocrine Diagnosis Unit, Policlinic Umberto I, University of Rome 'La Sapienza', Rome, Italy
| | - G Balercia
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy.
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Abstract
Functional hypercortisolism (FH) is caused by conditions able to chronically activate hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and usually occurs in cases of major depression, anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, alcoholism, diabetes mellitus, simple obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome, obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, panic disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, shift work, and end-stage renal disease. Most of these states belong to pseudo-Cushing disease, a condition which is difficult to distinguish from Cushing's syndrome and characterized not only by biochemical findings but also by objective ones that can be attributed to hypercortisolism (e.g., striae rubrae, central obesity, skin atrophy, easy bruising, etc.). This hormonal imbalance, although reversible and generally mild, could mediate some systemic complications, mainly but not only of a metabolic/cardiovascular nature, which are present in these states and are largely the same as those present in Cushing's syndrome. In this review we aim to discuss the evidence suggesting the emerging negative role for FH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
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Tirabassi G, Biagioli A, Balercia G. Bone benefits of testosterone replacement therapy in male hypogonadism. Panminerva Med 2014; 56:151-163. [PMID: 24994579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
Osteoporosis is an asymptomatic, systemic bone disease characterized by low bone mass and microarchitectural deterioration of bone tissue, resulting in increased bone fragility. Such condition is often underdiagnosed and undertreated, especially in men, therefore considerably increasing the fracture risk. Of note, fracture-related morbidity and mortality is generally higher in men, partly due to greater frailty. On the other hand, male hypogonadism is defined as the failure of the testes to produce androgens, sperm, or both and it is often due to the ageing process. This disorder, in turn, causes many systemic disorders, and it is the condition mainly associated with male osteoporosis. Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is usually prescribed to restore optimal hormone levels, but conflicting data are available about the efficacy of TRT treatment on bone mineral density. In this review we extensively examined literature data about the usefulness of TRT in improving hypogonadism-associated low bone mineral density. Furthermore, we considered the complex relationship between male osteoporosis and hypogonadism, by specifically addressing the role of androgens in male bone physiology and the diagnostic approach to male osteoporosis and hypogonadism and also by dealing with some new related aspects such as the new endocrine pathways between bone and testis and the role of androgen receptor CAG polymorphism on bone density.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche Ancona, Italy -
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Tirabassi G, delli Muti N, Gioia A, Biagioli A, Lenzi A, Balercia G. Effects of testosterone replacement therapy on bone metabolism in male post-surgical hypogonadotropic hypogonadism: focus on the role of androgen receptor CAG polymorphism. J Endocrinol Invest 2014; 37:393-400. [PMID: 24458833 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-014-0052-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2013] [Accepted: 12/20/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION AND AIM The relationship between androgen receptor (AR) CAG polymorphism and bone metabolism is highly controversial. We, therefore, aimed to evaluate the independent role of AR CAG repeat polymorphism on bone metabolism improvement induced by testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in male post-surgical hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, a condition frequently associated with hypopituitarism and in which the effects of TRT have to be distinguished from those resulting from concomitant administration of pituitary function replacing hormones. METHODS 12 men affected by post-surgical hypogonadotropic hypogonadism [mean duration of hypogonadism 8.3 ± 2.05 (SD) months] were retrospectively assessed before and after TRT (from 74 to 84 weeks after the beginning of therapy). The following measures were studied: parameters of bone metabolism [serum markers and bone mineral density (BMD)], pituitary dependent hormones and genetic analysis (AR CAG repeat number). RESULTS Total testosterone, estradiol, free T4 (FT4) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) increased between the two phases, while follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) decreased. While serum markers did not vary significantly between the two phases, BMD improved slightly but significantly in all the studied sites. The number of CAG triplets correlated negatively and significantly with all the variations (Δ-) of BMDs. Conversely, Δ-testosterone correlated positively and significantly with all studied Δ-BMDs, while Δ-FSH, Δ-estradiol, Δ-FT4, and Δ-IGF-1 did not correlate significantly with any of the Δ-BMDs. Multiple linear regression analysis, after correction for Δ-testosterone, showed that CAG repeat length was negatively and significantly associated with ∆-BMD of all measured sites. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that, in post-surgical male hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, shorter AR CAG tract is independently associated with greater TRT-induced improvement of BMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, 60126, Ancona, Italy
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Tirabassi G, Delli Muti N, Corona G, Maggi M, Balercia G. Androgen receptor gene CAG repeat polymorphism independently influences recovery of male sexual function after testosterone replacement therapy in postsurgical hypogonadotropic hypogonadism. J Sex Med 2014; 11:1302-8. [PMID: 24593124 DOI: 10.1111/jsm.12493] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Few and contradictory studies have evaluated the possible influence of androgen receptor (AR) gene CAG repeat polymorphism on male sexual function. AIM In this study we evaluated the role of AR gene CAG repeat polymorphism in the recovery of sexual function after testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in men affected by postsurgical hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, a condition which is often associated with hypopituitarism and in which the sexual benefits of TRT must be distinguished from those of pituitary-function replacement therapies. METHODS Fifteen men affected by postsurgical hypogonadotropic hypogonadism were retrospectively assessed before and after TRT. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Main outcome measures included sexual parameters as assessed by the International Index of Erectile Function questionnaire, levels of pituitary dependent hormones (total testosterone, free T3, free T4, cortisol, insulin-like growth factor-1 [IGF-1], prolactin), and results of genetic analysis (AR gene CAG repeat number). RESULTS Plasma concentrations of free T3, free T4, cortisol, and prolactin did not vary significantly between the two phases, while testosterone and IGF-1 increased significantly after TRT. A significant improvement in all sexual parameters studied was found. The number of CAG triplets was negatively and significantly correlated with changes in all the sexual parameters, while opposite correlations were found between changes in sexual parameters and changes in testosterone levels; no correlation of change in IGF1 with change in sexual parameters was reported. On multiple linear regression analysis, after correction for changes in testosterone, nearly all the associations between the number of CAG triplets and changes in sexual parameters were confirmed. CONCLUSIONS Shorter length AR gene CAG repeat number is associated with the recovery of sexual function after TRT in postsurgical male hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, independently of the effects of concomitant pituitary-replacement therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Tirabassi
- Andrology Unit, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
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Giuli C, Papa R, Bevilacqua R, Felici E, Gagliardi C, Marcellini F, Boscaro M, De Robertis M, Mocchegiani E, Faloia E, Tirabassi G. Correlates of perceived health related quality of life in obese, overweight and normal weight older adults: an observational study. BMC Public Health 2014; 14:35. [PMID: 24428944 PMCID: PMC3898396 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2458-14-35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2013] [Accepted: 01/09/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Obesity is a complex multifactorial disease, which also has an impact on quality of life. The aim of this paper is to identify the correlates of perceived health related quality of life in obese, overweight and normal weight Italians older adults. Methods 205 subjects at the age ≥ 60 yrs. were recruited into the Division of Endocrinology of the Polytechnic University of Marche Region, Ancona (Italy). A protocol of questionnaires was constructed for data collection, and included domains such as physical activity, quality of life, socio-psychological aspects. The association of the latter variables with SF-36 Health Survey physical component (PCS-36) were evaluated in the whole sample. Multiple linear regression models were used to assess the effect of independent variables on PCS-36 and the physical subscales of SF-36. Results PCS-36 showed a lower score in the obese and overweight subjects than the normal weight group (post-hoc test, p < 0.001 and p < 0.05 respectively). Age, gender (male), Body Mass Index, years of education, Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE) total score, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale anxiety, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale depression, number of medications prescribed and number of diseases were included in the model. Negative and significant PCS-associated variables included depression (p = 0.009), BMI (p = 0.001), age in years (p = 0.007), whereas positive and significant PCS-associated independent variables were years of education (p = 0.022), physical activity (p = 0.026). BMI was negatively associated with all the physical subscales of SF-36 (p < 0.05). Conclusions Research funding should be invested in the study of the benefits accruing from reducing obesity in the elderly.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cinzia Giuli
- Unit of Geriatrics, INRCA (Italian National Institute on Aging), Fermo, Italy.
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Navazio A, Manca F, Guerri E, Di Girolamo A, Mazzi A, Tirabassi G, Negut C, Zanasi V, Calanda L, Michelini R. Follow up modalities significantly improve the efficacy of cardiac resynchronization therapy in patients with congestive heart failure. Eur Heart J 2013. [DOI: 10.1093/eurheartj/eht310.p5727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Abstract
Cardiovascular (CV) disease is one of the most common causes of death in the western populations and, nowadays, its incidence is increasing even in the developing countries; although CV disease affects both sexes, it is more frequent in males in whom it shortens the average life expectancy. In this regard, this difference has been wrongly attributed for many years to the negative effects of testosterone (T); however, nowadays, a large amount of evidence suggests that this hormone may have protective effects on the CV system and that, indeed, the low levels of T could be associated with an increased CV risk and with an augmentation of morbidity and mortality in males. Such an aspect gains great relevance in light of the consideration that T decrease, besides occurring as a consequence of rare pathological conditions, can often take place with natural aging, causing a state of "male menopause", also called late-onset hypogonadism. In this review, we aimed to summarize the present state of the art concerning the association between T deficit and CV disease by analyzing the protective role of T on CV system and the relationship of this hormonal lack with metabolic syndrome, CV morbidity and mortality, and with the CV complications, such as ischemic heart disease, heart failure and stroke, that frequently occur in T deficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Via Conca 71, 60126, Ancona, Italy
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Tirabassi G, delli Muti N, Corona G, Maggi M, Balercia G. Androgen Receptor Gene CAG Repeat Polymorphism Regulates the Metabolic Effects of Testosterone Replacement Therapy in Male Postsurgical Hypogonadotropic Hypogonadism. Int J Endocrinol 2013; 2013:816740. [PMID: 24454369 PMCID: PMC3876679 DOI: 10.1155/2013/816740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2013] [Accepted: 11/04/2013] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim. To evaluate the independent role of androgen receptor (AR) gene CAG repeat polymorphism on metabolic effects of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) in male postsurgical hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, a condition frequently associated with hypopituitarism and in which the TRT-related metabolic effects are combined with those deriving from concomitant administration of metabolically active pituitary-function replacement therapies. Methods. 15 men affected by postsurgical hypogonadotropic hypogonadism were evaluated before and after TRT. Cardiovascular risk factors (CVRFs), pituitary-dependent hormones, and AR gene CAG repeat polymorphism were considered. Results. Testosterone, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), and estradiol were the only hormones, which varied significantly between the two phases. All CVRFs significantly improved after TRT. The number of CAG triplets was positively and significantly correlated with all the variations (Δ-) of CVRFs (except for a significant negative correlation with Δ-high-density lipoprotein); the opposite occurred between the latter and Δ-testosterone. No correlation between Δ-IGF-1 or estradiol and Δ-CVRFs was found. At multiple linear regression, after correction for Δ-testosterone, nearly all the associations between the number of CAG triplets and Δ-CVRFs were confirmed. Conclusions. In male postsurgical hypogonadotropic hypogonadism, shorter AR gene CAG tract length seems to yield greater metabolic improvement after TRT, independently of the effects of concomitant pituitary-function replacement therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Tirabassi
- Andrology Unit, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Nicola delli Muti
- Andrology Unit, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy
| | - Giovanni Corona
- Endocrinology Unit, Azienda Usl di Bologna, Maggiore-Bellaria Hospital, Bologna, Italy
- Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical Physiopathology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Mario Maggi
- Andrology Unit, Department of Clinical Physiopathology, University of Florence, Florence, Italy
| | - Giancarlo Balercia
- Andrology Unit, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy
- *Giancarlo Balercia:
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Tirabassi G, Giovannini L, Paggi F, Panin G, Panin F, Papa R, Boscaro M, Balercia G. Possible efficacy of Lavender and Tea tree oils in the treatment of young women affected by mild idiopathic hirsutism. J Endocrinol Invest 2013; 36:50-4. [PMID: 23211454 DOI: 10.3275/8766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Hirsutism is defined as the presence of excessive terminal hair in androgen-dependent areas of a woman's body. Regarding this it has been suggested that Lavender and Tea tree oils may have antiandrogenic activities. AIM To evaluate therapy based on Lavender and Tea tree oils in women suffering from mild idiopathic hirsutism (IH). SUBJECTS AND METHODS A prospective, open-label, placebo- controlled, randomized study was performed: women affected by mild IH were randomly assigned to receive oil spray containing Lavender and Tea tree oils (group T) (no. = 12) or placebo (group P) (no. = 12) twice a day for 3 months in areas affected by hirsutism. Evaluation of hirsutism was carried out at baseline and after 3 months by Ferriman-Gallwey score and by measuring hair diameter taken from some body areas. A hematological and hormonal evaluation was carried out at baseline and after 3 months. RESULTS No significant variations were found in any of the hormones studied in groups T and P between baseline and after 3 months. A statistically significant decrease of hirsutism total score and of hair diameter was found in group T, while no statistically significant difference in these two parameters was observed in group P; in group T percentual reduction of hair diameter was significantly greater than in group P. CONCLUSIONS Lavender and Tea tree oils applied locally on skin could be effective in reducing mild IH; this treatment could represent a safe, economic and practical instrument in the cure of this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60126 Ancona, Italy
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Zizzi A, Tirabassi G, Aspriello SD, Piemontese M, Rubini C, Lucarini G. Gingival advanced glycation end-products in diabetes mellitus-associated chronic periodontitis: an immunohistochemical study. J Periodontal Res 2012; 48:293-301. [PMID: 23017082 DOI: 10.1111/jre.12007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE The accumulation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs) seems to play an important role in the development of diabetes mellitus (DM)-associated periodontitis; however, some aspects of this issue are still scarcely known, such as the expression of AGEs in type 1 DM-associated periodontitis and the clinical factors able to affect their accumulation. This study aimed to clarify these points by evaluating the expression of AGEs in DM-associated periodontitis. MATERIAL AND METHODS Sixteen systemically and periodontally healthy subjects and 48 subjects suffering from generalized, severe, chronic periodontitis (16 with type 1 DM, 16 with type 2 DM and 16 systemically healthy subjects) were studied clinically, periodontally and metabolically. The immunohistochemical expression of AGEs in gingival tissues was also evaluated. RESULTS Subjects affected with type 1 DM presented a significantly higher percentage of AGE-positive cells than did subjects affected with type 2 DM, not only in the epithelium, but also in vessels and fibroblasts. A positive and significant correlation was found between gingival expression of AGEs and length of time affected with DM both in type 1 and type 2 DM; glycated hemoglobin, lipid profile, body mass index and age did not correlate significantly with gingival AGEs in any of the classes of subjects studied. CONCLUSIONS Gingival AGEs are increased in both type 1 and type 2 DM-associated periodontitis; however, the clinical parameter that determines their accumulation, and therefore their degree of influence on the development of DM-associated periodontitis, may be the duration of DM.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Zizzi
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Public Health - Pathological Anatomy and Histopathology, School of Medicine, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy
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Tirabassi G, Kola B, Ferretti M, Papa R, Mancini T, Mantero F, Scarpelli M, Boscaro M, Arnaldi G. Fine-needle aspiration cytology of adrenal masses: a re-assessment with histological confirmation. J Endocrinol Invest 2012; 35:590-4. [PMID: 21979196 DOI: 10.3275/8010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) of adrenal masses is a method currently indicated in lesions suspected of being extra-adrenal in origin; even though its diagnostic reliability has already been determined in many studies, few have used histological examination obtained after adrenalectomy for diagnostic confirmation. AIM To analyze the diagnostic performance of adrenal FNA in subjects with an available histological confirmation. SUBJECTS AND METHODS Fifty subjects (26 benign adrenal lesions, 9 primary malignant lesions, and 15 metastatic lesions) who had undergone ultrasound (US)-guided adrenal FNA and then adrenalectomy were re-analyzed retrospectively. RESULTS FNA guaranteed a sensitivity of 85.7% and a specificity of 100% in all subjects; after having divided the subjects into oncologic and non-oncologic groups, the sensitivity of the test in oncologic patients (100%) increased significantly compared to non-oncologic (57.1%) with no difference in specificity (100% in both groups). Considering also non-diagnostic samples in our analysis (no.=11; 22% of all samples studied), FNA correctly diagnosed malignancy only in 75% of the cases and benignancy only in 66.6%; however, even after including non-diagnostic samples, the percentage of correct malignancy diagnosis remained significantly higher in oncologic (93.3%) than in non-oncologic patients (44.4%) without significant statistical difference between the 2 groups regarding the percentage of correct benignancy diagnosis (respectively 100% and 63.6%). CONCLUSIONS Our study, based on histological confirmation, underlines the low discriminant value of US-guided adrenal FNA, though the method may have value in oncologic patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Applied Biotechnologies, Polytechnic University of Marche, Torrette, Ancona, Italy
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Arnaldi G, Mancini T, Tirabassi G, Trementino L, Boscaro M. Advances in the epidemiology, pathogenesis, and management of Cushing's syndrome complications. J Endocrinol Invest 2012; 35:434-48. [PMID: 22652826 DOI: 10.1007/bf03345431] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Cushing's syndrome (CS) is a clinical condition resulting from chronic exposure to glucocorticoid excess. As a consequence, hypercortisolism contributes significantly to the early development of systemic disorders by direct and/or indirect effects. Complications such as obesity, hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and hypercoagulability cause premature atherosclerosis and increase cardiovascular mortality. Impairment of the skeletal system is a relevant cause of morbidity and disability in these patients especially due to the high prevalence of vertebral fractures. In addition, muscle weakness, emotional lability, depression, and impairment of quality of life are very common. Clinical management of these patients is complex and should be particularly careful in identifying global cardiovascular risks and aim at controlling all complications. Although the primary goal in the prevention and treatment of complications is the correction of hypercortisolism, treatment does not completely eliminate these comorbidities. Given that cardiovascular risk and fracture risk can persist after cure, early detection of each morbidity could prevent the development of irreversible damage. In this review we present the various complications of CS and their pathogenetic mechanisms. We also suggest the clinical management of these patients based on our extensive clinical experience and on the available literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Arnaldi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical and Molecular Sciences, Umberto I Hospital, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy.
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Granata A, Tirabassi G, Pugni V, Arnaldi G, Boscaro M, Carani C, Balercia G. Sexual dysfunctions in men affected by autoimmune Addison's disease before and after short-term gluco- and mineralocorticoid replacement therapy. J Sex Med 2012; 10:2036-43. [PMID: 22429298 DOI: 10.1111/j.1743-6109.2012.02673.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is evidence suggesting that autoimmune Addison's disease (AD) could be associated with sexual dysfunctions probably caused by gluco- and mineralocorticoid deficiency; however, no study has yet treated this subject in males. AIM To evaluate male sexuality and psychological correlates in autoimmune AD before and after gluco- and mineralocorticoid replacement therapy. METHODS Twelve subjects with a first diagnosis of autoimmune AD were studied before (baseline) and 2 months after (recovery phase) initiating hormone replacement therapy. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Erectile function (EF), orgasmic function (OF), sexual desire (SD), intercourse satisfaction (IS), overall satisfaction (OS), depression, and anxiety were studied using a number of questionnaires (International Index of Erectile Function, Beck Depression Inventory, and Spielberger State-Trait Anxiety Inventory); clinical, biochemical, and hormone data were included in the analysis. RESULTS At baseline, low values were found for EF, OF, SD, IS, and OS and high values for depression and anxiety; all of these parameters improved significantly in the recovery phase compared with baseline. EF variation between the two phases correlated significantly and positively with the variation of serum cortisol, urinary free cortisol, systolic blood pressure, and diastolic blood pressure and inversely with that of upright plasma renin activity. Multiple linear regression analysis using EF variation as dependent variable confirmed the relationship of the latter with variation of serum cortisol, urinary free cortisol, and upright plasma renin activity but not with variation of systolic and diastolic blood pressure. CONCLUSIONS Our study showed that onset of autoimmune AD in males is associated with a number of sexual dysfunctions, all reversible after initiating replacement hormone therapy; cortisol and aldosterone deficiency seems to play an important role in the genesis of erectile dysfunction although the mechanism of their activity is not clear.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio Granata
- Endocrinology and Metabolic Diseases, University of Modena, Modena, Italy
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Tirabassi G, Papa R, Faloia E, Boscaro M, Arnaldi G. Corticotrophin-releasing hormone and desmopressin tests in the differential diagnosis between Cushing's disease and pseudo-Cushing state: a comparative study. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2011; 75:666-72. [PMID: 21554373 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2265.2011.04096.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND We recently proposed a new and effective way of interpreting human corticotrophin-releasing hormone (hCRH) and desmopressin (DDAVP) tests, for the differential diagnosis between Cushing's disease (CD) and pseudo-Cushing state (PC), based on the simultaneous analysis of ACTH and cortisol. OBJECTIVE The study had the aims of comparing the diagnostic performance of the two tests and determining whether carrying out both tests was more beneficial than carrying out only one. PATIENTS AND MEASUREMENTS We studied 30 CD, 18 PC and 12 control (CT) subjects: in these patients, hCRH test, DDAVP test, 24-h urinary free cortisol, serum cortisol after overnight 1-mg dexamethasone suppression test and serum cortisol circadian rhythm were performed. RESULTS The hCRH test and the DDAVP test showed an identical and excellent diagnostic performance (sensitivity 96·6% and specificity 100% for both tests); moreover, the hCRH and DDAVP tests showed almost perfect diagnostic agreement (κ = 0·93; P < 0·05) with a significantly higher number of concordant diagnoses (58 cases of 60) than those resulting from all other possible combinations among the studied tests. Interestingly, there were no subjects in whom both hCRH and DDAVP tests gave a simultaneous misdiagnosis. CONCLUSIONS Our study indicates that the hCRH and DDAVP tests have similar diagnostic performance and present excellent agreement, without giving simultaneous misdiagnosis in any subject. Because of these characteristics, the use of both tests offers the physician a valuable tool for those cases of hypercortisolism which are difficult to interpret.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Tirabassi
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Clinical Medicine and Applied Biotechnologies, Polytechnic University of Marche, Torrette, Italy
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Abstract
A large body of in vitro evidence shows that cytokines influence the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis both in physiological conditions and in Cushing's disease (CD). In order to study in vivo the role of intrapituitary cytokines in CD, we assayed two cytokines known for their action on the pituitary, i.e. interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and interleukin-6 (IL-6), and also soluble interleukin-6 receptor (sIL-6R), important for the neural activities of IL-6, in a carefully selected sample of subjects affected by CD undergoing bilateral inferior petrosal sinus sampling. Similarly to ACTH, all cytokines basally showed a higher concentration in the ipsilateral sinus compared to the controlateral one and to that of peripheral blood; after CRH infusion, both ipsilaterally and controlaterally, IL-6 and sIL-6R values increased compared to basal ones, while IL-1β increased significantly up to 5 min after CRH and then decreased significantly compared to basal values in subsequent measurements; peripherically no significant variations in the cytokines were observed after CRH. Again similarly to ACTH, the three cytokines presented a higher increase ipsilaterally than controlaterally; moreover all three interleukins in the ipsilateral sinuses showed positive and significant correlations between their basal value and that of basal ACTH. These findings allow us to hypothesize that the central production of IL-1β and IL-6 could be involved in ACTH hypersecretion which occurs in CD: more specifically, we hypothesize that these cytokines are produced directly by the corticotroph adenoma and have the task of enhancing tumoral secretion of ACTH with an autocrine-paracrine mechanism.
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Aspriello SD, Zizzi A, Tirabassi G, Buldreghini E, Biscotti T, Faloia E, Stramazzotti D, Boscaro M, Piemontese M. Diabetes mellitus-associated periodontitis: differences between type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus. J Periodontal Res 2010; 46:164-9. [PMID: 21108647 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0765.2010.01324.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Although many studies have appeared about diabetes mellitus-associated periodontitis, few have compared periodontitis inflammatory markers between type 1 (T1DM) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), and information regarding this issue is scarce and contradictory. We evaluated the levels of plasma C-reactive protein and of interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumour necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) in gingival crevicular fluid in two groups of subjects affected by T1DM and T2DM, in order to identify possible differences between the two classes in the inflammatory mechanisms of diabetes mellitus-associated periodontitis. MATERIAL AND METHODS Plasma C-reactive protein and gingival crevicular fluid IL-1β, IL-6 and TNF-α were measured in periodontitis patients affected by type 1 (P-T1DM, n = 24) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (P-T2DM, n = 24). RESULTS Gingival crevicular fluid levels of IL-1β and TNF-α in P-T1DM subjects were significantly higher than in P-T2DM subjects. In P-T1DM subjects, we found significant negative correlations between the duration of diabetes mellitus and IL-1β and between the duration of diabetes mellitus and TNF-α. CONCLUSION This study shows that IL-1β and TNF-α levels in periodontitis patients with T1DM are affected by the duration of diabetes mellitus.
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Affiliation(s)
- S D Aspriello
- Division of Periodontology, Department of Clinical and Dental Sciences, Polytechnic University of Marche, Torrette, Ancona, Italy
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Tirabassi G, Faloia E, Papa R, Furlani G, Boscaro M, Arnaldi G. Use of the desmopressin test in the differential diagnosis of pseudo-Cushing state from Cushing's disease. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2010; 95:1115-22. [PMID: 20080839 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2009-1146] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT The desmopressin (DDAVP) test has been proposed to discriminate Cushing's disease (CD) from pseudo-Cushing states (PC); however, current information on its value is scarce and contradictory. OBJECTIVE The aim of the study was to assess the ability of the DDAVP test in distinguishing between these conditions, with emphasis on subjects with mild hypercortisolism. DESIGN AND SETTING We conducted a retrospective/prospective study at the Division of Endocrinology, Polytechnic University of Marche, Ancona, Italy. PATIENTS The study included 52 subjects with CD, 28 with PC, and 31 control subjects (CT). INTERVENTION(S) We performed the DDAVP test and standard diagnostic procedures for the diagnosis of Cushing's syndrome. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The diagnosis/exclusion of CD was measured. RESULTS Interpretation of the DDAVP test based on percentage and absolute increment of cortisol and ACTH did not afford acceptable values of both sensitivity (SE) and specificity (SP). CD diagnosis based on simultaneous positivity for basal serum cortisol greater than 331 nmol/liter and absolute ACTH increment greater than 4 pmol/liter and its exclusion in subjects negative for one or both measures yielded an SE of 90.3% and an SP of 91.5%. The approach was also highly effective in distinguishing PC from: 1) CD with moderate values of urinary free cortisol (SE, 86.9%; SP, 92.8%); 2) CD with moderate values of serum cortisol after dexamethasone suppression (SE, 86.6%; SP, 92.8%); and 3) CD with moderate values of midnight serum cortisol (SE, 100%; SP, 92.8%). CONCLUSIONS Interpretation of the DDAVP test through a combination of parameters allowed effective discrimination of CD from PC, even in subjects with mild hypercortisolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Tirabassi
- Clinica di Endocrinologia, Ospedali Riuniti, Via Conca 71, 60020 Ancona, Italy
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Aspriello SD, Zizzi A, Lucarini G, Rubini C, Faloia E, Boscaro M, Tirabassi G, Piemontese M. Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Microvessel Density in Periodontitis Patients With and Without Diabetes. J Periodontol 2009; 80:1783-9. [DOI: 10.1902/jop.2009.090239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Arnaldi G, Tirabassi G, Papa R, Furlani G, Trementino L, Cardinaletti M, Faloia E, Boscaro M. Human corticotropin releasing hormone test performance in the differential diagnosis between Cushing's disease and pseudo-Cushing state is enhanced by combined ACTH and cortisol analysis. Eur J Endocrinol 2009; 160:891-8. [PMID: 19321661 DOI: 10.1530/eje-09-0125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) test does not reliably distinguish Cushing's disease (CD) from normality or pseudo-Cushing state (PC). We assessed whether this could be achieved with a novel approach while preserving the ability of the test to distinguish CD from ectopic ACTH syndrome (EAS). Design Retrospective/prospective study. SUBJECTS AND METHODS We studied 51 subjects with CD, 7 with EAS, 26 with PC, and 31 controls (CT). Human CRH (hCRH) test was performed at 0830 h by measuring plasma ACTH and serum cortisol at -15, 0, 15, 30, 45, 60, 90, and 120 min. RESULTS The area under the curve-ACTH exhibited a significant negative correlation with baseline serum cortisol in CT and PC, but not in CD or EAS patients. ACTH response to hCRH was blunted in PC compared with CT, whereas peak serum cortisol was higher in PC than in CT subjects. These findings suggested that ACTH-dependent Cushing's syndrome can be diagnosed by the presence of two hCRH test parameters and excluded if either or both are absent. Application of i) basal serum cortisol >12 microg/dl and peak plasma ACTH >54 pg/ml, or ii) peak serum cortisol >21 microg/dl and peak plasma ACTH >45 pg/ml, had 91.3% (95% confidence intervals (CI) 81-97.1) and 94.8% (CI 85.6-98.9) sensitivity and 98.2% (CI 90.6-99.9) and 91.2% (CI 80.7-97) specificity respectively, in diagnosing ACTH-dependent Cushing's syndrome. The >14% serum cortisol increase from mean baseline values to the mean of 15 and 30 min values in patients who were positive for the test completely discriminated between CD and EAS. CONCLUSIONS Simultaneous plasma ACTH and serum cortisol analysis enables the hCRH test to distinguish CD from PC and from normality, while preserving its ability to discriminate CD from EAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgio Arnaldi
- Division of Endocrinology, Polytechnic University of Marche, 60100 Ancona, Italy Social Gerontology Unit, Research Department, INRCA (Italian National Institute on Ageing), 60100 Ancona, Italy
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