Search Results

You are looking at 111 - 120 of 543 items for

  • Abstract: Aging x
  • Abstract: Inflammation x
  • Abstract: Late effects of cancer treatment x
Clear All Modify Search
Natalio García-Honduvilla Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
Networking Biomedical Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain
Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
University Center of Defense of Madrid (CUD-ACD), Madrid, Spain

Search for other papers by Natalio García-Honduvilla in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Alberto Cifuentes Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
Networking Biomedical Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain
Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain

Search for other papers by Alberto Cifuentes in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Miguel A Ortega Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
Networking Biomedical Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain
Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain

Search for other papers by Miguel A Ortega in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Marta Pastor Biopraxis Research AIE, Álava, Spain

Search for other papers by Marta Pastor in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Garazi Gainza Biopraxis Research AIE, Álava, Spain

Search for other papers by Garazi Gainza in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Eusebio Gainza Biopraxis Research AIE, Álava, Spain

Search for other papers by Eusebio Gainza in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Julia Buján Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
Networking Biomedical Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain
Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
University Center of Defense of Madrid (CUD-ACD), Madrid, Spain

Search for other papers by Julia Buján in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
, and
Melchor Álvarez-Mon Department of Medicine and Medical Specialities, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
Networking Biomedical Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Madrid, Spain
Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
University Center of Defense of Madrid (CUD-ACD), Madrid, Spain
Immune System Diseases-Rheumatology and Oncology Service, University Hospital Príncipe de Asturias, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain

Search for other papers by Melchor Álvarez-Mon in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close

Wound healing is a complex process that can be severely impaired due to pathological situations such as diabetes mellitus. Diabetic foot ulcers are a common complication of this pathology and are characterized by an excessive inflammatory response. In this work, the effects of local treatment with recombinant human epidermal growth factor (rhEGF) were studied using a full-thickness wound healing model in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Wound healing process was assessed with different concentrations of rhEGF (0.1, 0.5, 2.0 and 8.0 µg/mL), placebo and both diabetic and non-diabetic controls (n = 53). The macroscopic healing observed in treated diabetic rats was affected by rhEGF concentration. Histologically, we also observed an improvement in the epithelialization, granulation tissue formation and maturation in treated groups, finding again the best response at doses of 0.5 and 2.0 µg/mL. Afterwards, the tissue immune response over time was assessed in diabetic rats using the most effective concentrations of rhEGF (0.5 and 2.0 µg/mL), compared to controls. The presence of macrophages, CD4+ T lymphocytes and CD8+ T lymphocytes, in the reparative tissue was quantified, and cytokine expression was measured by quantitative real-time PCR. rhEGF treatment caused a reduction in the number of infiltrating macrophages in the healing tissue of diabetic, as well as diminished activation of these leukocytes. These findings show that local administration of rhEGF improves the healing process of excisional wounds and the quality of the neoformed tissue in a dose-dependent manner. Besides, this treatment reduces the local inflammation associated with diabetic healing, indicating immuno-modulatory properties.

Open access
Nikolaj Rittig Department of Internal Medicine and Endocrinology (MEA) and Medical Research Laboratory, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus C, Denmark

Search for other papers by Nikolaj Rittig in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Mads Svart Department of Internal Medicine and Endocrinology (MEA) and Medical Research Laboratory, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus C, Denmark

Search for other papers by Mads Svart in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Niels Jessen Research Laboratory for Biochemical Pathology, Institute for Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus C, Denmark

Search for other papers by Niels Jessen in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Niels Møller Department of Internal Medicine and Endocrinology (MEA) and Medical Research Laboratory, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus C, Denmark

Search for other papers by Niels Møller in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Holger J Møller Department of Clinical Biochemistry Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus C, Denmark

Search for other papers by Holger J Møller in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
, and
Henning Grønbæk Department of Hepatology and Gastroenterology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus C, Denmark

Search for other papers by Henning Grønbæk in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close

Background

Macrophage activation determined by levels of soluble sCD163 is associated with obesity, insulin resistance, diabetes mellitus type 2 (DM2) and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This suggests that macrophage activation is involved in the pathogenesis of conditions is characterised by adaptions in the lipid metabolism. Since sCD163 is shed to serum by inflammatory signals including lipopolysaccharides (LPS, endotoxin), we investigated sCD163 and correlations with lipid metabolism following LPS exposure.

Methods

Eight healthy male subjects were investigated on two separate occasions: (i) following an LPS exposure and (ii) following saline exposure. Each study day consisted of a four-hour non-insulin-stimulated period followed by a two-hour hyperinsulinemic euglycemic clamp period. A 3H-palmitate tracer was used to calculate the rate of appearance (Rapalmitate). Blood samples were consecutively obtained throughout each study day. Abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue was obtained for western blotting.

Results

We observed a significant two-fold increase in plasma sCD163 levels following LPS exposure (P < 0.001), and sCD163 concentrations correlated positively with the plasma concentration of free fatty acids, Rapalmitate, lipid oxidation rates and phosphorylation of the hormone-sensitive lipase at serine 660 in adipose tissue (P < 0.05, all). Furthermore, sCD163 concentrations correlated positively with plasma concentrations of cortisol, glucagon, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)-α, interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-10 (P < 0.05, all).

Conclusion

We observed a strong correlation between sCD163 and stimulation of lipolysis and fat oxidation following LPS exposure. These findings support preexisting theory that inflammation and macrophage activation play a significant role in lipid metabolic adaptions under conditions such as obesity, DM2 and NAFLD.

Open access
Zhaoxiang Liu Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China

Search for other papers by Zhaoxiang Liu in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Mingqiang Zhang Department of Respiratory and Critical Care Medicine, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China

Search for other papers by Mingqiang Zhang in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Xiaohu Shi Department of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Peking Union Medical College, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Beijing, China

Search for other papers by Xiaohu Shi in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Wenhui Zhao Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China

Search for other papers by Wenhui Zhao in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Chenxiang Cao Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China

Search for other papers by Chenxiang Cao in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Lixia Jin Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China

Search for other papers by Lixia Jin in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Yanlei Wang Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China

Search for other papers by Yanlei Wang in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
, and
Jianzhong Xiao Department of Endocrinology, Beijing Tsinghua Changgung Hospital, School of Clinical Medicine, Tsinghua University, Beijing, China

Search for other papers by Jianzhong Xiao in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close

Objectives

The activation of immune cells plays a significant role in the progression of type 2 diabetes. This study aimed to investigate the potential role of myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSCs) and T-regulatory cells (Tregs) in type 2 diabetes.

Methods

A total of 61 patients diagnosed with type 2 diabetes were recruited. Clinical characteristics were reviewed and peripheral blood samples were collected. We calculated the percentage of different cells. Frequencies of MDSC subsets refered to the percentage of G-MDSCs (CD15+CD33+CD11b+CD14-HLA-DR-/low) in CD45 positive cells and the percentage of M-MDSCs (CD14+CD15-CD11b+CD33+HLA-DR-/low) in lymphocytes plus monocytes.

Results

Frequencies of programmed cell death ligand 1-positive granulocytic MDSCs (PD-L1+ G-MDSCs), programmed cell death ligand 2-positive monocytic MDSCs (PD-L2+ M-MDSCs), PD-L2+ G-MDSC, and programmed cell death protein 1-positive Tregs (PD-1+Tregs) were decreased in patients with type 2 diabetes. The frequency of PD-1+ Tregs was positively related to PD-L2+ M-MDSCs (r= 0.357, P = 0.009) and negatively related to HbA1c (r = -0.265, P = 0.042), fasting insulin level (r = −0.260, P = 0.047), and waist circumference (r = −0.373, P = 0.005).

Conclusions

Decreased PD-L2+ M-MDSCs and PD-1+ Tregs may promote effector T cell activation, leading to chronic low-grade inflammation in type 2 diabetes. These findings highlight the contribution of MDSCs and Tregs to the immunopathogenesis of type 2 diabetes and suggest their potential as targets for new therapeutic approaches.

Open access
Clara Lundetoft Clausen Center of Research & Disruption of Infectious Diseases, Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital - Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark

Search for other papers by Clara Lundetoft Clausen in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Trine Holm Johannsen Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark

Search for other papers by Trine Holm Johannsen in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Niels Erik Skakkebæk Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark

Search for other papers by Niels Erik Skakkebæk in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Hanne Frederiksen Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark

Search for other papers by Hanne Frederiksen in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Anders Juul Department of Growth and Reproduction, Copenhagen University Hospital - Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark

Search for other papers by Anders Juul in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
, and
Thomas Benfield Center of Research & Disruption of Infectious Diseases, Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital - Amager and Hvidovre, Hvidovre, Denmark
Department of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark

Search for other papers by Thomas Benfield in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close

In the context of severe coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) illness, we examined endogenous glucocorticoid concentrations, steroidogenic enzyme activity, and their correlation with inflammation and patient outcomes. This observational study included 125 hospitalized COVID-19 patients and 101 healthy individuals as a reference group. We utilized LC-MS to assess serum concentrations of 11-deoxycortisol, cortisol, and cortisone, as well as activities of steroidogenic enzymes (11β-hydroxylase and 11β-hydroxysteroid-dehydrogenase type 1). Cox proportional hazards regression analysis and competing risk analysis were employed to analyze associations between glucocorticoid concentrations and outcomes, adjusting for relevant factors. In patients with COVID-19, cortisol concentrations were higher and cortisone concentrations were lower compared to the reference group, while 11-deoxycortisol concentrations were similar. Steroidogenic enzyme activity favored cortisol production. Correlations between glucocorticoid concentrations and inflammatory markers were low. A doubling in concentrations cortisol, was associated with increased 90-day mortality and mechanical ventilation (HR: 2.40 95% CI: (1.03–5.59) , P = 0.042 and HR: 3.83 (1.19–12.31), P = 0.024). A doubling in concentrations of 11-deoxycortisol was also associated to mortality (HR: 1.32 (1.05–1.67), P = 0.018), whereas concentrations of cortisone were associated with mechanical ventilation (HR: 5.09 (1.49–17.40), P = 0.009). In conclusion, serum concentrations of glucocorticoid metabolites were altered in patients hospitalized with severe COVID-19, and steroidogenic enzyme activity resulting in the conversion of cortisone to biologically active cortisol was preserved, thus not favoring critical-illness-related corticosteroid insufficiency at the enzymatic level. Glucocorticoid release did not counterbalance the hyperinflammatory state in patients with severe COVID-19. High serum concentrations of 11-deoxycortisol and cortisol were associated with 90-day mortality, and high serum concentrations of cortisol and cortisone were associated with mechanical ventilation.

Open access
Xiaowen Zhang Department of Endocrinology, Drum Tower Hospital affiliated to Nanjing University Medical School, Branch of National Clinical Research Centre for Metabolic Diseases, Endocrine and Metabolic Disease Medical Center, Drum Tower Hospital affiliated to Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China

Search for other papers by Xiaowen Zhang in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Chen Han Department of Endocrinology, Drum Tower Hospital affiliated to Nanjing University Medical School, Branch of National Clinical Research Centre for Metabolic Diseases, Endocrine and Metabolic Disease Medical Center, Drum Tower Hospital affiliated to Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China
Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Drum Tower Clinical Medical College, Southeast University, Nanjing, China

Search for other papers by Chen Han in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Hongwei Wang State Key Laboratory of Analytical Chemistry for Life Science & Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Molecular Medicine, Nanjing University School of Medicine, Nanjing, China

Search for other papers by Hongwei Wang in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Xinghong Sun Department of Ophthalmology, Nanjing University Medical School Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing, China

Search for other papers by Xinghong Sun in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Xin Dou Department of Radiology, Nanjing University Medical School Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing, China

Search for other papers by Xin Dou in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Xueying He Department of Radiology, Nanjing University Medical School Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing, China

Search for other papers by Xueying He in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Di Wu Department of Radiology, Southeast University Medical School Affiliated Zhongda Hospital, Nanjing, China

Search for other papers by Di Wu in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Shanmei Shen Department of Endocrinology, Drum Tower Hospital affiliated to Nanjing University Medical School, Branch of National Clinical Research Centre for Metabolic Diseases, Endocrine and Metabolic Disease Medical Center, Drum Tower Hospital affiliated to Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China

Search for other papers by Shanmei Shen in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Dalong Zhu Department of Endocrinology, Drum Tower Hospital affiliated to Nanjing University Medical School, Branch of National Clinical Research Centre for Metabolic Diseases, Endocrine and Metabolic Disease Medical Center, Drum Tower Hospital affiliated to Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China

Search for other papers by Dalong Zhu in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Xinlin Zhang Department of Cardiology, Nanjing University Medical School Affiliated Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing, China

Search for other papers by Xinlin Zhang in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
, and
Yan Bi Department of Endocrinology, Drum Tower Hospital affiliated to Nanjing University Medical School, Branch of National Clinical Research Centre for Metabolic Diseases, Endocrine and Metabolic Disease Medical Center, Drum Tower Hospital affiliated to Nanjing University Medical School, Nanjing, China

Search for other papers by Yan Bi in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close

Thyroid eye disease (TED) is the major extrathyroidal manifestation of Graves’ disease (GD). Treatment choice is based on clinical activity and severity of TED, as evaluated with clinical activity score (CAS) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. We aimed to determine the relationship between neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), a readily available indicator of systemic inflammation, and clinical and MR imaging parameters in TED patients. Eighty-seven consecutive TED patients were included. The average signal intensity ratio (SIR), average extraocular muscle (EOM) diameter, and proptosis of the study eye were extracted from MR images. A baseline NLR ≥ 2.0 was recorded in 37 (42.5%) patients and NLR < 2.0 in 50 (57.5%) patients. TED patients with NLR ≥ 2.0 were older, had a higher CAS, average SIR, average EOM diameter and proptosis, and a lower serum thyrotrophin receptor antibody level than patients with NLR < 2.0 (all P < 0.05). All MR parameters showed significant correlation with CAS (P < 0.05). NLR correlated significantly with CAS (P = 0.001), average SIR (P = 0.004), average EOM diameter (P = 0.007), and proptosis (P = 0.007). Multiple regression revealed a significant correlation between NLR and CAS (P = 0.001), average SIR (P = 0.029), and proptosis (P = 0.037). Cox regression analysis showed that a high NLR at baseline was associated with a worse clinical outcome of TED (hazard ratio 3.7, 95% CI 1.22–11.2, P = 0.02), at a median follow-up of 25 months. In conclusion, NLR was correlated with CAS and MR imaging parameters and was associated with a worse clinical outcome of TED at follow-up in patients with TED. Additional prospective studies are needed to validate our findings.

Open access
Claire L Wood Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

Search for other papers by Claire L Wood in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Kieren G Hollingsworth Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

Search for other papers by Kieren G Hollingsworth in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Edrina Bokaie Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

Search for other papers by Edrina Bokaie in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Eric Hughes Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

Search for other papers by Eric Hughes in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Robert Muni-Lofra Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, Newcastle University and Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

Search for other papers by Robert Muni-Lofra in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Anna Mayhew Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, Newcastle University and Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

Search for other papers by Anna Mayhew in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Rod T Mitchell MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, The University of Edinburgh, Queens Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK

Search for other papers by Rod T Mitchell in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Michela Guglieri Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, Newcastle University and Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

Search for other papers by Michela Guglieri in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Joseph McElvaney Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

Search for other papers by Joseph McElvaney in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Timothy D Cheetham Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Royal Victoria Infirmary, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

Search for other papers by Timothy D Cheetham in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
, and
Volker Straub Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK
John Walton Muscular Dystrophy Research Centre, Newcastle University and Newcastle Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK

Search for other papers by Volker Straub in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close

Glucocorticoids (GCs) reduce inflammation and preserve muscle function in boys with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) but cause pubertal delay. Pubertal induction with testosterone is recommended but longer-term outcome is unknown.

Objective

To assess hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis, muscle volume and function 5 years after pubertal induction.

Methods

A prospective observational follow-up of a clinical study was conducted. 15 GC-treated males with DMD were treated with incremental testosterone for 2 years (end of regimen +2 years) then evaluated at +2.5 years and +5 years (final follow-up ~3 years after last injection). Data collected included testicular volume (TV), gonadotrophin, testosterone, inhibin B, muscle function, and limb muscle MRI.

Results

Participants were 18.7 years (s.d. 1.6) at the final follow-up and had been on GC for 11.2 years (s.d. 2.2). Testosterone levels were similar at +2.5 years (8.6 nmol/L (s.d. 3.4) and 5 years (11.0 nmol/L (s.d. 6.1). TV increased from 2.8 mL (s.d. 0.9) at +2 years to 7.1 mL (s.d. 1.8) then 10.6 mL (s.d. 3.5) at +2.5 years and +5.0 years (P < 0.001). Inhibin B levels increased from 55.6 pg/mL (s.d. 47.0) at baseline to 158.2 pg/mL (s.d.87.6), P =0.004 at 5 years but remained lower than reference values (mean 305 pg/mL). Muscle contractile bulk decreased.

Interpretation

Pubertal induction with testosterone in DMD is associated with HPG axis activation and ongoing increases in inhibin B, TV, and testosterone concentrations. Some patients have normal levels which is promising regarding future fertility. Given the beneficial impact of testosterone on bone health, muscle, and well-being, monitoring testosterone levels in this population and supplementation of sub-optimal levels is important.

Open access
Xinyuan Zhang Laboratory of Genetic Disease and Perinatal Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China
School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China

Search for other papers by Xinyuan Zhang in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Suiyan Li School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest Jiaotong University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China

Search for other papers by Suiyan Li in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Hongwei Liu Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China

Search for other papers by Hongwei Liu in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Huai Bai Laboratory of Genetic Disease and Perinatal Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China

Search for other papers by Huai Bai in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Qingqing Liu Laboratory of Genetic Disease and Perinatal Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China

Search for other papers by Qingqing Liu in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Chunyi Yang Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China

Search for other papers by Chunyi Yang in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
, and
Ping Fan Laboratory of Genetic Disease and Perinatal Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, Sichuan, China

Search for other papers by Ping Fan in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close

Oxidative stress and metabolic disorders are involved in the pathogenesis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Heme oxygenase 2 (HMOX2) plays a critical role in preserving heme metabolism as well as in modulating glycolipid metabolism, oxidative stress, and inflammation. This study examined the correlation between HMOX2 G554A (rs1051308) and A-42G (rs2270363) genetic variants with the risk of PCOS and assessed the effects of these genotypes on clinical, hormonal, metabolic, and oxidative stress indices using a case–control design that included 1014 patients with PCOS and 806 control participants. We found that the allelic and genotypic frequencies of the HMOX2 G554A and A-42G polymorphisms were comparable between the PCOS and control groups in Chinese women (P > 0.05). Nevertheless, it was discovered that patients with the AA or AG genotype of A-42G polymorphism had notably elevated levels of estradiol (E2), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), LH/FSH ratio, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), apolipoprotein (apo)B, and/or apoB/apoA1 ratio than those with the GG genotypes (P < 0.05). Patients with the GG or AG genotype of G554A polymorphism had elevated serum levels of LH, FSH, E2, LH/FSH ratio, TC, HDL-C, LDL-C, apoB, and/or apoB/apoA1 ratio and lower 2-h glucose concentration compared with those with the AA genotype (P < 0.05). Our findings indicate a potential association between the genetic variants and endocrine abnormalities in the reproductive system and metabolic irregularities in glycolipid levels in patients, thus suggesting their potential role in the pathogenesis of PCOS.

Open access
Liubov G Yanevskaya Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg, Russia

Search for other papers by Liubov G Yanevskaya in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Tatiana Karonova Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg, Russia
First Pavlov State Medical University, St. Petersburg, Russia

Search for other papers by Tatiana Karonova in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Ilya V Sleptsov Saint-Petersburg State University N.I. Pirogov Clinic of High Medical Technologies, St. Petersburg, Russia

Search for other papers by Ilya V Sleptsov in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Marina Evgenevna Boriskova First Pavlov State Medical University, St. Petersburg, Russia

Search for other papers by Marina Evgenevna Boriskova in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Aluza Ramilevna Bakhtiyarova Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg, Russia

Search for other papers by Aluza Ramilevna Bakhtiyarova in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Roman A Chernikov Saint-Petersburg State University N.I. Pirogov Clinic of High Medical Technologies, St. Petersburg, Russia

Search for other papers by Roman A Chernikov in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Karina Aleksandrovna Pogosian Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg, Russia

Search for other papers by Karina Aleksandrovna Pogosian in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Alena Timurovna Andreeva Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg, Russia

Search for other papers by Alena Timurovna Andreeva in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Denis Andreevich Lebedev Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg, Russia

Search for other papers by Denis Andreevich Lebedev in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Elena Nikolaevna Grineva Almazov National Medical Research Centre, St. Petersburg, Russia
First Pavlov State Medical University, St. Petersburg, Russia

Search for other papers by Elena Nikolaevna Grineva in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
, and
John P Bilezikian College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York, USA

Search for other papers by John P Bilezikian in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close

Objective

The aim of our study was to investigate the distribution of the PHPT clinical manifestations and biochemical features in patients who underwent parathyroidectomy.

Materials and methods

Medical records of 449 patients from three Medical Centers (Saint-Petersburg, Russia), hospitalized during a period from 2011 to 2018, were reviewed. History and anthropometric data, laboratory results (iPTH, total and iCa, phosphorus, ALP, 24-h urinary calcium, 25(OH)D) and imaging data (ultrasonography, scintigraphy, CT/MRI scan, DXA) were analyzed.

Results

Three hundred ninety-four patients were included in the final analysis. Median age was 60 years with 94.2% being women. Symptomatic disease was evident in 222 (56.4%) patients, asymptomatic in 172 (43.6%). Skeletal involvement was more common for women, while frequency of other manifestations did not differ in both genders. There was no difference between symptomatic and asymptomatic patients in age. Serum iPTH level was higher in symptomatic patients (202.9 and 181.0 pg/mL, P = 0.022). Serum 25(OH)D level was estimated in few patients and negatively correlated with PTH (r = ¯0.294, P = 0.005), iCa (r = ¯0.268, P = 0.010) and total Ca (r = ¯0.284, P = 0.014) levels. Manifestations of CVD were observed in 67.7% of cases and affected equally both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients (70.7 and 63.4%, P = 0.076). Both age and BMI were higher in patients with CVD, whether or not they were symptomatic (62 and 53 years, P < 0.0001; 30.4 vs 26.0 kg/m2, P < 0.0001, respectively).

Conclusions

This experience illustrates that symptomatic phenotype is still the most common form of PHPT.

Open access
Lisette van Alewijk Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands

Search for other papers by Lisette van Alewijk in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Kirsten Davidse Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands

Search for other papers by Kirsten Davidse in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Karlijn Pellikaan Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands

Search for other papers by Karlijn Pellikaan in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Judith van Eck Department of Paediatrics, Subdivision of Endocrinology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands

Search for other papers by Judith van Eck in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Anita C S Hokken-Koelega Department of Paediatrics, Subdivision of Endocrinology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
Academic Centre for Growth, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
Dutch Growth Research Foundation, Rotterdam, the Netherlands

Search for other papers by Anita C S Hokken-Koelega in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Theo C J Sas Department of Paediatrics, Subdivision of Endocrinology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
Diabeter, National Diabetes Care and Research Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands

Search for other papers by Theo C J Sas in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Sabine Hannema Department of Paediatrics, Subdivision of Endocrinology, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
Department of Paediatric Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Centre, Leiden, the Netherlands

Search for other papers by Sabine Hannema in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Aart J van der Lely Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands

Search for other papers by Aart J van der Lely in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
, and
Laura C G de Graaff Internal Medicine, Division of Endocrinology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Centre Rotterdam, Rotterdam, the Netherlands
Academic Centre for Growth, Erasmus University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, the Netherlands

Search for other papers by Laura C G de Graaff in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close

Objective

Adolescents and young adults (AYA) with common endocrine disorders show a high dropout (up to 50%) after the transfer from paediatric to adult endocrinology. Little is known about transition readiness in rare endocrine conditions (rEC). This study aims to assess medical self-management skills (SMS) among AYA with rEC in relation to age and gender, in order to understand dropout and increase transition readiness.

Design

Cross-sectional study using web-based medical self-management questionnaires.

Methods

Questionnaires consisting of 54 questions in seven domains were filled out by the adolescents before the first shared appointment with both paediatric and adult endocrinologist.

Results

Fifty-seven patients (median age 17 years, 25/57 females) participated and generally scored well on most items. However, one out of seven did not know the name of their disorder, one sixth of the glucocorticoid users did not know that dose should be adapted in case of illness or surgery, over one-fifth had never ordered their repeat prescriptions themselves and two-thirds had never had a conversation alone with their doctor.

Conclusions

Several SMS among patients with rEC are insufficient, with regard to medical knowledge, practical skills and communication. As SMS are only weakly related to non-modifiable factors, such as age and gender, we recommend focussing on other factors to increase transition readiness. The timing, amount and ‘mode’ of medical information should be individualised. Transition checklists should be used to detect shortcomings in practical skills and communication, which can subsequently be trained with the help of parents, caregivers and/or e-technology.

Open access
Anastasia P Athanasoulia-Kaspar Clinical Neuroendocrinology, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany

Search for other papers by Anastasia P Athanasoulia-Kaspar in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Matthias K Auer Clinical Neuroendocrinology, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany
Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany

Search for other papers by Matthias K Auer in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
,
Günter K Stalla Clinical Neuroendocrinology, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany

Search for other papers by Günter K Stalla in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close
, and
Mira Jakovcevski Department of Stress Neurobiology and Neurogenetics, Max Planck Institute of Psychiatry, Munich, Germany

Search for other papers by Mira Jakovcevski in
Google Scholar
PubMed
Close

Objective

Patients with non-functioning pituitary adenomas exhibit high morbidity and mortality rates. Growth hormone deficiency and high doses of glucocorticoid substitution therapy have been identified as corresponding risk factors. Interestingly, high levels of endogenous cortisol in, e.g., patients with post-traumatic stress disorder or patients with Cushing’s disease have been linked to shorter telomere length. Telomeres are noncoding DNA regions located at the end of chromosomes consisting of repetitive DNA sequences which shorten with aging and hereby determine cell survival. Therefore, telomere length can serve as a predictor for the onset of disease and mortality in some endocrine disorders (e.g., Cushing’s disease).

Design/methods

Here, we examine telomere length from blood in patients (n = 115) with non-functioning pituitary adenomas (NFPA) in a cross-sectional case–control (n = 106, age-, gender-matched) study using qPCR. Linear regression models were used to identify independent predictors of telomere length.

Results

We show that patients with NFPA exhibited shorter telomeres than controls. No significant association of indices of growth hormone deficiency (IGF-1-level-SDS, years of unsubstituted growth hormone deficiency etc.) with telomere length was detected. Interestingly, linear regression analysis showed that hydrocortisone replacement dosage in patients with adrenal insufficiency (n = 52) was a significant predictor for shorter telomere length (β = 0.377; P = 0.018) independent of potential confounders (gender, age, BMI, arterial hypertension, systolic blood pressure, number of antihypertensive drugs, total leukocyte count, waist-to-hip ratio, waist circumference, diabetes mellitus type 2, HbA1c, current statin use). Median split analysis revealed that higher hydrocortisone intake (>20 mg) was associated with significantly shorter telomeres.

Conclusion

These observations strengthen the importance of adjusted glucocorticoid treatment in NFPA patients with respect to morbidity and mortality rates.

Open access