bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zinc and Zinc Ligands in Human Seminal Plasma
Authors: Arver Stefan
Published: May 2008

The occurrence of zinc ligands in human seminal plasma has been studied with gel filtration techniques. With an eluant of 0.05 M Tris with 0.15 M NaCl, pH 7.4, a mean of 11.6% of the zinc was bound to ligands with a molecular weights > 80 000 (HMW), 26.9% to ligands with molecular weights between 3000 and 80 000 (IMW), and 61.5% to ligands with molecular weights < 3000 (LMW), respectively (N = 21). Under standardized conditions the results were highly reproducible. There was a significant shift of zinc from HMW to LMW ligands if pH was less than 7 or higher than 8, or if phosphate ions were present. There was a temperature dependent shift of zinc from IMW towards LMW ligands indicating an enzymatic degradation of the IMW ligands. HMW was not changed with time if the semen samples were kept at room temperature for up 24 h. Despite a prostatic origin of zinc in human seminal plasma there was a co‐variation between the fructose concentration (a vesicular marker) and zinc bound to HMW, i.e. the higher the fructose concentration the more zinc was recovered from the HMW‐ligands. If HMW originates from the seminal vesicles this indicate a post‐ejaculatory re‐distribution of zinc between different ligands.
Activation of Spermatozoal Forward Migration in vitro by Hydrocortisone
Authors: Cheng C. Y. , Boettcher B. , Tinneberg H. R. , Buxton J.
Published: May 2008

The effects of hydrocortisone and cortisone on spermatozoal motility in vitro were tested. Hydrocortisone at concentrations of 50, 100 and 1000 nmoles/ml was effective in activating in vitro the forward migration and the motility of boar spermatozoa recovered from the cauda epididymidis. Where boar epididymal spermatozoa were incubated with hydrocortisone at concentrations of 50, 100 and 1000 nmoles/ml for between 0 and 24 h at 25°C in vitro, the spermatozoal motility was significantly higher than where no hydrocortisone was added. With ejaculated boar spermatozoa, hydrocortisone at concentrations of 100 and 1000 nmoles/ml increased the spermatozoal motility for between 0 and 2 h and at a concentration of 50 nmoles/ml increased spermatozoal motility for between 2 and 24 h at 25°C in vitro. After 4 h incubation, the effect of hydrocortisone at a concentration of 100 nmoles/ml on boar ejaculated sperm motility was not significantly different from the control. But, hydrocortisone at a concentration of 1000 nmoles/ml inhibited the forward migration of boar ejaculated sperm after it had been incubated with the sperm for 6 h. Cortisone, although structurally similar to hydrocortisone, had no significant effect in improving the motility of boar spermatozoa.

Both hydrocortisone and cortisone had no demonstrable effect on the forward migration and the motility of human spermatozoa in vitro.,
Increase in Sperm Type Hexokinase Activity of Rat Spermatozoa During Maturation
Authors: Mongkolsirikieat S. , Boonsaeng V.
Published: May 2008

Rat hexokinases from caput sperm (immature) and caudal sperm (mature) were investigated. The hexokinases from both sources were studied by DEAE‐cellulose column chromatography and by cellulose acetate electrophoresis. The specific activity of caput sperm hexokinase was not significantly different from that of the caudal sperm enzyme. Spermatozoa possess two isozymes of hexokinase. Type I hexokinase was the predominant type in caput sperm whereas the sperm type hexokinase was predominant in caudal sperm. Hexokinase types II and III were absent in both extracts.
The Extragonadal Origin of 5α‐Reduced Androgens in the Peripheral Circulation of the Adult Male Rabbit
Authors: Booth W. D. , Jones R.
Published: May 2008

The extragonadal source of the high levels of 5α‐reduced androgens in the peripheral blood of the male rabbit has been investigated. Adult 3‐day castrated rabbits each received a single intravenous injection of 3H‐labelled testosterone, and blood plasma was collected at various intervals thereafter. Two h post injection, animals were killed, various accessory sex organs and peripheral tissues removed, and radioactively labelled testosterone and its metabolites quantified by radio‐gas‐liquid chromatography (radio‐g.l.c.). Five min after the injection of 3H‐labelled testosterone, the major labelled metabolite in blood plasma was 5α‐dihydrotestosterone with small amounts of 3α/3/β‐androstanediols and androstenedione. After 2 h significant quantities of 3H‐labelled 5α‐dihydrotestosterone had accumulated in the accessory sex organs, whereas only small amounts were found in ‘non‐sexual’ peripheral tissues such as skeletal muscle. However, substantial amounts of 5α‐dihydrotestosterone were formed by several peripheral tissues of 3‐day castrated rabbits, when they were incubated in vitro with 3H‐labelled testosterone: the most active were skeletal muscle, liver and abdominal skin. Some formation of 3α/3/β‐androstanediols occurred in all tissues. It is concluded that in the male rabbit skeletal muscle and skin are likely to be a significant extragonadal source of 5α‐reduced androgens for the maintenance of accessory sex organs such as the prostate and epididymis, which have low 5α‐reductase activity but a high capacity to retain 5α‐dihydro‐testosterone.
LH/hCG Responsive Adenylyl cyclase in Rat Testis and Testes from Testicular Feminized Male (Tfm) Rats and Mice: Desensitization by Homologous Hormone
Authors: Hansson V. , Jahnsen T. , Purvis K. , Andersen D. , Birnbaumer L.
Published: May 2008

Testes of testicular feminized (tfm) rats and mice, as well as of normal male rats contain an LH/hCG responsive adenylyl cyclase. Basal, as well as hCG stimulated activities were higher in tfm rats and mice than in normal rats. The presence of an LH/hCG responsive adenylyl cyclase in the testis of tfm rats and mice shows that the greatly elevated LH levels present in males having this syndrome, giving 80–90% reduction in LH//hCG receptors, do not cause an uncoupling of the remaining receptors from the adenylyl cyclase. It also shows that androgens are not essential for coupling of the LH/hCG receptors to the adenylyl cyclase.

Injection of 200 IU of hCG into adult normal rats and tfm rats caused, after 48 h, a complete loss of LH/hCG stimulated adenylyl cyclase, whereas the FSH responsive adenylyl cyclase in both animal preparations was maintained. Desensitization of the LH responsive adenylyl cyclase by hCG in normal rats, confirms previous studies showing lack of hCG stimulated cyclic‐AMP secretion after a comparable dose of hCG in vivo. Similarly, hCG (50 IU) caused a transient loss of LH/hCG responsive adenylyl cyclase in tfm mice, with a complete disappearance of response after 24 h. At 48 and 72 h after injection of hCG the response gradually returned to normal. The fact that hCG caused a complete desensitization of the LH/hCG responsive adenylyl cyclase in both tfm rats and mice, proves that androgen receptor mediated events are not involved in hCG desensitization of the adenylyl cyclase in Leydig cells.
Human teratocarcinoma cell lines. A review
Authors: Zeuthen Jesper.
Published: May 2008

A review is given of studies on human teratocarcinoma cell lines in culture. A human ovarian teratocarcinoma line (PA‐1) has been characterized in detail (Zeuthen et al. 1980) and has been shown to exhibit some properties of human teratocarcinoma stem‐cells. This line forms embryoid bodies with a distinct outer cell layer analogous to endodermal cells formed by some mouse teratocarcinoma cell lines, and also is capable of a certain limited differentiation in culture as well as upon transplantation to nude mice. A panel of human testicular teratocarcinoma cell lines has been studied by Andrews et al. (1980): While these cells also share some embryonic characteristics, their differentiation in culture is more limited. Studies of various markers suggest that these lines are equivalent to a pre‐blastocyst stage derivation. The PA‐1 cell line and possibly two other testicular teratocarcinoma lines could possibly be derived at a stage equivalent to a later stage of development.
Microspectrophotometric DNA measurements of carcinoma‐in‐situ germ cells in the testis
Authors: Müller Jørn , Skakkebæk Niels E.
Published: May 2008

Early detection of premalignant changes of the testis in at‐risk groups seems to be of considerable significance. Hitherto the diagnosis of carcinoma‐in‐situ testis has been based upon conventional histological techniques. A microspec‐trophotometric study of the DNA content in Feulgen stained carcinoma‐in‐situ germ cells of eight infertile men revealed an aneuploid DNA distribution pattern. The results support the assumption that these cells are of malignant nature, and furthermore, the findings indicate that DNA measurements may be of value in discriminating between malignant and non‐malignant intra‐tubular germ cells in testicular biopsies.
Recent advances in detection of metastatic testicular cancer
Authors: Javadpour Nasser.
Published: May 2008

The recent advances in therapy of testicular cancer have made the early diagnosis and localization of metastases desirable and rewarding. The objectives of this presentation are to describe 1) the utilization of selective venous catheterization of venous outflow from the tumour or organ containing tumour producing minute amounts of α subunit or intact molecule of hCG; 2) the utilization of a new liposoluble contrast material that is picked up by the reticuloendothelial system of the liver therefore enhancing the computed tomographic (CT) images of liver metastases for earlier detection compared to the conventional CT images; and 3) the utilization of radioimmunodetection of AFP‐ and hCG‐producing tumours by preparing specific and sensitive radioactive antibody labelled with 131I, the deposition of which may be localized by conventional scintigraphy.
Computer‐aided counting with the Coulter Counter of low numbers of spermatozoa in human semen
Authors: Sundqvist T. , Fjällbrant B. , Magnusson K. E.
Published: May 2008

The concentration of spermatozoa in human semen has been assessed by counting in the microscope with a hemocytometer and by counting with the Coulter Counter ZF. The Coulter Counter was supplied with a 100‐channel pulseheight analyzer, Channelyzer C‐1000, and a tape‐punch for further handling of data in a desk‐computer. It was found that the number of spermatozoa (less than 106 per ml) was over‐estimated with the Coulter Counter. By subtraction of the non‐spermatozoan background with the aid of mathematical curve‐fitting procedures, these values could be corrected. To allow such an adequate analysis without the use of pulse‐height analyzer and computer, the background corrections were simulated for the relative number of counts obtained at specified settings of the threshold levels (T) and other variables on the Coulter Counter ZF.
Inhibitors of acrosomal proteinase as antifertility agents A problem of acrosomal membrane permeability
Authors: Schill W.‐B. , Feifel M. , Fritz H. , Hammerstein J.
Published: May 2008

In vitro studies were performed to investigate the accessibility of acrosin to various proteinase inhibitors inside the intact acrosome of testicular, ejaculated, and uterine human spermatozoa. As test system the gelatin plate assay was used. For this assay it was shown formerly that a correlation exists between the size of the digested lysis areas (halo formation) and acrosin activity estimated with synthetic substrates. In addition, saturation of the gelatin substrate membranes with acrosin inhibitors including highly specific ones before application of spermatozoa completely prevented halo formation indicating that the gelatinolytic activity of human spermatozoa is caused exclusively by acrosin. When human spermatozoa were incubated with various acrosin inhibitors (concentration: 1 mmol/1) prior to application to the gelatine membrane, reduction of halo formation could not be observed, however. This result indicates that most of the tested acrosin inhibitors (9 naturally occurring protein inhibitors, 2 microbial peptide inhibitors, 19 synthetic inhibitors) were unable to penetrate the acrosomal membr:ines of rrsticular, ejaculated. and uterine human spermatozoa. Only 2 inhibitors caused moderate up to complete inhibition of the gelatinolytic activity of the spermatozoa if applied in concentrations between I and 10 mmul/l: [he proteinase inhibitor aprotinin and the synthetic inhibitor NPCR (4‐nitrophenyl 4‐˜uanidini, benzoate). Obviously, human acrosomal membranes seem to be especially impenetrable to proteins, polypeptides. and synthetic agents. Those acrosin inhibitors penetrating the human sperm head membranes are either too toxic or the local concentration necessary for effectice ncrosin inhihition in vivo cannot be achieved within the male or female genital tract secrelions. Therefore. arrosin inhibitors cannot be used for human contraceptioti at present. Thus it is mandatory to continue the search for suitable acrosin inhibitors with low toxicity easily penetrating into the intact sperm acrosorne.
Seminal plasma fructose, zinc, magnesium and acid phosphatase in cases of male infertility
Authors: Åbyholm T. , Kofstad J. , Molne K. , Stray‐Pedersen S.
Published: May 2008

Determinations of fructose, zinc, magnesium and acid phosphatase were performed in seminal plasma from male partners in 225 barren couples. No specific changes in the concentrations of these substances could be observed in men showing either visible or palpatory abnormalities of the external genitals, the prostate or of the seminal vesicles, extreme changes in the number, morphology or motility of the sperms, increased sperm antibody titre or abnormal serum levels of testosterone or gonadotrophins. However, when the prostatic fluid contained numerous leukocytes, the concentrations of zinc, magnesium and acid phosphatase were significantly lower than in men having a cytologically normal prostatic fluid. Determinations of these substances may thus be of aid in the diagnosis of chronic prostatovesiculitis.
Heterogeneity in end‐terminal sugars of rabbit and rat androgen binding protein (ABP)
Authors: Hansson Vidar
Published: May 2008

The interaction between rabbit and rat androgen binding protein (ABP) and rabbit serum testosterone binding globulin (TeBG) with concanavalin A (Con A) was studied using affinity chromatography on Con A‐Sepharose 4 B columns. When partly purified rat ABP, equilibrated with [3H]5α‐dihydro‐testosterone [3H]DHT was applied to Con A‐Sepharose columns, approximately 50% of the ABP was retained by the column, whereas the remaining was eluted with the break‐through protein fraction. A similar picture was found using partly purified rabbit ABP, or crude rabbit rete testis fluid. These studies indicate that both rat and rabbit ABP are glycoproteins, showing heterogeneity in their end‐terminal sugars. When partly purified rabbit TeBG was examined by Con A‐Sepharose affinity chromatography, the TeBG was completely retained by the column. The different elution patterns between rabbit ABP and rabbit TeBG indicate that these proteins, although showing identical physico‐chemical and immunological properties (Weddington et al. 1975a, b). possess differences in their carbohydrate content.
Melatonin prevents decrease in plasma Prl and LH levels in male hamsters exposed to a short photoperiod
Authors: Cutty G. B. , Goldman B. D. , Doherty P. , Bartke A.
Published: May 2008

Treatment of male golden hamsters with melatonin injections can cause a decrease in plasma gonadotropin and Prl levels and induce testicular regression. However, administration of melatonin via subcutaneously implanted Silastic capsules can prevent short photoperiod from causing the testes to regress. In order to explain this effect of melatonin capsules, we examined plasma Prl, LH and FSH levels in pinealectomized and sham‐operated hamsters in which empty or melatonin‐filled Silastic capsules had been implanted. After implantation, the hamsters were transferred to a short photoperiod (5 h L:19 h D) for 9 weeks. Both pinealectomy and melatonin completely prevented the decline in plasma Prl and LH levels and in the weight of the testes and the seminal vesicles. Moreover, testicular weight and plasma Prl and LH levels were higher in pinealectomized animals given melatonin capsules than in pinealectomized animals given empty capsules. In order to obtain some indication whether melatonin may affect testicular function directly, we have examined the influence of melatonin on the production of testosterone by hamster testes in response to hCG in vitro. Addition of 0.2. 10 or 500 ng of melatonin per ml of incubation medium had no effect on testosterone production in this system. It is concluded that melatonin capsules prevent regression of the male reproductive system in short photoperiod, most likely by preventing the decline in plasma Prl and LH levels and that these effects of melatonin are not mediated through or dependent on the pineal.
Effects of Colprone® on in vitro release of androgens from the reproductive organs of the male rat
Authors: Lau I. F. , Saksena S. K.
Published: May 2008

Effects of medrogestone (6.17α‐dimethyl‐4‐,6‐pregnadiene‐3, 20‐dione; Colprone) on the release of testosterone (T) and 5α‐dehydrotestosterone (5α‐DHT) in the reproductive organs of the male rat were tested in vitro. The minced testes released twice as much T into the medium when incubated in the presence of 50 mIU/ml of hCG. The release of T was inhibited significantly when 10 or 50 μM Colprone was added to the incubation medium. More 5α‐DHT was released into the medium from the testes mince in the presence of hCG, while the addition of 10 or 50 μM of Colprone inhibited 5α‐DHT release as compared to hCG controls. On the other hand, hCG failed to stimulate the release of T and 5α‐DHT from the minced caput and cauda epididymis and ventral prostate. The addition of Colprone (10–50 μM/ml) to the medium containing caput epididymis or ventral prostate resulted in a significant inhibition of T and 5α‐DHT. However, no significant change in the rate of T or 5α‐DHT release was recorded in medium containing cauda epididymis. In spite of its anti‐androgenic effects reported by several investigators, Colprone in the present study has shown differential effects on T and 5α‐DHT release from different reproductive tissues of the male rat.
Changes in surface protein structure of bull spermatozoa during epididymal maturation
Authors: Vierula Matti , Rajaniemi Hannu
Published: May 2008

The surface proteins of bull spermatozoa from caput and cauda epididymidis were labelled by lactoperoxidase‐catalyzed radioiodination and solubilized and analysed by SDS‐PAG‐electrophoresis. The surface protein patterns of caput and cauda epididymal spermatozoa resembled each other but some distinct differences could be found. Caput epididymal spermatozoa revealed a protein peak with molecular weight of 15 000 ‐ 18 000 daltons but this peak was not found on cauda epididymal spermatozoa. On caput epididymal epermatozoa the most intensely labelled protein peak was located between 90 000 and 100 000 daltons but on cauda epididymal spermatozoa the corresponding peak was only weakly labelled and had a molecular weight of 80 000–90 000 daltons. Surface protein with molecular weight of 42 000–47 000 daltons was dominating on cauda epididymal spermatozoa. The surface protein structure of cytoplasmic droplets did not drastically differ from that of epididymal spermatozoa.
The heterogeneity of Leydig cells from mouse and rat testes — evidence for a Leydig cell cycle?
Authors: Cooke B. A. , Magee‐Brown Rozanne , Golding M. , Dix C. J.
Published: May 2008

A method for purifying Leydig cells by centrifugation of testes cells on continuous density gradients of Percoll has been investigated. The distribution of Leydig cells in the separated bands of cells obtained and their receptor content and testosterone production after addition of lutropin (LH) has been measured. In agreement with previous work (Schumacher, Schäfer, Holstein & Hilz 1978) it was found that highly pure mouse Leydig cells (average density 1.070 g/ml) could be prepared by this method. These cells responded to LH and produced high amounts of testosterone (1–4 μg/106 cells/2 h), and bound [125I]hCG specifically (25–64 fmols hCG bound/106 cells). Similarly from rat testes, Leydig cells (average density 1.072 g/ml) were purified. These cells also responded to LH and produced 5–25 ng testosterone/106 cells/2 h and bound [125I]hCG specifically (3–18 fmols hCG bound/106cells). Two other bands of nucleated cells of lower density (approximately 1.045 and 1.052 g/ml) were formed on the gradients from both mouse and rat testes. Both these bands of cells were found to contain Leydig cells which bound [125I]hCG specifically but little or no stimulation of testosterone production could be demonstrated. Fractionation of the gradients after separation of the cells into small aliquots demonstrated that fractions containing up to 100% Leydig cells could be isolated which were not stimulated to produce testosterone after addition of LH. It is concluded that in both the adult rat and mouse testes, Leydig cells of different densities and steroidogenic responsiveness to LH exist. The data obtained in this and other studies suggest that Leydig cells in the rat and mouse testes are not a homogeneous population and that they may be undergoing a continuous cycle of activity which involves changes in density and steroidogenic capacity.
A study of the short‐time variation and interrelationship of plasma hormone levels reflecting pituitary, adrenocortical and testicular function in fertile men
Authors: de la Torre B. , Sjöberg B. , Hedman M. , Bártfai G. , Diczfalusy E.
Published: May 2008

Using radioimmunoassay methods, we have estimated the levels of cortisol (C), pregnenolone (Λ5P), 17‐hydroxypregnenolone (17‐OH‐Λ5P), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), 17‐hydroxyprogesterone (17‐OH‐P), androstenedione (A), testosterone (T) and dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in peripheral plasma samples collected at short‐time (15 min) intervals from 10 fertile men, during two 4‐h periods (06.00 to 10.00 and 18.00 to 22.00). In addition, the levels of biologically active luteinizing hormone (LH) were measured by an in vitro bioassay method in 9 of the subjects. The levels of all steroids studied exhibited diurnal variation with higher levels during the morning and lower levels during the evening period. The cortisol and the Λ5‐steroid levels also exhibited individual short‐term episodic spikes during the 2 periods. No short‐term variation was observed in the levels of 17‐OH‐P, A, T and DHT. Statistically significant correlations were found between the levels of C and those of the Λ5‐steroids and A in most of the subjects. No correlation was found between the above steroid levels and those of 17‐OH‐P, T and DHT. Also the LH levels exhibited episodic spikes of 60 to 90 min duration, but no diurnal variation. When the LH levels were related to those of T found in the same samples or in samples withdrawn 15 to 810 min afterwards, a significant positive correlation was found on repeated occasions in 5 of the 9 subjects. No systematic negative ***
Fine structure and FSH binding of Sertoli cells in the blue fox (Alopex lagopus) in different stages of reproductive activity
Authors: Andersen Kjell , Sundby Anne , Hansson Vidar
Published: May 2008

A clearly different Sertoli cell morphology was found in the immature blue fox and in the adults in and out of season. Immature cells had small, basally, located nuclei rich in peripheral heterochromatin, and few cytoplasmic organelles. Sertoli cells from adults in season had basally located, large, convoluted nuclei with homogenous nucleoplasma and prominent nucleoli. The basal and intermediate parts of the cytoplasm contained an extensively developed ER, numerous mitochondria, free ribosomes, lipid droplets and residual bodies, while the apical cytoplasm showed few distinct structures. In Sertoii cells from adults out of season the nuclei were dislocated towards the lumen, and apart from numerous dilated cisternae of ER, there were generally fewer organelles, but more glycogen particles. A marked rise in FSH binding was found towards the breeding season.
A correlative study of the restorative effects of endogenous and exogenous hormones on the Leydig cells, the testis and the epididymis of the regressed hedgehog Effects of hormones on hedgehog Leydig cells
Authors: Bidwai Pushpamala P. , Bawa S. R.
Published: May 2008

The study of the effects of morphogenesis at puberty on the Leydig cells in the testis of the young hedgehog and of the subsequent changes due to the seasonal varisations, has been done. Furthermore, the restorative changes induced by the exogenous hormones in the Leydig cells and the related sex organs of the regressed hedgehogs have also been studied. It was observed that the Leydig cells from the undifferentiated mesenchyme cell‐like nature in the young hedgehog, develop into an adult form possessing large number of lipids, a well‐developed Golgi apparatus, complex mitochondria and extensive smooth endoplasmic reticulum. The depletion of the lipids and other regression associated changes are found in the interstitial Leydig cells but not in those situated under tunica albuginea and the latter probably function as lipid storing cells during regression. Pituitary extract, either alone or in combination, but not testosterone, could restore completely the structure of the regressed Leydig cells. Similarly, the restoration of the complete process of spermatogenesis and the structure and function of the epididymis in the regressed hedgehog was found to be dependent upon the synergistic action of both testosterone and the gonadotrophic hormones.
Filtering capacity of bovine cervical mucus towards abnormal forms of human‐ejaculated spermatozoa
Authors: Bergman A. , Amit A. , Yedwab G. , David M. P. , Homonnai Z. T. , Paz G. F.
Published: May 2008

The filtration capacity of bovine cervical mucus (BCM), fresh bovine cervical mucus (FBCM) or frozen and thawed bovine mucus (BCMF) was studied, using human‐ejaculated spermatozoa in comparison with the properties of human cervical mucus (HCM).

Thirty semen specimens of good quality were used in cervical mucus (CM) penetrations, using capillary tubes containing CM of 30 HCM, 77 FBCM and 77 BCMF samples. Spermiocytograms were carried out on semen and cervical mucus at 1st and 3rd centimeter of the capillary tube after one hour of incubation. Smears were stained by Papanicolau and the patterns of seven forms of sperm cells (normal, tapering, macrocephals, microcephals, pinhead, neck pathology and amorphous cells) were counted on a total of 100 cells in each slide.

A clear, highly significant (P < 0.0001) selection of cells penetrating the CM has been shown, preventing certain abnormal forms from penetrating the CM (macrocephals, neck pathology and amorphous cells) and enabling good penetration of normal sperm forms and moderate penetration of tapering, microcephals and pinhead cells. On the average, a specimen with normal sperm forms of 72% showed a spermiocytogram of 90% normal forms at the 3rd centimeter of migration. The same patterns of filtration were recorded in all the three sources of CM. It is suggested that BCM be used as a filter towards abnormal sperm forms in a highly teratozoospermic ejaculate in order to improve its quality for artificial inseminations.
Meiotic and synaptonemal complex studies in a 14/21 translocation carrier
Authors: Vidal F. , Templado C. , Navarro J. , Marina S. , Egozcue J.
Published: May 2008

Meiotic studies in a sterile carrier of a 14/21 translocation showed a meiotic arrest, with degeneration of primary spermatocytes. Silver staining of pachytene cells revealed the presence of a trivalent. Its synaptonemal complex was quite similar to that described in previous light and electron microscopy studies in mammalian species. The observation of a trivalent with pairing in trans‐configuration and the presence of desynaptic synaptonemal complexes in early pachytene could explain the relatively high incidence of non‐disjunction in human D/G translocations and the spermatogenic disintegration sometimes seen in these cases.
The effect of copulation on the plasma antidiuretic activity of the male rat
Authors: Cavicchia Juan C. , Rodriguez Esteban M.
Published: May 2008

The plasma antidiuretic activity and the content of antidiuretic hormone (ADH) and oxytocin of the neurointermediate lobe were determined in male rats under normal conditions and after copulation. The plasma samples from control rats assayed directly in the water‐loaded ethanol‐anaesthetized rat had no detectable antidiuretic activity. The same negative result was observed in plasma obtained from male rats during courtship. However, plasma obtained from male rats at different time intervals after copulation had an antidiuretic activity which was maximal one h after ejaculation. When the ADH was extracted from pools of plasma samples, the circulating level of the hormone in control rats was also measured. The plasma antidiuretic activity after copulation was abolished after thioglycolate treatment which inactivates the neurohypophysial hormones. These findings suggest that ADH is released after copulation and that such a release is maintained for at least 60 min.
Effects of a chronic treatment with testosterone on the morphology of the interstitial cells of the rat testis: an ultrastructural stereologic study
Authors: Mazzocchi Giuseppina , Robba Claudia , Rebuffat Piera , Gottardo Giuseppe , Nussdorfer Gastone G.
Published: May 2008

The suppressive effects of chronic testosterone administration on the rat testicular interstitial cells (Leydig cells) were investigated by stereological methods. The volume of cells, nuclei, mitochondrial compartment and smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER), as well as the surface area of SER and mitochondrial cristae decreased significantly as a function of the duration of treatment. The decrease in the SER volume accounted for about 75–80% of that in the cell volume. These findings lend support to the view that SER is the subcellular organelle more responsive to the changes in the functional activity of rat Leydig cells.
Testicular function after unilateral orchiectomy for cancer and before further treatment
Authors: Fosså Sophie Dorothea , Klepp Olbjørn , Molne Kaare , Aakvaag Asbjørn
Published: May 2008

Low sperm counts, low motility indices and a high number of abnormal sperm cells were found in 2/3 of 35 patients who were examined after unilateral orchiectomy for malignant germ cell tumour and before retroperitoneal surgery and/or chemotherapy/radiotherapy. Most of the patients also had slightly reduced serum testosterone levels. Cryopreservation of semen from these patients therefore appears to be of little value in most of the cases.
Fertilization of hamster ova by human spermatozoa in relation to other semen parameters
Authors: Cohen Jacques , Mooyaart Maarten , Vreeburg Jan T. M. , Zeilmaker Gerard H.
Published: May 2008

Different indices of the zona‐free hamster ovum test system were interrelated. High correlations were found between the fertilization percentage and the average number of penetrated spermatozoa/ovum (r = 0.99) and between the fertilization percentage and the number of spermatozoa attached to the ova surfaces (r = 0.72). Fertilization percentages from 63 subfertile patients were correlated with different semen factors assessed by multiple exposure photography (MEP). Low correlations were found between sperm concentration and fertilization percentage (r = 0.29) and between fertilization percentage and motile sperm count (r = 0.33). Spermatozoa progressing with high average velocity had low fertilization rates compared to specimen with moderate average velocity. Effects of sperm washing on the in vitro fertilizing capacity were studied in a group of 40 subfertile men. The fertilization percentages of 8 specimens ‐with visual seminal plasma abnormalities‐ increased significantly when immediate dilution of semen was applied.
Spermatogenesis in men treated with injections of medroxyprogesterone acetate combined with testosterone enanthate
Authors: Frick J. , Danner Ch. , Kunit G. , Joos H. , Köhle R.
Published: May 2008

The effects of a combination of medroxyprogesterone acetate and testosterone enanthate, on the exocrine and endocrine testicular function were examined in adult men. The treatment was carried out with 2 different regimens and lasted for 8 months. Group I received an initial injection of 1000 mg medroxyprogesterone acetate and 500 mg testosterone enanthate followed by monthly maintenance dose of 150 mg medroxyprogesterone acetate and 500 mg testosterone enanthate. In group II, after an initial high dose of 1000 mg medroxyprogesterone acetate and 250 mg testosterone enanthate treatment was given as biweekly injections of 75 mg medroxyprogesterone acetate and 250 mg testosterone enanthate. Complete spermatogenic arrest of variable duration was achieved in all 9 subjects enrolled. Restoration of spermatogenesis occurred in both groups, in a few cases during the treatment, and there was a delay of full recovery of sperm counts up to 5 months after cessation of therapy. None of the subjects enrolled in this study complained of decrease in libido or change in sexual behaviour. Clinical evaluation and measurements of various urine and serum components revealed no significant changes during the treatment period. The dosage and the different administration schedule of the hormone combination described here was inadequate to maintain azoo‐spermia in all subjects during treatment.
Effect of prolactin inhibition by bromocriptine on testicular metabolism in the adult rat
Authors: Rao M. Ramachandra , Govindarajulu P.
Published: May 2008

Administration of bromocriptine resulted in a decrease of testicular tissue somatic index, total, structural and soluble protein concentrations. The catabolic phase of carbohydrate metabolism was enhanced. Consequently, the required metabolites for increased citric acid cycle activity were provided by increased glycolytic activity. The pre‐requisite metabolites needed for spermatogenic processes were accumulated in the testis, due to their non‐utilization. The results obtained suggest a specific influence of prolactin inhibition on testicular metabolism in the adult rat.
Motility initiation of quiescent spermatozoa from rat caudal epididymis: effects of pH, viscosity, osmolality and inhibitors
Authors: Chulavatnatol Montri
Published: May 2008

Non‐motile spermatozoa freshly extruded from the rat caudal epididymis can be initiated to full motility immediately after diluting with 0.9% NaCl. The motility initiation was dependent on the pH, viscosity and osmolality of the diluent. Diluent with pH 4 to 8 could optimally initiate the motility. Osmolality of most diluents suitable for the initiation was between 130 to 600 mOsm/kg. The motility initiation was inhibited by Hg2+ > Cu2+ > Cd2+, chlorpromazine, Triton X‐100 and SDS. The following compounds showed essentially no inhibitory effect: EGTA, chlortetracycline, calcein, ruthenium red, phloridzin, myo‐inositol and carnitine. The findings suggested that spermatozoa were kept in quiescence in the cauda epididymis not by the pH, osmolality, viscosity, myo‐inositol, carnitine, Ca2+ or K+ of the caudal epididymal fluid. It was also suggested that motility initiation did not involve Ca2+. calmodulin and transport of Ca2+ or glucose across sperm membrane.
Combined hMG/hCG treatment in subfertile men with idiopathic normogonadotrophic oligozoospermia
Authors: Schill W.‐B. , Jüngst D. , Unterburger P. , Braun S.
Published: May 2008

Forty‐eight patients with idiopathic normogonadotrophic oligozoospermia were treated with hMG plus hCG over a period of 3 months. Total sperm output increased by an average of 15.3 million spermatozoa per ejaculate and a similar significant increase was seen in the percentage of motile spermatozoa. Sixteen of the 48 men increased their sperm output by 25 million or more. Follow‐up information was available in 33 patients. Ten pregnancies were reported within one year after initiation of treatment. Six of 12 responders impregnated their wives, whereas only 4 pregnancies were reported in a group of 21 non‐responders. Endocrinological investigations showed no differencies in mean basal levels of LH and FSH, or in the gonadotrophin response to a 100 μg GnRH stimulation between responders and non‐responders. However, mean basal plasma testosterone concentration was significantly lower in the responder group than in the non‐responders. Responsiveness to gonadotrophin treatment tended to be better in patients with basal plasma testosterone concentration lower than 4.5 ng/ml. Combined hMG/hCG treatment in subfertile men with idiopathic oligozoospermia seems to be efficient in only a small proportion of cases.
Removal of zinc from subcellular regions of human spermatozoa by EDTA treatment studied by X‐ray microanalysis
Authors: Roomans G. M. , Lundevall E. , Björndahl L. , Kvist U.
Published: May 2008

The distribution of zinc in the head, neck and mid‐piece of human ejaculated spermatozoa was investigated with energy‐dispersive X‐ray microanalysis. EDTA treatment within 1 h after ejaculation caused removal of 80–90% of the zinc in these regions. Storage for 24 h in own seminal plasma did not alter sperm zinc content. However, these aged spermatozoa only lost 35% of their zinc content on EDTA treatment. The stronger binding of zinc, occurring upon storage in seminal plasma, developed in all 3 parts of the cell investigated. These results are discussed in the light of the role of zinc in nuclear chvomatin decondensation ability and sperm head‐tail connection.
Percutaneous absorption of 5α‐dihydrotestosterone in man
Authors: Fiet J. , Morville R. , Chemama D. , Villette J. M. , Gourmel B. , Brerault J. L. , Dreux C.
Published: May 2008

The distribution of 5α‐dihydrotestosterone to the blood following application of a solution of this androgen to the skin in a hydro‐alcoholic gel was studied in order to evaluate the adequacy of the percutaneous route in correcting androgen deficiencies. In 14 adult men, daily percutaneous administration of 5α‐dihydrotestosterone (125 mg in 5 g gel) increases, on the average, 4 to 5 times its initial concentration in plasma. On the 14th day of treatment, repeated evaluations of plasma 5α‐dihydrotestosterone, between 2 and 21 h after final administration of gel, demonstrated the stability of diurnal 5α‐dihydrotestosterone levels and showed the regular distribution of the steroid from a presumably cutaneous reservoir. Plasma 5α‐androstane‐3α, 17β‐diol levels evolve parallel to those of 5α‐dihydrotestosterone. Plasma testosterone and luteinizing hormone, on the contrary, decrease considerably. No variation of follicle‐stimulating‐hormone is observed during treatment. The percutaneous absorption represents an interesting method for administration of a natural androgen in men, particularly because one avoids the deleterious effects of supra‐physiological levels in the liver achieved with oral administration.
Seasonal changes in sexual hormones secretion, sexual behaviour and sperm production in man
Authors: Pinatel M. C. , Czyba J. C. , Souchier C.
Published: May 2008

In many species, genital activity proceeds according to a seasonal rhythm. Variations concern the secretion of gonadotrophic and steroid hormones, sexual activity and spermiogram parameters. In man, a statistical evaluation of reproductive physiology rhythms is being processed. The first results display seasonal variations of hormonal secretions (testosterone, follicle stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone), and sexual activity as determined by certain environmental factors (birthrates, sale of contraceptives, rape charges, etc.). The seasonal alterations in human semen composition are less well understood, however, there is a definite increase of necrospermia during winter. All research on the effect of drugs that interfere with spermatogenesis and potency must take any seasonal changes into account.
Effects of chemotherapy on testicular functions
Authors: Marmor D. , Pinon‐Netter C. , Netter A.
Published: May 2008

Of 26 previously normospermic patients treated with MOPP (nitrogen mustard, vincristine, procarbazine and prenisone) for Hodgkin's disease, 22 had azoospermia, 2 had severe oligozoospermia below 0.1 times 106 spermatozoa/ml, 2 had 5 times 106 spermatozoa/ml. Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) increased significantly in all but 2 patients, but the luteinizing hormone (LH) increase was not significant. Prolactin, testosterone and 17β‐oestradiol levels were unmodified. Chemotherapy is widely used for malignant and non‐malignant diseases, the various drugs having different levels of toxicity. In order to prevent male sterility as a result of chemotherapy, the physician must choose the therapeutic agents carefully and may recommend cryopreservation of the patient's semen prior to therapy. In addition, the minimize the hazards of chemotherapy, the testis may be cooled during drug infusion and the germinal epithelium may be put to rest by desensitization through a LH releasing hormone analog.
The effect of norepinephrine, isoprenaline and acetylcholine on the testicular and epididymal circulation in the pig
Authors: Noordhuizen‐Stassen Elsbeth N. , Beijer H. J. M. , Charbon G. A. , Wensing C. J. G.
Published: May 2008

Blood flow to the testis and epididymis of 7 anaesthetized male pigs was measured using electromagnetic blood flow sensors. An average blood flow to the testis of 12 ml/min/100 g and in the epididymal arteries of 19 ml/min/100 g was measured. The effect of intravenously administered norepinephrine, isoprenaline and acetylcholine on α and β2 adrenergic and cholinergic receptor sites, respectively, was investigated. As neither norepinephrine nor isoprenaline, nor acetylcholine changed vascular conductance of the testis, we could not demonstrate adrenergic and cholinergic receptor activity. The possibility of autonomic regulation by the nonvascular smooth muscles of the spermatic cord and the inner layer of the tunica albuginea has been discussed.
Leydig cell function in patients with testicular cancer during and after chemotherapy
Authors: Willemse P. H. B. , Sleijfer D. Th. , Koops H. Schraffordt , Pratt J. J. , Sluiter W. J. , Doorenbos H.
Published: May 2008

In two groups of patients with disseminated testicular carcinoma the effect of combination chemotherapy on the pituitary‐gonadal axis was evaluated, after unilateral orchiectomy: The two groups comprised 15 patients without hCG‐producing metastases (group A), and 14 patients with hCG‐producing metastases (group B). Seven patients who had received no chemotherapy were studied one year after unilateral orchiectomy as a control group (group C). In group A, serum levels of testosterone and oestradiol increased during chemotherapy, as did the levels of LH and FSH. The serum LH and FSH response to LHRH was increased following chemotherapy, whereas the serum testosterone increase after hCG stimulation remained unchanged. A rise of 316% in SHBG binding capacity was found after chemotherapy. This presumably accounted for the elevated steroid levels in the presence of high gonadotrophin levels, but unaltered Leydig cell response. The elevated serum levels of testosterone and oestradiol and the suppressed serum FSH levels normalized during disappearance of ectopic hCG production in group B patients. Leydig cell refractoriness to hCG and the FSH response to LHRH also reverted to normal. After chemotherapy, FSH, but not LH levels exceeded those of group C patients, presumably as a result of the azoospermia induced by chemotherapy. The hormonal changes associated with chemotherapy are best explained by an increase in serum binding proteins, notably SHBG.
Effects of bromocriptine on pituitary‐testicular function in the rat: possible inhibition of in vitro production of androgen by Leydig cells
Authors: Grizard G. , Andre M. , Jarrige J. F. , Chambon M. , Boucher D.
Published: May 2008

The effect of bromocriptine (BR) on pituitary‐testicular function has been investigated in vivo and in vitro in adult male rats. Testosterone production in vitro by collagenase‐ dispersed Leydig cells from 84‐day‐old rats was evaluated in the presence and absence of hCG and/or different doses of BR. In the presence of 1.5 X 10‐5 M BR, both basal and hCG‐stimulated testosterone production were decreased whereas at lower doses BR was ineffective. In vivo 60‐day‐old rats were injected sc with BR (150 μg/rat or 750 μg/rat twice daily) or vehicle for 24 days. This treatment reduced the plasma level and pituitary content of prolactin, slightly increased the plasma levels of LH and FSH but did not affect pituitary gonadotrophin content. Irrespective of the dose of BR injected, plasma levels of androgen did not change, but with the large dose of BR a decrease in testicular content of testosterone (P = 0.05) was observed. In the same animals the number of LH/hCG receptors was significantly reduced, and the sensitivity of the isolated Leydig cells to hCG stimulation in vitro was reduced; however, both the basal secretion and the maximum testosterone response to hCG were unaffected. These results show impairment of pituitary‐testicular function in BR‐treated rats, either as a result of BR‐induced hypoprolactinaemia or as a consequence of direct effects of BR on the Leydig cells.
Pituitary responsiveness to LHRH and TRH in men: effect of bromocriptine and clomiphene treatment
Authors: Rönnberg L. , Ylikorkala O.
Published: May 2008

The effect of the concomitant use of bromocriptine and clomiphene on pituitary function was tested in 8 healthy men, who ingested either 100 mg of clomiphene, 5 mg of bromocriptine or 100 mg of clomiphene +5 mg of bromocriptine daily for 7 days. Plasma concentrations of FSH and LH increased similarly during clomiphene and clomiphene + bromocriptine intake. Bromocriptine decreased the plasma levels of prolactin (Prl) and this decrease was unaffected by clomiphene. The latter blunted the plasma LH response to LHRH whilst bromocriptine blunted the Prl response to TRH, but Clomiphene and bromocriptine together had no additive effects on gonadotrophin and Prl secretion. It thus seems likely that this combination offers no advantage over clomiphene alone in the treatment of normoprolactinaemic infertile men.
Studies on seminiferous tubule fluid production in the adult rat: effect of hypophysectomy and treatment with FSH, LH and testosterone
Authors: Jégou B. , Gac F. Le , Irby D. C. , de Kretser D. M.
Published: May 2008

Seminiferous tubule fluid production in adult rats was studied using the technique of unilateral efferent duct ligation (EDL), the production rate representing the difference in testis weight over the time since ligation. Following EDL, fluid production increases linearly for 6 h and linearly at a slightly slower rate for a further 18 h with a sharp decrease thereafter. No differences in fluid production were noted for rats aged between 90–310 days. Forty‐eight hours after hypophysectomy there was a significant fall (26%) in fluid production prior to any significant decrease in testis weight. Fluid production continued to decline with time after hypophysectomy eventually reaching a plateau 16–44 days later at levels approximately 15% of those found in control rats. Treatment of rats hypophysectomized 4 days earlier with ovine FSH for 3 days did not restore fluid production, but treatment with ovine LH, testosterone propionate (TP) or FSH together with TP for a similar duration all restored fluid production to normal. On the other hand, treatment of intact adult rats with ovine LH significantly increased fluid production but the effect of treatment with testosterone alone did not reach significance. The results indicate that in the adult rat, seminiferous tubule fluid production is controlled principally by testosterone secreted by the Leydig cell in response to LH stimulation.