bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DISSOCIATION BETWEEN LH-INDUCED AEROBIC GLYCOLYSIS AND OOCYTE MATURATION IN CULTURED GRAAFIAN FOLLICLES OF THE RAT
Authors: Tsafriri A. , Lieberman M. E. , Ahrén K. , Lindner H. R.
Published: December 2008

Luteinizing hormone (NIH-LH-S18; 5 μg/ml) stimulated aerobic glycolysis in cultured Graafian follicles explanted from pro-oestrous rats before the preovulatory gonadotrophin surge: lactate accumulation in the medium was 70 % above control levels during 6 h incubations. Iodoacetate (2.5× 10-5 m) prevented this effect, without impairing the ability of LH to induce resumption of oocytic meiosis. Enrichment of the medium with pyruvate (3.3 × 10-4 m) or lactate (2.5 × 10-2 m) did not in itself cause ovum maturation. The results do not support the hypothesis that termination of meiotic arrest by LH is due to stimulation of glycolytic activity in the follicle cells, resulting in increased availability of an energy source readily utilizable by the oocyte.
BOVINE PLASMA OESTROGENS, PROGESTERONE AND GLUCOCORTICOIDS DURING DEXAMETHASONE INDUCED PARTURITION
Authors: Evans L. E. , Wagner W. C.
Published: December 2008

Plasma samples were collected from jugular, uterine and utero-ovarian veins during glucocorticoid induced parturition. Plasma oestrogens, corticosteroids and progesterone were determined by competitive protein binding methods.

Corticosteroids and progesterone began to decline within 8 to 10 h following DXMS treatment. Corticoids were only temporarily suppressed, while progesterone fell to minimum levels and remained low through calving.

At this stage of gestation (270 days) peripheral plasma progesterone was primarily of ovarian origin. Pre-treatment with HCG appeared to support progesterone production by the CL despite DXMS treatment in 2 of 6 cows. These 2 cows failed to calve within the expected 96 h after DXMS. Plasma oestrogens did not show significant increases until 24 h after DXMS treatment. Cows which responded to DXMS treatment (calved) had significantly higher oestrogen levels than those which did not respond. It was concluded that oestrogens probably play a permissive rather than an initiating role in parturition.
EFFECT OF SOME SYNANDROGENS AND ANTIANDROGENS ON THE CONVERSION OF TESTOSTERONE TO DIHYDROTESTOSTERONE IN THE CULTURED RAT VENTRAL PROSTATE
Authors: Johansson Risto
Published: December 2008

The actions of prolactin, insulin and cortisol on the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone in the cultured rat ventral prostate were examined in conditions in which they have been demonstrated to act synergistically with testosterone on the macromolecule synthesis of the prostate. On the other hand oestradiol, progesterone and cyproterone were tested similarly in conditions where they have been shown to be effective antiandrogens.

The metabolism of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone was found to be extremely rapid and approximately 70 % of the radioactive steroids in the tissue was dihydrotestosterone from 5 min onwards, but only insignificant amounts of dihydrotestosterone were found in the culture medium during the first hour. Physiological concentrations of the synandrogens did not alter the metabolism of testosterone or the accumulation of the steroids into the tissue. Oestradiol, progesterone and unlabelled testosterone in a 500-fold concentration markedly reduced the conversion of tritiated testosterone to dihydrotestosterone while cyproterone and dihydrotestosterone had no effect. The possible role of other hormones in the alteration of testosterone metabolism in the target organs as the mechanism of synandrogenic or antiandrogenic action is discussed.
THE MELANOGENIC RESPONSE TO TESTOSTERONE IN SCROTAL EPIDERMIS: EFFECTS ON TYROSINASE ACTIVITY AND PROTEIN SYNTHESIS
Authors: Wilson Michael J. , Spaziani Eugene
Published: December 2008

Pigmentation of the scrotum of the black-pelted rat, as expressed through melanocyte melanogenic activity, is controlled by androgens. Castration decreased in vitro incorporation of [14C] tyrosine into melanin. Testosterone pre-treatment for 4 days increased melanin radioactivity over castrate controls; the increment in vitro was prevented by an inhibitor of protein synthesis (cycloheximide) added to the incubation. However, cycloheximide only partially blocked melanin synthesis when added to tissue from animals hormone treated for 6 days in vivo, and was ineffective in tissue from intacts. Bulk protein synthesis in vitro (incorporation of [14C] tyrosine or -leucine) was not affected by castration or testosterone treatment but was uniformly inhibited by cycloheximide. The data suggest that new synthesis of specific protein in vitro was necessary for initial hormone-stimulation of melanogenesis, but with longer exposure to hormone sufficient protein was pre-synthetized in vivo to permit melanogenesis during incubation with the inhibitor.

Radioautographs of epidermis incubated with [14C] tyrosine showed grains concentrated over macromolecular aggregates in melanocytes, a pattern not altered by cycloheximide. Though available for incorporation into general tissue protein. [14C] tyrosine was apparently incorporated preferentially into melanin by melanocytes. DOPA (3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine) added to incubations in cofactor amounts did not affect decreased melanin synthesis after castration and appears, therefore, not to be rate limiting in that decrease. Tissue uptake of free [14C] tyrosine or — leucine during incubation was lower than normal in castrate epidermis; uptake was elevated by testosterone treatment. Concentrations appeared sufficient in all preparations to suggest that availability is not rate limiting for synthesis of melanin or protein; however, a possible influence on amino acid permeability for melanocytes remains undetermined.

Tyrosinase activity was present in both particulate and cytosol fractions of epidermis but decreased significantly after castration only in the cytosol. Testosterone increased particulate activity after 4 days and soluble activity after 9 days of treatment. These and findings above are consistent with a model that tyrosinase is synthesized and incorporated into melanosome structure within 4 days testosterone treatment; with longer treatment synthesis may then exceed that required for melanosome assembly and tyrosinase appears in the soluble milieu.
IN VIVO ACTIVATION OF SYNTHETIC HORMONOGENS OF LYSINE VASOPRESSIN: Nα-GLYCYL-GLYCYL-GLYCYL-[8-LYSINE]VASOPRESSIN IN THE CAT
Authors: Pliška V. , Chard T. , Rudinger J. , Forsling Mary L.
Published: December 2008

The urine and plasma levels of vasopressin-like immunological activity and of antidiuretic activity were examined following injection of Nα-glycyl-glycyl-glycyl-[8-lysine] vasopressin (triglycylvasopressin, TGLVP) in 3 cats. The plasma levels of immunoreactive material were initially high, and fell rapidly. The levels of antidiuretic activity showed considerable variation; the overall pattern was strikingly different from that demonstrated by radioimmunoassay, and all 3 animals showed a rise in plasma antidiuretic activity in the early part of the experiment. Following injection of lysine vasopressin (LVP) the pattern of disappearance of both biological and immunological activity was similar. The total amount of immunoreactive material found in the urine was greater than the amount of antidiuretically active material. These results clearly demonstrate that the antidiuretic activity of TGLVP is mainly due to its conversion to LVP in vivo.
ACUTE REDISTRIBUTION OF THYROXINE AFTER THE ADMINISTRATION OF UNIVALENT ANIONS, SALICYLATE, THEOPHYLLINE AND BARBITURATES IN RATS
Authors: Langer Pavel , Kokešová Hana , Gschwendtová Klaudia
Published: December 2008

Rats were injected with [125I]L-thyroxine (T4) ip 16 h before the experiment and samples of blood were frequently taken from polyethylene tubing inserted into the femoral artery in anaesthetized and heparin injected animals, isovolaemia being maintained. In each sample of plasma T4 counts per ml were estimated with the aid of paper chromatography. Rapid decrease of circulating T4 level was found at 20 min after iv injection of various compounds (thiocyanate, iodide, fluoroborate, theophylline and salicylate) and a dose-response relationship was established between such a decrease and the administered dose of salicylate (5–160 mg/400 g b. w.). A similar decrease was observed at 60 min after ip injection of some general anaesthetics (thio-, pento- and allo-barbiturate, urethane) or tranquilizers (Innovar-Vet®). Finally, an increase of T4 fractional disposal rate was found between 120 and 480 min after the administration of some of the above mentioned anaesthetics and this effect was abolished by the administration of thiocyanate.

It was concluded that there are two different effects of drugs on the circulating T4 level: 1. the immediate effect resulting apparently from a decreased plasma protein binding; 2. the prolonged effect which presumably results from the increased turnover of T4 by peripheral tissues, the metabolic basis of which remains unexplained.
SERUM LEVELS OF UNCONJUGATED AETIOCHOLANOLONE, ANDROSTENEDIONE, TESTOSTERONE, DEHYDROEPIANDROSTERONE, ALDOSTERONE, PROGESTERONE AND OESTROGENS DURING THE NORMAL MENSTRUAL CYCLE
Authors: Frölich Marijke , Brand Egenius C. , van Hall Eylard V.
Published: December 2008

The results of daily determination of the levels of gonadotrophins, oestradiol, oestrone, progesterone, aldosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone, androstenedione, testosterone, and aetiocholanolone in the serum of 6 normal, ovulating women are reported and discussed. A pre-ovulatory aldosterone peak and rising values in the luteal phase of the cycle were found. Androstenedione, testosterone, and aetiocholanolone levels were significantly elevated from 3 days before until 3 days after ovulation. Since the mean androstenedione/aetiocholanolone ratio in the individual cycles in this period was similar to the ratio found during the rest of the cycle, we think it unlikely that aetiocholanolone is produced by the ovaries. No correlation was found between the aetiocholanolone patterns and the basal body temperature. In a case of conception followed for 20 days after ovulation, the steroid patterns remained unchanged until the presumed day of implantation, after which the aldosterone, androstenedione, testosterone, and aetiocholanolone levels started to rise. The mean androstenedione/aetiocholanolone ratio during the 10 days after implantation did not differ from the values obtained in the foregoing periods, so direct aetiocholanolone production by the ovaries after implantation seems unlikely.
COMPARISON OF THE METHODS FOR MEASURING HUMAN CHORIONIC GONADOTROPHIN AFTER HYDATIDIFORM MOLE
Authors: Salmon John A. , Peh K. L. , Ratnam S. S.
Published: December 2008

Six patients who had hydatidiform mole and who subsequently developed clinical choriocarcinomas were studied. Serial plasma samples were assayed for HCG content by (i) haemagglutination-inhibition test (HI test), (ii) a non-specific radioimmunoassay and (iii) a specific radioimmunoassay developed against the β-sub unit of HCG. When levels of HCG were high all three assays gave results which parallelled each other. However, the radioimmunoassays were able to detect the presence of HCG several weeks after the HI test became negative.

Luteinizing hormone cross-reacted in the non-specific radioimmunoassay of HCG and may lead to false positive results. The present study indicated that it is important to employ the radioimmunoassay against the β-sub unit of HCG to permit a specific assessment of HCG activity and thereby provide a reliable monitoring of patients following hydatidiform mole or with choriocarcinoma.
EFFECT OF SYNTHETIC GONADOTROPHINRELEASING HORMONE (Gn-RH) ON CIRCULATING LUTEINIZING HORMONE (LH) AND TESTOSTERONE IN YOUNG POST-PUBERTAL BULLS
Authors: Thibier M.
Published: December 2008

The reproducibility of LH and testosterone responses after Gn-RH treatment in young post-pubertal bulls was tested. Ten bulls were injected im (250 μg) twice with an interval of 4 weeks. Blood samples were collected every 15 min for 2½ h and then on the second occasion, every hour. LH increases very rapidly and reaches an initial peak by 30 min after GnRH injection. This increase over basal level was 25 to 30-fold. After a plateau of high levels lasting 40 to 50 min, a second peak of LH concentration occurs. LH then decreases and returns to basal levels by 6 to 7 h after treatment. The increase of plasma testosterone was more prolonged and of smaller magnitude than that of LH: 3 to 4-fold. There was a large and significant variation between bulls; but with LH, a given individual responded in a consistent manner on the two separate occasions. It is concluded that LH response to Gn-RH treatment might be useful and should be tested as of diagnostic value for clinical or breeding purposes. The testosterone response does not seem to be as valuable and reliable as that of LH.
RADIOIMMUNOASSAY OF OESTRONE IN PLASMA
Authors: Doerr Peter
Published: December 2008

A radioimmunoassay (RIA) for oestrone (Oe1) in plasma was developed using an ether extraction, a partition between NaOH and light petroleum, and a TLC as sample purification and an antiserum cross-reacting with Oe2 for the final assay (Method A1). The reliability criteria are given in detail. In order to simplify this method a highly specific antiserum was developed by using Oe1-3-hemisuccinate-BSA as an antigen. Using this antiserum for the final assay but omitting the TLC (Method B) the Oe1 concentration in male plasma was 76 % overestimated (Method B compared with Method A1). In pregnancy plasma Oe1 could specifically be determined after a simple ether extraction (Method C). It was concluded that the use of a highly specific antiserum (as determined by cross-reaction studies) for the final assay does not necessarily imply that a chromatographic sample purification can be omitted without loss in assay specificity. This appears to be true mainly in cases where the steroid concentration of the sample is low.

Normal values of Oe1 from 80 healthy adult males were ascertained by Method A1. Age group I (22–61 years, n = 48) ranged from 1.22–5.60 ng/100 ml, median 2.81; age group II (67–90 years, n = 32) from 1.55–6.40, median 3.41. The small increase of Oe1 with age was highly significant.
PITUITARY LH AND FSH SECRETION AND RESPONSIVENESS IN WOMEN OF OLD AGE
Authors: Scaglia Hugo , Medina Martha , Pinto-Ferreira Ada L. , Vazques Guadalupe , Gual Carlos , Perez-Palacios Gregorio
Published: December 2008

The plasma concentrations and episodic fluctuations of immunoreactive FSH and LH as well as the pituitary sensitivity to LH-RH stimulation were evaluated in post-menopausal women. The subjects were divided into 4 groups according to age. Group 1: 60–70 years old (n=11), group 2: 70–80 years old (n=22), group 3: 80–90 years old (n=31) and group 4: 90–100 years old (n=8). Standards used in gonadotrophin radioimmunoassays included the LER-907 preparation and a pooled post-menopausal serum. Since it was found that circulating gonadotrophins have an immunological pattern different from that shown by the pituitary preparation, the results were expressed in mIU/ml calculated accordingly to the immunological behaviour of pooled post-menopausal sera. The mean (± se) plasma levels of FSH (mIU/ml) were: group 1: 105.9 ± 9.5, group 2: 149.3 ± 10.5, group 3: 124.8 ± 7.1 and group 4: 149.4 ± 25.3. The mean (± se) plasma levels of LH (mIU/ml) were: group 1: 81.9 ± 12.5, group 2: 95.4 ± 9.9, group 3: 84.3 ± 7.7 and group 4: 113.5 ± 19.1. No statistically significant differences were observed among the 4 groups. One patient from each group was randomly selected in order to evaluate their LH and FSH episodic release as well as their pituitary responsiveness to exogenous stimulation. A pulsatile plasma pattern of gonadotrophin and a normal pituitary response to LH-RH injection were observed in the 4 patients studied. The results are interpreted as demonstrating that normal pituitary gonadotrophin function and pituitary reserve and responsiveness to exogenous stimulation are maintained in women of advanced age.
ACID PHOSPHATASE ACTIVITY IN THE RAT NEUROHYPOPHYSIS DURING INCREASED LEVELS OF GONADOTROPHIC HORMONES, IN DIABETES INSIPIDUS (BRATTLEBORO STRAIN) AND AFTER WATER LOADING
Authors: Boer G. J. , van Leeuwen F. W. , Swaab D. F. , Nolten J. W. L.
Published: December 2008

The acid phosphatase activity of the rat neurohypophysis was measured during increased gonadotrophic hormone levels, in diabetes insipidus (DI) (Brattleboro strain) and after water loading, i. e. conditions that interfere with the function of the hypothalamo-neurohypophyseal system (HNS). In addition determinations of tissue protein, lipid and DNA and of water metabolism were performed.

Neurohypophyseal acid phosphatase activity expressed on a dry weight basis increased under all conditions. For gonadectomized females, Brattleboro rats and water loaded males an increased water metabolism was observed. The increased acid phosphatase activity is interpreted as being related to disposal of release residues during stimulation of the HNS (increased gonadotrophic hormone levels and DI) and to disposal of neurosecretory material during inhibition (water loading).
SUBACUTE THYROIDITIS
Authors: Lebacq E. G. , Therasse G. , Schmitz A. , Delannoy A. , Destailleurs C.
Published: December 2008

Eleven cases are reported of subacute thyroiditis with histopathological study; there were 9 females and 2 males.

Bacteriological studies were inconclusive.

Different stages of pathological involvement were observed at the same time in all patients.

The clinical course followed the classical pattern in most cases: hyperthyroid-like, hypothyroid-like phase and recovery.

Blood TSH assessment before and after TRH stimulation revealed an early phase of depression unresponsive to TRH, followed by high levels with marked stimulation; during the first phase, radioiodine uptake was low, but was enhanced by exogenous TSH administration; accordingly the low uptake seems to be due to low TSH levels and not to complete destruction of the thyroid gland. Failure of TSH levels to rise after TRH stimulation is typical of this stage of the disease.

Although the final outcome is not yet predictable in some patients, definitive myxoedema appears to be probable in two cases.
EFFECT OF METYRAPONE ON CORTISOL BINDING CAPACITY IN PLASMA
Authors: Kehlet Henrik , Binder Chr.
Published: December 2008

Metyrapone was added in vitro to six different samples of normal plasma (0.1 mg/ml plasma) and administered orally (30 mg/kg) to 5 adrenalectomized patients. An increased ratio free, non protein-bound cortisol: total cortisol in plasma was demonstrated after metyrapone in all six in vitro studies and in 4 of the 5 adrenalectomized patients. These findings may explain the accelerating effect of metyrapone on cortisol metabolism.
DECARBOXYLATION OF ORNITHINE AND ADENOSYLMETHIONINE IN RAT OVARY DURING PREGNANCY
Authors: Guha S. K. , Janne J.
Published: December 2008

The activities of L-ornithine decarboxylase (EC 4.1.1.17) and S-adenosyl-L-methionine decarboxylase (EC 4.1.1.50) fluctuate markedly in rat ovary during the normal oestrous cycle. Ovarian ornithine and adenosylmethionine decarboxylases also showed profound changes during pregnancy of the rat. Both enzyme activities were remarkably low in the ovary through the first 11 days of pregnancy, but sharply increased at the time the placenta is formed in the rat. The enzyme activities remained elevated almost until term. It appears that the stimulation of polyamine synthesis in rat ovary, as reflected by the enhanced decarboxylation of ornithine and adenosylmethionine, is associated with the growth of the ovarian tissue rather than the secretory function of the corpus luteum during pregnancy.
IN VITRO STUDIES ON ENZYMATIC CLEAVAGE OF STEROID ESTERS IN THE FEMALE ORGANISM
Authors: Bellmann Otto , Duhme Hans-Jürgen , Gerhards Erich
Published: December 2008

The decreasing water-solubility of steroid esters concomitant with increasing chain length of monocarboxylic acids provides a prolonged therapeutic effect of the steroid. Whether a slow release of the steroid from an oily depot in the muscle or a secondary storage of the ester in the body fat ("deep compartment") are responsible for this prolonged action, is open to discussion. The aim of this study was to investigate the steroid ester cleaving enzyme activity of human subcutaneous fatty tissue. The following steroid esters were investigated: Testosterone acetate and oenanthate, metenolone acetate and oenanthate, norethisterone acetate and oenanthate, dehydroepiandrosterone acetate and oenanthate, fluocortolone acetate and caproate.

In the 10 000 x g supernatant phase of the female subcutaneous fatty tissue the rate of enzymatic cleavage of the long-chain oenanthates was considerably greater than that of the corresponding short-chain steroid esters. The nature and position of the ester group in the steroid molecule exhibited a marked effect on the rate of enzymatic cleavage of steroid esters.

The cleavage rate of long- and short-chain steroid esters in human myometrium and endometrium resembled that in the fatty tissue. On the other hand, the gastric mucosa, rectus musculature, placenta and vaginal mucosa split the short-chain steroid esters more rapidly than the long-chain esters. The marked differences in the relation of the cleavage rate of long- and short-chain steroid esters in the various tissues allow the assumption that long- and short-chain steroid esters are cleaved by different enzymes.
UPTAKE OF [3H]PROGESTERONE BY THE ANTERIOR LOBE OF PITUITARY AND SOME OTHER TISSUES OF THE HEN DURING AN OVULATORY CYCLE
Authors: Tanaka Katuhide , Kamiyoshi Michiharu , Kawashima Mitsuo
Published: December 2008

[1,2-3H]progesterone was injected intravenously into White Leghorn hens at various times during the period between ovulations of the initial ovum and the second ovum (C2) of an egg-laying sequence, and the uptake of radioactivity was determined in tissues of the anterior lobe of pituitary, median eminence, telencephalon, liver, adrenal, magnum and pectoral muscle. The uptake by the anterior lobe of the pituitary changed during the ovulatory cycle showing a peak 8 h before C2 ovulation. Similar changes were also observed in the median eminence and in the magnum, but not in the other tissues examined.
ENDOCRINE FUNCTION IN PATIENTS WITH PITUITARY ADENOMA BEFORE AND AFTER HYPOPHYSECTOMY
Authors: Lindholm J. , Rasmussen P. , Korsgaard O.
Published: December 2008

The thyroid and adrenal function was studied in 54 patients with a histologically verified pituitary adenoma before and after neurosurgical therapy. Even following operation at which radical removal of the pituitary was intended more than 50 per cent of the patients had a normal function of the thyroid and of the adrenal cortex.
MEASUREMENT OF INTRACELLULAR T3 AND T3 DISPOSAL IN NORMAL SUBJECTS
Authors: Hennemann G. , Smeulers J. , van der Does I. , Docter R. , Visser T. J.
Published: December 2008

The exchangeable intracellular T3 pool (Z1) and the T3 disposal (D) were measured in a group of 11 normal subjects.

For the calculation of D an integral approach of the 125I triiodothyronine kinetics was used. The final distribution space of injected 131I human serum albumin was used for the calculation of Z1. It was found that (mean ± sd) 80.6 ± 3.25 % of the total body T3 was confined to the intracellular compartment. D was 26.3 ± 9.1 μg/day and Z1 26.3 ± 9.4 μg. On the basis of available data with regard to T4 body distribution it is concluded that T3 not only differs from T4 with respect to intra- and extracellular distribution but also in partition between the non-hepatic and hepatic intracellular compartments. In addition it is calculated that the turnover of the exchangeable intracellular T3 pool is more rapid (24 h) than that of T4 (4.5 days).
OVARIAN ENZYMATIC DIVERGENCE IN PATIENTS WITH POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME EXCRETING URINARY PREGNANETRIOLONE
Authors: Maschler Itzhak , Salzberger Maccabi , Finkelstein Michael
Published: December 2008

When ovarian mitochondria from patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (POS) were incubated with [7-3H] 17α-hydroxypregnenolone and [4-14C]-17α-hydroxyprogesterone, 11β-hydroxylated metabolites were obtained. The mitochondria, prepared from pooled, frozen, polycystic ovarian tissue of 5 patients, converted [7-3H] 17α-hydroxypregnenolone to 3β,11β,17α-trihydroxy-5-pregnen-20-one (yield 0.065%) and to 3β,17α-dihydroxy-5-pregnene-11,20-dione (0.22%), while [4-14C] 17α-hydroxyprogesterone was converted to 21-deoxycortisol (0.1%). Incubation of mitochondria, prepared from 4 pooled samples of frozen, normal ovarian tissue, yielded no evidence of 11β-hydroxylation of either of the substrates. Mitochondria obtained from fresh, polycystic ovarian tissue of a single patient with POS converted [7-3H] 17α-hydroxypregnenolone to 3β,17α-dihydroxy-5-pregnene-11,20-dione (2.1%) and [4-14C] 17α-hydroxyprogesterone to 21-deoxycortisol (0.1 %). When the same mitochondrial preparation was incubated simultaneously with [7-3H] 17α-hydroxypregnenolone and [4-14C] 11-deoxycortisol, it converted 17α-hydroxypregnenolone to 3β,17α-dihydroxy-5-pregnene-11,20-dione (1.9%), but no 11β-hydroxylated derivatives of 11-deoxycortisol were found. These results demonstrate that ovaries of patients with POS contain an 11β-hydroxylase active towards C-21-deoxysteroids but inert to C-21-hydroxysteroids such as 11-deoxycortisol.
THE RESPONSE OF THE IMMATURE RAT OVARY TO GONADOTROPHINS: ACUTE CHANGES IN CYCLIC AMP, PROGESTERONE, TESTOSTERONE, ANDROSTENEDIONE AND OESTRADIOL AFTER TREATMENT WITH PMS OR FSH + LH
Authors: Sashida T. , Johnson D. C.
Published: December 2008

Radioimmunoassays were used to measure changes in progesterone, testosterone, androstenedione, oestradiol, gonadotrophin and ovarian cyclic AMP in immature female rats during the first 24 h after exposure to slowly (PMS) or rapidly (FSH + LH) disappearing gonadotrophins. Cyclic AMP was increased 30 min after injection of either kind of gonadotrophin but it had returned to control level within 4 h. Serum and ovarian testosterone and androstenedione also increased to a peak at 30 min but decreased to base line by the 4th h. Multiple injections of FSH + LH maintained an elevated serum testosterone level but they had little effect upon the secretion of androstenedione.

Serum and ovarian progesterone increased quickly after treatment with gonadotrophin. With PMS the peak in the serum was reached at 8 h, it remained high for 4 h and then fell precipitously between the 12th and 16th h. FSH + LH produced a prompt increase in serum progesterone but the level could be maintained only by repeated doses given every 4 h. Oestradiol was not increased in the serum or the ovary until 20 h after PMS. One or two doses of FSH + LH did not produce an increase in oestrogen but a transient increase was found with 3 doses; 4 doses kept an elevated level of oestradiol for 12 h. These results indicate that the aromatizing system of the immature rat ovary is relatively inactive and that continual stimulation by gonadotrophin for about 10–12 h is necessary to bring about increased function. In contrast, the mechanisms for the synthesis and secretion of progesterone and androgens are very active and can be immediately stimulated by exposure to gonadotrophins.
CO-EXISTENT PRIMARY HYPOTHYROIDISM AND ISOLATED ACTH DEFICIENCY
Authors: Yamamoto T. , Ogihara T. , Miyai K. , Kumahara Y. , Hirata Y.
Published: December 2008

A 52 year old man is described in whom the simultaneous occurrence of isolated adrenocorticotrophin (ACTH) deficiency and primary hypothyroidism was documented by the determination of six anterior pituitary hormones by specific radioimmunoassays after suitable stimulations. The urinary 17-hydroxycorticosteroids excretion was persistently reduced and was increased by repeated ACTH injections. The low basal metabolic rate, reduced serum thyroid hormones and elevated serum thyrotrophic hormone were consistent with primary hypothyroidism. After resumption of euthyroidism, secretory reserves of growth hormone and ACTH were assessed. The growth hormone response to insulin-induced hypoglycaemia was normal. No rise in plasma cortisol and ACTH was observed following insulin-induced hypoglycaemia. Plasma ACTH was not augmented by iv infusion of metyrapone. The pathogenesis of two co-existent endocrine deficiencies was discussed.
THYROID IODINE UPTAKE, THYROID IODINE SECRETION AND PLASMA TSH LEVELS IN MALE RATS DURING THE DAY AND NIGHT
Authors: Pallardo Luis F. , Pericás Isabel , Jolín Trinidad
Published: December 2008

Experiments were performed to assess whether the diurnal changes in thyroid 131I metabolism are paralleled by variations in endogenous iodine. The uptake of iodide by the thyroid gland was determined by a double isotope technique. The T/S iodine ratio and the rate of 131I and 127I secretion from the thyroid gland were determined in rats fed LID during 20 days. The accumulation of iodine by the thyroid gland was prevented by KClO4 and organic iodine formation was blocked by PTU. The absolute uptake of iodide by the thyroid gland was twice as high during the night than during the day. The thyroid/serum iodide ratios were highest during the night. The rate of release of 131I and 127I from the thyroid gland was augmented in the afternoon. The concentration of TSH in the plasma, measured by radioimmunoassay, was elevated in the afternoon as compared to other times during the day and night. The close association between the diurnal changes in thyroid iodine secretion and plasma TSH concentrations suggest that TSH may be responsible for the differences in iodine secretion observed during the day and night. On the other hand, the intake of iodine in the diet and the urinary clearance of iodine showed diurnal rhythms; the highest values occurred during the night. In addition, about twice as much iodine was available to the thyroid gland at night than during the day. These factors might also contribute to the diurnal variations observed in thyroid iodine metabolism.
PLASMA ALDOSTERONE CONCENTRATIONS RELATED TO 17α-HYDROXYPROGESTERONE IN CONGENITAL ADRENAL HYPERPLASIA
Authors: Pham-Huu-Trung M. T. , Raux M. C. , Gourmelen M. , Baron M. C. , Girard F. , Marrec D.
Published: December 2008

Plasma aldosterone and 17α-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) concentrations were measured in 35 patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia resulting from 21-hydroxylase deficiency. Ten patients had never been treated and among them were 4 salt-losing infants. Both aldosterone and 17-OHP were high in the 6 untreated non salt-losers. The values ranged respectively from 110 to 376 pg/ml and from 150 to 292 ng/ml. Results were variable in the 4 salt-losers. Three out of 5 untreated non salt-losers who were submitted to a low sodium diet, responded by doubling their aldosterone levels.

When plasma 17-OHP concentrations were < 30 ng/ml, the mean aldosterone level in the treated non salt-losers (n = 6) was 15.3 pg/ml ± 4.3 (se). This value was not different from the mean level found in the control children (n = 7), 18.8 pg/ml ± 3.2. In the treated salt-losers (n = 9), the measured aldosterone levels were ≦ 10 pg/ml 7 times out of 9. When the treated patients exhibited plasma 17-OHP concentrations > 30 ng/ml, the salt-losers (n = 11) were distinguished from the non salt-losers (n = 8) in that they showed a significantly lower aldosterone mean level, 24.6 pg/ml ± 4.3 against 69 pg/ml ± 13.4 found in the non salt-losers.

The salt-losers displayed no aldosterone increases to synthetic ACTH stimulation under treatment or at the withdrawal of treatment, while positive aldosterone responses were often observed in the non salt-losers. In the latter group, studied under different conditions (with and without therapy, on low sodium diet, after ACTH test) a significant correlation was found between aldosterone and 17-OHP levels expressed in log. values, (n = 38, r = 0.80, P < 0.001). The relationship could also be established with the values obtained from all the salt-losers, but it was less significant, (n = 35, r = 0.46, P < 0.02).
PLASMA LEVELS OF UNCONJUGATED STEROIDS IN MALE BABOONS (PAPIO HAMADRYAS) AND RHESUS MONKEYS (MACACA MULATTA)
Authors: Aso T. , Goncharov N. , Cekan Z. , Diczfalusy E.
Published: December 2008

In an attempt to find suitable animal models to aid in the study of the reproductive processes of the human male, plasma levels of unconjugated pregnenolone, 17-hydroxypregnenolone, dehydroepiandrosterone, 20α-dihydroprogesterone, 17-hydroxyprogesterone, androstenedione, testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, oestrone and oestradiol were measured in 18 male baboons and 10 male rhesus monkeys and the steroid levels were compared with those previously established in normospermic, middle-aged men.

Significant species differences were found with regard to the three Δ5-steroids studied; whereas the approximate relationship of pregnenolone to 17-hydroxypregnenolone and dehydroepiandrosterone was 1:2:4 in men, the corresponding relationship was 1:5:30 in rhesus monkeys and 1:10:10 in baboons.

Similar levels of 20α-dihydroprogesterone were found in the three species. On the other hand, the 17-hydroxyprogesterone levels in baboons were much lower and the levels of androstenedione lower than those found in men and in rhesus monkeys.

No species difference was found with regard to circulating testosterone levels. However, both rhesus monkeys and baboons exhibited much higher levels of dihydrostestosterone than did men.

Oestrone levels were higher in baboons than in men and oestradiol levels were higher in rhesus monkeys than in men and in baboons.

The significant differences in circulating steroid levels suggest that further studies (including i.a. steroid analyses in testicular tissue, seminal plasma and spermatic artery and vein following both stimulation and suppression of testicular endocrine function) are required before preference can be given to any of the two species studied as a suitable animal model for the study of new fertility regulating agents.
GROWTH HORMONE, INSULIN AND SUGAR IN THE BLOOD PLASMA OF BULLS. INTERRELATED DIURNAL VARIATIONS
Authors: Blom Anne Kristine , Halse K. , Hove K.
Published: December 2008

Plasma growth hormone (GH) of eight young, sexually mature, pedigree bulls, observed at hourly intervals, varied during the day in a manner indicating intermittent secretion in peaks or bursts. The diurnal GH averages were about 10 ng/ml.

GH averages for 2–3 h intervals showed minima following or during the periods of morning and afternoon feeding. A third minimum occurred between 10 and 12 p.m. Peak activity, estimated by the frequency of GH values greater than 10 ng/ml was significantly reduced during two of these low-GH-periods (afternoon and late night).

The minima in GH followed after (morning) or coincided with (afternoon) maxima in plasma insulin (two materials, GH/insulin, 11 a. m.-10 p. m.: r=−0.31 and −0.34, P < 0.01). This means that the two hormones behaved after food intake much in the same ways as in man in spite of the fact that plasma sugar decreased after feeding (GH/sugar, 11 a. m.-10 p.m.: r = 0.27, two materials combined, P < 0.001).

The possibility of GH involvement in the hour-to-hour metabolic homoeostasis of the animals is discussed.
REGULATION OF THE ACTIVITIES OF THE ENZYMES INVOLVED IN THE METABOLISM OF STEROID HORMONES IN RAT LIVER: THE EFFECT OF ADMINISTRATION OF ANTERIOR HYPOPHYSEAL HORMONES AND GONADOTROPHIN PREPARATIONS TO HYPOPHYSECTOMIZED RATS
Authors: Lax Edmund Rodney , Ghraf Rüdiger , Schriefers Herbert , Herrmann Martin , Petutschnigk Diethelm
Published: December 2008

A crude human hypophyseal extract (HE), as well as human growth hormone (GH), ovine prolactin (PRL) and commercial preparations of ACTH, TSH, pregnant mare's serum gonadotrophins (PMS) and chorionic gonadotrophin (CG) were tested for their ability to induce the activities of cytoplasmic 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and microsomal Δ4-5α-hydrogenase and to repress the activities of microsomal 3α-and 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases in the liver of hypophysectomized rats. The activity of 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase was not affected by any of the administered hormones. For the other enzymes, only PRL was effective in causing changes in the activities; the repressive effect on 3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity was highly significant (P < 0.001) These results indicate that PRL is involved in the regulation of at least some of the enzyme activities of hepatic steroid hormone metabolism.
EFFECT OF AN OVULATORY DOSE OF LUTEINIZING HORMONE ON THE CONCENTRATION OF OESTRONE, OESTRADIOL AND PROGESTERONE IN THE RABBIT OVARIAN FOLLICLES
Authors: Patwardhan Vasant V. , Lanthier André
Published: December 2008

This study was done to determine the effect of an ovulatory dose of LH on the concentration of oestrone, oestradiol and progesterone in the follicular tissue and in follicular fluid of ovaries of sexually mature female rabbits. Eight animals were sacrificed without treatment while others (4 to a group) were sacrificed at 1, 3, 4, 6, 8 and 10 h after administration of LH (50 μg). In each animal follicles from both ovaries were pooled and the follicular tissue was separated from the fluid. Determination of oestrone, oestradiol and progesterone was done by radioimmunoassay separately in the follicular tissue and in fluid.

One hour after LH treatment oestrogen levels were found elevated, as compared to the control, in the fluid but not in the tissue. Thereafter oestrogen levels declined and reached levels much below control at times nearing ovulation. On the other hand, progesterone levels were elevated over the control in both the tissue and fluid at 1 and 3 h. The tissue progesterone levels were, however, below control at and after 6 h. The sustained high concentrations of tissue progesterone in the earlier period after LH stimulation could play a role in the chain of events leading to follicular rupture.
URINARY TESTOSTERONE GLUCURONIDE AND SULPHATE IN NEWBORNS AND YOUNG INFANTS
Authors: Krawczynska H. , Zachmann M. , Prader A.
Published: December 2008

Urinary testosterone glucuronide and sulphate was determined separately by gas chromatography in 39 newborns and young infants (34 males and 5 females). In all cases, testosterone sulphate was higher than glucuronide. Boys excreted more of both conjugates (sulphate 6.7, glucuronide 2.2 μg/24 h) than girls (1.1 and 0.7 μg/24 h, respectively). Boys older than 3 weeks had higher values than boys younger than 2 weeks. The levels correlated positively with chronological age, negatively with the gestational age and not at all with the bilirubin levels. It is concluded that testosterone is excreted preferentially as the sulphate in the newborn period and that the high sulphokinase activity in foetal and neonatal testes is more likely responsible for this phenomenon than an impaired glucuronizing capacity of the liver.
ENDOCRINE FUNCTION IN PATIENTS WITH SUPRASELLAR AND HYPOTHALAMIC TUMOURS
Authors: Korsgaard Ove , Lindholm Jörgen , Rasmussen Peter
Published: December 2008

The pituitary function in 35 consecutive patients with a non-pituitary suprasellar tumour was studied.

In craniopharyngiomas and hypothalamic gliomas severe hormonal disturbances were the rule. In suprasellar cysts and meningiomas and in optic nerve gliomas the hormonal disturbances were on the whole less marked and related to the size of the tumour as judged from the pneumoencephalography, larger tumours leading to more extensive alterations than smaller neoplasms.
TRIIODOTHYRONINE BINDING TO LYMPHOCYTES FROM EUTHYROID SUBJECTS AND A PATIENT WITH PERIPHERAL RESISTANCE TO THYROID HORMONE
Authors: Liewendahl Kristian
Published: December 2008

Triiodothyronine (T3) binding to Ficoll-Isopaque purified human lymphocytes was studied. During incubation of lymphocytes with [125I]T3 in a calcium-free medium at 37°C, maximal uptake of T3 in nuclei occurred after 2 h and declined after prolonged incubation. Incubation of lymphocytes with T3 concentrations ranging from 1 × 10−11 to 1 × 10−9 mol/l and subsequent treatment with Triton X-100 to strip off [125I]T3 bound with low affinity was used for the estimation of affinity and capacity of nuclear T3 binding sites. The mean equilibrium affinity constant (Ka) estimated with the Scatchard method in 11 euthyroid healthy subjects was 4.5 × 109 1/mol, and the mean maximal binding capacity 25 × 10−15 mol/100 μg DNA. In a female patient with peripheral resistance to thyroid hormone action, the estimated Ka was 3.5 × 109 1/mol and the number of T3 binding sites 37 × 10−15 mol/100 μg DNA. Although not statistically different from the mean value in euthyroid subjects, this Ka value was outside the range of control values observed and was considered presumptive evidence that the nuclear T3 receptors in this patient have abnormally low affinity for its ligand. The nuclear T3 binding capacity in this patient was significantly increased.
AN EVALUATION OF LITHIUM AS AN ADJUNCT TO CARBIMAZOLE TREATMENT IN ACUTE THYROTOXICOSIS
Authors: Turner J. G. , Brownlie B. E. W. , Sadler W. A. , Jensen C. H.
Published: December 2008

The rate of control of thyrotoxicosis during the first 2 weeks of treatment was documented in 63 patients. Twenty-three patients received carbimazole 40 mg plus lithium carbonate 750 mg daily and a comparable group of 20 patients were given carbimazole 40 mg plus potassium iodide 120 mg daily. In the lithium treated patients the mean percentage fall of serum T4 after 2 weeks treatment was 49% and the fall in serum T3 57%. The results were similar in the iodide treated patients; the mean falls in serum T4 and T3 being 47% and 64%, respectively. Serum lithium values varied between 0.1–1.25 mEq./l; lithium side effects were minor. In a companion study 20 patients were treated with carbimazole alone. The responses in this group were less impressive; the mean falls in serum T4 and T3 at 2 weeks being 18% and 36%, respectively. It is concluded that lithium is a safe adjunct to conventional antithyroid drug therapy in the initial treatment of acute thyrotoxicosis.
ROLE OF GALACTOSE IN THE ANTIGENIC PROPERTIES OF THYROGLOBULIN
Authors: Monaco F. , Andreoli M.
Published: December 2008

Thyroglobulins (TG) from a "hot" human thyroid nodule and from Fisher rats have been purified and the effects of progressive removal of sialic acid and galactose on the immunoreactive properties of the proteins were studied. Terminal sialic acid and galactose were released by stepwise hydrolysis with neuraminidase and beta-galactosidase.

Agalacto-TG shows a slower electrophoretic mobility than native TG, but in polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and immunoelectrophoresis it migrates in the same position as asialo-TG.

In immunodiffusion agalacto-TG forms a spur with native TG and asialo-TG when tested against anti 19S native TG or anti-asialo-TG sera.

It is thus shown that galactose in the terminal environment of the oligosaccharide chains of thyroglobulin is essential for the structural groups involved in the antigenic properties of thyroglobulin.
PITUITARY-THYROID INTERRELATIONSHIP IN RATS EXPOSED TO DIFFERENT ENVIRONMENTAL TEMPERATURES
Authors: Tal Eli , Chayoth Reuben , Zor Uriel , Goldhaber Gideon , Zerachie Avi
Published: December 2008

The present work intended to show interrelationships between triiodothyronine (T3), thyroxine (T4), thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) and cyclic adenosine 3′5′-monophosphate (cyclic AMP) in both the pituitary and the thyroid. Experiments were carried out on animals exposed to 0 and 37°C for 4 days and to 34°C for 21 days. Control animals were maintained at 22°C. T4 serum levels of 2.6, 4.0, 1.1 and 0.42 μg/100 ml serum, and T3 levels of 95, 135, 65 and 36 ng/100 ml serum were recorded at 22, 0, 34 and 37°C, respectively. The observed serum TSH levels were 265, 192, 237 and 182 μg/100 ml serum in rats exposed to 22, 0, 34 and 37°C, respectively. Pituitary TSH content was similar at 22, 0 and 34°C whereas the content in the 37°C exposed rats was twice that of controls. Thyroid cyclic AMP levels were not significantly different among the various experimental groups. The content of cyclic AMP in the pituitary was higher at 34°C by 125 % and 37°C by 240 %, and lower at 0°C by 56 % with regard to the control.

These results suggest that the 0 and 34°C exposed rats reach a new steady state in the control of thyroid hormones secretion rate. However, at 37°C, the TSH-thyroxine interrelationships seem to break down.
MORPHOLOGY OF EXPERIMENTAL, ORGAN-SPECIFIC INSULITIS OF THE MOUSE PANCREAS
Authors: Egeberg Jørn , Nerup Jørn , Andersen Ole Ortved , Bendixen Gunnar , Kromann Hans , Gunnarsson Rolf , Hellerström Claes , Poulsen Jacob E.
Published: December 2008

The morphologic and metabolic effect of a single intracutaneous injection of homologous endocrine pancreas in Freund's complete adjuvant (CFA) was studied in 100 mice and compared with control groups which had been (1) immunized with murine insulin in CFA, (2) injected with CFA alone, or had (3) received no treatment.

There were no differences between the control groups as regards the morphology of the pancreatic islets, and the glucose tolerance was normal.

Mice immunized with islet homogenate exhibited morphological changes in the form of degranulation and cytoplasmic disintegration. These changes involved B-cells as well as A2-cells and were present from 7 to 18 days after the immunization. A significant reduction in glucose tolerance was observed 14 days after the immunization. Another characteristic finding in the islets from the immunized mice was the extravascular presence of mononuclear, agranular cells which on the basis of their morphological criteria appeared to represent lymphocytes.
HYPOPHYSO-GONADAL FUNCTION IN THE CRYPTORCHID CHILD: DIFFERENCES BETWEEN UNILATERAL AND BILATERAL CRYPTORCHIDS
Authors: Cacciari E. , Cicognani A. , Pirazzoli P. , Zappulla F. , Tassoni P. , Bernardi F. , Salardi S.
Published: December 2008

In 22 normal boys, 33 unilateral and 14 bilateral cryptorchids, a gonadal function test (2000 IU of HCG im each a day for three days and assays of plasma testosterone and plasma oestradiol-17β before and after the HCG administration) as well as an LH-RH test were carried out.

In 60% of the cases, both normal and cryptorchid boys, plasma oestradiol-17β (both in basal conditions and after stimulus) were found to be less than the sensitivity (5 pg/ml) of the method. While the plasma testosterone was similar under basal conditions in the three groups of children, after HCG it was significantly lower than the mean value of the control group only in the bilateral cryptorchids. The testosterone levels, both under basal conditions and after stimulus, are correlated to bone age only in the normal boys and in the unilateral cryptorchids. There were no significant differences among the various groups for either LH and FSH both under basal conditions and after LH-RH. The LH curve area during the LH-RH test is in correlation with bone age only in the normal children.
HYPOTHALAMIC-PITUITARY-TESTICULAR SYSTEM FOLLOWING TESTICULAR X-IRRADIATION
Authors: Verjans H. L. , Eik-Nes K. B.
Published: December 2008

Testes of adult, male rats were exposed to a total dose of 1500 R of X-irradiation. Testicular weight decreased from day 8 after X-ray treatment. This decrease was, however, preceded by an increment of the testis weight on day 4 following treatment. X-ray treatment of testes was associated with significant increases in serum FSH. Testicular irradiation had, however, no effect on ventral prostate and seminal vesicles weights. Serum testosterone increased only on day 1, 2 and 4 after irradiation, while serum LH levels tended to increase from day 8 post-irradiation. These changes were not significant, however, when compared with non-irradiated controls. At 7, 13 and 20 days following 1500 R of bilateral, testicular X-irradiation, the hypothalamic-pituitary unit was still capable of responding to exogenous gonadotrophin releasing factor. Serum FSH may in male rats be regulated at least partly by circulating steroids of testicular origin and partly by an unknown factor of non-interstitial cell nature.