| Search Weight Loss Topics: |
New study first to define link between testosterone and fathers’ social roles outside the family – ND Newswire
Testosterone 
Comments Off on New study first to define link between testosterone and fathers’ social roles outside the family – ND Newswire
Most of the research on the biology of fatherhood has focused on fathers in the U.S., Europe and some Asian countries. In these settings, levels of some hormones, such as lower testosterone and higher oxytocin, have been linked to more nurturing fathering. Yet, a University of Notre Dame research team wants to take a wider view. The role of fathers can vary greatly across cultures, and the researchers aimed to test whether the biology of fatherhood did, too.
To get a more complete picture of hormones and fatherhood that includes different cultures, social support systems and social hierarchies, Lee Gettler, associate professor of anthropology at Notre Dame, led a team that worked with the BaYaka and Bondongo societies in the Republic of the Congo. The teams paper was published this week in Nature magazines Scientific Reports. It is the first study to link fathers testosterone levels to broader social roles within their communities and revealed that BaYaka dads who were seen as more generous resource sharers had lower testosterone than less generous men.
Part of what motivated Gettler and his team to explore the role of fathers among the BaYaka and Bondongo is their very different models of family life and roles for fathers. In the U.S. and elsewhere, the pandemic has forced parents to forge new strategies to help their children meet their school demands while trying to negotiate their own work schedules. Many families have formed educational pods in which children from multiple families are schooled together, either by one of the parents or a teacher who is hired by the group. Fathers working from home have found new ways of integrating their roles in work and home life. Gettler and his team explore how mens hormones are linked to such social flexibility in response to the many challenges human parents have faced throughout human evolution and still do all over the world today.
In the Congo Basin, Gettlers team works with two neighboring groups with different ideas about fathers roles. The BaYaka people are very egalitarian and hyper-cooperative within their communities, and fathers are valued for generously sharing resources across the group. Among the Bondongo people, who rely on fishing and farming for sustenance, society is patriarchal and status driven, and fathers are valued as providers, said Gettler.
Anthropologists agree that the rise of paternal care and increased levels of cooperation were important to human evolutionary success by way of helping improve child well-being and survival, but links between fathers testosterone levels and cooperative, prosocial behaviors are still lacking in the field. To pursue these links, Gettlers collaborators including Sheina Lew-Levy, Simon Fraser University, Canada and Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark; Mallika Sarma, Johns Hopkins University; Valchy Miegakanda, Institut National de Sant Publique, Republic of the Congo; and Adam Boyette, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology, Leipzig, Germany took saliva samples from both the BaYaka and Bondongo fathers to determine testosterone levels. They also asked the men to rank the best fathers in each group based on their communitys valued roles for men.
BaYaka fathers are not playmates with their children like men are in the U.S. and other large-scale, industrialized societies. They spend more time in hands-on care, holding their babies, taking their older children with them to work in the forest, co-sleeping all together as a family at night. But fathers are also part of larger, cooperative community, said Boyette, a senior author on the new paper.
The role of fathers in Bondongo communities differs from BaYaka fathers in that the former are most valued for being providers of resources for their households. Bondongo men often undertake significant risk to hunt, fish and clear plots for farming. Although they are generally committed fathers, Bondongo fathers often do not engage in much nurturing care of their children, which is primarily a womens role in their society. In contrast to the BaYaka results, Bondongo fathers who were rated as better providers had higher testosterone levels.
The researchers also looked at levels of testosterone in relation to marital conflict. They found that men in both societies with higher testosterone levels were ranked (by other men) as having greater conflict with their wives. This is consistent with studies of men in the U.S. and the Philippines.
The data in the BaYaka/Bondongo study are correlational, meaning the researchers do not know if good sharers generous behavior leads to low levels of testosterone, or that low levels of testosterone lead to increased sharing. In previous research, Gettler and other anthropologists have demonstrated that testosterone levels drop significantly when men become fathers. A recent study from Gettlers lab, completed in conjunction with a South Bend hospital, showed that if a dads testosterone level was lower on the second day of his infants life, he would ultimately be more involved in the babys care months later.
Weve learned a great deal about fathers and testosterone in places like the U.S., and weve come to understand that its related to the amount of child care they do and how they support their partners, Gettler said. This could be applied to broader community. During this time when so many of us are struggling, this could make us think about how fathers bodies are functioning in ways that not only connect us to our own families but also how we can help others survive and thrive.
Contact:Colleen Sharkey, assistant director of media relations, 574-631-9958,csharke2@nd.edu
Go here to read the rest:
New study first to define link between testosterone and fathers' social roles outside the family - ND Newswire
Global Testosterone Replacement Therapy Market Global Outlook 2024 By Leading Top Countries, Growth Drivers, Incredible Potential And Major…
Testosterone Comments Off on Global Testosterone Replacement Therapy Market Global Outlook 2024 By Leading Top Countries, Growth Drivers, Incredible Potential And Major…
The Testosterone Replacement Therapy Market Research Report published by Global Marketers is an all-inclusive business research study on the current state of the industry which analyzes ground-breaking strategies for business growth and describes significant factors such as top developers, production value, key regions, and growth rate.
The impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the market will be completely analyzed in this report and it will also quantify the impact of this pandemic on the market. Testosterone Replacement Therapy Industry Market report is to give an exact and strategic examination of the Testosterone Replacement Therapy industry. The report examines each segment and its sub-segment futures before looking at the 360-degree view of the market mentioned.
Get a Sample PDF copy of the report @:
Testosterone Replacement Therapy Market Key Companies:
AbbVie, Endo International, Eli lilly, Pfizer, Actavis (Allergan), Bayer, Novartis, Teva, Mylan, Upsher-Smith, Ferring Pharmaceuticals, Kyowa Kirin, Acerus Pharmaceuticals
Major Regions as Follows:
North America (USA, Canada, Mexico)
Europe (Germany, France, the United Kingdom, and Rest of Europe)
Asia-Pacific(China, Japan, Australia, South Korea, Southeast Asia)
South America(Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, rest of countries etc.)
Middle East and Africa (Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Israel, Egypt, Nigeria, and South Africa)
Historical data available in the report elaborates on the development of the Testosterone Replacement Therapy on national, regional, and international levels. Testosterone Replacement Therapy Market Research Report presents a detailed analysis based on the thorough research of the overall market mainly the market size, growth scenario, opportunities, trend analysis, and competitive breakdown.
Ask for [emailprotected]:
https://www.globalmarketers.biz/discount_inquiry/discount/129647
Market Segment by Type:
GelsInjectionsPatchesOther
Market Segment by Application:
HospitalsClinicsOthers
The predictions mentioned in the Testosterone Replacement Therapy market report have been resulting using proven research techniques, assumptions and methodologies. This market report states the overview, historical data along with size, share, growth, demand, and revenue of the global industry.
This research is categorized differently considering the various aspects of this market. It also evaluates the forthcoming circumstances by considering project pipelines of the company, long term agreements to take enlargement estimate. The tools used for analyzing the Global Testosterone Replacement Therapy Market research report include a SWOT analysis.
Enquiry Before Buying:
Table of Contents: Testosterone Replacement Therapy Market
Chapter 1: Overview of Testosterone Replacement Therapy Market
Chapter 2: Global Market Status and Forecast by Regions
Chapter 3: Global Testosterone Replacement Therapy Market Status and Forecast by Types
Chapter 4: Global Testosterone Replacement Therapy industry Status and Forecast by Downstream Industry
Chapter 5: Testosterone Replacement Therapy industry Market Driving Factor Analysis
Chapter 6: Market Competition Status by Major Manufacturers
Chapter 7: Major Manufacturers Introduction and Market Data
Chapter 8: Upstream and Downstream Testosterone Replacement Therapy industry Analysis
Chapter 9: Cost and Gross Margin Analysis
Chapter 10: Marketing Status Analysis
Chapter 11: Testosterone Replacement Therapy industry Market Report Conclusion
Chapter 12: Research Methodology and Reference
Key questions answered in this report
What are the key Testosterone Replacement Therapy market trends?
What is driving this market?
What are the challenges to Testosterone Replacement Therapy market growth?
What are the Testosterone Replacement Therapy market opportunity and threats faced by the key vendors?
What are the strengths of the Testosterone Replacement Therapy Market key vendors?
Stakeholders Benefit:
Access full Report Description, TOC, Table of Figure, Chart, [emailprotected]
Read this article:
Global Testosterone Replacement Therapy Market Global Outlook 2024 By Leading Top Countries, Growth Drivers, Incredible Potential And Major...
Millendo Therapeutics Announces Initiation of First-in-Human Clinical Trial of MLE-301, a Selective NK3R Antagonist | Small Molecules | News Channels…
Testosterone Comments Off on Millendo Therapeutics Announces Initiation of First-in-Human Clinical Trial of MLE-301, a Selective NK3R Antagonist | Small Molecules | News Channels…
DetailsCategory: Small MoleculesPublished on Friday, 25 September 2020 11:33Hits: 109
First subject dosed with MLE-301, for the treatment of vasomotor symptoms (VMS) in menopausal women
Phase 1 study will evaluate safety, pharmacokinetics and preliminary efficacy
ANN ARBOR, MI, USA I September 24, 2020 I Millendo Therapeutics, Inc. (Nasdaq: MLND), a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company primarily focused on developing novel treatments for endocrine diseases with significant unmet needs, announced dosing of the first subject in a Phase 1 clinical trial evaluating the safety, pharmacokinetics and preliminary efficacy of MLE-301, a selective neurokinin 3 receptor (NK3R) antagonist that is being developed for the treatment of VMS, commonly known as hot flashes and night sweats, in menopausal women.
We are pleased to advance MLE-301 into clinical development, prioritizing our resources on this valuable asset and leveraging Millendos expertise in the NK3R category," said Julia C. Owens, President and Chief Executive Officer of Millendo Therapeutics. The company is focused on executing our Phase 1 study and understanding more about the safety, PK/PD and efficacy profile of MLE-301 based on the resulting data from this study."
The first-in-human trial is designed to evaluate the safety and tolerability of MLE-301. The single ascending dose portion of the study will be conducted in healthy male volunteers, to determine the pharmacokinetics of MLE-301 and its pharmacodynamic profile as measured by reductions of biomarkers (luteinizing hormone, testosterone). The Phase 1 multiple ascending dose portion will enroll post-menopausal women, allowing measurement of reductions in VMS frequency and severity, and establishment of initial clinical proof of concept. The Phase 1 clinical trial is supported by strong preclinical data that showed potency and selectivity for the NK3R receptor, the potential for once-daily dosing, and testosterone lowering effects consistent with the expected activity of an NK3R antagonist. Based on its demonstrated in vitro and in vivo activity, Millendo believes MLE-301 may have meaningful clinical impact in an area of high unmet medical need.
"Over 20 million women in the U.S. suffer from VMS associated with menopause, including hot flashes and night sweats that can severely impact quality of life, overall productivity and long-term healthcare utilization," said Christophe Arbet-Engels, M.D., Ph.D., Chief Medical Officer of Millendo Therapeutics. With symptoms that last on average over seven years, there is still a critical need for an effective, non-hormonal treatment that has the efficacy of estrogens but without the increased risks of cancer or cardiovascular disease."
About MLE-301
MLE-301 is a neurokinin 3 receptor (NK3R) antagonist that is being developed as a potential treatment of vasomotor symptoms (VMS), commonly known as hot flashes and night sweats, in menopausal women. NK3R plays a key role in regulating the activity of KNDy (kisspeptin/NKB/dynorphin) neurons, which has been shown to participate in the generation of VMS. By inhibiting the NK3R signaling on the KNDy neurons and potentially other NK3R-expressing neurons that propagate heat dissipation signals through the hypothalamus, MLE-301 aims to reduce the effects of hyperactive KNDy neurons and thereby decrease the frequency and severity of vasomotor symptoms.
About Millendo Therapeutics, Inc.
Millendo Therapeutics is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company primarily focused on developing novel treatments for endocrine diseases where current therapies do not exist or are insufficient. Millendo seeks to create distinct and transformative treatments where there is a significant unmet medical need. The company is currently advancing MLE-301 for the treatment of vasomotor symptoms associated with menopause. For more information, please visit http://www.millendo.com.
SOURCE: Millendo Therapeutics
Go here to see the original:
Millendo Therapeutics Announces Initiation of First-in-Human Clinical Trial of MLE-301, a Selective NK3R Antagonist | Small Molecules | News Channels...
How to manage and treat PCOS-induced acne and hair loss – VOGUE India
Testosterone Comments Off on How to manage and treat PCOS-induced acne and hair loss – VOGUE India
With an approximate one in five Indian women suffering from polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), doctors say that more awareness is needed about the condition, especially because it can be controlled by proper diet, exercise and lifestyle changes. A major side effect of the hormone disorder? Acne and hair loss. These are also the symptoms that most patients present with first. We spoke to a dermatologist and a gynaecologist for their take.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition where women produce higher-than-normal amounts of male or androgen hormones. This manifests as small cysts on the ovaries, which disrupt hormone levels and then cause irregular (or delayed periods) due to an ovulation imbalance. But what shows on the outsideacne, thinning hair and excess facial hair, is what patients usually consult their physicians for first.
PCOS disrupts your skin and hair texture. Because there is too much testosterone in the body, there is an increase in sebum and skin cell production, leading to acne. PCOS-induced acne shows up on the jawline, cheeks, chin and upper neck, shares Dr Gupta. Not only is hormonal acne uncomfortable, but it also can be painful, as the cysts and nodules can be hard and long lasting. In some cases, the skin texture becomes dry and there is darkening of the neck and underarms observed, adds Dr Mayur Das, consultant, obstetrics and gynaecology, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Delhi.
Hair growth is also thrown off balance. PCOS causes excess hair growth on face, chest or back. This is called hirsutism, and is a very common symptom. In a lot of cases, there is thicker hair growth on the face and body, but thinning of hair or hair loss near the frontal hairline, states Dr Das. Due to an overabundance of testosterone or androgen, hair may become thin or brittle, and begin to fall out without being immediately replaced.
The underlying cause is the hormonal imbalance, and the treatment for it is multifaceted. Doctors may prescribe oral contraceptives to decrease androgen production and regulate oestrogen, or may treat each symptom (like the hair loss or extreme acne) separately through medications or topicals.
Over-the-counter acne medications typically rely on benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, and sulphur to help treat acne. Although these ingredients can help with mild breakouts, they usually aren't enough to treat hormonal acne, says Dr Gupta and adds that the prescription treatment isotretinoin (a type of retinol) may be required in case of severe cystic acne and acne. The doctor may also prescribe antibiotics and spironolactone which helps lower testosterone levelswhich then reduces acne."
These same medications are used to reduce testosterone induced hair loss too, so it all works in tandem. In addition, doctors may suggest other therapies to kickstart hair growth once the hormonal imbalance is in control. PRP, mesotherapy and Progenra help to stimulate cell growth in the scalpan important addition to oral medicines.
Dr Gupta says that tamping down inflammation is important to reduce the intensity of the symptoms. Include leafy greens, seasonal fruits, high fat foods, nuts and seeds. Switch to a nutrient-rich diet with whole foods, less of refined and processed foods which are also heavy on preservatives. Stay away from carb-laden foods like white rice, potatoes, cakes and milk chocolates and cut down on sugar consumption to see a marked difference in your skin and hair texture, she says. Since weight gain and insulin resistance is another byproduct of PCOS, reducing these markers can go a long way in reversing the end result. Exercise is key tooit can lower blood sugar levels and prevent insulin issues. Reducing stress through exercise, meditation and other forms of mindfulness helps to deal with microstressors, which help to control the adrenal and cortisol levels of the body too.
Experts recommend supplementing the diet with omega acids, zinc and biotin to facilitate hair growth from within. Inositols are carbohydrates that can influence the body's insulin response, and when taken as a supplement may help improve metabolic and reproductive aspects of PCOS, explains Dr Gupta.
7 yoga poses to add to your practice if you have PCOS
How these 3 women overcame life-changing diseases through their diet
3 easy steps to treat a red, painful cystic pimple
Link:
How to manage and treat PCOS-induced acne and hair loss - VOGUE India
Maybe men should sit this one out – The Gazette
Testosterone Comments Off on Maybe men should sit this one out – The Gazette
Never mind the gender gap. In Iowa, its a chasm.
A recent Des Moines Register Iowa Poll shows President Donald Trump and his Democratic challenger Joe Biden tied at 47 percent apiece.
But Biden leads among women surveyed by 20 percentage points. Trump leads among men by 21. And the poll was taken before the death of Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg, a sad development that leaves hard-fought consititutional gains for women and others in jeopardy.
But whats up fellas? Is it because this president came with a cool hat? Boat parades?
The internet, as you might imagine, is chock full of analysis on this widening gap. Men have been trending more Republican for years, a pace accelerated in 2016, while women are trending more Democratic. Women also are more likely to vote than men.
Maybe its the Trump economy. A Financial Times poll released in February found that 48 percent of white men report theyre better off financially under Trump. But only 33 percent of white women said the same. Black and Latino respondents were much more likely to say their financial situation has worsened under Trump.
And maybe its something else. Two researchers, Eric Knowles and Sarah DiMuccio of New York University, collected web search data on topics such as erectile dysfunction, hair loss, testosterone and surveyed 300 men on whether they had or would ever search those topics. They found support for Trump in 2016 was higher in areas of the country that had more searches for erectile dysfunction.
Draw your own conclusions.
But why, after weve seen this train wreck president in action, are men still clinging to Trump? Puzzled, I asked a very close female associate who did not want to be dragged into this.
For one thing, the end of political correctness and the beginning of a golden era of locker room talk promised by Trump did not materialize. Quite the opposite, the election of a president who bragged of sexual assault sparked the #MeToo movement and a reckoning for men from the top down. It shook up male-dominated power structures and held men accountable for horrid behavior.
ARTICLE CONTINUES BELOW ADVERTISEMENT
Women, who have faced unfair treatment, harassment and oppression, are more supportive of the Democratic view of economic equality, including ending the unfair treatment, harassment and oppression of Black Americans and other disadvantaged groups. The need for societal change is more obvious to women than men, especially white guys. Karens who call the cops, notwithstanding.
Men might see the Black Lives Matter movement as anti-police, a bunch of rioters or a threat to law and order. Women heard George Floyd calling for his mother just before he died under the knee of a Minneapolis police officer.
As the primary caregivers, educators and family leaders, the added duties and disruptions of the pandemic have hit women far harder. Theyre the ones on the front lines wrestling with home learning, finances and all the added stress of a world turned upside down.
So when the president blows off the virus and bungles the federal response, its women who pay the highest cost for his negligence.
This all makes sense. Women seem much better equipped to judge the needs of this national moment and act accordingly. Men, not so much. Maybe we should sit this one out, fellas. Ill see about cool hats.
(319) 398-8262; todd.dorman@thegazette.com
Go here to read the rest:
Maybe men should sit this one out - The Gazette
Dr. Shore on the Objective of the HERO Trial in Advanced Prostate Cancer – OncLive
Testosterone Comments Off on Dr. Shore on the Objective of the HERO Trial in Advanced Prostate Cancer – OncLive
Neal D. Shore, MD, FACS, discusses the objective of the phase 3 HERO trial in advanced prostate cancer.
Neal D. Shore, MD, FACS, medical director of the Carolina Urologic Research Center, discusses the objective of the phase 3 HERO trial in advanced prostate cancer.
The objective of the HERO trial was to compare the oral, once-daily gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist relugolix (Relumina) with 3-monthleuprolide (Lupron) in patients with advanced prostate cancer, says Shore. The primary end point of the study was testosterone (T)-suppression through 48 weeks. Results showed noninferiority,as well as superiority with regard to T-suppression with relugolix over leuprolide acetate.
The patients included in this trial had prostate-specific antigen (PSA) or biochemical relapse; relapsed after surgery, radiation, or both;or hadnewly diagnosed metastatic disease or high-risk localized disease. The demographics were well balanced in terms of age, race, and geographic region, as well as clinical characteristics regarding their baseline PSAs, as well as their testosterone levels, concludes Shore.
See original here:
Dr. Shore on the Objective of the HERO Trial in Advanced Prostate Cancer - OncLive
Consumers Opting For To Help The Male Hypogonadism Market Cross US$ 3,300 Mn Between 2026 – Industry Today
Testosterone Comments Off on Consumers Opting For To Help The Male Hypogonadism Market Cross US$ 3,300 Mn Between 2026 – Industry Today
According to Persistence Market Researchs new report, global male hypogonadism market is slated to exhibit a steady expansion throughout the forecast period (2017-2026). Revenues from the global market for male hypogonadism are estimated to exceed US$ 3,300 Mn by 2026-end.
According to Persistence Market Researchs new report, globalmale hypogonadism marketis slated to exhibit a steady expansion throughout the forecast period (2017-2026). Revenues from the global market for male hypogonadism are estimated to exceed US$ 3,300 Mn by 2026-end.
Governments Taking Initiatives to Spread Awareness about Male Hypogonadism Therapeutics
Lack of sex hormones, usually referred to as male hypogonadism has resulted into many health risks that include osteoporosis, heart disease, and cardiovascular diseases on the back of thinning of bones. Global male hypogonadism market comprises several patented brands that currently have high market penetration. Proliferation in geriatric population in tandem with rising incidences related to rheumatoid arthritis and obesity have been primary factors affecting prevalence of male hypogonadism globally.
Get Sample Copy of Report @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/samples/22303
Company Profiles
Mounting incidences of testosterone deficiency in male population is a key factor that prevalence of male hypogonadism has surged worldwide. Several governments around the world have been taking initiatives to spread the awareness on hypogonadism treatment procedures, for example - testosterone replacement therapy (TST), in order to relieve the painful burden on patients and their families.
As low testosterone levels are increasingly associated with exacerbation of chronic conditions, it further results into disorders apropos to hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Advent of TST has however enabled reduction in cases of male hypogonadism considerably. With growing awareness related to its treatment among patients, the market is likely to gain an uptick during the forecast period.
Rising availability of the selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) has further sustained the market expansion. The development and high availability of SARMs has led toward the provision of improved treatment procedure to patients having androgen deficiencies, thereby influencing the market growth.
Access Full Report @ https://www.persistencemarketresearch.com/checkout/22303
North America will continue to Dominate Global Male Hypogonadism Market
North America will continue to dominate the global male hypogonadism market, with more than one-third revenue share during the forecast period. In addition, revenues from the male hypogonadism market in North America will exhibit the fastest expansion through 2026, as compared to those from all the other regional segments comprised in the report. Europe and Asia-Pacific excluding Japan (APEJ) are also expected to remain lucrative for the male hypogonadism market. The market in APEJ will ride on a slightly higher CAGR than that in Europe through 2026.
Topical gels are expected to remain the most lucrative among drugs available for treatment of male hypogonadism globally, with sales projected to register the fastest expansion through 2026. Injectables will also remain a major revenue contributor to the market. Sales of injectable and transdermal patches are poised to reflect an equal CAGR through 2026.
Testosterone Replacement Therapy to Remain Preferred among Patients
Based on therapy, testosterone replacement therapy is expected to remain preferred among patients with male hypogonadism worldwide. Roughly 66% revenue share of the market is expected to be held by revenues from testosterone replacement therapy by 2026-end. Revenues from gonadotropin replacement therapy will remain slightly more than half revenues gained from testosterone replacement therapy throughout the forecast period.
Klinefelters syndrome is expected to remain the most prevalent disease type observed in the male hypogonadism market, and revenues from treatment of this disease will exceed US$ 1,800 Mn by 2026-end. Kallmann Syndrome and Pituitary Adenomas among disease types will also account for major revenue shares of the market by 2026-end.
About- Persistence Market Research (Healthcare)
Unprecedented access to a world of information has given rise to the empowered, albeit distrustful, consumer. So is the case with healthcare, where the patient has been rendered more informed and conscientious thanks to the extraordinary penetration of the Internet. The discerning patient now demands more affordable, sophisticated, transparent, and personalized healthcare services, creating the need for new models for care.
To support companies in overcoming complex business challenges, we follow a multi-disciplinary approach. At PMR, we unite various data streams from multi-dimensional sources. By deploying real-time data collection, big data, and customer experience analytics, we deliver business intelligence for organizations of all sizes.
Read more from the original source:
Consumers Opting For To Help The Male Hypogonadism Market Cross US$ 3,300 Mn Between 2026 - Industry Today
New research suggests the conversion of testosterone to estrogen in the brain is crucial for male sexual d … – PsyPost
Testosterone Comments Off on New research suggests the conversion of testosterone to estrogen in the brain is crucial for male sexual d … – PsyPost
Scientists have uncovered an enzyme that appears to play a key role in regulating sexual behavior in males. Their new research, published in the journal Endocrinology, found that selectively disrupting the enzyme aromatase in the brains of male mice led to a sharp decrease in sexual behavior.
Over the past 30 years, we have been interested in various roles of aromatase, the enzyme that produces estrogen from testosterone locally in a number of body sites including the brain, explained Serdar Bulun, the chair of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and Northwestern Medicine.
There have been a number of reports about the function of aromatase in specific brain regions for sexually dimorphic brain development particularly in males during fetal development and early postnatal life; and sparse data also suggested that the aromatization of testosterone to estrogen in the brain might play a role in regulating libido, but this remained as an important question in the adult male.
There was a definitive way to answer this question: to knock out aromatase selectively in the brain and find out if sexual activity or desire changes. This is what we did, Bulun said.
The researchers found that sexual activity in male mice decreased by 50% when they knocked out a single gene responsible for encoding the enzyme, despite the mice having higher levels of blood testosterone levels (compared with control male mice).
Normally, if a male mouse is put with a female one, Bulun said in a news release, it would chase after her and try to have sex with her. If you knock out the aromatase gene in the brain, their sexual activity is significantly reduced. There is less frequency of mating. The male mice are not that interested.
The decreased sexual behavior in male mice was fully restored after the systemic administration of both estradiol and testosterone but not by estradiol or testosterone alone. This indicates that the conversion of testosterone to estrogen in the brain plays an important role in male sexual behavior, the researchers said.
Estrogen and testosterone have been traditionally labeled as female and male sex steroids, respectively. Our findings underscore that this is a superficial characterization. Both steroids serve important roles in both sexes, Bulun told PsyPost.
Testosterone in the brain serves two purposes for sexual desire. As an androgen, it stimulates it. As a further twist, testosterone is also aromatized and thus serves as a precursor for estrogen in the brain.
This additional estrogenic effect in the brain is necessary for achieving full sexual desire. Because males (versus females) have enormously higher levels of blood testosterone, they can concentrate estrogen in certain brain regions much more effectively compared with females. We hope that our findings will help design treatments for the disorders involving sexual desire, Bulun said.
But the researchers still have more to learn about the relationship between aromatase and sexual behavior.
We knocked out aromatase in the entire brain. Aromatase in the adult brain is present in specific locations such as the hypothalamus, amygdala and several other regions. We still need to pinpoint the microscopic brain regions responsible for controlling libido via more refined conditional knockout technology, Bulun explained.
There also remain other key questions. How does estrogen regulate sexual desire? What are the downstream neurotransmitters that mediate this estrogenic effect? How do aromatase-intense regions communicate with the cortex to regulate sexual activity?
The study, Brain Aromatase and the Regulation of Sexual Activity in Male Mice, was authored by David C. Brooks, John S. Coon V., Cihangir M. Ercan, Xia Xu, Hongxin Dong, Jon E. Levine, Serdar E. Bulun, and Hong Zhao.
Continued here:
New research suggests the conversion of testosterone to estrogen in the brain is crucial for male sexual d ... - PsyPost
Is your drinking water toxic? This app may help you find out – Science Codex
Testosterone Comments Off on Is your drinking water toxic? This app may help you find out – Science Codex
PHILADELPHIA - Exposure to hydraulic fracturing fluid in drinking water has been shown to increase the risk of respiratory problems, premature births, congenital heart defects, and other medical problems. But not all wells are created equal. Since different hydraulic fracturing -- or fracking -- sites use a diverse mix of chemical ingredients, often individuals and researchers are in the dark about the health consequences of living near a particular well.
Now, a new, interactive tool created by Penn Medicine researchers allows community members and scientists to find out which toxins may be lurking in their drinking water as a result of fracking. By typing your ZIP code into the website or accompanying app -- called WellExplorer -- you can view the closest fracking sites in your state, learn which chemicals are used at those sites, and view their levels of toxicity.
In a recent study, published in Database: The Journal of Biological Databases and Curation, the WellExplorer app's creators found, for example, that wells in Alabama use a disproportionately high number of ingredients targeting estrogen pathways, while Illinois, Ohio, and Pennsylvania use a high number of ingredients targeting testosterone pathways. The information found through WellExplorer might be particularly relevant for individuals who use private water wells, which are common in rural Pennsylvania, since homeowners may not be performing rigorous testing for these fracking chemicals, according to the study's principal investigator Mary Regina Boland, PhD, an assistant professor of Informatics in the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania.
"The chemical mixtures used in fracking are known to regulate hormonal pathways, including testosterone and estrogen, and can therefore affect human development and reproduction," Boland said. "Knowing about these chemicals is important, not only for researchers who may be studying health outcomes in a community, but also for individuals who may want to learn more about possible health implications based on their proximity to a well. They can then potentially have their water tested."
While FracFocus.org serves as a central registry for fracking chemical disclosures in the United States, the database is not user-friendly for the general public, and it does not contain information about the biological action of the fracking chemicals that it lists. In order to create a tool that could provide more in-depth, functional information for researchers and individuals alike, the Penn researchers first cleaned, shortened, and subsetted the data from FracFocus.org to create two newly usable files that could be in used in WellExplorer website and app.
Because the research team also wanted to provide toxic and biological properties of the ingredients found at these well sites, they integrated data from the Toxin and Toxin Target Database (T3DB). From that database, they compiled information on fracking chemicals' protein targets (and the genes that encode those proteins), toxin mechanisms of actions, and specific protein functions. Moreover, they extracted the toxicity rankings of the top 275 most toxic ingredients from the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, as well as a list of ingredients that were food additives as described by Substances Added to Food Inventory. The team then linked all of that information together and created a ZIP Searcher function into their web tool, so that people could easily find their exposure risks to specific chemicals.
"The information had been out there, but it was not all linked together in a way that's easy for regular people to use," Boland said.
However, Boland added that the use of chemicals at a fracking site may not necessarily mean that those chemicals would be present in the water supply, which would be dependent on other factors, such as what type of soil or bedrock is being drilled into, and the depth of both the hydraulic fracturing well and an individual's private well depth. Nonetheless, WellExplorer provides a starting point for residents who may be experiencing symptoms and want to have their water tested.
Beyond information-gathering for individuals, WellExplorer can also be used as an important tool for environmental scientists, epidemiologists, and other researchers to make connections between specific health outcomes and proximity to a specific fracturing well. From a development standpoint, this means that the research team had to be conscious of the two audiences when designing the website and app, said Owen Wetherbee, who aided in the development of WellExplorer while interning in the Boland Lab.
"Nationally, researchers are trying to link fracking to health outcomes, and I believe that a large reason why answering that question is challenging, is because different wells are using different ingredients, and so, the side effects of exposure would be different from place to place," Boland added. "What this app gives you is some information about where to start looking for these answers."
View post:
Is your drinking water toxic? This app may help you find out - Science Codex
5 Natural Wonders Of The US To Experience In Early Autumn – Forbes
Testosterone Comments Off on 5 Natural Wonders Of The US To Experience In Early Autumn – Forbes
Humans aren't the only species that are preparing for the cold weather - as temperatures begin to ... [+] drop, West Indian manatees make the journey inland to Florida's warm natural springs.
Editors Note: *Due to the current Covid-19 outbreak, the potential complications that may arise from recreational travel should not be taken lightly - it is recommended to thoroughly inspectCDC guidelinesbefore making any travel plans.*
Marked by crisp air and the return of the pumpkin spice latte, the weeks of early autumn are celebrated worldwide as endless opportunities for leaf peeping arise - but theres far more to the season than simply colorful foliage. All throughout the natural world, flora and fauna take notice of the changing temperature, embarking on mass migrations and vibrant blooms that are truly spectacular to behold. For an opportunity to spot creatures from all walks of life, ranging from tiny wildflowers to the largest mammals on earth, take a look at the activities listed below.
The American Oystercatcher is just one of many shorebirds to be encountered on the coast of Cape ... [+] May.
While the historic seaside city of Cape May draws tens of thousands of beachgoers during the summer months, birdwatching fosters a surge in tourism as the weather begins to cool. All throughout October, visitors to the southernmost point of New Jersey can witness hundreds of migratory avian species, ranging from colorful songbirds to sleek raptors. Home to lush wetlands and rolling sand dunes, the pristine South Cape May Meadows are a great destination to view a diverse array of hawk species, while nearby Stone Harbor Point is rife with wading shorebirds, brown pelicans, and the occasional peregrine falcon.
During rutting season, bull elk often engage in physical combat, rushing towards each other and ... [+] slamming their antlers together until one concedes.
While cold weather and crimson foliage are two hallmarks of early autumn, those who live around the Rockies may be familiar with a third - the haunting bugle of a bull elk, ringing out for miles during peak rutting season. This natural phenomenon is marked by a major hormonal change in male elks, with increased testosterone flooding their veins as they battle one another for a chance to mate with the areas most eligible bachelorettes. Theres a wide array of destinations across the Rockies to witness the rut, including Rocky Mountain National Park or the iconic Yellowstone, but wherever you go, just be sure to keep a safe distance - a 700-pound bull elk on a testosterone bender is nothing to mess around with.
While these colorful flowers are often referred to as daisies, this species (Helianthus porteri) is ... [+] actually a relative of the sunflower.
Located just half an hour east of downtown Atlanta, the 40,000-acre Arabia Mountain National Heritage Area has undergone a drastic transformation, with huge swathes of daisies painting the typically-barren granite landscape with a brilliant yellow hue. This year, the preserve is celebrating Septembers Daisy Days with an exciting competition perfectly suited for outdoor adventurers: the Triple Hike Challenge. All throughout the month, visitors are encouraged to scale Stone Mountain, Panola Mountain, and Arabia Mountain, snapping a photo of each one as they reach the summit. Those who complete their mission will receive a special prize to be revealed later, but dont hesitate - this contest ends on the last day of the month.
Massachusetts is a particularly popular destination for whalewatching - this hungry humpback was ... [+] spotted off the coast of Provincetown, a community on the tip of Cape Cod.
A region that was once heavily involved in the whaling industry, New Englands seaside towns and cities have set aside the harpoons in favor of cameras and microphones, offering spectacular excursions to spot some of the oceans most gentle creatures. While peak whale watching season runs from April to October, an autumn visit allows visitors to kill two birds with one stone, immersing themselves in vibrant fall foliage alongside humpbacks, finbacks, minke whales, and right whales. Serious nature enthusiasts should consider a trip to coastal Maine, spending a day on the sea with Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co followed by a day of exploring iconic Acadia National Park, one of New Englands most esteemed destinations for leaf peeping.
While one may assume that manatees are related to seals or whales, the closest living relative of ... [+] these gentle creatures is the elephant.
After months spent roaming the coast, the cooling temperatures of early autumn begin to drive manatees back to the rivers of Florida, packing the state with huge populations of these iconic mammals. Manatee viewing season peaks in the dead of winter, but those who get an early start in autumn can spot some of the years early movers without the hassle of huge crowds, providing an intimate viewing experience thats tough to recreate once the season really kicks in. Your best bet for spotting manatees in the early season is Crystal River - this area is rife with natural springs that create a safe haven for the gentle beasts, with year-round populations calling the waterways home.
More here:
5 Natural Wonders Of The US To Experience In Early Autumn - Forbes