ESPE Abstracts

Background: The phytoestrogen resveratrol found in grapes and other plants has attracted considerable interest due to its proposed ability to extend lifespan, attenuate the development of metabolic syndrome in obese subjects and protect against cardiovascular disease. Among other functions resveratrol has been reported to affect the endocrine system. Self-medication with high pharmacological doses of this polyphenol with the aim to improve metabolic parameters and health canno...

Background: Obesity in females is often associated with metabolic complications and hyperandrogenism. However, the source of androgens is not entirely clear.Objectives and hypotheses: Our objective was to find out if adipose tissue (AT) is a site of steroid production during childhood and adolescence, and if this source could add to hyperandrogenism in obese females.Methods: Parametrial and inguinal adipose tissue was collected and...

It is generally accepted that androgens produced by fetal Leydig cells (FLC) control proper masculinization of the male external genitalia. Here, we hypothesized that the human genital tubercle (GT) has potential to synthesize androgens independently of FLC at early pregnancy. We observed that human GT of both genders have capacity to synthesize steroids of the Δ4, Δ5 and alternative pathway of DHT synthesis including the androgen itself. The presence of steroids in ...

Background: Steroid hormones produced by the human fetal adrenals (HFA) are suggested to regulate intrauterine homeostasis and the maturation of certain fetal organs necessary for extrauterine life. Appropriate development and hormonal function of the HFA therefore are critical for normal fetal maturation and survival. Little is known about the possible relationship between the expression of steroidogenic enzymes and corresponding transcription factors in the HFA in vivo</...

Background: The influence of intrauterine life on long term health is supported by a wealth of epidemiological and experimental studies. A low oxygen and/or nutrient supply to the fetus, resulting in intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), may affect gonadal development of the offspring, with a potential impact on fertility. Data derived from animal models of placental insufficiency are very limited.Objective and hypotheses: To investigate the effects of...

Background: Obesity in females is often associated with metabolic complications and hyperandrogenism but the role of adipose tissue (AT) in androgen synthesis remains unclear.Aims/Objectives: Employing human subcutaneous and visceral AT and cultured adipocytes, we studied whether AT could be a source of androgens promoting hyperandrogenism in lean and especially in obese females.Methods</st...