Journal Description
Endocrines
Endocrines
is an international, peer-reviewed, open access journal on endocrinology published quarterly online by MDPI.
- Open Access— free for readers, with article processing charges (APC) paid by authors or their institutions.
- High Visibility: indexed within CAPlus / SciFinder, and other databases.
- Rapid Publication: manuscripts are peer-reviewed and a first decision is provided to authors approximately 27.2 days after submission; acceptance to publication is undertaken in 3.7 days (median values for papers published in this journal in the second half of 2023).
- Recognition of Reviewers: APC discount vouchers, optional signed peer review, and reviewer names published annually in the journal.
Latest Articles
Effects of Ghrelin on Plasminogen Activator Activity in Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells
Endocrines 2024, 5(1), 24-35; https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines5010002 - 08 Jan 2024
Abstract
Ghrelin and its growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR) have been found in the placenta, both in endothelial and trophoblast cells. Ghrelin has been shown to decrease blood pressure in several systems and improve endothelial function by stimulating VEGF production. Because locally increased Ghrelin
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Ghrelin and its growth hormone secretagogue receptor (GHSR) have been found in the placenta, both in endothelial and trophoblast cells. Ghrelin has been shown to decrease blood pressure in several systems and improve endothelial function by stimulating VEGF production. Because locally increased Ghrelin was detected in the preeclamptic fetoplacental unit, we hypothesized its involvement in the fibrinolysis and vascular tone typically observed in preeclamptic patients. This study aimed to evaluate the synthesis of plasminogen activators (PAs), PA inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), and urokinase-type PA (uPA) receptor (uPAR) in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) since the components of the PA/plasmin system are vital players in the extracellular matrix remodeling process necessary for angiogenesis. HUVECs were treated for 24 h with increasing concentrations of Ghrelin (10−11–10−7 M) or IL-1β (0.1 ng/mL). PAs, PAI-1, and uPAR mRNAs were determined by real-time PCR and PA activity was determined by casein underlay. We demonstrated an increase in uPA, tissue-type PA (tPA), and uPAR mRNA; a reduction in PAI-1 mRNA in HUVECs treated with Ghrelin; and an increase in total uPA activity. In conclusion, our results suggest a potential compensatory physiological mechanism for Ghrelin in response to the maternal endothelial dysfunction observed in the preeclamptic fetoplacental unit.
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(This article belongs to the Section Female Reproductive System and Pregnancy Endocrinology)
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Open AccessReview
Decoding Diabetes Nutritional Guidelines for Physicians in Underserved American Populations
by
, , , , , , and
Endocrines 2024, 5(1), 1-23; https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines5010001 - 05 Jan 2024
Abstract
Medical (healthcare) deserts and food deserts, either separate or combined, exist in rural areas, globally. The physicians and other healthcare professionals who serve rural and other underserved populations, to some extent, also experience life in these areas. Dietary guidelines, from expert societies, for
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Medical (healthcare) deserts and food deserts, either separate or combined, exist in rural areas, globally. The physicians and other healthcare professionals who serve rural and other underserved populations, to some extent, also experience life in these areas. Dietary guidelines, from expert societies, for people with diabetes, have been helpful in guiding healthcare professionals through nutritional interventions. However, these guidelines are not designed for rural areas where healthcare resources are scarce, and access to the built environment for a healthy lifestyle and affordable healthy foods are not available. Therefore, the guidelines were reviewed, with rural physicians and healthcare professionals who work in underserved areas in mind, to assess their appropriateness. Based on the guidelines and other literature, potential solutions to guideline gaps are proposed to aid in providing nutritional therapy for the underserved. The overall goals are to improve the nutritional component of healthcare for underserved people with diabetes, and to begin the conversation around creating specific guidelines for rural physicians and other healthcare professionals, where patients are at a higher risk for diabetes.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Obesity, Diabetes Mellitus and Metabolic Syndrome)
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Open AccessReview
Focus on Thyroid Cancer in Elderly Patients
Endocrines 2023, 4(4), 757-771; https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines4040055 - 05 Dec 2023
Abstract
Thyroid cancer is more aggressive in elderly patients due to biological causes related to age, histotype, and the advanced stage at diagnosis. In the elderly, both the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid cancer impact quality of life. This review aimed to collect and
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Thyroid cancer is more aggressive in elderly patients due to biological causes related to age, histotype, and the advanced stage at diagnosis. In the elderly, both the diagnosis and treatment of thyroid cancer impact quality of life. This review aimed to collect and discuss the different therapeutic approaches in elderly patients affected by thyroid cancer. Our analysis examined the therapeutic surgical approach according to age and how this affects the prognosis of patients with thyroid cancer, along with how iodine 131 therapy is tolerated and how effective it is. Furthermore, we investigated whether levothyroxine suppressive therapy is always necessary and safe in elderly patients with thyroid cancer and the safety and efficacy of systemic therapy in the elderly. We also intended to identify peculiar features of thyroid cancer in elderly subjects and to evaluate how the disease and its treatment affect their quality of life.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Endocrines 2023)
Open AccessReview
A Scoping Review of Potential Biological Mechanisms and Predictors of Interpersonal Psychotherapy
by
, , , and
Endocrines 2023, 4(4), 742-756; https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines4040054 - 01 Dec 2023
Abstract
Social dysfunction plays a critical role in the development and maintenance of depression in both adolescents and adults. Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) and interpersonal psychotherapy for depressed adolescents (IPT-A) are effective, evidence-based, and time-limited treatments for depression that aim to mitigate depressive symptoms by
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Social dysfunction plays a critical role in the development and maintenance of depression in both adolescents and adults. Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) and interpersonal psychotherapy for depressed adolescents (IPT-A) are effective, evidence-based, and time-limited treatments for depression that aim to mitigate depressive symptoms by strengthening an individual’s interpersonal relationships and skills. Though the efficacy of IPT/IPT-A has been well established, we are just beginning to know how biological systems are implicated in its success. In this scoping review, we examine the extant literature on biological mechanisms and predictors of IPT/IPT-A treatment efficacy. Overall, seven studies were identified that consider biological processes in the context of evaluating IPT/IPTA, and the studies that were conducted are typically preliminary in nature. Notably, there is some evidence showing that the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis, various frontal and limbic brain regions, and behavioral indexes that represent brain functioning are associated with changes in IPT/IPT-A or predictive of IPT/IPT-A outcomes. We also consider consequences for treatment and future research. The hope is that a better understanding of how and for whom IPT/IPT-A works can optimize the success of the treatment in reducing an individual’s depressive symptoms.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hypothalamic Involvement in Human Health)
Open AccessReview
Thyroid and Heart: A Fatal Pathophysiological Attraction in a Controversial Clinical Liaison
Endocrines 2023, 4(4), 722-741; https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines4040053 - 30 Nov 2023
Abstract
The thyroid–heart relationship has a long and articulated history of its own, a history that encompasses physiological and pathophysiological knowledge. In recent years, molecular biology studies, in an experimental context, have highlighted the extraordinary dialogue that exists among the two systems in the
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The thyroid–heart relationship has a long and articulated history of its own, a history that encompasses physiological and pathophysiological knowledge. In recent years, molecular biology studies, in an experimental context, have highlighted the extraordinary dialogue that exists among the two systems in the field of cardioprotection, which is an extremely important area for the treatment of cardiac diseases in both acute and chronic phases. In addition, in the last few years, several studies have been carried out on the prognostic impact of alterations in thyroid function, including subclinical ones, in heart disease, in particular in heart failure and acute myocardial infarction, with evidence of a negative prognostic impact of these and, therefore, with the suggestion to treat these alterations in order to prevent cardiac events, such as death. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the heart–thyroid relationship.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Thyroid Endocrinology)
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Open AccessEditorial
Special Issue: “X-Linked Hypophosphatemia”
by
and
Endocrines 2023, 4(4), 720-721; https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines4040052 - 16 Nov 2023
Abstract
Rickets and osteomalacia are associated with impaired mineralization in growth plate cartilage and the bone osteoid [...]
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Update on X-linked Hypophosphatemia)
Open AccessFeature PaperArticle
Higher Adiponectin Levels in Children and Adolescents with T1D Probably Contribute to the Osteopenic Phenotype through the RANKL/OPG System Activation
by
, , , , and
Endocrines 2023, 4(4), 709-719; https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines4040051 - 03 Nov 2023
Abstract
Background: Diabetes mellitus is an increasing global health emergency, with serious complications (including osteoporosis). Leptin and adiponectin are among the least-investigated possible contributing factors of T1D low bone mass. Methods: In this case-control cross-sectional analysis, we evaluated 40 pairs of T1D children and
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Background: Diabetes mellitus is an increasing global health emergency, with serious complications (including osteoporosis). Leptin and adiponectin are among the least-investigated possible contributing factors of T1D low bone mass. Methods: In this case-control cross-sectional analysis, we evaluated 40 pairs of T1D children and adolescents and controls. We evaluated body diameters and skinfolds, leptin, adiponectin, lipids and lipoproteins, bone metabolic markers and DXA parameters of BMD and fat percentage. Results: Leptin levels were comparable between groups and correlated well with body mass parameters. Adiponectin levels were found to be higher in the patient group and correlated with higher levels of HbA1c, triglycerides and s-RANKL. Conclusions: In this study, leptin levels were no different, but adiponectin levels were found to be higher in children and adolescents with T1D and correlated with diabetic metabolic derangement indices and s-RANKL in the patient group. Adiponectin can be considered a surrogate marker of T1D in young patients’ metabolic status and probably contributes to the diabetic low bone mass phenotype via activation of the RANKL/OPG metabolic pathway.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Diabetes Care)
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Open AccessArticle
Frontal Lobe Functions and Quality of Life in Individuals with Obesity with and without Binge Eating Disorder
Endocrines 2023, 4(4), 696-708; https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines4040050 - 08 Oct 2023
Abstract
Frontal lobe functions (FLFs) play an important role in human behavioral regulation and can be a determinant of eating behavior. The aim of this study was to analyse FLFs in individuals with obesity, with and without binge eating disorder (BED), compared to individuals
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Frontal lobe functions (FLFs) play an important role in human behavioral regulation and can be a determinant of eating behavior. The aim of this study was to analyse FLFs in individuals with obesity, with and without binge eating disorder (BED), compared to individuals with normal weight (NW), and to analyse the effect of sex and binge disorder on quality of life, with age and BMI as covariates. A total of 114 participants, comprising three different groups (NW individuals, individuals with obesity but without BED, and individuals with obesity and BED), completed the Frontal Assessment Battery (FAB) and Impact of Weight on Quality of Life (IWQOL-lite) questionnaires. The results showed that individuals with obesity, with and without BED, have poorer frontal lobe functioning than the NW group. Individuals with obesity and BED have lower performance in terms of FLFs than individuals with obesity but without BED. Male participants have a higher perception of quality of life in all dimensions, with women showing lower values in self-esteem and sex life. Individuals with obesity and BED show greater weaknesses in physical function. These results suggest that low FLFs and worse quality of life characterize individuals with obesity, and this is more evident in these individuals with BED.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Obesity, Diabetes Mellitus and Metabolic Syndrome)
Open AccessPerspective
Insulin Resistance and Glucose Metabolism during Infection
Endocrines 2023, 4(4), 685-695; https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines4040049 - 07 Oct 2023
Abstract
Specific critical functions of endocrine and immune cells ensure that an individual remains healthy and free from infection. This study aimed to explore immune–endocrine associations involved in disease. Methods: The PsycINFO, PubMed, Web of Science, and CINAHL databases were searched for relevant articles
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Specific critical functions of endocrine and immune cells ensure that an individual remains healthy and free from infection. This study aimed to explore immune–endocrine associations involved in disease. Methods: The PsycINFO, PubMed, Web of Science, and CINAHL databases were searched for relevant articles using the following search terms and phrases: “hormones”, “hormonal responses”, “immune system”, “endocrine system”, “infection”, “immune cells”, “endocrine cells”, “infection”, “immune”, “endocrine”, and “interactions”. The search was limited to articles published between 2009 and 2023. Results: A review of ninety-three studies showed that metabolic activity levels in the body as well as energy consumption patterns are affected by feedback loops that connect the endocrine and immune systems. The associations between endocrine cells and immune cells are complex and involve a wide range of hormones, molecules, and receptors related to antipathogen responses and metabolic regulation. Conclusions: During infection, endocrine cells and immune cells interact via feedback loops to ensure optimal energy utilization and a timely response to pathogens. Therefore, the endocrine system helps to regulate systemic metabolism while controlling the outcomes of regulatory elements of the immune system.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Endocrines 2023)
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Open AccessFeature PaperReview
An Update on Experimental Therapeutic Strategies for Thin Endometrium
Endocrines 2023, 4(4), 672-684; https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines4040048 - 04 Oct 2023
Abstract
Infertility caused by a thin endometrium remains a significant challenge in assisted reproduction and is often associated with a low success rate after treatment with assisted reproductive technology. There is a lack of consensus in the field concerning both its diagnostic criteria and
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Infertility caused by a thin endometrium remains a significant challenge in assisted reproduction and is often associated with a low success rate after treatment with assisted reproductive technology. There is a lack of consensus in the field concerning both its diagnostic criteria and clinical management. The currently available treatment options are few with limited efficacy. Recent advances in cell therapy and bioengineering have, however, shown promising results for the treatment of a thin endometrium. Notably, these novel interventions have demonstrated the ability to increase endometrial thickness, restore endometrial function, and improve reproductive outcomes. In this comprehensive review, we focus on a critical evaluation of these emerging therapeutic strategies for a thin endometrium including platelet-rich plasma, exosomes derived from stem cells, and bioengineering-based techniques. By synthesizing the findings from available clinical trials, we highlight the promising outcomes achieved so far and underscore the importance of robust clinical trials in assessing the safety and efficacy of these interventions in the future. Continued research efforts to unravel the intricate mechanisms involved in endometrial repair and regeneration will also be essential to enhance our understanding of this multifactorial condition and to identify novel treatment targets for future therapeutic interventions.
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(This article belongs to the Section Female Reproductive System and Pregnancy Endocrinology)
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Open AccessCase Report
Isolated Third Cranial Nerve Palsy Associated with Sudden Worsening of Hypotonic Hyponatremia Secondary to Ischemic Pituitary Apoplexy
Endocrines 2023, 4(3), 664-671; https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines4030047 - 11 Sep 2023
Abstract
Pituitary apoplexy (PA) is a rare medical emergency. The sudden pressure increase in the sella turcica may determine compression on the surrounding structures determining the classical symptomatology associated, especially visual field impairment and/or ocular palsies and hypopituitarism; hypotonic hyponatremia may occur too, even
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Pituitary apoplexy (PA) is a rare medical emergency. The sudden pressure increase in the sella turcica may determine compression on the surrounding structures determining the classical symptomatology associated, especially visual field impairment and/or ocular palsies and hypopituitarism; hypotonic hyponatremia may occur too, even if it is not common. Although already described in the literature, cases of isolated III cranial nerve palsies are extremely rare events. We report the case of a mid-60-year-old man with a known pituitary adenoma accessing the Emergency Department (ED) for worsening headaches unresponsive to analgesics, with a morphological picture consistent with ischemic PA, despite no dimensional increase of the pituitary lesion; upon ED access, a mild paucisymptomatic hyponatremia was also observed. Dexamethasone and mannitol were empirically introduced upon neurosurgical indication and tramadol and ketorolac were promptly administered as well, but without benefit. In the next days, a severe hypotonic hyponatremia was evidenced and a clear left III cranial nerve palsy developed, but no clear signs of cerebral bleeding or ischemia, nor a significant compression on the homolateral cavernous sinus, were observed. Upon ruling out other possible causes, a likely diagnosis of syndrome of inappropriate antidiuresis (SIAD) was made, confirmed by the quick response to fluid restriction. Overall, the sudden fall in tonicity plasma levels seemed to contribute to the exacerbation of the neurological deficit since the normalization of sodium levels was associated with a rapid and complete reversion of the III cranial nerve palsy.
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(This article belongs to the Topic Diagnosis and Treatment of Pituitary-Related Disorders)
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Open AccessCase Report
Gynecomastia and Leydigioma: An Unexpected Case Report Outcome
by
, , , , , and
Endocrines 2023, 4(3), 656-663; https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines4030046 - 08 Sep 2023
Abstract
We report a case of a 19-year-old male referred to the Endocrine Unit because of gynecomastia. Initial investigation revealed elevated levels of estradiol (E2) along with secondary hypogonadism (hypotestosteronemia and severe oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT)) despite normal testicular volume (12 mL) and secondary sexual characteristics.
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We report a case of a 19-year-old male referred to the Endocrine Unit because of gynecomastia. Initial investigation revealed elevated levels of estradiol (E2) along with secondary hypogonadism (hypotestosteronemia and severe oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT)) despite normal testicular volume (12 mL) and secondary sexual characteristics. Surprisingly, an ultrasound examination revealed a small hypoechoic mass (1.1 cm) with intense intralesional vascularization within the right testicle, even though tumor markers were normal. Surgical removal of testicular mass led to the identification of Leydigioma, and the patient showed regression of gynecomastia during the nine-month follow-up. Unexpectedly, hypergonadotropinemia manifested along with normal testosterone (T) levels and significant improvement in OAT. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed pituitary hyperplasia (PH). Gynecomastia represents an atypical manifestation of Leydig cell tumors and typically resolves after surgical removal. However, unilateral orchiectomy may determine compensatory PH. Currently, it is uncertain whether the shift from hypogonadotropic to permanent hypergonadotropinemia was the only factor responsible for the high sperm count occurring in our patient. Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Andrology and Male Sexual Function)
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Open AccessReview
Exploring SGLT-2 Inhibitors: Benefits beyond the Glucose-Lowering Effect—What Is New in 2023?
Endocrines 2023, 4(3), 630-655; https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines4030045 - 04 Sep 2023
Abstract
Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors were once known as a class of glycemic-lowering agents to treat type 2 diabetes. As the evolving evidence from recent cardiorenal trials on these agents has shown—e.g., EMPA-REG OUTCOME, DECLARE-TIMI 58, CANVAS Program, DAPA-CKD—disclosing their benefits beyond glycemic management,
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Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT-2) inhibitors were once known as a class of glycemic-lowering agents to treat type 2 diabetes. As the evolving evidence from recent cardiorenal trials on these agents has shown—e.g., EMPA-REG OUTCOME, DECLARE-TIMI 58, CANVAS Program, DAPA-CKD—disclosing their benefits beyond glycemic management, SGLT-2 inhibitors have stimulated a shift in the management of T2DM and its comorbidities, specifically preventing cardiovascular events in people with ASCVD, preventing heart failure hospitalizations, and delaying the progression of chronic kidney disease. As a result, their usage beyond glycemic management has been included in clinical practice guidelines. Although SGLT-2 inhibitors have shown promising results in cardiorenal outcomes, patients have not had equal access to these agents, at least in the United States, suggesting a systemic issue of health inequity. This review article explores the mechanisms by which cardiorenal benefits are offered, the results of the landmark clinical trials for these agents, and their place in therapy.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Diabetes Care)
Open AccessReview
Anti-Dyslipidemic and Anti-Diabetic Properties of Corosolic Acid: A Narrative Review
Endocrines 2023, 4(3), 616-629; https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines4030044 - 01 Sep 2023
Abstract
Corosolic acid (CA), a natural compound derived from the Banaba tree (Lagerstroemia speciosa), has attracted attention for its potential therapeutic properties in the management of metabolic diseases. This narrative review aims to summarize the current evidence on the anti-dyslipidemic, anti-diabetic, and
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Corosolic acid (CA), a natural compound derived from the Banaba tree (Lagerstroemia speciosa), has attracted attention for its potential therapeutic properties in the management of metabolic diseases. This narrative review aims to summarize the current evidence on the anti-dyslipidemic, anti-diabetic, and anti-inflammatory effects of CA and to understand the pharmacokinetics and molecular mechanisms through the analysis of preclinical and clinical studies.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Endocrines 2023)
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Open AccessCommunication
Regulation of Phosphate Transporters and Novel Regulator of Phosphate Metabolism
Endocrines 2023, 4(3), 607-615; https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines4030043 - 21 Aug 2023
Abstract
Phosphorus is essential for all living organisms. It plays an important role in maintaining biological functions, such as energy metabolism, cell membrane formation, and bone mineralization. Various factors in the intestine, kidneys, and bones regulate the homeostasis of the inorganic phosphate (Pi) concentration
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Phosphorus is essential for all living organisms. It plays an important role in maintaining biological functions, such as energy metabolism, cell membrane formation, and bone mineralization. Various factors in the intestine, kidneys, and bones regulate the homeostasis of the inorganic phosphate (Pi) concentration in the body. X-linked hypophosphatemia (XLH), the most common form of hereditary hypophosphatemic rickets, is characterized by an impaired mineralization of the bone matrix, hypertrophic chondrocytes with hypophosphatemia, and active vitamin D resistance in childhood. Phosphate-regulating gene with homologies to endopeptidases on the X chromosome was recognized as the responsible gene for XLH. XLH is classified as fibroblast growth factor 23 (FGF23)-related hypophosphatemic rickets. The enhanced FGF23 stimulates renal phosphate wasting by downregulating sodium-dependent Pi cotransporters, NaPi2a and NaPi2c proteins, in the proximal tubules. Recently, transmembrane protein (Tmem) 174 has been identified as a novel regulator of phosphate transporters. This review introduces the role of Tmem174 in the Pi homeostasis in the body.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Update on X-linked Hypophosphatemia)
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Open AccessArticle
Continuous Glucose Monitoring (CGM) and Metabolic Control in a Cohort of Patients with Type 1 Diabetes and Coeliac Disease
Endocrines 2023, 4(3), 595-606; https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines4030042 - 09 Aug 2023
Abstract
The association between type 1 diabetes (T1D) and coeliac disease (CD) is well known. Metabolic control of thirty-seven patients aged between 1 and 18 years, with coexisting T1D and CD were evaluated. The control group includes 37 patients affected only by diabetes. All
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The association between type 1 diabetes (T1D) and coeliac disease (CD) is well known. Metabolic control of thirty-seven patients aged between 1 and 18 years, with coexisting T1D and CD were evaluated. The control group includes 37 patients affected only by diabetes. All data relating to the metabolic control of all patients were acquired through examination of medical records and CMG reports available on dedicated online platforms. Glucose variability was expressed as Coefficient of Variation (CV) and Standard Deviation of blood glucose values (SD). The formula used for CV computation is: CV (%) = 100 × SD (daily glycemia)/Mean (daily glycemia). Patients with T1D and CD showed a significant reduction in rapid pre-prandial insulin. The same reduction was present if we consider only patients using CGM. In patients without CGM, there was no difference in the doses of basal, pre-prandial and total insulin. Indicators of metabolic control were overlapping between the two groups in patients who used CGM. On the contrary, diabetic and coeliac patients without CGM had increased levels of glycaemic variability indicators and HbA1c. Finally, the percentage of target glycaemic values and >250 mg/dL glycaemic values were significantly decreased and increased, respectively in T1D and CD patients without CGM. With this study we wanted to demonstrate if CGM could improve metabolic control of patients with coexisting T1D and CD. Our data show a worse metabolic control in patients with T1D and CD who did not use CGM. Instead, patients who use CGM, regardless of the concomitant CD, manage to achieve the same glycaemic targets through an adjustment of titration of pre-prandial insulin doses.
Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Diabetes Care)
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Hormones and Signaling Pathways Involved in the Stimulation of Leydig Cell Steroidogenesis
Endocrines 2023, 4(3), 573-594; https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines4030041 - 01 Aug 2023
Cited by 1
Abstract
Leydig cells, located in the testis interstitial space, are the primary source of testosterone in males. Testosterone plays critical roles in both reproductive and metabolic functions and therefore is essential for male health. Steroidogenesis must be properly regulated since dysregulated hormone production can
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Leydig cells, located in the testis interstitial space, are the primary source of testosterone in males. Testosterone plays critical roles in both reproductive and metabolic functions and therefore is essential for male health. Steroidogenesis must be properly regulated since dysregulated hormone production can lead to infertility and metabolic disorders. Leydig cell steroidogenesis relies on the coordinated interaction of various factors, such as hormones and signaling molecules. While luteinizing hormone (LH) is the main regulator of Leydig cell steroidogenesis, other molecules, including growth hormones (GH), prolactin, growth factors (insulin, IGF, FGF, EGF), and osteocalcin, have also been implicated in the stimulation of steroidogenesis. This review provides a comprehensive summary of the mechanisms and signaling pathways employed by LH and other molecules in the stimulation of Leydig cell steroidogenesis, providing valuable insights into the complex regulation of male reproductive and metabolic health.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Endocrines 2023)
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Unveiling Thyroid Disease Associations: An Exceptionality-Based Data Mining Technique
Endocrines 2023, 4(3), 558-572; https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines4030040 - 28 Jul 2023
Abstract
Background: The prevalence of thyroid disease has seen a rapid increase in recent times, primarily attributed to the fast pace of lifestyles that often result in poor dietary choices, work-life imbalances, social stress, genetic mutations, and improved diagnostic capabilities. However, the precise contribution
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Background: The prevalence of thyroid disease has seen a rapid increase in recent times, primarily attributed to the fast pace of lifestyles that often result in poor dietary choices, work-life imbalances, social stress, genetic mutations, and improved diagnostic capabilities. However, the precise contribution of these factors to thyroid disease remains a subject of controversy. Consequently, there is a pressing need to gain a comprehensive understanding of the related associations in order to potentially mitigate the associated morbidity and mortality rates. Methods: This study employed association rule mining techniques to reveal hidden correlations among complex and diverse epidemiological connections pertaining to thyroid disease associations. We proposed a framework which incorporates text mining and association rule mining algorithms with exceptionality measurement to simultaneously identify common and exception risk factors correlated with the disease through real-life digital health records. Two distinctive datasets were analyzed through two algorithms, and mutual factors were retained for interpretation. Results: The results confirmed that age, gender, and history of thyroid disease are risk factors positively related to subsequent thyroid cancer. Furthermore, it was observed that the absence of underlying chronic disease conditions, such as diabetes, hypertension, or obesity, are associated with reduced likelihood of being diagnosed with thyroid cancer. Conclusions: Collectively, the proposed framework demonstrates its sound feasibility and should be further recommended for different disease in-depth knowledge discovery.
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(This article belongs to the Section Thyroid Endocrinology)
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Open AccessArticle
Effects of Renin–Angiotensin Blockade on the Components of Early Interstitial Expansion in Patients with Type 1 Diabetes
Endocrines 2023, 4(3), 548-557; https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines4030039 - 28 Jul 2023
Abstract
Interstitial expansion is associated with glomerular filtration rate (GFR) loss in many renal diseases, including diabetic nephropathy. The Renin–Angiotensin System Study (RASS) tested whether a 5-year renin–angiotensin system (RAS) blockade with enalapril or losartan versus placebo slowed progression of early diabetic nephropathy lesions
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Interstitial expansion is associated with glomerular filtration rate (GFR) loss in many renal diseases, including diabetic nephropathy. The Renin–Angiotensin System Study (RASS) tested whether a 5-year renin–angiotensin system (RAS) blockade with enalapril or losartan versus placebo slowed progression of early diabetic nephropathy lesions in 285 normoalbuminuric, normotensive, normal/high GFR patients with type 1 diabetes. RASS found no benefit to the RAS blockade on diabetic glomerular lesions but observed an unexpected 50% increase in the fractional volume of the renal cortex which is the interstitium. The effects of the RAS blockade on individual interstitial components––striated collagen, interstitial cells, and peritubular capillaries––were not assessed. We evaluated by electron microscopy changes in fractional volume of each component in seven patients from each group between baseline and five years. At baseline, 49% of the interstitium was collagen, 12% cells, 26% peritubular capillaries, 7% space, and 2% artifact. There was no overall change in the interstitial composition during the RASS. There were no statistically significant effects of treatment group on any interstitial components. Renal volume remained stable in all groups. The RAS blockade affected neither the approximately 50% increase in interstitium fractional volume per cortex nor the parallel increase in all interstitial components that occurred over the five years of the RASS.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Diabetes Care)
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Primary Amenorrhea in Adolescents: Approach to Diagnosis and Management
Endocrines 2023, 4(3), 536-547; https://doi.org/10.3390/endocrines4030038 - 23 Jul 2023
Cited by 1
Abstract
Primary amenorrhea (PA) describes the complete absence of menses by the age of 15 years. It is a devastating diagnosis that can affect the adolescent’s view of her femininity, sexuality, fertility and self-image. A normal menstrual cycle can occur only in the presence
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Primary amenorrhea (PA) describes the complete absence of menses by the age of 15 years. It is a devastating diagnosis that can affect the adolescent’s view of her femininity, sexuality, fertility and self-image. A normal menstrual cycle can occur only in the presence of: a properly functioning hypothalamus–pituitary axis, well-developed and active ovaries, outflow tract without abnormalities. Any dysfunction in any of these players can result in amenorrhea. PA evaluation includes the patient’s medical history, physical examination, pelvic ultrasonography and initial hormone evaluation, limited to the serum-follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone, testosterone and prolactin. A karyotype should be obtained in all adolescents with high FSH serum levels. The main causes of PA, whether or not accompanied by secondary sexual characteristics, include endocrine defects of the hypothalamus–pituitary–ovarian axis, genetic defects of the ovary, metabolic diseases, autoimmune diseases, infections, iatrogenic causes (radiotherapy, chemotherapy), environmental factors and Müllerian tract defects. PA management depends on the underlying causes. Estrogen replacement therapy at puberty has mainly been based on personal experience. PA can be due to endocrine, genetic, metabolic, anatomical and environmental disorders that may have severe implications on reproductive health later in life. In some complex cases, a multidisciplinary team best manages the adolescent, including a pediatrician endocrinologist, gynecologist, geneticist, surgeon, radiologist, and psychologist.
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(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Paper in Reproductive Impairments and Pituitary Disorders)
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