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Children's finger length points to mothers' income level

Research suggests that high-income mothers tend to produce higher levels of testosterone, leading to a more masculinized fetus, while low-income mothers produce lower levels of testosterone, resulting in a more feminized fetus. This phenomenon has been linked to increased disease risk, including cardiovascular disease and mortality.

SourceSwansea University·JournalJournal of Biosocial Science·DateFeb 9, 2021

Current treatment period may be too short to remove competitive advantage of transgender athletes

A recent study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that transgender women may still retain a competitive advantage in athletic performance even after more than 12 months of hormone therapy. The study, which reviewed fitness test results and medical records of 29 trans men and 46 trans women, suggests that governin...

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateDec 7, 2020

Site of male sexual desire uncovered in brain

A Northwestern University study has identified the specific regions of brain tissue where a key gene named aromatase regulates male sexual behavior in mice. Aromatase converts testosterone to estrogen, driving male sexual activity. The discovery could lead to new treatments for disorders of low and compulsive sexual desire.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalEndocrinology·DateSep 11, 2020

Early adversity and mental health

A longitudinal study of 167 children found that early adversity increases the risk of depression by flattening testosterone slopes, leading to reduced hippocampal growth and increased emotion dysregulation. The findings suggest a need for interventions targeting mental health problems resulting from early poverty.

SourceProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateAug 24, 2020

Mindful yoga reduces testosterone by 29% in women with polycystic ovary syndrome

A study published in The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association found that mindful yoga significantly reduced testosterone levels and improved symptoms of depression and anxiety in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. The practice also showed promise in reducing androgen levels, including DHEA.

SourceAmerican Osteopathic Association·JournalThe Journal of the American Osteopathic Association·DateApr 14, 2020

Teens with obesity and PCOS have more 'unhealthy' bacteria

Research published in the Endocrine Society's Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that teens with obesity and PCOS have an altered gut microbiome compared to those without the condition. This altered microbiome is associated with higher testosterone levels, metabolic complications, and other health risks.

SourceThe Endocrine Society·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateJan 23, 2020

Rise in testosterone level boosts young women's running capacity

A clinical trial found that testosterone significantly increases young women's running capacity, with a notable impact on anaerobic performance and lean body mass. The study suggests that allowing female athletes with high testosterone levels to compete without hormone reduction could be fair.

SourceBMJ Group·JournalBritish Journal of Sports Medicine·DateOct 15, 2019

Treatment for 'low T' could someday come from a single skin cell, USC research shows

USC researchers have successfully grown human testosterone-producing cells in the lab, paving the way to treat low testosterone with personalized replacement cells. The breakthrough could potentially bypass side effects associated with current treatments, such as infertility and increased risk of prostate cancer.

SourceUniversity of Southern California·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateOct 7, 2019

The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology: Testosterone may significantly improve sexual function and sexual wellbeing in postmenopausal women

A comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis of testosterone treatment for women found significant improvements in sexual desire, function, and pleasure. Non-oral formulations appear to have fewer side effects compared to oral testosterone, with benefits including reduced concerns and distress about sex.

SourceThe Lancet·JournalThe Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology·DateJul 25, 2019

Are testosterone-boosting supplements effective? Not likely, according to new research

Researchers reviewed 50 testosterone-boosting supplements and found that only a few had data to support their claims. Many supplements contained high doses of vitamins and minerals without any proven effects on testosterone levels. The study recommends more regulation around these supplements to protect consumers.

SourceUniversity of Southern California - Health Sciences·JournalWorld Journal of Gynecology & Womens Health·DateJun 26, 2019

Prenatal testosterone linked to long-term effects in females who share womb with male twin

Research finds that female twins exposed to prenatal testosterone from a male twin are less likely to graduate from high school or college, have lower fertility rates, and earn less by their early 30s. The study supports the 'twin testosterone-transfer hypothesis' and suggests long-term biological effects on behavior and outcomes.

SourceNorthwestern University·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateMar 18, 2019

Mother's age, race, weight affect hormone concentrations in pregnancy, Rutgers study finds

A Rutgers study found that hormone concentrations in early fetal development are significantly affected by maternal age, body mass index, and race. Older mothers, heavier women, and those of African descent had distinct hormone profiles, with potential implications for future health risks such as breast and ovarian cancer.

SourceRutgers University·JournalMaternal and Child Health Journal·DateFeb 4, 2019

Could bariatric surgery make men more virile?

A review of 28 studies found that bariatric surgery increased testosterone levels and improved erectile function in obese men, but had no impact on sperm parameters. However, nutritional malabsorption may counterbalance these hormonal changes.

SourceSpringer·JournalObesity Surgery·DateOct 31, 2018

Testosterone replacement therapy may slow the progression of COPD

Researchers at The University of Texas Medical Branch found that testosterone replacement therapy reduces respiratory hospitalizations in middle-aged and older men with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This suggests that testosterone replacement therapy may slow the progression of COPD in these individuals.

SourceSAGE·JournalChronic Respiratory Disease·DateSep 13, 2018