Hormones
Articles tagged with Hormones
Insulin resistance during pregnancy linked to higher abdominal fat in girls
Research found that girls born to mothers with higher insulin resistance during pregnancy are more likely to have more abdominal fat at age 7. Maternal insulin resistance was not associated with body fat in boys, suggesting girls may be more susceptible to the mother's insulin resistance during late pregnancy.
UT Arlington study links estrogen loss to heart risk
Testosterone treatment improved sexual and physical function for men after prostate cancer surgery
A randomized clinical trial found that testosterone treatment significantly improved sexual activity, sexual desire, and quality of life scores in men after prostate cancer surgery. The treatment also improved body composition and aerobic performance without increasing the risk of biochemical recurrence.
Environmental chemicals may interfere in infants’ bone development
Research suggests that exposure to environmental pollutants in early life can negatively affect bone development. A study of 88 healthy infants found associations between certain endocrine-disrupting chemicals and lower bone mineral density, emphasizing the importance of protecting vulnerable windows during pregnancy and after birth.
Large-scale Nordic study discovers link between polycystic ovary syndrome and heart disease
Supplemental prenatal progesterone reprogrammes gene linked to brain development in males
AI-driven wearable patches help identify undetected hormone disruption in unexplained infertility
The 28th European Congress of Endocrinology (ECE) starts tomorrow
New study finds higher dementia risk in insulin-requiring diabetes
Italian researchers Pilatone and Milan win Endocrine Society’s 2026 Endocrine Images Art Competition
Italian researchers Anna Pilatone and Gabriella Milan won the Endocrine Society's 2026 Endocrine Images Art Competition with their image of a pre-adipocyte cell, highlighting the complexity of adipose tissue in obesity. The winning entry will be displayed at ENDO 2026 and featured in Endocrine News magazine.
NIH-funded study suggests that testosterone suppresses brain tumor growth in males
A NIH-funded study discovered that testosterone may play a key role in limiting brain tumor growth in men by suppressing inflammation and stress hormone production. Analysis of over 1,300 men with glioblastoma found that supplemental testosterone was significantly associated with improved survival rates.
FAU review: Obesity and Alzheimer’s linked by disease-driving metabolic pathways
A review from Florida Atlantic University links obesity to Alzheimer's disease through disruptions in metabolism, highlighting the importance of mitochondrial function and gut-brain axis balance. Early detection and whole-body prevention may become possible through monitoring metabolic health.
Scientists offer new explanation for the rise in heart disease risk after menopause
A study published in Cells suggests that declining estrogen levels alter epigenetics, which may explain the rise in heart disease risk after menopause. The researchers identify a potential link between estrogen loss and changes in cardiovascular health.
World Hormone Day 2026
The European Society of Endocrinology organizes World Hormone Day to educate the public about hormone-related health issues. Global endocrine disorders affect millions worldwide, emphasizing the need for proper hormone balance.
IVF hormone add-on does not improve success rates, study finds
An international analysis found that intrauterine administration of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) before embryo transfer does not increase pregnancy or live birth rates. The study urges patients and clinicians to rethink the commonly offered IVF add-on, citing concerns about unreliable trial data.
Largest study of pregnancy sickness uncovers six new genetic links
A massive genetic study has uncovered six new genes linked to pregnancy sickness, hyperemesis gravidarum (HG), in over 10,000 women. The findings point to biological mechanisms behind HG and potential new treatment pathways, with several medications identified as potential targets.
Researchers identify mechanism for body weight-reducing hormone
A hormone called FGF21 reverses obesity in mice by signaling to the hindbrain, a region targeted by GLP-1 drugs. This finding provides insight into the naturally occurring hormone's benefits for weight loss and MASH treatment.
Biochar nanoparticles boost flowering by rewiring plant carbon flow and gene activity
A new study reveals that biochar nanoparticles directly enter plant tissues and enhance flowering by reshaping carbon allocation and regulating key genes. This discovery provides a new explanation for how biochar improves crop performance beyond its effects on soil fertility.
Study: Intermittent fasting positively affects female hormones in PCOS
A new study led by Krista Varady found that intermittent fasting reduces testosterone levels and improves female hormone levels in women with PCOS. The study tested time-restricted eating and calorie counting methods, showing that intermittent fasting had additional benefits over calorie counting.
Microbial clues uncover how wild songbirds respond to stress
A study by Florida Atlantic University researchers has uncovered the impact of stress on wild songbirds, finding that even mild challenges can alter the gut microbiome, leading to changes in health indicators such as beak color and stress hormone levels.
CNIO research links fertility with immune cells in the brain
A study published in Science reveals that microglia and the protein RANK are involved in regulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, which controls fertility. The research found that suppressing RANK expression led to distorted reproductive function, including reduced sex hormones and hypogonadism.
Low testosterone, high fructose: A recipe for liver disaster
A study published in American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism found that low testosterone and high fructose intake synergistically contribute to liver damage in mice. The researchers discovered that changes in gut microbiota led to increased levels of pyruvate, which promotes fat accumulation in the liver.
Chinese Neurosurgical Journal highlights gut–brain axis in pituitary tumor–related cognitive decline
Pituitary neuroendocrine tumors (PitNETs) are associated with cognitive decline, which may be linked to hormonal dysregulation and gut microbiota alterations. Surgical intervention improves cognitive function, suggesting a potential endocrine mechanism underlying cognitive dysfunction and recovery.
Antifibrotic drug shows promise for premature ovarian insufficiency
Researchers found that an approved antifibrotic drug, finerenone, can reduce ovarian fibrosis and promote follicle growth in women with premature ovarian insufficiency. Clinical trials showed that finerenone improved follicle development and mature oocyte quality in women with POI.
Upcoming Alliance webinar highlights latest cancer treatment advances
The Alliance for Clinical Trials in Oncology will host a webinar highlighting recent clinical advances in breast cancer, multiple myeloma, and leukemia. Researchers will present key findings from ASH and SABCS meetings, impacting treatment outcomes.
ESE and ESPE launch joint transition of care guidance to improve outcomes for young people moving from child to adult endocrine care
The ESE and ESPE have launched a landmark Joint Clinical Practice Guidance to support structured and effective transition of young people with endocrine conditions. The Guidance provides practical, evidence-based recommendations to ensure continuity, safety and quality of care during this critical phase in a patient's life.
Scientists discover a key mechanism regulating how oxytocin is released in the mouse brain
Researchers have identified a molecular mechanism that regulates the slow and sustained release of oxytocin within the brain, which is essential for modulating social interactions. This finding provides new insights into how hormonal signaling is regulated in the brain and opens avenues for research into neuropsychiatric disorders.
Could finger length provide vital clue to understanding human brain evolution?
A study of 225 newborns found that high prenatal oestrogen levels, indicated by long index fingers, are associated with large head circumference and increased brain size in boys. This could provide evidence for the positive influence of prenatal oestrogen on human brain evolution
‘Masculinity crisis’: Influencers on social media promote low testosterone to young men, study finds
A new study found that social media influencers are promoting unproven claims about low testosterone in young men, framing common experiences as hormonal deficiencies. The content is linked to the manosphere, encouraging hyper-masculine ideals and positioning testosterone as a way for men to reclaim power and status.
Randomized trial finds drug therapy reduces hot flashes during prostate cancer treatment
A national clinical trial found that oxybutynin significantly reduced hot flash frequency and quality of life for men undergoing hormone therapy for prostate cancer. The study showed substantial improvements in hot flash symptoms, often within the first week of treatment.
Sex and all-cause mortality in the US, 1999 to 2019
A cohort study of 47,000 adults found that males had a 63% greater risk of all-cause mortality compared to females after adjusting for demographic and behavioral factors. The study suggests intrinsic biological factors, such as sex hormones or immune response, may contribute to these sex differences in mortality.
New study may offer hope to women suffering menopausal hot flashes, night sweats
A new study from the University of Victoria found that higher insulin levels at age 47 predicted younger onsets of hot flashes and night sweats. Insulin may be a stronger predictor of hot flashes when taking other metabolic variables into account, while body mass index (BMI) appeared more closely associated with estrogen level changes.
New study links combination of hormone therapy and tirzepatide to greater weight loss after menopause
A new study published in The Lancet Obstetrics, Gynaecology, & Women's Health found that postmenopausal women receiving hormone therapy lost 35% more weight while taking tirzepatide, a GLP-1-based obesity medication. This research could help develop personalized strategies for managing cardiometabolic risk in postmenopausal women.
New research shows drastic effects the menopause can have on autistic people
Research by Bournemouth University explores the impact of menopause on autistic people, finding that symptoms can be disabling and life-threatening. The study highlights the need for better support and resources to help neurodivergent individuals navigate this transition.
Female athlete health, well-being focus of updated report
A new consensus statement provides evidence-based guidance for screening, diagnosis, treatment, and return-to-play protocols for female athletes. The updated report includes a first-of-its-kind adolescent model of the Female Athlete Triad, addressing energy deficiency in growing adolescents.
Why this little-known birth control option deserves more attention
A new study found that only a quarter of reproductive health experts prescribe self-administered injectable contraceptives, despite its safety and effectiveness. The study identified barriers such as concerns about patient ability, medication availability, and lack of standardized counseling approaches.
The way our cells respond to oestrogen, the main female sex hormone, depends on how DNA is ‘supercoiled’
New research reveals that DNA's physical property of supercoiling is crucial for cells to respond to oestrogens. The study found that enzymes called topoisomerases regulate DNA coiling and activate target genes.
Do hormones explain why women experience more gut pain?
Estrogen activates previously unknown pathways in the colon, triggering pain and increasing sensitivity to certain foods. This explains why women are more likely to suffer from IBS and provides potential new ways to treat the condition.
Sports injuries sustained during your period might be more severe
Research found that menstrual cycle fluctuations do not increase injury incidence but can lead to more severe and longer-lasting injuries. Female athletes may need to adapt their training schedules according to their menstrual cycle to reduce injury risk.
An ‘illuminating’ design sheds light on cholesterol
A team of researchers at the University of Pennsylvania has designed a new light-controlled cholesterol molecule that selectively targets two poorly understood sterol transport proteins, ORP1 and ORP2. This breakthrough enables precise spatiotemporal control over cholesterol's biological activity, paving the way for advanced therapeutics.
Hormonal fluctuations affect women’s immunity, but a lack of rigor in studies still prevents a consensus
Researchers found that inadequate characterization of the menstrual cycle in studies contributes to conflicting results. A new study aims to investigate the relationship between hormonal fluctuations and physical exercise, seeking to broaden understanding of women's immunity.
Marriage, emotional support may protect against obesity through brain-gut connection, study finds
A new study published in Gut Microbes reveals that married individuals with higher perceived emotional support have a lower body mass index and fewer food addiction behaviors. The study found that oxytocin pathways linking the brain, gut microbiome, and eating behaviors play a crucial role in shaping obesity risk.
Metabolism, not just weight, improved when older adults reduced ultra-processed food intake
A controlled feeding study out of South Dakota State University shows that older adults who reduced ultra-processed foods naturally consumed fewer calories, lost weight and abdominal fat, and showed improvements in insulin sensitivity and inflammation. This study provides evidence that the Dietary Guidelines for Americans can deliver s...
European Society of Endocrinology leads global call to raise awareness of hormone health on World Hormone Day 2026
The European Society of Endocrinology is launching a new campaign to raise awareness about the importance of hormone health. The #BecauseHormonesMatter initiative aims to improve public understanding of hormones and promote practical steps for better hormone health, following the success of last year's campaign.
How growth hormone excess accelerates liver aging via glycation stress
Researchers found that excess growth hormone disrupts liver metabolism, leading to molecular and cellular patterns similar to those in naturally aged livers. Reducing glycation stress can reverse these negative effects, improving liver health and physical function.
How a fish knows when to blend in
Researchers have identified the cells and connections underlying a fish's ability to dynamically change color to match its surroundings. The study found that specialized skin cells called melanophores control the color change, which helps the zebrafish evade predators by lightening its skin over tens of minutes.
Research progress on leptin in metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease
Research on leptin reveals its multifaceted roles in MAFLD, including regulation of energy balance and metabolism. Leptin therapy shows promise in rare cases of leptin deficiency but is largely ineffective in obesity-associated hyperleptinemia.
ESE publishes Revised Clinical Practice Guideline for Treatment of Chronic Hypoparathyroidism in Adults
The European Society of Endocrinology has published a revised clinical practice guideline for the treatment of chronic hypoparathyroidism in adults, featuring a new definition and treatment algorithm. The guidelines aim to provide practical guidance for healthcare providers involved in diagnosing and managing the condition.
Intranasal oxytocin and physical intimacy for dermatological wound healing and neuroendocrine stress
A study found that intimate physical contact reduces cortisol responses, while oxytocin administration promotes wound healing. This integration of relationship dynamics and neurohormonal modulation may lead to future interventions for improved health and recovery.
Study sheds new light on how hormones influence decision-making and learning
A recent study published in Nature Neuroscience has made significant breakthroughs in understanding how hormones like estrogen impact brain function, particularly in learning and decision-making. The research found that estrogen boosts dopamine activity, leading to enhanced learning capabilities and a potential connection to neuropsych...
Study: Macrophage “bodyguard” disruptors could change breast cancer treatment by helping to overcome endocrine resistance
Researchers at University of Miami Miller School of Medicine have developed a new combination therapy that shrinks tumors, reduces cancer stem cells and reprograms immune environment to combat hormone-resistant breast cancer. The triple therapy approach targets tumor-associated macrophages, which act like bodyguards for cancer cells.
Hunger influences the behaviour of female mice towards pups
A study published in Nature found that hunger can trigger aggression in female mice towards pups, especially when their reproductive cycle is in a certain stage. The researchers discovered that hunger information from the hypothalamus affects the brain's medial preoptic area, stimulating pup-directed aggression.
New EndoCompass Research Roadmap calls for coordinated investment to tackle Europe’s hormone health challenge
The European Society of Endocrinology has released the EndoCompass Research Roadmap, a major new initiative to align research efforts and improve funding strategies for hormone-related health challenges. The roadmap identifies specific research needs across eight endocrine specialties and five cross-cutting areas.
MDMA psychiatric applications synthesized: Comprehensive review examines PTSD treatment and emerging therapeutic indications
The review synthesizes clinical evidence on MDMA-assisted psychotherapy for posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), autism spectrum disorder, eating disorders, and existential distress. It identifies consistent patterns across diverse clinical applications and highlights the therapeutic potential of MDMA, including its oxytocin-mediated ...
‘Good’ gut bacteria boosts placenta for healthier pregnancy
Research reveals that Bifidobacterium breve in pregnant mothers regulates the placenta's hormone production, reducing complications and improving fetal growth. The study opens up a new approach to assessing pregnancy health through gut microbiome analysis.
New Alliance trial aims to improve outcomes in metastatic prostate cancer
The ASPIRE trial is a Phase III clinical study investigating whether adding chemotherapy to standard treatments can extend survival in men with advanced prostate cancer. The trial aims to determine the effectiveness of combining docetaxel with hormone therapy and apalutamide.
Storing breast milk for specific times of day could support babies’ circadian rhythm
Researchers found that breast milk components like melatonin and cortisol vary over the course of the day. Labeling expressed milk as 'morning,' 'afternoon,' or 'evening' could help align feeding times with circadian signals, supporting infant sleep and immune development.
Considering sex hormones led to better identification of genes linked to type 2 diabetes
Researchers found 22 previously unknown genetic variants associated with type 2 diabetes by considering participants' hormone levels. The analysis suggests that sex hormone levels interact with genes to increase the risk of developing the disease.
Mount Sinai-Duke University study identifies DNA variants that increase testosterone production in PCOS patients
A study by Mount Sinai-Duke University identifies specific DNA variants in the DENND1A gene that increase testosterone production in PCOS patients. This finding could lead to new therapies targeting the genetic source of elevated testosterone levels in PCOS, which is a common condition affecting reproductive-age women.