Brain-derived neurotrophic factor stimulates hypothalamic and gonadal reproductive hormones and oocyte maturation in zebrafish.

In Brief: The brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been shown to regulate metabolism in zebrafish. This research shows that Bdnf is a regulator of female zebrafish reproduction and reproductive hormones.

Abstract: BDNF is a peptide widely known for its role in neurogenesis and synaptic plasticity.

Fat mass and obesity associated gene and homeobox transcription factor iriquois-3 mRNA profiles in the metabolic tissues of zebrafish are modulated by feeding and food deprivation.

Fat mass and obesity associated gene (FTO) has been strongly associated with obesity, and it is functionally linked to the homeobox transcription factor iriquois-3 (IRX3). In mammals, FTO and IRX3 are involved in the regulation of food intake and metabolism. This study aimed to determine whether FTO and IRX3are affected by feeding and food unavailability.

Intraperitoneal administration of kisspeptin-10 modulates follicle maturation, gonadal steroids, calcium and metabolites in Sterlet sturgeon, Acipenser ruthenus.

Kisspeptin is a multifunctional neurohormone, primarily involved in the regulation of reproduction. We tested whether peripheral administration of kisspeptin10 (KP-10) via intraperitoneal injection or slow release affects reproductive hormones and metabolites in Sterlet sturgeon (Acipenser ruthenus). Plasma and mucus 17β-estradiol (E), and testosterone (T), plasma and follicular vitellogenin (VTG) and calcium (Ca) as well as glucose and lipids were determined.

Growth factors and female reproduction in vertebrates.

Female reproductive efficiency is influenced by the outcomes of various processes, including folliculogenesis, apoptosis, response to gonadotropin signaling, oocyte maturation, and ovulation. The role of hormones in regulating these processes and other reproductive activities has been well established. It is becoming increasingly evident that in addition to well-characterized hormones, growth factors play vital roles in regulating some of these reproductive activities.

Ablepharon macrostomia syndrome: Absent prepuce in the first case report in West Africa.

Ablepharon macrostomia syndrome (AMS) is an extremely rare congenital ectodermal dysplastic disease characterised by craniofacial, skin, skeletal and genital abnormalities. Very few cases have been reported since the first case report in 1977. We report the case of a 6-day-old male delivered to unrelated parents.