Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Lara Feldkamp, Lisa Mueller, Timo Deutschbein, Mario Detomas, Stefanie Hahner, Christian J. Strasburger, Heike Kuenzel, Andrea Osswald, Leah Braun, German Rubinstein, Martin Reincke, Marcus Quinkler, Tina Kienitz
Summary: Patients with endogenous Cushing's syndrome (CS) may experience a wide range of neuropsychiatric symptoms that negatively impact their quality of life (QoL). This study examined the association between glucocorticoid receptor (GR) polymorphisms and QoL in CS patients. The results showed that patients in remission had better QoL compared to those with active CS. In longitudinal analysis, carriers with the BclI minor allele showed significant improvement in QoL compared to wildtype carriers after remission.
EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF ENDOCRINOLOGY
(2023)
Review
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Mitsuru Nishiyama, Yasumasa Iwasaki, Shinya Makino
Summary: This paper reviews recent studies on animal models of Cushing's syndrome, including features and complications induced by different glucocorticoid excess. Researchers found that administering exogenous corticosterone or implanting CORT pellets in mice successfully induced a Cushing's phenotype. They also developed other types of animal models to study the effects of corticotropin-releasing hormone overexpression and adrenal-specific Prkar1a deficiency on Cushing's syndrome, and designed transplantation methods for related medical treatments. In addition, this paper reviews the latest advances in using animal models to study glucocorticoid-induced complications.
Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Mario Detomas, Barbara Altieri, Wiebke Schlotelburg, Silke Appenzeller, Sven Schlaffer, Roland Coras, Andreas Schirbel, Vanessa Wild, Matthias Kroiss, Silviu Sbiera, Martin Fassnacht, Timo Deutschbein
Summary: The case presented a rare occurrence where a patient first had ACTH-independent CS and then developed CD. The successful treatment of CD after surgery and pathological examination indicated that different subtypes of Cushing's syndrome can develop in a single individual.
FRONTIERS IN ENDOCRINOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Ariadne Bosman, Annewieke W. van den Beld, Richard A. Feelders, M. Carola Zillikens
Summary: The study found that 16% of patients with Cushing's syndrome had hypophosphatemia, which was related to cortisol excretion levels. After remission of CS, serum phosphate significantly increased and BMI decreased.
FRONTIERS IN ENDOCRINOLOGY
(2021)
Review
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Renata Swiatkowska-Stodulska, Agata Berlinska, Katarzyna Stefanska, Przemyslaw Klosowski, Krzysztof Sworczak
Summary: Cyclic Cushing's syndrome is a disease characterized by periods of transient hypercortisolemia shifting into periods of normo- and/or hypocortisolemia. Diagnosis is based on at least three periods of confirmed hypercortisolemia interspersed by two periods of normocortisolemia. Due to its diverse clinical picture, unpredictable duration and frequency of phases, and various etiologies, cyclic Cushing's syndrome is a challenge in modern endocrinology.
FRONTIERS IN ENDOCRINOLOGY
(2021)
Review
Nutrition & Dietetics
Valentina Guarnotta, Fabrizio Emanuele, Roberta Amodei, Carla Giordano
Summary: A very low-calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD) can effectively improve lipid parameters, blood pressure, glycaemic indices and insulin sensitivity in patients with obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus. This article discusses the relationship between hypercortisolism and nutrition, and explores the potential use of a VLCKD for the treatment of comorbidities associated with Cushing's syndrome.
Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Sharmilee Vetrivel, Ru Zhang, Mareen Engel, Barbara Altieri, Leah Braun, Andrea Osswald, Martin Bidlingmaier, Martin Fassnacht, Felix Beuschlein, Martin Reincke, Alon Chen, Silviu Sbiera, Anna Riester
Summary: This study identified miR-182-5p as a potential biomarker for Cushing's Disease (CD), which needs further validation in a prospective cohort. The results suggest that the presence or absence of ACTH may be as relevant for miRNA expression as hypercortisolism itself in CS.
FRONTIERS IN ENDOCRINOLOGY
(2021)
Article
Cell Biology
Ryuta Baba, Kenji Oki, Celso E. Gomez-Sanchez, Yu Otagaki, Kiyotaka Itcho, Kazuhiro Kobuke, Takaya Kodama, Gaku Nagano, Haruya Ohno, Masayasu Yoneda, Noboru Hattori
Summary: The intracellular molecular mechanisms underlying the genotype of cortisol-producing adenoma (CPA) with PRKACA mutation were investigated in this study. Analysis revealed that PRKACA mutations led to increased steroidogenic enzyme expression and cortisol production, distinguishing them from GNAS and CTNNB1 mutant CPAs. These findings highlight the importance of the cAMP-PKA signaling pathway in regulating cortisol production in PRKACA mutant CPAs.
MOLECULAR AND CELLULAR ENDOCRINOLOGY
(2021)
Review
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Andrea Pence, Megan McGrath, Stephanie L. Lee, Douglas E. Raines
Summary: Cushing's syndrome is an endocrine disease that can be treated with steroidogenesis enzyme inhibitors. However, these inhibitors have serious adverse effects and limited efficacy. Etomidate, a member of this drug class, is suitable for use in intensive care settings due to its sedative-hypnotic actions.
THERAPEUTIC ADVANCES IN ENDOCRINOLOGY AND METABOLISM
(2022)
Review
Immunology
Meredith Ramba, Dusan Bogunovic
Summary: Individuals with Down Syndrome (DS) have dysregulation of their immune system, with elevated cytokine levels, increased interferon signaling, T-cell phenotype changes, and reduced B-cell compartment. Understanding the immune system is crucial for improving treatment for individuals with DS.
IMMUNOLOGICAL REVIEWS
(2023)
Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Sara G. Creemers, Richard A. Feelders, Frank H. de Jong, Gaston J. H. Franssen, Yolanda B. de Rijke, Peter M. van Koetsveld, Leo J. Hofland
Summary: This study compared the effects of Levoketoconazole and RK on adrenocortical and pituitary adenoma cells, with Levoketoconazole showing more potent inhibition of cortisol production and a more significant effect on steroid profiles. Levoketoconazole also demonstrated potential in inhibiting ACTH secretion and growth of pituitary adenoma cells, suggesting it as a promising novel pharmacotherapy for Cushing's syndrome.
JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ENDOCRINOLOGY & METABOLISM
(2021)
Article
Cardiac & Cardiovascular Systems
Hannah M. Costello, Georgios Krilis, Celine Grenier, David Severs, Alicja Czopek, Jessica R. Ivy, Mark Nixon, Megan C. Holmes, Dawn E. W. Livingstone, Ewout J. Hoorn, Neeraj Dhaun, Matthew A. Bailey
Summary: High salt intake activates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, leading to excess glucocorticoid levels and impacting glucocorticoid biology.
CARDIOVASCULAR RESEARCH
(2023)
Review
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Osamah A. Hakami, Shahzada Ahmed, Niki Karavitaki
Summary: Endogenous Cushing's syndrome is a rare endocrine disorder characterized by excess cortisol secretion. Patients with active CS have elevated mortality rates, primarily due to cardiovascular disease. Early diagnosis, prompt treatment, and strict control of cardiovascular risk factors are crucial for the long-term prognosis of these patients.
BEST PRACTICE & RESEARCH CLINICAL ENDOCRINOLOGY & METABOLISM
(2021)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Sharmilee Vetrivel, Ru Zhang, Mareen Engel, Andrea Osswald, Deepika Watts, Alon Chen, Ben Wielockx, Silviu Sbiera, Martin Reincke, Anna Riester
Summary: This study investigated the differential expression of miRNAs in adrenal tissues from different forms of Cushing's syndrome (CS). The study identified distinct adrenal miRNAs associated with CS subtypes.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2022)
Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Daniel Mauss, Raphael M. Herr, Marc N. Jarczok, Irina Motoc, Joachim E. Fischer, A. Bosch
Summary: This study provided epidemiological evidence of aberrant physiological regulation of leukocyte distribution by endogenous cortisol levels among individuals with MetS, suggesting disruption of endocrine-immune regulation may be involved in MetS.
OBESITY RESEARCH & CLINICAL PRACTICE
(2021)
Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Chiara Sabbadin, Francesca Beggiao, Carlotta Keiko Vedolin, Gloria Orlando, Eugenio Ragazzi, Filippo Ceccato, Mattia Barbot, Luciana Bordin, Gabriella Dona, Alessandra Andrisani, Anna Belloni Fortina, Carla Scaroni, Decio Armanini
Summary: This study demonstrates that spironolactone is a safe and effective treatment for hyperandrogenic skin disorders, particularly in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome. The medication can provide long-lasting improvement in symptoms, even after discontinuation for several months.
ENDOCRINE METABOLIC & IMMUNE DISORDERS-DRUG TARGETS
(2023)
Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
F. Ceccato, M. Torchio, I Tizianel, M. Peleg Falb, M. Barbot, C. Sabbadin, C. Betterle, C. Scaroni
Summary: The study aimed to explore the dose of FC treatment and its relationship with glucocorticoid therapy, sodium, potassium, renin, and clinical parameters. The study found that FC dose was positively correlated with sodium and negatively correlated with potassium and renin. FC dose was overall reduced during long-term follow-up, especially in patients with autoimmune PAI. Renin and electrolytes can be used to evaluate and adjust the FC dose.
JOURNAL OF ENDOCRINOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION
(2023)
Review
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Filippo Ceccato, Mattia Barbot, Alessandro Mondin, Marco Boscaro, Maria Fleseriu, Carla Scaroni
Summary: This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the CRH test, desmopressin test, and HDDST for the differential diagnosis of CD and EAS. The CRH test showed the highest sensitivity for detecting CD and the highest specificity for detecting EAS, while the diagnostic accuracy of HDDST and desmopressin test was lower.
JOURNAL OF CLINICAL ENDOCRINOLOGY & METABOLISM
(2023)
Article
Sport Sciences
Marcos D. Martinez-Zamora, Pedro L. Valenzuela, Ines Esteban Diez, Oscar Martinez-de-Quel
Summary: Evidence suggests that preterm birth is associated with impaired physical fitness. This study aimed to compare the physical fitness of preterm and full-term children. The results showed that preterm children had poorer physical fitness, including handgrip strength, lower-limb muscle strength, agility, cardiorespiratory fitness, and flexibility, compared to full-term children. The level of prematurity was inversely associated with physical fitness, with very preterm children having the poorest fitness levels.
EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF SPORT SCIENCE
(2023)
Review
Pharmacology & Pharmacy
Marianna Martino, Nairus Aboud, Beatrice Lucchetti, Gianmaria Salvio, Giorgio Arnaldi
Summary: Untreated Cushing's syndrome (CS) is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Cortisol normalization is a key goal to treatment. Pituitary surgery remains the first-line approach for Cushing's disease, but sometimes it is impracticable, unsuccessful, or complicated by recurrence. Medical therapy has been historically considered a palliative. However, in the latest years, interest on this topic has grown due to both the availability of new drugs and the reevaluation of the old, commonly used drugs in clinical practice.
EXPERT OPINION ON PHARMACOTHERAPY
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Valentina Guarnotta, Roberta La Monica, Vincenza Rita Ingrao, Claudia Di Stefano, Riccardo Salzillo, Giuseppe Pizzolanti, Antonino Giulio Giannone, Piero Luigi Almasio, Pierina Richiusa, Carla Giordano
Summary: This study found that the increase in the incidence of thyroid nodules with cytological findings of TIR3b requires the identification of predictive factors of malignancy. Histological examinations showed that patients with malignant nodules had higher frequencies of characteristics such as nodule diameter <= 11 mm, hypoechogenicity, irregular borders, peri- and intralesional vascular flows, and microcalcifications, while patients with benign nodules had more frequent nodules with a halo sign compared to patients with a histological diagnosis of malignancy.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
F. Ceccato, C. K. Vedolin, G. Voltan, G. Antonelli, M. Barbot, D. Basso, D. Regazzo, C. Scaroni, G. Occhi
Summary: This study aims to evaluate the growth hormone (GH) response in patients with and without acromegaly. It was found that a paradoxical increase in GH levels was observed after glucose intake. The study also revealed a higher prevalence of GH response in acromegalic patients, which was associated with an increased occurrence of glucose metabolism abnormalities.
JOURNAL OF ENDOCRINOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION
(2023)
Review
Endocrinology & Metabolism
A. Mondin, M. Barbot, G. Voltan, I. Tizianel, C. K. Vedolin, P. Mazzeo, M. Lazzara, M. Boscaro, C. Scaroni, F. Ceccato
Summary: The study aimed to provide an overview of available dynamic tests for discriminating between neoplastic and non-neoplastic hypercortisolism and to quantify their diagnostic performance. The combined Dex-CRH test showed the highest sensitivity, while the CRH test demonstrated excellent specificity. Further research is needed, particularly in mild Cushing's Disease and well-characterized non-neoplastic hypercortisolism patients.
JOURNAL OF ENDOCRINOLOGICAL INVESTIGATION
(2023)
Review
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Marta Padovan, Giulia Cerretti, Mario Caccese, Mattia Barbot, Eleonora Bergo, Gianluca Occhi, Carla Scaroni, Giuseppe Lombardi, Filippo Ceccato
Summary: Despite multimodal treatment, pituitary adenomas can still show a tendency to grow. Temozolomide (TMZ) has been used for the treatment of aggressive pituitary tumors in the past 15 years. The use of TMZ requires a careful balance of different expertise, especially in terms of selection criteria.
EXPERT REVIEW OF ENDOCRINOLOGY & METABOLISM
(2023)
Article
Biochemistry & Molecular Biology
Laura Tomasello, Maria Pitrone, Valentina Guarnotta, Carla Giordano, Giuseppe Pizzolanti
Summary: This study investigated the contributions of adipose progenitors (ASCs) and adipocytes (AMCs) to TNF-alpha-induced extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling and the potential involvement of irisin in AT impairment in obesity. The results showed that inflamed adipocytes exhibited impaired protein metabolism and lipid storage ability, accompanied by increased matrix metalloproteinase activity. In vitro and ex vivo measurements revealed a positive correlation between inflammation, adipose secretion of irisin, and circulating irisin levels in patients with visceral obesity.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF MOLECULAR SCIENCES
(2023)
Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Alessandro Mondin, Filippo Ceccato, Giacomo Voltan, Pierluigi Mazzeo, Renzo Manara, Luca Denaro, Carla Scaroni, Mattia Barbot
Summary: This study evaluated the prevalence of cortisol-related complications and mortality rates in a large cohort of Cushing’s disease (CD) patients referred to a single center. It was found that patients in remission showed a significant improvement in cardiovascular comorbidities, while those with active CD had poor survival outcomes.
Article
Nutrition & Dietetics
Valentina Guarnotta, Roberta Amodei, Francesca Di Gaudio, Carla Giordano
Summary: This study confirms the efficacy of a ketogenic diet as an adjunctive therapy for patients with Cushing's disease, showing significant improvements in metabolic disorders. Furthermore, it suggests that a nutritional approach can be combined with conventional treatment for Cushing's disease to improve metabolic and cardiovascular comorbidities.
Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Ilaria Piva, Simona Censi, Jacopo Manso, Susi Barollo, Loris Bertazza, Carla Scaroni, Caterina Mian, Mattia Barbot
Summary: In this case report, we present a novel loss-of-function gene mutation in the TSH receptor gene associated with a TSH resistance phenotype.
ENDOCRINE METABOLIC & IMMUNE DISORDERS-DRUG TARGETS
(2023)
Article
Endocrinology & Metabolism
Giacomo Voltan, Giorgia Antonelli, Alessandro Mondin, Irene Tizianel, Chiara Sabbadin, Mattia Barbot, Daniela Basso, Carla Scaroni, Filippo Ceccato
Summary: This study investigated the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the use of salivary cortisol and found that applying a heat treatment to saliva specimens ensured the safety of cortisol measurements, even during the outbreak.