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4092992 
Journal Article 
[Dexamethasone up-regulated aromatase expression in leydig cells of estrous male mice] 
Xie, Y; Cai, JC; Yang, R; Wei, SL; Liu, XY; Wang, YX 
2007 
0 
Shengzhi yu Biyun
ISSN: 0253-357X 
DART/TER/7000930 
Reproduction and Contraception 
Reproduction and Contraception 
Chinese 
Objective: To investigate the effects of dexamethasone on aromatase expression in testicle tissues of estrous male mice with sexual abstinence. Method: Thirty estrous male mice were randomly divided into 3 groups (10 mice in each group): sexual expression group (group A), sexual abstinence group (group B), sexual abstinence group with dexamethasone (group C, exposure to dexamethasone subcutaneously at the dose 16.66 mg/kg). Radioimmunity assay was used to detect the serum levels of estradiol, testosterone and estradiol content in testicle tissues. The serum cortisol levels were examined by chemical luminescent technique. Hybridization in situ and immunohistochemistry method were used to evaluate the aromatase expression in testicle tissues. Results: The serum estradiol levels in group B were lower than those in group A (P and lt;0.01), while dexamethasone could increase it (P and lt;0.01). The serum cortisol levels in group B were higher than those in group A (P and lt;0.01), while dexamethasone could decrease it (P and lt;0.01). There was not a significant difference in serum testosterone levels of three groups. The aromatase expression in leydig cells of group B was lower than that in group A, while dexamethasone could up-regulate it. Conclusion: Dexamethasone might up-regulate the aromatase expression in leydig cells of group B by inhibiting the cortisol secretion in adrenal gland.