Endocrine Abstracts

In addition to their documented impact on the cardiovascular system, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) have also been shown to modulate steroidogenesis. However, the mechanistic nature of PUFA action on steroid synthesis remains unknown. PUFAs are recognised modulators of cholesterol trafficking. Liver X receptor (LXR) is a known cholesterol sensor that regulates a range of genes involved in cholesterol metabolism including Steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) which...

Inappropriate control of the hypothalamo–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis in production animals has serious consequences for animal welfare, and economic consequences in relation to food production. Fertility rates have declined as a consequence of farming practice and selective breeding, which may result in an increased susceptibility to disease and infection. Whilst precise monitoring of HPA status can be achieved through measurement of plasma cortisol levels, obtainin...