Searchable abstracts of presentations at key conferences in endocrinology
Previous issue | Volume 77 | SFEBES2021 | Next issue

Society for Endocrinology BES 2021

Edinburgh, United Kingdom
08 Nov 2021 - 10 Nov 2021

Card image cap
Join us in Edinburgh for the flagship event of the Society for Endocrinology

Poster Presentations

Reproductive Endocrinology

ea0077p102 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

Differentially glycosylated FSHR ligands as potential modulators of FSHR quaternary complexes and FSHR-dependent signalling

Agwuegbo Uche , Colley Emily , Bousfield George , Albert Anthony , Jonas Kim

The G protein-coupled receptor, follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (FSHR), is essential for reproduction. A key drug target of IVF, understanding the mechanisms modulating FSHR functions remains of high importance. The endogenous ligand of the FSHR, FSH, is a heterodimeric glycoprotein hormone with two predominant glycoforms identified. Partially glycosylated FSH21 has faster binding kinetics to the FSHR and more potent at activating cAMP-dependent signal pathways, in compa...

ea0077p103 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

Maternal fetuin-A (AHSG) serum levels are altered in pregnancies complicated by gestational diabetes and are associated with pathological fetal growth

Quilang Rachel , Gurung Dilasha , Scott Eleanor , Forbes Karen

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with increased rates of large-for-gestational-age (LGA) or small-for-gestational-age (SGA) infants. Currently, it is not possible to predict which women with GDM are at risk of delivering LGA or SGA infants. Fetuin-A, (α 2-Heremans Schmid glycoprotein; AHSG), a glycoprotein associated with insulin resistance is altered in GDM maternal serum. It is unclear if levels are related to altered fetal growth. This stud...

ea0077p104 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

An exploration of the association between CAG repeat status and mortality in men

Heald Adrian , Cook Michael , Javed Ahmed , Fachim Helene , O’Neill Terence , Wu Fred

Introduction: The androgen receptor (AR) mediates the peripheral effects of testosterone. The main mechanism of action for the AR is direct regulation of gene transcription. Available evidence suggests that the number of CAG repeats in exon-1 of the AR gene is negatively correlated with transcriptional activity of the AR and that CAG repeat number links to mortality rate in T2DM men. The aim of this analysis was to determine the association between CAG repeat number and all ca...

ea0077p106 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

Pregnancies in women with Turner Syndrome: A retrospective multicentre UK study

Cauldwell Matthew , Steer Philip , Turner Helen

Background: Limited contemporary data exist with which to counsel women with Turner Syndrome (TS) with regards to risks associated with pregnancy. We conducted a multicentre UK retrospective cohort study to determine the characteristics and outcomes of pregnancy in women with TS.Method: Retrospective cohort 20-year (2000-2020) study including 16 UK tertiary referral maternity units. Data were collated from case notes review, and maternal outcomes, obstet...

ea0077p107 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

A randomised controlled trial on the effect of very-low-calorie diet (VLCD) vs. an energy deficit diet, in women with the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) – remission PCOS

Deshmukh Harshal , Papageorgiou Maria , Wells Liz , Akbar Shahzad , Strudwick Tom , Reid Marie , Sathyapalan Thozhukat

PCOS is the most common endocrine disorder affecting the women of reproductive age group and weight loss is the mainstay of management of PCOS. We performed an open-label randomised controlled trial to compare the effects of a conventional energy deficit approach (-600 kcal/day of the total energy requirements) vs. a very low-calorie diet (VLCD: 800 kcal/day) on free androgen index (FAI), body weight, and metabolic markers in women with PCOS. Forty-one eligible patients were r...

ea0077p108 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

HIIT’ing or MISS’ing the optimal management of Polycystic Ovary syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis of high-versus moderate-intensity exercise prescription

Richards Cory , Meah Victoria , James D Philip , Rees Aled , Lord Rachel

Introduction: Polycystic Ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a metabolic disorder associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk. Exercise is an effective treatment strategy to manage symptoms and reduce long-term health risk. High-intensity interval training (HIIT) has been suggested as a more efficient exercise mode in PCOS; however, it is not clear whether HIIT is superior to moderate intensity steady state exercise (MISS).Methods: We synthesized availabl...

ea0077p109 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

The relationship between polycystic ovarian syndrome and fractures: A Mendelian randomization study using the UK Biobank

Shah Najeeb , Deshmukh Harshal , Aye Mo , Sathyapalan Thozhukat

Background: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is believed to be a primeval condition with the earliest hints of its existence found in ancient Egyptian literature. Despite its negative impact on fertility, it has emerged as the most common endocrine disorder in women of reproductive age, creating what is called the PCOS paradox. We hypothesized that this phenomenon can be explained by testosterone-mediated high bone mineral density (BMD) in women with PCOS, providing a survival...

ea0077p110 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

Clinical characteristics associated with testosterone prescribing in men in primary care

Sharma Aditi , Ul-Haq Zia , Sindi Emad , Al-Sharefi Ahmed , Kamalati Tahereh , Dhillo Waljit S. , Minhas Sukhbinder , Jayasena Channa N

Background: Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is widely used for the treatment of symptomatic hypogonadism in men. However, data on prescription behaviours of TRT are limited. The objective of this study was to investigate clinical characteristics associated with the likelihood of being prescribed TRT by general practitioners (GPs) in North West London (NWL).Methods: We carried out a retrospective cohort study using Discover database of GP-registere...

ea0077p111 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

An investigation of androgen-responsive non-coding RNAs in boys with atypical genitalia without genetic variants in the androgen receptor (AR)

Alimussina Malika , McMillan Martin , Chudleigh Sandra , McNeilly Jane D , Diver Louise A , McGowan Ruth , Tobias Edward S , Faisal Ahmed S

Introduction: Transcriptome analysis of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) RNA has identified a set of androgen-responsive non-coding RNAs.Aim: To quantify the androgen-responsive gene expression and investigate its relationship to the testosterone (T) rise following hCG stimulation in boys with no genetic evidence of androgen insensitivity.Methods: Boys with suspected DSD who were evaluated at the Royal Hospital for Childre...

ea0077p112 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

What is the prevalence and pattern of cancers in Turner syndrome? A single centre cohort study

Goindoo Ryan J , Dilrukshi M D S A , Bragg Fiona , Calanchini Matilde , Turner Helen

Background: Previous population studies suggest cancer morbidity is different in Turner syndrome (TS) compared to the background female population. Whilst gonadoblastoma is well recognized in TS with Y chromosome material, studies have suggested increased prevalence of skin tumours and meningioma but reduced incidence of breast cancer.Methods: Retrospective analysis of an adult TS clinic patient database identified women who developed cancer. Tumour type...

ea0077p113 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

PCOS SEVa: High prevalence anxiety and body dysmorphia in women with PCOS in the UK and India

Hebbar Meghnaa , Shaikh Salomi , Zia Nawal , Sheikh Jameela , Wicks Saskia , Jayaprakash Sindoora , Narendran Alisha , Khalil Halimah , Gleeson Helena , Robinson Lynne , Chu Justin J. , Lathia Tejal , Selvan Chitra , Arlt Wiebke , Kempegowda Punith

Introduction: National Institute of Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends screening for emotional wellbeing as part of consultations for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).Aim: We evaluated several dimensions of emotional wellbeing in people attending PCOS consultation in the UK and India.Methods: All people attending reproductive endocrine clinic for PCOS at three centres: Queen Elizabeth Hospital Birmingham, UK; Apollo Hospi...

ea0077p114 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

PCOS pearls - gathering perceptions and opinions from lived experiences of people with polycystic ovary syndrome

Lau Gar Mun , Elghobashy Mirna , Busby Maureen , Stacke Kristine , Gleeson Helena , Robinson Lynne , Arlt Wiebke , Lindenmeyer Antje , Gillett Caroline , Kempegowda Punith

Introduction: Existing educational resources for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have limited inclusion of patient perspectives. We invited people with PCOS to share their lived experiences to understand their perception and opinion on the current standard of care.Methodology: Women aged 18-60 years with PCOS were invited to complete an online survey in April and May 2021. The survey had open questions focused on people’s lived experiences with PCO...

ea0077p115 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

Disentangling Turner syndrome and Leri-Weill Dyschondrosteosis; the importance of genetic assessment in the management of Turner Syndrome

Hanington Lucy , Shears Debbie , Turner Helen

Leri-Weill Dyschondrosteosis (LWD) is a skeletal dysplasia resulting in short stature and mesomelic limb-shortening; Madelung deformity of the wrist is often present. Mutation or deletion of the SHOX gene is the underlying cause of LWD. SHOX plays a role in regulating proliferation and maturation of chondrocytes. It is located in the pseudoautosomal region of the sex chromosomes (Xp22.3/Yp11.3); males and females usually have 2 functioning copies. Turner synd...

ea0077p116 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

A rare case report of spontaneous pregnancy in long standing premature ovarian insufficiency secondary to chemotherapy

Mehta Anku , Oikonomou Maria , Ali Tauni Rahat

A 37-year-old woman presented to ED with abdominal bloating and pain. Ultrasound abdomen showed a viable single intrauterine pregnancy at 24 weeks of gestation. Patient was surprised of the diagnosis as she had longstanding premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). She had stage 3B Hodgkin’s disease (HD) diagnosed at 14 years of age when she had BEAM chemotherapy (Carmustine, Etoposide, Cytarabine and Melphalan) followed by autograft bone marrow transplant for recurrent dise...

ea0077p117 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

Spontaneous adrenal haemorrhage and adrenal deficiency during third trimester – successful delivery with conservative management: A case report

Sharma Bhavna , Rahman Mushtaqar , Meeran Karim , Seechurn Shivshankar , Qureshi Asjid , Hui Elaine , Seetho Ian , Deore Mahesh

A 33 year old white European patient presented at 32 weeks gestation with a three day history of severe epigastric pain radiating to left flank with vomiting. She had pre-existing hypertension, controlled with labetalol. On admission, her BP dropped from 170/100mmHg to 90/70mmHg. Abdominal examination revealed epigastric tenderness without peritonism. There were no Cushingoid features. An abdominal ultrasound scan was normal. An MRI scan showed a bulky left adrenal gland, with...

ea0077p233 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

In vitro effects of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) on gonadotropin receptor function and steroidogenesis in human granulosa lutein cells

Anujan Priyanka , Owens Lisa , Alro Botkjaer Jane , Hanyaloglu Aylin , Hardy Kate , Franks Stephen

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a multifactorial, complex endocrine disorder affecting a significant proportion of the global population. Hyperandrogenism is a key feature of PCOS patients. Aberrant secretion and/or action of gonadotropins have been implicated in PCOS, but, to date, we have only limited knowledge of how these factors may interact in the aetiology of PCOS. We hypothesised that excess androgens may cause aberrant gonadotropin activity and therefore sought to...

ea0077p234 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

Reproductive health disturbance in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic

Maher Michelle , Keeffe Aedin O’ , Phelan Niamh , Ann Behan Lucy , Collier Sonya , Hevey David , Owens Lisa

Background: The combined effect of the COVID-19 pandemic and associated restrictions have adversely affected population mental health. Periods of psychological distress can induce menstrual dysfunction. We previously demonstrated a significant disruption in women’s reproductive health during the first 6 months of the pandemic. The present study investigates longer term reproductive and mental health disturbances.Materials and Methods: An online surv...

ea0077p235 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

Wilms’ Tumour-1 (WT1) regulates proliferation, apoptosis and endocrine function in a model of human granulosa cells

Watson Lucy , Childs Andrew

Background: The Wilms’ Tumour-1 (WT1) transcription factor is a critical regulator of embryonic gonadogenesis, but is also expressed by granulosa cells (GCs) in preantral follicles in the ovary after birth. Evidence from animal models suggests an important role for WT1 in regulating GC steroidogenesis and apoptosis. However, the role of WT1 in human GC biology has not been extensively explored.Aim: To investigate the role of WT1 in regulating human ...

ea0077p236 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

Increased levels of testosterone associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) negatively affect HOXA10 and integrin β3 expression in endometrial cells and embryo attachment using a trophoblast cell spheroid model

Reeves Beth , Sidat Raabiah , Harper Claire , Marriott Andrew , Charnock Jayne

PCOS is a reproductive endocrine disorder that affects up to 10% of women of a reproductive age, with 70-80% of patients defined as infertile. There are many different symptoms that could impact fertility in women with PCOS such as anovulation, hyperandrogenism and insulin resistance. A trophoblast (BeWo cell) spheroid attachment assay was used as an in vitro model of embryo implantation to examine the effect of testosterone on the receptivity of endometrial (Ishikawa...

ea0077p237 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

Impact of pharmacological Interventions on androgen hormones in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Abdalla Mohammed , Shah Najeeb , Deshmukh Harshal , Sahebkar Amirhossein , Ostlundh Linda , Al-Rifai Rami H , Atkin Stephen L , Sathyapalan Thozhukat

Context: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disease that affects women of reproductive age and characterised by biochemical and clinical androgen excess.Aim: To review the available literature on the effectiveness of the various pharmacological interventions on androgen hormones in women with PCOS.Data source: We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane library and the Web of Science in April 2020 and...

ea0077p238 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

Clinical utility of free androgen index (FAI) in the assessment of PCOS

Haji Saliha , Hegde Pallavi , Sharma Dushyant , Soman Sooriya , Abidoye Omolade , Davison Andrew

Background: Free androgen index (FAI) is used to estimate free testosterone concentrations in patients undergoing investigation for polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). However, it’s not widely used for diagnostic purpose due to lack of consensus in the literature. We present an appraisal of biochemical data from patients referred to a hyperandrogenaemia clinic with a view to establish an in-house cut-off for the diagnosis of hyperandrogenaemia in PCOS.<p class="abstex...

ea0077p239 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

The rate of progression of atherosclerosis in menopause is associated with levels of circulating amyloid beta 1-40

Armeni Eleni , Delialis Dimitrios , Georgiopoulos Georgios , Tual-Chalot Simon , Vlachogiannis Nikolaos , Patras Raphael , Aivalioti Evmorfia , Augoulea Areti , Tsoltos Nikolaos , Soureti Anastasia , Stellos Konstantinos , Stamatelopoulos Kimon , Lambrinoudaki Irene

Background: Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death worldwide, affecting both sexes. Awareness and prevention practices aiming to control cardiovascular risk in women remain inadequate. On the other hand, circulating amyloid β 1-40 (Aβ1-40) is a proatherogenic peptide, closely linked with the process of aging. We aimed to evaluate the possible association between the progression of atherosclerosis in postmenopausal women and the role of Aβ1-40 ...

ea0077p240 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

Effect of pharmacological interventions on lipid profiles and C-reactive protein in polycystic ovary syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abdalla Mohammed , Shah Najeeb , Deshmukh Harshal , Sahebkar Amirhossein , Ostlundh Linda , Al-Rifai Rami H. , Atkin Stephen L , Sathyapalan Thozhukat

Context: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous condition affecting women of reproductive age. It is associated with dyslipidaemia and elevated plasma C-reactive protein (CRP), which increase the risks of cardiovascular disease (CVD).Objective: To review the existing evidence on the effects of different pharmacological interventions on lipid profiles of women with PCOS.Data sources: We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, Scopus,...

ea0077p241 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

Efficacy and safety of androgens in transgender medicine

Dimakopoulou Anastasia , Millar Ophelia , Moschonas Dimitris , Minhas Suks , Dhillo Waljit , Jayasena Channa

Androgen therapy is the mainstay of treatment in female to male (FtM) transgender persons to increase testosterone levels, suppress oestrogens and treat gender dysphoria. Testosterone is widely used for male hypogonadism, but is comparatively under-investigated in FtM transgender persons. The aim of our study was to identify treatment and safety outcomes associated with testosterone use in transgender medicine. A literature search was conducted in PubMed/Medline, as well as EM...

ea0077p242 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

Assessing emotional wellbeing in women with PCOS living in the UK and Indian community: the Blue Morpho Survey

Khalil Halimah , Sheikh Jameela , Shaikh Salomi , Hebbar Meghnaa , Zia Nawal , Wicks Saskia , Jayaprakash Sindoora , Narendran Alisha , Busby Maureen , Stacke Kristine , Singh Nidhi , Gleeson Helena , Robinson Lynne , Chu Justin J. , Lathia Tejal , Selvan Chitra , Arlt Wiebke , Kempegowda Punith

Aim: To study differences in various aspects of emotional wellbeing among women with PCOS living in the UK and India.Methods: Women with PCOS were invited to complete an online survey between September and October 2020 in the UK and May and June 2021 in India. The survey included Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS; score ≥11 cases of anxiety and depression, respectively), Body Image Concern Inventory (BICI; score ≥72 suggestive of bo...

ea0077p243 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

The effect of exogenous kisspeptin administration in a novel mouse model of hypothalamic amenorrhoea

Shrewsbury Jed V , Ng Kah-Yan , McIntyre Caitlin , Li Xiao Feng , Phylactou Maria , O’Byrne Kevin T , Abbara Ali , Dhillo Waljit S , Owen Bryn M

Kisspeptin is integral to hypothalamo-pituitary-gonadal (HPG) axis function and overall fertility. Functional deficiency of GnRH/lH secretion in the central reproductive disease, hypothalamic amenorrhoea (HA), indicates diminished kisspeptin signalling. Clinical trials have shown kisspeptin to be a viable therapeutic intervention. However, repeated administration led to the development of tachyphylaxis and so is likely a problem for future implementation. Indeed, elevated LH r...

ea0077p244 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

Service evaluation of patients referred for PCOS - Are we doing enough to diagnose and manage them well?

Soman Sooriya , Abidoye Omolade , Mohammed Ismail Haji Saliha , Davison Andrew , Sharma Dushyant , Hegde Pallavi

Introduction: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex endocrine disorder of uncertain aetiology, affects 1 in 10 reproductive women and has broad spectrum risks related to reproductive, cardiometabolic and psychosocial health. The wide overlap with other hyperandrogenemic conditions, complexity of PCOS spectrum, and inconsistencies in investigation and management potentially can result in risks of delay in diagnosis and management.Aim: To evaluate ...

ea0077p245 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

COVID19 in Turner Syndrome; results of a self-completed website survey

Turner Helen , Smyth Arlene

Background: Girls and women with Turner Syndrome (TS) are commonly estrogen deficient, and may also be affected by conditions that have been suggested as increasing risk for severe infection with COVID.Objective: To determine the self-reported experience of COVID19 in girls/women with Turner syndromeDesign: Anonymous self-completed website survey (UK TSSS) and analysis of submitted dataPopulation: 49 people; ...

ea0077p246 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

The Impact of COVID-19 on Endocrine Treatments from a patient perspective - effect on parenteral testosterone

Walsh Emma , Bates Suzanna , Dunkley Kay , Paramore Jane , Ibbotson Vicky , Munir Alia

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has had a huge impact on the delivery of health services. Here we review the patient perspective, on rapid changes in treatment delivery of testosterone preparations instituted in the first wave of the pandemic.Methods: 49 hypogonadal male patients were identified as attenders to the Endocrine unit for Nebido™ injection. They were temporarily switched to testosterone gel to rapidly comply with COVID rules. 8 weeks...

ea0077p247 | Reproductive Endocrinology | SFEBES2021

A case of reversible congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism

Penswick Stephanie , Wright Rohana

Case: A 21 year old gentleman presented to endocrine clinic with failure to develop secondary sexual characteristics. He had no growth since age 16, nor any change in voice, body hair or muscle or genital growth. Examination was in keeping with pubertal staging Tanner stage II. His right testicular volume was 5ml and left testicular volume 4ml. He had normal sense of smell. Investigations demonstrated low testosterone at 1.6 nmol/l (10-30). Results showed hypogonadotropic hypo...