RESUMO
Hypothalamic integrity increasingly is being recognized as a marker of healthy longevity in rodent models. Insight into hypothalamic function in humans with exceptional longevity can be gained via investigation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-testicular (HPT) axis in men with exceptional longevity. This study aimed to characterize the HPT axis function, defined by levels of testosterone (T) and luteinizing hormone (LH), in 84 Ashkenazi Jewish men aged 90-106 years. We found that 94% of men exhibited preserved hypothalamic-pituitary function, as evidenced by either normal testosterone and LH levels (25%) or an appropriate rise in LH in response to aging-related primary testicular dysfunction (69%), a hormone pattern mirroring female menopause. Total T level was not associated with metabolic parameters or survival. These results demonstrate a high prevalence of testicular dysfunction with preserved hypothalamic-pituitary function in men with exceptional longevity. Thus, the role of hypothalamic integrity and HPT axis in healthy aging warrants further investigation.
Assuntos
Hipotálamo , Longevidade , Hipófise , Testículo , Envelhecimento/sangue , Envelhecimento/metabolismo , Hormônio Foliculoestimulante/metabolismo , Humanos , Hipotálamo/metabolismo , Longevidade/fisiologia , Hormônio Luteinizante/sangue , Hormônio Luteinizante/metabolismo , Masculino , Hipófise/metabolismo , Doenças Testiculares/sangue , Doenças Testiculares/metabolismo , Testículo/metabolismo , Testosterona/sangue , Testosterona/metabolismoRESUMO
Background: Recruitment of participants into research studies, especially individuals from minority groups, is challenging; lack of diversity may lead to biased findings. Aim: To explore beliefs about research participation among individuals who were approached and eligible for the GRADE study. Methods: In-depth qualitative telephone interviews with randomized participants (n = 25) and eligible individuals who declined to enroll (n = 26). Results: Refusers and consenters differed in trust and perceptions of risk, benefits and burden of participation. Few participants understood how comparative effectiveness research differed from other types of trials; however, some features of comparative effectiveness research were perceived as lower risk. Conclusion: We identified facilitators and addressable barriers to participation in research studies.