Immunomodulation by testosterone and corticosterone in toads: Experimental evidences from transdermal application

Author(s)

Madelaire, Carla Bonetti ; Cassettari, Bruna de Oliveira ; Gomes, Fernando Ribeiro

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: General and Comparative Endocrinology; v. 273, p. 9-pg., 2019-03-01.

Abstract

Androgens and glucocorticoids play important roles in vertebrate's reproduction and display complex immunomodulatory functions that may affect survival. In anurans, testosterone and corticosterone are correlated to sexual behavior, reproduction, and immune function. Male toads (Rhinella jimi) were treated with acute doses of testosterone (T) and corticosterone (CORT) and immune variables (plasma bacterial killing ability [BKA], swelling after phytohemagglutinin [PHA] injection and the time point of maximum PHA swelling response) were measured. Transdermal T and CORT application increased androgen (T-DHT) and CORT plasma levels after 1 h of treatment, respectively, without a dose-specific effect. Transdermal T treatment did not affect BKA or PHA swelling response. Individuals treated with transdermal CORT showed an earlier maximum PHA swelling response and a tendency of lower BKA 15 h after treatment. Our results indicated that an acute experimental increase of CORT plasma levels diminished time for inflammatory resolution and suppressed non-cellular innate response. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 13/00900-1 - Comparative study of the relationships between immunocompetence and plasmatic levels of gonadal and inter-renal steroids in toads
• Grantee: Fernando Ribeiro Gomes
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• FAPESP's process: 12/24206-4 - Sazonal relationship between reproduction, energetics and immunocompetence in toads (Rhinella jimi)from Caatinga
• Grantee: Carla Bonetti Madelaire
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate