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Circulating MKRN3 Levels Decline During Puberty in Healthy Boys
Alexander S Busch1, Casper P Hagen1, Kristian Almstrup1
1Department of Growth and Reproduction, Rigshospitalet, University of Copenhagen, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark; and International Center for Research and Research Training in Endocrine Disruption of Male Reproduction and Child Health (EDMaRC).
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism
|April 9, 2016
Summary
Levels of makorin RING-finger protein 3 (MKRN3) decrease in healthy boys before puberty begins. This finding supports MKRN3
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Reproductive Endocrinology
Background:
- Puberty initiation involves complex hypothalamic regulation.
- Makorin RING-finger protein 3 (MKRN3) mutations are linked to central precocious puberty, suggesting an inhibitory role.
- MKRN3's role in normal pubertal development requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate circulating MKRN3 levels in healthy boys during the peripubertal period.
- To understand the dynamic changes in MKRN3 levels preceding and during puberty.
Main Methods:
- A population-based longitudinal study was conducted on healthy Danish boys.
- Sixty boys, aged 5.8-11.8 years at baseline, were followed for up to 7.6 years.
- Serum MKRN3 levels were measured every six months, with 623 samples analyzed.
Main Results:
- MKRN3 levels showed a significant decline before the onset of puberty.
- Mean MKRN3 levels decreased from 216 pg/mL five years before puberty to 128 pg/mL just before onset (P < .001).
- MKRN3 levels continued to decrease as puberty progressed, but were not associated with the age of pubertal onset.
Conclusions:
- Declining MKRN3 levels in midchildhood support its function as an inhibitor of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion.
- These findings contribute to understanding the hormonal regulation of puberty.
- MKRN3 may play a crucial role in timing pubertal onset.
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