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Melatonin and gonadotropin secretion after acute exercise in physically active males
A N Elias1, A F Wilson, M R Pandian
1Department of Medicine, University of California, Irvine 92717.
Summary
Acute strenuous exercise temporarily lowers luteinizing hormone (LH) and testosterone (T) in active males. Melatonin does not appear to influence this exercise-induced hormonal depression.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Exercise Physiology
- Sports Medicine
Background:
- Acute strenuous exercise can impact reproductive hormone levels.
- The role of melatonin in exercise-induced hormonal changes is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of acute strenuous exercise on serum concentrations of luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone (T), and melatonin in physically active males.
- To determine if melatonin plays a role in the post-exercise depression of LH.
Main Methods:
- Seven physically active males performed the Bruce protocol on a treadmill.
- Blood samples were collected pre-exercise and at multiple intervals up to 180 minutes post-exercise.
- Serum concentrations of LH, follicle-stimulating hormone, T, and melatonin were measured.
Main Results:
- Serum LH levels significantly decreased post-exercise, reaching a nadir between 60 and 150 minutes.
- Serum T concentrations showed a parallel decrease, mirroring the LH decline.
- Serum melatonin levels did not exhibit significant changes following exercise.
Conclusions:
- Acute strenuous exercise leads to a transient depression of LH and T in physically active males.
- Melatonin does not appear to mediate the observed post-exercise LH reduction, despite its known anti-gonadotropic properties.