Coconut oil works as a gonadal feedback testosterone booster and increases pituitary aromatase (cyp19a1b) expression levels in fugu (Takifugu rubripes)

The study investigated the effects of coconut oil (CO) on gonadal development and pituitary aromatase expression in immature female tiger pufferfish (Takifugu rubripes). The researchers found that CO, rich in medium-chain fatty acids, significantly increased serum testosterone levels, which are crucial for reproductive development. Although CO enhanced pituitary cyp19a1b expression, it did not initiate luteinizing hormone (LH) synthesis. This suggests that while CO acts as a testosterone booster, further factors are needed to trigger full reproductive maturation. The findings highlight the potential of CO as a safe environmental substance to promote early puberty in aquaculture species.