Research Interests
Epidemiology of Testicular and Liver Cancers
The incidence of both testicular cancer and primary liver cancer are increasing in many populations, although there is wide geographic and ethnic variability in their incidence. Dr. McGlynn has been using a variety of study designs to investigate environmental and genetic risk factors that may contribute to the increasing rates.
Testicular Cancer and Testicular Dysgenesis Syndrome
Testicular germ cell tumors (TGCT) are the most frequently occurring tumors among U.S. men between the ages of 15 and 40 years. Although the incidence has been increasing for decades, the etiology remains poorly understood. TGCT is part of a constellation of male reproductive disorders known as the Testicular Dysgenesis Syndrome (TDS) which also includes cryptorchidism, hypospadias, and impaired spermatogenesis. Because of the interrelationship of these conditions, Dr. McGlynn has been studying a number of TDS outcomes in complementary studies. Her TDS research is currently oriented around several areas of investigation: maternal/son hormonal effects, endocrine-disrupting chemicals, and perinatal factors. One of her principal interests in TDS is the relationship of steroid hormones and gonadotropins to the development of TDS outcomes. Thus far, her studies have found little evidence that maternal hormone levels are associated with risk of TDS. Her studies suggest, however, that lower androgen levels during adolescence may predispose risk of developing TGCT.