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Bond P, Smit DL, de Ronde W. Anabolic-androgenic steroids: How do they work and what are the risks? Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1059473. [PMID: 36644692 PMCID: PMC9837614 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1059473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) are a class of hormones that are widely abused for their muscle-building and strength-increasing properties in high, nontherapeutic, dosages. This review provides an up-to-date and comprehensive overview on how these hormones work and what side effects they might elicit. We discuss how AAS are absorbed into the circulation after intramuscular injection or oral ingestion and how they are subsequently transported to the tissues, where they will move into the extravascular compartment and diffuse into their target cells. Inside these cells, AAS can biotransform into different metabolites or bind to their cognate receptor: the androgen receptor. AAS and their metabolites can cause side effects such as acne vulgaris, hypertension, hepatotoxicity, dyslipidemia, testosterone deficiency, erectile dysfunction, gynecomastia, and cardiomyopathy. Where applicable, we mention treatment options and self-medication practices of AAS users to counteract these side effects. Clinicians may use this review as a guide for understanding how AAS use can impact health and to assist in patient education and, in some cases, the management of side effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Diederik L. Smit
- Department of Internal Medicine, Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, Tilburg, Netherlands
| | - Willem de Ronde
- Department of Internal Medicine, Spaarne Gasthuis, Haarlem, Netherlands
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2
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Begum TF, Carpenter D. Health effects associated with phthalate activity on nuclear receptors. REVIEWS ON ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH 2022; 37:567-583. [PMID: 34592072 DOI: 10.1515/reveh-2020-0162] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 09/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Phthalates are endocrine disruptors, widely used as plasticizers to impart flexibility in plastics, and as solvents in personal care products. Due to their nearly ubiquitous use in consumer products, most humans are exposed to phthalates daily. There has been extensive research on the reproductive health effects associated with phthalate exposure, but less attention has been paid to other actions. This review aims to summarize the known action of phthalates on different nuclear receptors. Some phthalates bind to and activate the estrogen receptor, making them weakly estrogenic. However, other phthalates antagonize androgen receptors. Some high molecular weight phthalates antagonize thyroid receptors, affecting metabolism. Several phthalates activate and interfere with the normal function of different peroxisome proliferator-activated receptors (PPARs), receptors that have critical roles in lipid metabolism and energy homeostasis. Some phthalates activate the aryl hydrocarbon receptor, which is critical for xenobiotic metabolism. Although phthalates have a short half-life in vivo, because people are continuously exposed, studies should examine the health effects of phthalates associated with long-term exposure. There is limited research on the effects of phthalates on health outcomes aside from reproductive function, particularly concerning are childhood adiposity, behavior, and learning. There is also limited information on actions of phthalates not mediated via nuclear receptors. Humans are exposed to multiple chemicals simultaneously, and how chemical mixtures act on nuclear receptor activity needs study. Although we know a great deal about phthalates, there is still much that remains uncertain. Future studies need to further examine their other potential health effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thoin Farzana Begum
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University at Albany, Rensselaer, NY, USA
| | - David Carpenter
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, School of Public Health, University at Albany, Rensselaer, NY, USA
- Institute for Health and the Environment, University at Albany, Rensselaer, NY, USA
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3
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Cole RN, Chen W, Pascal LE, Nelson JB, Wipf P, Wang Z. (+)-JJ-74-138 is a novel non-competitive androgen receptor antagonist. Mol Cancer Ther 2022; 21:483-492. [DOI: 10.1158/1535-7163.mct-21-0432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 10/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Anabolic Androgenic Steroids in Orthopaedic Surgery: Current Concepts and Clinical Applications. J Am Acad Orthop Surg Glob Res Rev 2022; 6:01979360-202201000-00001. [PMID: 34982051 PMCID: PMC8735789 DOI: 10.5435/jaaosglobal-d-21-00156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Despite the well-documented effects of testosterone and its synthetic derivatives—collectively termed anabolic androgenic steroids (AASs)—on the musculoskeletal system, the therapeutic use of these agents has received limited investigation within the field of orthopaedic surgery. In the last 2 decades, preclinical and clinical research has started to identify promising applications of the short-term use of AASs in the perioperative period. There is evidence to suggest that AASs may improve postoperative recovery after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction and total joint arthroplasty. In addition, AASs may augment the biological healing environment in specific clinical scenarios including muscle injury, fracture repair, and rotator cuff repair. Current literature fails to present strong evidence for or against the use of AASs in orthopaedics, but there is continuous research on this topic. The purpose of this study was to provide a comprehensive overview of the current status of AAS applications in orthopaedic surgery, with an emphasis on preclinical data, clinical studies, and future directions.
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Tatem AJ, Holland LC, Kovac J, Beilan JA, Lipshultz LI. Nandrolone decanoate relieves joint pain in hypogonadal men: a novel prospective pilot study and review of the literature. Transl Androl Urol 2020; 9:S186-S194. [PMID: 32257859 PMCID: PMC7108994 DOI: 10.21037/tau.2019.11.03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Testosterone is an archetypal androgenic-anabolic steroid (AAS), while its exogenous administration is considered to be the gold standard for the treatment of male hypogonadism. The benefits are not due to its intrinsic nature alone but are due to the result of its interactions with the androgen receptor (AR). As the management of hypogonadism continues to advance into the modern era, it would be preferable for modern andrologists to have multiple tools at their disposal to influence AR activity. Nandrolone, or 19-nortestosterone, is one such compound. In the following review of the literature, we examine the history, pharmacology, and clinical applications of this medication. We also present the results of our novel pilot study examining the favorable effects of nandrolone on joint pain for hypogonadal men.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Levi C Holland
- McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jason Kovac
- Men's Health Center, Urology of Indiana, Greenwood, IN, USA
| | | | - Larry I Lipshultz
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
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Mata EFD, Nascimento AMD, Lima EMD, Kalil IC, Endringer DC, Lenz D, Bissoli NS, Brasil GA, Andrade TUD. Finasteride promotes worsening of the cardiac deleterious effects of nandrolone decanoate and protects against genotoxic and cytotoxic damage. BRAZ J PHARM SCI 2020. [DOI: 10.1590/s2175-97902019000318289] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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Maliković J, Feyissa DD, Kalaba P, Marouf BS, Höger H, Hartmann MF, Wudy SA, Schuler G, Lubec G, Aradska J, Korz V. Age and cognitive status dependent differences in blood steroid and thyroid hormone concentrations in intact male rats. Behav Brain Funct 2019; 15:10. [PMID: 31256760 PMCID: PMC6600892 DOI: 10.1186/s12993-019-0161-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2019] [Accepted: 06/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Age-dependent alterations of hormonal states have been considered to be involved in age related decline of cognitive abilities. Most of the studies in animal models are based on hormonal substitution in adrenal- and/or gonadectomized rodents or infusion of steroid hormones in intact rats. Moreover, the manipulations have been done timely, closely related to test procedures, thus reflecting short-term hormonal mechanisms in the regulation of learning and memory. Here we studied whether more general states of steroid and thyroid hormone profiles, independent from acute experiences, may possibly reflect long-term learning capacity. A large cohort of aged (17–18 months) intact male rats were tested in a spatial hole-board learning task and a subset of inferior and superior learners was included into the analysis. Young male adult rats (16 weeks of age) were also tested. Four to 8 weeks after testing blood plasma samples were taken and hormone concentrations of a variety of steroid hormones were measured by gas chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry or radioimmunoassay (17β-estradiol, thyroid hormones). Results Aged good learners were similar to young rats in the behavioral task. Aged poor learners but not good learners showed higher levels of triiodothyronine (T3) as compared to young rats. Aged good learners had higher levels of thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) than aged poor learning and young rats. Both aged good and poor learners showed significantly reduced levels of testosterone (T), 4-androstenedione (4A), androstanediol-3α,17β (AD), dihydrotestosterone (DHT), 17-hydroxyprogesterone (17OHP), higher levels of progesterone (Prog) and similar levels of 17β-estradiol (E2) as compared to young rats. The learning, but not the memory indices of all rats were significantly and positively correlated with levels of dihydrotestosterone, androstanediol-3α,17β and thyroxine (T4), when the impacts of age and cognitive division were eliminated by partial correlation analyses. Conclusion The correlation of hormone concentrations of individuals with individual behavior revealed a possible specific role of these androgen and thyroid hormones in a state of general preparedness to learn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jovana Maliković
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniel Daba Feyissa
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Predrag Kalaba
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Babak Saber Marouf
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Harald Höger
- Core Unit of Biomedical Research, Division of Laboratory Animal Science and Genetics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Michaela F Hartmann
- Steroid Research & Mass Spectrometry Unit, Peptide Hormone Research Unit, Laboratory for Translational Hormone Analytics in Pediatric Endocrinology, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology & Diabetology, Center of Child and Adolescent Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Stefan A Wudy
- Steroid Research & Mass Spectrometry Unit, Peptide Hormone Research Unit, Laboratory for Translational Hormone Analytics in Pediatric Endocrinology, Division of Pediatric Endocrinology & Diabetology, Center of Child and Adolescent Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Gerhard Schuler
- Veterinary Clinic for Obstetrics, Gynecology and Andrology of Large and Small Animals, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Justus Liebig University, Giessen, Germany
| | - Gert Lubec
- Neuroscience Laboratory, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Jana Aradska
- Neuroscience Laboratory, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020, Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Volker Korz
- Neuroscience Laboratory, Paracelsus Medical University, 5020, Salzburg, Austria.
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Du X, McCarthny CR, Notaras M, van den Buuse M, Hill RA. Effect of adolescent androgen manipulation on psychosis-like behaviour in adulthood in BDNF heterozygous and control mice. Horm Behav 2019; 112:32-41. [PMID: 30928609 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2019.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Revised: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE Males are more prone to psychosis, schizophrenia and substance abuse and addiction in adolescence and early adulthood than females. However, the role of androgens during this developmental period is poorly understood. OBJECTIVES This study aimed to examine how androgens in adolescence influence psychosis-like behaviour in adulthood and whether brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) is a mediator of these developmental effects. METHODS Wild-type and BDNF heterozygous male mice were castrated at pre-pubescence and implanted with testosterone or dihydrotestosterone (DHT). In adulthood, we assessed amphetamine- and MK-801-induced hyperlocomotion as a model of psychosis-like behaviour. Western blot analysis was used to quantify levels of the dopamine transporter (DAT) and N-methyl-d-aspartate (NMDA) receptor subunits. RESULTS While castration itself had little effect on behaviour, adolescent testosterone, but not DHT, significantly reduced amphetamine-induced hyperlocomotion, whereas both testosterone and DHT reduced the effect of MK-801. These effects were similar in mice of either genotype. In wildtype mice, both testosterone and DHT treatment reduced DAT expression in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) but these effects were absent in BDNF heterozygous mice. There were no effects on NMDA receptor subunit levels. CONCLUSIONS The differential effect of adolescent testosterone and DHT on amphetamine-induced hyperlocomotion in adulthood suggests involvement of conversion of testosterone to estrogen and subsequent modulation of dopaminergic signalling. In contrast, the similar effect of testosterone and DHT treatment on NMDA receptor-mediated hyperlocomotion indicates it is mediated by androgen receptors. The involvement of BDNF in these hormone effects remains to be elucidated. These results demonstrate that, during adolescence, androgens significantly influence key pathways related to various mental illnesses prevalent in adolescence.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Du
- Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - C R McCarthny
- The Florey Institute of Neuroscience and Mental Health, University of Melbourne, Australia
| | - M Notaras
- Center for Neurogenetics, Brain & Mind Research Institute, Cornell University, NY, USA
| | - M van den Buuse
- School of Psychology and Public Health, La Trobe University, Melbourne, Australia; Department of Pharmacology, University of Melbourne, Australia; The College of Public Health, Medical and Veterinary Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia.
| | - R A Hill
- Department of Psychiatry, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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Tatem AJ, Beilan J, Kovac JR, Lipshultz LI. Management of Anabolic Steroid-Induced Infertility: Novel Strategies for Fertility Maintenance and Recovery. World J Mens Health 2019; 38:141-150. [PMID: 30929329 PMCID: PMC7076311 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.190002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2019] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
There is often inherent conflict in the overlapping fields of male fertility and andrology. While the goal of all male fertility specialists is to facilitate and preserve biologic paternity, many practitioners also care for a significant number of patients suffering from hypogonadism. Exogenous testosterone administration, the gold standard for the management of these patients, almost universally impairs spermatogenesis and can even completely eradicate it in some men. With steady increases in both the incidence of hypogonadism and average paternal age, practitioners are now encountering hypogonadal men who desire future fertility or men suffering the effects of earlier androgenic anabolic steroid use with increasing frequency. In this manuscript, we review management strategies for these complex patients and explore novel medications that may be of use in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander J Tatem
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | - Jonathan Beilan
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA
| | | | - Larry I Lipshultz
- Scott Department of Urology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX, USA.
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Jones IA, Togashi R, Hatch GFR, Weber AE, Vangsness CT. Anabolic steroids and tendons: A review of their mechanical, structural, and biologic effects. J Orthop Res 2018; 36:2830-2841. [PMID: 30047601 DOI: 10.1002/jor.24116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2018] [Accepted: 07/13/2018] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
One of the suspected deleterious effects of androgenic-anabolic steroids (AAS) is the increased risk for tendon rupture. However, investigations to date have produced inconsistent results and it is still unclear how AAS influence tendons. A systematic review of the literature was conducted to identify studies that have investigated the mechanical, structural, or biologic effects that AAS have on tendons. In total, 18 highly heterogeneous studies were identified. Small animal studies made up the vast majority of published research, and contradictory results were reported frequently. All of the included studies focused on the potential deleterious effects that AAS have on tendon, which is striking given the recent use of AAS in patients following tendon injury. Rather than providing strong evidence for or against the use of AAS, this review highlights the need for additional research. Future studies investigating the use of AAS as a possible treatment for tendon injury/pathology are supported by reports suggesting that AAS may counteract the irreparable structural/functional changes that occur in the musculotendinous unit following rotator cuff tears, as well as studies suggesting that the purported deleterious effects on tendon may be transient. Other possible areas for future research are discussed in the context of key findings that may have implications for the therapeutic application of AAS. © 2018 Orthopaedic Research Society. Published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Orthop Res 36:2830-2841, 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian A Jones
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, HCT 1520 San Pablo Street, Suite 2000, Los Angeles 90033, California
| | - Ryan Togashi
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, HCT 1520 San Pablo Street, Suite 2000, Los Angeles 90033, California
| | - George F Rick Hatch
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, HCT 1520 San Pablo Street, Suite 2000, Los Angeles 90033, California
| | - Alexander E Weber
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, HCT 1520 San Pablo Street, Suite 2000, Los Angeles 90033, California
| | - C Thomas Vangsness
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Keck School of Medicine of USC, HCT 1520 San Pablo Street, Suite 2000, Los Angeles 90033, California
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Gyovai A, Minorics R, Kiss A, Mernyák E, Schneider G, Szekeres A, Kerekes E, Ocsovszki I, Zupkó I. Antiproliferative Properties of Newly Synthesized 19-Nortestosterone Analogs Without Substantial Androgenic Activity. Front Pharmacol 2018; 9:825. [PMID: 30100876 PMCID: PMC6072853 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2018.00825] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
19-Nortestosterone C-17 epimers with prominent antiproliferative properties have been previously described. In our present study, five novel 17α-19-nortestosterones (3-7) were synthesized to increase their beneficial biological activities with no associated undesired hormonal effects. The compounds were screened by a viability assay against a panel of human adherent gynecological cancer cell lines. Three of the tested derivatives (3-5) exhibited a remarkable inhibitory effect on the proliferation of HeLa cells with IC50 values lower than that of our reference agent cisplatin (CIS). These three active agents also displayed considerable cancer selectivity as evidenced by their weaker growth inhibitory effect on non-cancerous fibroblast cells compared to CIS. The most potent newly synthesized 17α-chloro derivative (3) was selected for additional experiments in order to characterize its mechanism of action. Since nandrolone (19-nortestosterone, 1) is a structural analog with selective antiproliferative action on cervical carcinoma cells, it was utilized as a positive control in these studies. A lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) assay demonstrated a moderate cytotoxic effect of the test compounds. Cell cycle disturbance and the elevation of the hypodiploid population elicited by the test agents were detected by flow cytometry following propidium staining. The proapoptotic effects of the tested steroids were confirmed by fluorescent microscopy and a caspase-3 activity assay. Treatment-related caspase-9 activation without a substantial change in caspase-8 activity indicates the induction of the intrinsic apoptotic pathway. The selected agents directly influence the rate of tubulin assembly as evidenced by a polymerization assay. Yeast-based reporter gene assay revealed that the androgenic activity of the novel 19-nortestosterone derivative 3 is by multiple orders of magnitude weaker than that of the reference agent 1. Based on the behavior of the examined compounds it can be concluded that a halogen substitution of the 19-nortestosterone scaffold at the 17α position may produce compounds with unique biological activities. The results of the present study support that structurally modified steroids with negligible hormonal activity are a promising basis for the research and development of novel anticancer agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- András Gyovai
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Biopharmacy, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Renáta Minorics
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Biopharmacy, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Anita Kiss
- Department of Organic Chemistry, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Erzsébet Mernyák
- Department of Organic Chemistry, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Gyula Schneider
- Department of Organic Chemistry, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - András Szekeres
- Department of Microbiology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Erika Kerekes
- Department of Microbiology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Imre Ocsovszki
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - István Zupkó
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Biopharmacy, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary.,Interdisciplinary Centre for Natural Products, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
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Wang Y, Shi W, Blanchette A, Peng J, Qi S, Luo H, Ledoux J, Wu J. EPHB6 and testosterone in concert regulate epinephrine release by adrenal gland chromaffin cells. Sci Rep 2018; 8:842. [PMID: 29339804 PMCID: PMC5770418 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-19215-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2017] [Accepted: 12/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Erythropoietin-producing human hepatocellular receptor (EPH) B6 (EPHB6) is a member of the receptor tyrosine kinase family. We previously demonstrated that EPHB6 knockout reduces catecholamine secretion in male but not female mice, and castration reverses this phenotype. We showed here that male EPHB6 knockout adrenal gland chromaffin cells presented reduced acetylcholine-triggered Ca2+ influx. Such reduction depended on the non-genomic effect of testosterone. Increased large conductance calcium-activated potassium channel current densities were recorded in adrenal gland chromaffin cells from male EPHB6 knockout mice but not from castrated knockout or female knockout mice. Blocking of the large conductance calcium-activated potassium channel in adrenal gland chromaffin cells from male knockout mice corrected their reduced Ca2+ influx. We conclude that the absence of EPHB6 and the presence of testosterone would lead to augmented large conductance calcium-activated potassium channel currents, which limit voltage-gated calcium channel opening in adrenal gland chromaffin cells. Consequently, acetylcholine-triggered Ca2+ influx is reduced, leading to lower catecholamine release in adrenal gland chromaffin cells from male knockout mice. This explains the reduced resting-state blood catecholamine levels, and hence the blood pressure, in male but not female EPHB6 knock mice. These findings have certain clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujia Wang
- Research Centre, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, Quebec, H2X 0A9, Canada
- The Children's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, 310003, China
| | - Wei Shi
- Research Centre, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, Quebec, H2X 0A9, Canada
| | | | - Junzheng Peng
- Research Centre, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, Quebec, H2X 0A9, Canada
| | - Shijie Qi
- Research Centre, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, Quebec, H2X 0A9, Canada
| | - Hongyu Luo
- Research Centre, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, Quebec, H2X 0A9, Canada.
| | - Jonathan Ledoux
- Montreal Heart Institute, Montreal, Quebec, H1T 1C8, Canada.
| | - Jiangping Wu
- Research Centre, Centre hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal (CRCHUM), Montreal, Quebec, H2X 0A9, Canada.
- Nephrology Department, CHUM, Montreal, Quebec, H2L 4M1, Canada.
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Pejčić T, Tosti T, Tešić Ž, Milković B, Dragičević D, Kozomara M, Čekerevac M, Džamić Z. Testosterone and dihydrotestosterone levels in the transition zone correlate with prostate volume. Prostate 2017; 77:1082-1092. [PMID: 28594074 DOI: 10.1002/pros.23365] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2016] [Accepted: 04/21/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is still no consensus regarding intraprostatic androgen levels and the accumulation of androgens in the hyperplastic prostatic tissue. The current opinion is that intraprostatic dihydrotestosterone (DHT) concentrations are maintained but not elevated in benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), while there is no similar data concerning intraprostatic testosterone (T). METHODS Tissue T (tT) and tissue DHT (tDHT) concentration were determined in 93 patients scheduled for initial prostate biopsy. The criteria for biopsy were abnormal DRE and/or PSA > 4 ng/mL. Total prostate volume (TPV) was determined by transrectal ultrasound (TRUS). During TRUS- guided prostate biopsy, 10-12 samples were collected from the peripheral zone (PZ) and two additional samples were collected from the transition zone (TZ). The samples from the TZ were immediately frozen in liquid nitrogen at -70°C, and transported for tissue androgen determination, using liquid chromatography mass spectrometry (LC-MS). RESULTS Pathological analysis revealed that prostate cancer (PCa) was present in 45 and absent in 48 patients. In the whole group, there were 42 men with small prostate (TPV < 30 mL) and 51 with enlarged prostate (TPV ≥ 31 mL). The overall average tT level was 0.79 ± 0.66 ng/g, while the average tDHT level was 10.27 ± 7.15 ng/g. There were no differences in tT and tDHT level in prostates with and without PCa. However, tT and tDHT levels were significantly higher in larger, than in smaller prostates (tT: 1.05 ± 0.75 and 0.46 ± 0.29 ng/g, and tDHT: 15.0 ± 6.09 and 4.51 ± 2.75 ng/g, respectively). There were strong correlations between tT and TPV (r = 0.71), and tDHT and TPV (r = 0.74). CONCLUSIONS The present study confirmed that both T and DHT accumulated in the stroma of enlarged prostates; the degree of accumulation correlated with prostate volume.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomislav Pejčić
- Clinic of Urology, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Tomislav Tosti
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Živoslav Tešić
- Faculty of Chemistry, University of Belgrade, Belgrade, Serbia
| | | | | | | | - Milica Čekerevac
- Institute of Pathology, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Zoran Džamić
- Clinic of Urology, Clinical Center of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
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Shibata Y, Arai S, Miyazawa Y, Shuto T, Nomura M, Sekine Y, Koike H, Matsui H, Ito K, Suzuki K. Effects of Steroidal Antiandrogen or 5-alpha-reductase Inhibitor on Prostate Tissue Hormone Content. Prostate 2017; 77:672-680. [PMID: 28145028 DOI: 10.1002/pros.23315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2016] [Accepted: 01/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The effects of a steroidal antiandrogen (AA) and 5-alpha-reductase inhibitor (5ARI) on prostate tissue hormone content and metabolism are not fully elucidated. The objective of this study is to investigate the hormone content and metabolism of the prostate tissues of patients treated with AA or 5ARI using the ultra-sensitive liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) method. METHODS Thirty-nine patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) undergoing transurethral surgery were included. Serum and prostate tissue hormone and prostate tissue hormone metabolism analyses were performed using LC-MS/MS after 1 month of treatment with chlormadinone acetate (CMA; steroidal AA, 50 mg/day) or dutasteride (DUTA; dual 5ARI, 0.5 mg/day). RESULTS Serum testosterone (T), dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and adrenal androgen levels were lower in the CMA group than the control group. Prostate tissue T and DHT levels were also lower in the CMA group than the control group. In the DUTA group, only serum and prostate DHT concentrations were reduced compared to the control group; in contrast, those of other hormones, especially T and 4-androstene-3,17-dione in the prostate tissue, showed marked elevations up to 70.4- and 11.4-fold normal levels, respectively. Moreover, the hormone metabolism assay confirmed that the conversion of T to DHT was significantly suppressed while that of T to 4-androstene-3,17-dione was significantly accelerated in the prostate tissue of DUTA-treated patients. CONCLUSIONS Although treatment with AA and 5ARI show similar clinical outcomes, their effect on tissue hormone content and metabolism varied greatly. Prostate 77: 672-680, 2017. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yasuhiro Shibata
- Department of Urology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Seiji Arai
- Department of Urology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Yoshiyuki Miyazawa
- Department of Urology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Takahiro Shuto
- Department of Urology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Masashi Nomura
- Department of Urology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Sekine
- Department of Urology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Hidekazu Koike
- Department of Urology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Matsui
- Department of Urology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Kazuto Ito
- Department of Urology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Suzuki
- Department of Urology, Gunma University Graduate School of Medicine, Maebashi, Japan
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15
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BAUER ERS, DAXENBERGER A, PETRI T, SAUERWEIN H, MEYER HHD. Characterisation of the affinity of different anabolics and synthetic hormones to the human androgen receptor, human sex hormone binding globulin and to the bovine progestin receptor. APMIS 2011. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0463.2001.tb05797.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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16
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Tóth M. [Myoanabolic steroids and selective androgen receptor modulators: mechanism of action and perspectives]. Orv Hetil 2009; 150:2051-9. [PMID: 19861292 DOI: 10.1556/oh.2009.28739] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Interest in anabolic steroids has been renewed in the last decade with the discovery of tissue-selective androgen receptor modulators exhibiting high myotropic and small androgenic activity. An explanation put forward by us in 1982 for the mechanism of the preferential myotropic effect of nandrolone (19-nortestosterone) exploits the fundamental difference between the 5alpha-reductase concentrations in skeletal muscle and androgenic target tissue. In androgenic tissue, testosterone is converted to the more potent 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone whereas nandrolone is converted to a less potent derivative. As 5alpha-reduction is negligible in skeletal muscle, this explains why nandrolone shows a greater myotropic to androgenic ratio when compared with testosterone. Anabolic steroids that do not undergo 5alpha-reduction exert myotropic-androgenic dissociation because their effect in androgenic tissues is not amplified by 5alpha-reduction. Tissue selectivity by receptor modulators may be achieved by inducing specific conformational changes of the androgen receptor that affect its interaction with transcriptional coregulators. Anabolic activity is mediated by the stimulation of ribosomal RNA synthesis therefore regulation of this synthesis by anabolic steroids would deserve detailed studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miklós Tóth
- Semmelweis Egyetem, Altalános Orvostudományi Kar Orvosi Vegytani, Molekuláris Biológiai és Patobiokémiai Intézet Budapest Tuzoltó u. 37-47. 1094.
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17
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Hoffman JR, Kraemer WJ, Bhasin S, Storer T, Ratamess NA, Haff GG, Willoughby DS, Rogol AD. Position stand on androgen and human growth hormone use. J Strength Cond Res 2009; 23:S1-S59. [PMID: 19620932 DOI: 10.1519/jsc.0b013e31819df2e6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Hoffman, JR, Kraemer, WJ, Bhasin, S, Storer, T, Ratamess, NA, Haff, GG, Willoughby, DS, and Rogol, AD. Position stand on Androgen and human growth hormone use. J Strength Cond Res 23(5): S1-S59, 2009-Perceived yet often misunderstood demands of a sport, overt benefits of anabolic drugs, and the inability to be offered any effective alternatives has fueled anabolic drug abuse despite any consequences. Motivational interactions with many situational demands including the desire for improved body image, sport performance, physical function, and body size influence and fuel such negative decisions. Positive countermeasures to deter the abuse of anabolic drugs are complex and yet unclear. Furthermore, anabolic drugs work and the optimized training and nutritional programs needed to cut into the magnitude of improvement mediated by drug abuse require more work, dedication, and preparation on the part of both athletes and coaches alike. Few shortcuts are available to the athlete who desires to train naturally. Historically, the NSCA has placed an emphasis on education to help athletes, coaches, and strength and conditioning professionals become more knowledgeable, highly skilled, and technically trained in their approach to exercise program design and implementation. Optimizing nutritional strategies are a vital interface to help cope with exercise and sport demands (). In addition, research-based supplements will also have to be acknowledged as a strategic set of tools (e.g., protein supplements before and after resistance exercise workout) that can be used in conjunction with optimized nutrition to allow more effective adaptation and recovery from exercise. Resistance exercise is the most effective anabolic form of exercise, and over the past 20 years, the research base for resistance exercise has just started to develop to a significant volume of work to help in the decision-making process in program design (). The interface with nutritional strategies has been less studied, yet may yield even greater benefits to the individual athlete in their attempt to train naturally. Nevertheless, these are the 2 domains that require the most attention when trying to optimize the physical adaptations to exercise training without drug use.Recent surveys indicate that the prevalence of androgen use among adolescents has decreased over the past 10-15 years (). The decrease in androgen use among these students may be attributed to several factors related to education and viable alternatives (i.e., sport supplements) to substitute for illegal drug use. Although success has been achieved in using peer pressure to educate high school athletes on behaviors designed to reduce the intent to use androgens (), it has not had the far-reaching effect desired. It would appear that using the people who have the greatest influence on adolescents (coaches and teachers) be the primary focus of the educational program. It becomes imperative that coaches provide realistic training goals for their athletes and understand the difference between normal physiological adaptation to training or that is pharmaceutically enhanced. Only through a stringent coaching certification program will academic institutions be ensured that coaches that they hire will have the minimal knowledge to provide support to their athletes in helping them make the correct choices regarding sport supplements and performance-enhancing drugs.The NSCA rejects the use of androgens and hGH or any performance-enhancing drugs on the basis of ethics, the ideals of fair play in competition, and concerns for the athlete's health. The NSCA has based this position stand on a critical analysis of the scientific literature evaluating the effects of androgens and human growth hormone on human physiology and performance. The use of anabolic drugs to enhance athletic performance has become a major concern for professional sport organizations, sport governing bodies, and the federal government. It is the belief of the NSCA that through education and research we can mitigate the abuse of androgens and hGH by athletes. Due to the diversity of testosterone-related drugs and molecules, the term androgens is believed to be a more appropriate term for anabolic steroids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jay R Hoffman
- Department of Health and Exercise Science, The College of New Jersey, Ewing, 08628, USA.
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18
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Evans-Brown M, Kimergård A, McVeigh J. Elephant in the room? The methodological implications for public health research of performance-enhancing drugs derived from the illicit market. Drug Test Anal 2009; 1:323-6. [DOI: 10.1002/dta.74] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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19
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Enéa C, Boisseau N, Dugué B. Facteurs biologiques influençant les concentrations urinaires en stéroïdes anabolisants lors de contrôles antidopage. Sci Sports 2009. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scispo.2008.10.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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20
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Anabolic and androgenic activity of 19-norandrostenedione after oral and subcutaneous administration--analysis of side effects and metabolism. Toxicol Lett 2009; 188:137-41. [PMID: 19446246 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2009.03.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2008] [Revised: 03/23/2009] [Accepted: 03/25/2009] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
One of the most frequently misused steroid precursors (prohormones) is 19-norandrostenedione (estr-4-ene-3,17-dione, NOR). Recently we have show that NOR stimulates skeletal muscle growth after s.c. administration in a highly selective manner but exhibits only weak androgenic activity in rats. Because most abusers take NOR orally, the aim of this study was to compare the anabolic and androgenic potency of NOR between s.c. and oral application. Orchiectomised rats were treated with NOR either s.c. (1 mg/kg BW/day) or orally (0.1, 1 and 10 mg/kg BW/day). The tissue weights of the levator ani, the seminal vesicle and the prostate were analysed to determine the anabolic and androgenic activity. Heart and liver wet weights were examined to identify side effects. Serum concentrations of NOR and its metabolite nandrolone (NT) were determined. GCMC analysis revealed that free and glucuronidated NOR and NT were detectable in the serum after oral and s.c. administration and that NOR was converted to NT in comparable amounts independent of the route of administration. In agreement to our previous study s.c. application of NOR stimulates skeletal muscle growth but has only weak androgenic effects. In contrast, after oral administration of NOR neither stimulation of the prostate nor the levator ani could be observed in the doses administered in this study. Interestingly, and in contrast to s.c. treatment, oral administration of NOR resulted in a dose-dependent decrease of body weight. In summary, oral administration of NOR, at least in the rat, seems to be a very ineffective strategy for stimulating skeletal muscle mass increases but may be associated with side effects.
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21
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Fragkaki AG, Angelis YS, Koupparis M, Tsantili-Kakoulidou A, Kokotos G, Georgakopoulos C. Structural characteristics of anabolic androgenic steroids contributing to binding to the androgen receptor and to their anabolic and androgenic activities. Applied modifications in the steroidal structure. Steroids 2009; 74:172-97. [PMID: 19028512 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2008.10.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 74] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2008] [Revised: 10/21/2008] [Accepted: 10/29/2008] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are synthetic derivatives of testosterone introduced for therapeutic purposes providing enhanced anabolic potency with reduced androgenic effects. Androgens mediate their action through their binding to the androgen receptor (AR) which is mainly expressed in androgen target tissues, such as the prostate, skeletal muscle, liver and central nervous system. This paper reviews some of the wide spectrum of testosterone and synthetic AAS structure modifications related to the intended enhancement in anabolic activity. The structural features of steroids necessary for effective binding to the AR and those which contribute to the stipulation of the androgenic and anabolic activities are also presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- A G Fragkaki
- Doping Control Laboratory of Athens, Olympic Athletic Center of Athens Spyros Louis, Kifisias 37, 15123 Maroussi, Greece
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22
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Jiménez E, Cárdenas H, Pope WF. Effects of androgens on serum concentrations of gonadotropins and ovarian steroids in gilts. Biol Reprod 2008; 79:1148-52. [PMID: 18703423 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.108.067595] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
To examine how androgens affect endocrine events associated with increased ovulation rate, gilts were injected with androgen receptor agonists, an antagonist, or a combination of both. Blood samples were collected hourly from Day 13 to estrus (Day 0 = onset of estrus) coincident with gilts (n = 6 per treatment) receiving daily treatments of vehicle (corn oil), 10 mg of testosterone, 10 mg of 5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone (dihydrotestosterone), 1.5 g of flutamide (an androgen receptor antagonist), testosterone plus flutamide, or dihydrotestosterone plus flutamide. Treatment of gilts with testosterone or dihydrotestosterone alone increased (P < 0.05) concentrations of FSH in serum, and these effects were blocked by cotreatment with flutamide. Estradiol-17beta and androstenedione concentrations in serum were increased (P < 0.05) at 2 h after injection of testosterone or testosterone plus flutamide but not after dihydrotestosterone treatment, probably because of the role of testosterone as a substrate for estradiol-17beta and androstenedione synthesis. There were no effects of the six treatments on serum concentrations of progesterone during luteolysis, but treating gilts with testosterone shortened (P < 0.05) the proestrous period. Total embryonic loss by Day 11 in gilts treated with dihydrotestosterone was reversed when gilts were cotreated with dihydrotestosterone plus flutamide. Results of this experiment indicated that androgen actions both increased FSH secretion and reduced embryonic survival by a mechanism(s) dependent on the androgen receptor.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esbal Jiménez
- Department of Animal Sciences, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio 43210, USA
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23
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Abstract
Athletes and bodybuilders have recognized for several decades that the use of anabolic steroids can promote muscle growth and strength but it is only relatively recently that these agents are being revisited for clinical purposes. Anabolic steroids are being considered for the treatment of cachexia associated with chronic disease states, and to address loss of muscle mass in the elderly, but nevertheless their efficacy still needs to be demonstrated in terms of improved physical function and quality of life. In sport, these agents are performance enhancers, this being particularly apparent in women, although there is a high risk of virilization despite the favourable myotrophic-androgenic dissociation that many xenobiotic steroids confer. Modulation of androgen receptor expression appears to be key to partial dissociation, with consideration of both intracellular steroid metabolism and the topology of the bound androgen receptor interacting with co-activators. An anticatabolic effect, by interfering with glucocorticoid receptor expression, remains an attractive hypothesis. Behavioural changes by non-genomic and genomic pathways probably help motivate training. Anabolic steroids continue to be the most common adverse finding in sport and, although apparently rare, designer steroids have been synthesized in an attempt to circumvent the dope test. Doping with anabolic steroids can result in damage to health, as recorded meticulously in the former German Democratic Republic. Even so, it is important not to exaggerate the medical risks associated with their administration for sporting or bodybuilding purposes but to emphasize to users that an attitude of personal invulnerability to their adverse effects is certainly misguided.
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Affiliation(s)
- A T Kicman
- King's College London, Drug Control Centre, Department of Forensic Science and Drug Monitoring, London, UK.
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24
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Page ST, Marck BT, Tolliver JM, Matsumoto AM. Tissue selectivity of the anabolic steroid, 19-nor-4-androstenediol-3beta,17beta-diol in male Sprague Dawley rats: selective stimulation of muscle mass and bone mineral density relative to prostate mass. Endocrinology 2008; 149:1987-93. [PMID: 18096666 PMCID: PMC2276724 DOI: 10.1210/en.2007-0956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Stimulation of prostate growth is a major concern with testosterone therapy in older hypogonadal men. As a result, nonsteroidal selective androgen receptor modulators with anabolic activity but less prostate stimulation are being developed. Anabolic steroids might exhibit similar tissue selectivity. We hypothesized the anabolic steroid 19-nor-4-androstenediol-3beta,17beta-diol (3beta,19-NA) would increase muscle, lean body mass (LBM), and bone mineral density (BMD) with little stimulation of prostate growth. Male Sprague Dawley rats were implanted with SILASTIC brand (Dow Corning, Midland, MI) capsules containing 3beta,19-NA (4, 8, or 16 cm), dihydrotestosterone (DHT) (8 cm), 19-nortestosterone (16 cm), or four empty capsules after undergoing either a sham operation (intact) or orchidectomy (ORX). Serum gonadotropins, measured after 4, 8, or 24 wk of treatment, were significantly lower in 3beta,19-NA-treated vs. untreated, intact, and ORX rats (P < 0.05), and testosterone was lowered by 3beta,19-NA-treatment of intact animals. LBM and BMD were assessed after 20 wk, and 4 wk later, rats were killed for levator ani muscle and prostate weights. Compared with ORX rats, 3beta,19-NA-treated rats had dose-dependent higher levator ani muscle weights, LBM, and BMD, which were similar to intact and DHT-treated rats at the highest 3beta,19-NA dose. In contrast, prostate weights in all 3beta,19-NA-treated groups were similar to ORX rats and lower than intact and DHT- and 19-nortestosterone-treated rats even at the highest 3beta,19-NA dose. In summary, 3beta,19-NA increases muscle and bone mass without significant stimulation of prostate growth, suggesting it may have some properties of a steroidal selective androgen receptor modulator. Anabolic steroids such as 3beta,19-NA should be studied further to determine their mechanisms of tissue selectivity and effects in men.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie T Page
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Department of Medicine, University of Washington Medical Center, 1959 NE Pacific, Seattle, WA 98195, USA.
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Chung T, Kelleher S, Liu PY, Conway AJ, Kritharides L, Handelsman DJ. Effects of testosterone and nandrolone on cardiac function: a randomized, placebo-controlled study. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 2007; 66:235-45. [PMID: 17223994 DOI: 10.1111/j.1365-2265.2006.02715.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Androgens have striking effects on skeletal muscle, but the effects on human cardiac muscle function are not well defined, neither has the role of metabolic activation (aromatization, 5alpha reduction) of testosterone on cardiac muscle been directly studied. OBJECTIVE To assess the effects of testosterone and nandrolone, a non-amplifiable and non-aromatizable pure androgen, on cardiac muscle function in healthy young men. DESIGN Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, three-arm parallel group clinical trial. SETTING Ambulatory care research centre. PARTICIPANTS Healthy young men randomized into three groups of 10 men. INTERVENTION Weekly intramuscular injections of testosterone (200 mg mixed esters), nandrolone (200 mg nandrolone decanoate) or matching (2 ml arachis oil vehicle) placebo for 4 weeks. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Comprehensive measures of cardiac muscle function involving transthoracic cardiac echocardiography measuring myocardial tissue velocity, peak systolic strain and strain rates, and bioimpedance measurement of cardiac output and systematic vascular resistance. RESULTS Left ventricular (LV) function (LV ejection fraction, LV modified TEI index), right ventricular (RV) function (ejection area, tricuspid annular systolic planar motion, RV modified TEI index) as well as cardiac afterload (mean arterial pressure, systemic vascular resistance) and overall cardiac contractility (stroke volume, cardiac output) were within age- and gender-specific reference ranges and were not significantly (P < 0.05) altered by either androgen or placebo over 4 weeks of treatment. Minor changes remaining within normal range were observed solely within the testosterone group for: increased LV end-systolic diameter (30 +/- 7 vs. 33 +/- 5 mm, P = 0.04) and RV end-systolic area (12.8 +/- 1.3 vs. 14.6 +/- 3.3 cm(2), P = 0.04), reduced LV diastolic septal velocity (Em, 9.5 +/- 2.6 vs. 8.7 +/- 2.0 cm/s, P = 0.006), increased LV filling pressure (E/Em ratio, 7.1 +/- 1.6 vs. 8.3 +/- 1.8, P = 0.02) and shortened PR interval on the electrocardiogram (167 +/- 13 vs. 154 +/- 12, P = 0.03). CONCLUSION Four weeks of treatment with testosterone or nandrolone had no beneficial or adverse effects compared with placebo on cardiac function in healthy young men.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Chung
- Department of Cardiology, Concord Hospital and ANZAC Research Institute, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Melnik B, Jansen T, Grabbe S. Abuse of anabolic-androgenic steroids and bodybuilding acne: an underestimated health problem. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges 2007; 5:110-7. [PMID: 17274777 DOI: 10.1111/j.1610-0387.2007.06176.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Abuse of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) by members of fitness centers and others in Germany has reached alarming dimensions. The health care system provides the illegal AAS to 48.1 % of abusers. Physicians are involved in illegal prescription of AAS and monitoring of 32.1 % of AAS abusers. Besides health-threatening cardiovascular, hepatotoxic and psychiatric long-term side effects of AAS, acne occurs in about 50 % of AAS abusers and is an important clinical indicator of AAS abuse, especially in young men 18-26 years of age. Both acne conglobata and acne fulminans can be induced by AAS abuse. The dermatologist should recognize bodybuilding acne, address the AAS abuse, and warn the patient about other potential hazards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bodo Melnik
- Department of Dermatology, Environmental Medicine and Health Science, Division of Human Sciences, University of OsnabrYck, Germany.
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27
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth M Wilson
- University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, North Carolina 27599-7500, USA
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Van Eenoo P, Delbeke FT. Metabolism and excretion of anabolic steroids in doping control--new steroids and new insights. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2006; 101:161-78. [PMID: 17000101 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2006.06.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2006] [Accepted: 06/29/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The use of anabolic steroids in sports is prohibited by the World Anti-Doping Agency. Until the 1990s, anabolic steroids were solely manufactured by pharmaceutical companies, albeit sometimes on demand from national sports agencies as part of their doping program. Recently the list of prohibited anabolic steroids in sports has grown due to the addition of numerous steroids that have been introduced on the market by non-pharmaceutical companies. Moreover, several designer steroids, specifically developed to circumvent doping control, have also been detected. Because anabolic steroids are most often intensively subjected to phase I metabolism and seldom excreted unchanged, excretion studies need to be performed in order to detect their misuse. This review attempts to summarise the results of excretion studies of recent additions to the list of prohibited steroids in sports. Additionally an update and insight on new aspects for "older" steroids with respect to doping control is given.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Van Eenoo
- Doping Control Laboratory (DoCoLab), Ghent University (UGent), Technologiepark 30, B-9052 Zwijnaarde, Belgium.
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29
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Abstract
Testosterone is converted to the more biologically active androgen, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), by steroid 5alpha-reductase. Two isozymes of 5alpha-reductase, types 1 and 2, are abundantly expressed in the epididymis. DHT is the androgen found in the nuclei of epididymal cells and is essential for the maturation of spermatozoa. Thus, one approach to block androgen action in the epididymis is to inhibit DHT formation. Several compounds have been reported to inhibit either one or both forms of 5alpha-reductase in many tissues. The first commercially available inhibitor of 5alpha-reductase, finasteride, has a predominant effect on the type 2 isozyme, while more recently developed agents, such as dutasteride, PNU157706 and FK143, act as dual inhibitors. We found that the treatment of adult rats with such agents results in pronounced effects on the expression of genes essential to the formation of the optimal luminal microenvironment that is required for proper sperm maturation. Furthermore, drug treatment caused a significant decrease in the percentage of progressively motile and morphologically normal spermatozoa in the cauda epididymides. Mating females to treated males resulted in fewer successful pregnancies and a higher rate of pre-implantation loss. Thus, there may be a role for dual 5alpha-reductase inhibitors as potential components of a male contraceptive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernard Robaire
- Departments of Pharmacology and Therapeutics and of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montréal, Qué., Canada.
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30
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García-Becerra R, Cooney AJ, Borja-Cacho E, Lemus AE, Pérez-Palacios G, Larrea F. Comparative evaluation of androgen and progesterone receptor transcription selectivity indices of 19-nortestosterone-derived progestins. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2004; 91:21-7. [PMID: 15261304 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2004.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2003] [Accepted: 02/02/2004] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Synthetic 19-nortestosterone-derived progestins show affinity for the androgen receptor (AR) and retain varying degrees of androgenic activity. In this study, AR- and progesterone receptor (PR)-dependent transcriptional activation induced by norethisterone (NET), levonorgestrel (LNG) and gestodene (GSD), and their 5alpha-reduced derivatives, including limited trypsin digestion of AR in the presence of natural and synthetic progestins were investigated. The results confirmed the progestogenic activity of the three 19-nortestosterone derivatives, which decreases after reduction of the 4-ene-double bound. These compounds were able to activate AR-dependent reporter gene expression, LNG and GSD being the stronger activators. 5alpha-Reduction of LNG and GSD did not change their androgenic transcriptional activity; however, the activation of AR by 5alpha-NET was four-fold higher than NET. The highest selectivity transcriptional index, as a measure of progestogenicity versus androgenicity, was obtained for NET. The 5alpha-reduced derivatives had values significantly lower than those of their parent compounds. Non-reduced and 5alpha-reduced 19-nortestosterone progestins induced virtually identical proteolysis fragmentation patterns of the AR to those observed with DHT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rocio García-Becerra
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Quiroga No. 15, México City 14000, Mexico
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Abstract
Androgenic-anabolic steroids (AAS) are synthetic derivatives of the male hormone testosterone. They can exert strong effects on the human body that may be beneficial for athletic performance. A review of the literature revealed that most laboratory studies did not investigate the actual doses of AAS currently abused in the field. Therefore, those studies may not reflect the actual (adverse) effects of steroids. The available scientific literature describes that short-term administration of these drugs by athletes can increase strength and bodyweight. Strength gains of about 5-20% of the initial strength and increments of 2-5 kg bodyweight, that may be attributed to an increase of the lean body mass, have been observed. A reduction of fat mass does not seem to occur. Although AAS administration may affect erythropoiesis and blood haemoglobin concentrations, no effect on endurance performance was observed. Little data about the effects of AAS on metabolic responses during exercise training and recovery are available and, therefore, do not allow firm conclusions. The main untoward effects of short- and long-term AAS abuse that male athletes most often self-report are an increase in sexual drive, the occurrence of acne vulgaris, increased body hair and increment of aggressive behaviour. AAS administration will disturb the regular endogenous production of testosterone and gonadotrophins that may persist for months after drug withdrawal. Cardiovascular risk factors may undergo deleterious alterations, including elevation of blood pressure and depression of serum high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-, HDL2- and HDL3-cholesterol levels. In echocardiographic studies in male athletes, AAS did not seem to affect cardiac structure and function, although in animal studies these drugs have been observed to exert hazardous effects on heart structure and function. In studies of athletes, AAS were not found to damage the liver. Psyche and behaviour seem to be strongly affected by AAS. Generally, AAS seem to induce increments of aggression and hostility. Mood disturbances (e.g. depression, [hypo-]mania, psychotic features) are likely to be dose and drug dependent. AAS dependence or withdrawal effects (such as depression) seem to occur only in a small number of AAS users. Dissatisfaction with the body and low self-esteem may lead to the so-called 'reverse anorexia syndrome' that predisposes to the start of AAS use. Many other adverse effects have been associated with AAS misuse, including disturbance of endocrine and immune function, alterations of sebaceous system and skin, changes of haemostatic system and urogenital tract. One has to keep in mind that the scientific data may underestimate the actual untoward effects because of the relatively low doses administered in those studies, since they do not approximate doses used by illicit steroid users. The mechanism of action of AAS may differ between compounds because of variations in the steroid molecule and affinity to androgen receptors. Several pathways of action have been recognised. The enzyme 5-alpha-reductase seems to play an important role by converting AAS into dihydrotestosterone (androstanolone) that acts in the cell nucleus of target organs, such as male accessory glands, skin and prostate. Other mechanisms comprises mediation by the enzyme aromatase that converts AAS in female sex hormones (estradiol and estrone), antagonistic action to estrogens and a competitive antagonism to the glucocorticoid receptors. Furthermore, AAS stimulate erythropoietin synthesis and red cell production as well as bone formation but counteract bone breakdown. The effects on the cardiovascular system are proposed to be mediated by the occurrence of AAS-induced atherosclerosis (due to unfavourable influence on serum lipids and lipoproteins), thrombosis, vasospasm or direct injury to vessel walls, or may be ascribed to a combination of the different mechanisms. AAS-induced increment of muscle tissue can be attributed to hypertrophy and the formation of new muscle fibres, in which key roles are played by satellite cell number and ultrastructure, androgen receptors and myonuclei.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fred Hartgens
- Department of Surgery, Outpatient Clinic Sports Medicine, University Hospital Maastricht, and Sports Medicine Center Maastricht, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
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Kicman AT, Bassindale T, Cowan DA, Dale S, Hutt AJ, Leeds AR. Effect of androstenedione ingestion on plasma testosterone in young women; a dietary supplement with potential health risks. Clin Chem 2003; 49:167-9. [PMID: 12507974 DOI: 10.1373/49.1.167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew T Kicman
- Drug Control Centre and Department of Pharmacy, King's College London, Franklin-Wilkins Building, 150 Stamford St., London SE1 9NN, United Kingdom.
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Holterhus PM, Piefke S, Hiort O. Anabolic steroids, testosterone-precursors and virilizing androgens induce distinct activation profiles of androgen responsive promoter constructs. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2002; 82:269-75. [PMID: 12589933 DOI: 10.1016/s0960-0760(02)00220-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Different androgens, e.g. virilizing androgens such as testosterone and its precursors as well as synthetic anabolic steroids, respectively, induce diverse biological effects. The molecular basis for this variety in biological actions, however, is not well understood. We hypothesized that this variability of actions may be due to steroid-specific target gene expression profiles following androgen receptor (AR)-activation. Therefore, we investigated androgen receptor dependent transactivation of three structurally different androgen responsive promoter constructs ((ARE)(2)TATA-luc, MMTV-luc, GRE-OCT-luc) in co-transfected Chinese hamster ovary (CHO)-cells as an artificial model simulating different natural target genes. Three virilizing androgens (dihydrotestosterone, testosterone, methyltrienolone), three anabolic steroids (oxandrolone, stanozolol, nandrolone) and two testosterone-precursors of gonadal and adrenal origin (dehydroepiandrosterone, androstenedione) were used as ligands (0.001-100 nM). All steroids proved to be potent activators of the AR. Remarkably, anabolic steroids and testosterone-precursors showed characteristic promoter activation profiles distinct from virilizing androgens with significantly lower (ARE)(2)TATA-luc activation. Hierarchical clustering based on similarity of activation profiles lead to a dendrogram with two major branches: first virilizing androgens, and second anabolics/testosterone-precursors. We conclude that steroid-specific differences in gene transcription profiles due to androgen receptor activation could contribute to differences in biological actions of androgens.
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Affiliation(s)
- P M Holterhus
- Department of Pediatrics, Medical University of Lübeck, Germany.
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35
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Behre HM, Kliesch S, Lemcke B, von Eckardstein S, Nieschlag E. Suppression of spermatogenesis to azoospermia by combined administration of GnRH antagonist and 19-nortestosterone cannot be maintained by this non-aromatizable androgen alone. Hum Reprod 2001; 16:2570-7. [PMID: 11726576 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/16.12.2570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND For male hormonal contraception, combined administration of gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonists and androgens effectively suppresses spermatogenesis to azoospermia. In non-human primates this suppression can be maintained more easily by androgens alone. METHODS A clinical trial with six healthy volunteers was performed to test this approach in man. Loading doses of 10 mg/day of the GnRH antagonist cetrorelix were given subcutaneously for 5 days, followed by maintenance doses of 2 mg/day up to week 12. At 2 weeks after the first GnRH antagonist injection, androgen substitution was initiated with a loading dose of 400 mg 19-nortestosterone hexyloxyphenylpropionate (19NT-HPP) intramuscularly, followed by injections of 200 mg 19NT-HPP every 3 weeks up to week 26. RESULTS Serum concentrations of LH, FSH and testosterone were effectively suppressed by cetrorelix administration. Within 12 weeks, azoospermia was achieved in all six volunteers. After cessation of cetrorelix injections in week 12, gonadotrophins and testosterone increased significantly despite continued 19NT-HPP injections. In parallel, spermatogenesis was restimulated in five of six volunteers. CONCLUSIONS Combined administration of cetrorelix and 19NT-HPP leads to azoospermia within 3 months. However, complete azoospermia cannot be maintained by continued injections of the non-aromatizable 19NT-HPP alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- H M Behre
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine of the University (WHO Collaborating Centre for Research in Human Reproduction), D-48129 Münster, Germany
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36
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Osipova-Goldberg HI, Rogozkin VA, Feldkoren BI. Properties of free and occupied androgen receptor in rat skeletal muscle cytosol: effect of testosterone. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2001; 78:481-92. [PMID: 11738558 DOI: 10.1016/s0960-0760(01)00125-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Our aim was to investigate the effect of a single testosterone (T) injection on the androgen receptor (AR) in rat skeletal muscle (SM) cytosol. The properties of AR were studied in order to establish the protocol for differential determination of free and hormone-occupied AR in SM cytosols from non-hormone-deficient animals. Using the developed ligand-exchange protocol, we demonstrated that injection of T (1 mg/kg) caused alternating changes of the total AR binding. The binding minimum (23% of the control) was measured 1 h after the injection. It was followed by pronounced and lasting elevation of the AR binding. In the control cytosols, AR complexes constituted approximately 25% of the total receptor content. Changes of their relative content immediately after T administration were consistent with rapid nuclear translocation of the AR. Inhibition of protein synthesis by cycloheximide (CHI) injection demonstrated that delayed and lasting increase of the AR binding after T injection partially depended on the stimulated protein synthesis. Altogether, the obtained evidence supports the assumption that the AR mediates elevation of its own gene expression in SM upon administration of T.
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Affiliation(s)
- H I Osipova-Goldberg
- St.-Petersburg Institute of Physical Culture, Dynamo Avenue 2, 197110, St.-Petersburg, Russia.
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37
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Bauer ER, Daxenberger A, Petri T, Sauerwein H, Meyer HH. Characterisation of the affinity of different anabolics and synthetic hormones to the human androgen receptor, human sex hormone binding globulin and to the bovine progestin receptor. APMIS 2000; 108:838-46. [PMID: 11252818 DOI: 10.1111/j.1600-0463.2000.tb00007.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
For the steroidal growth promoters trenbolone acetate (TBA) and melengestrol acetate (MGA) neither the complete spectrum of biological activities nor the potential endocrine disrupting activity of their excreted metabolites in the environment is fully understood. The potency of these substances in [3H]dihydrotestosterone ([3H]-DHT) displacement from the recombinant human androgen receptor (rhAR) and from human sex-hormone binding globulin (hSHBG) was evaluated. In addition, the potency for [3H]-ORG2058 displacement from the bovine uterine progestin receptor (bPR) was tested. For comparison, different anabolics and synthetic hormones were also tested for their binding affinities. For 17beta-trenbolone (17beta-TbOH), the active compound after TBA administration, an affinity the rhAR similar to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and a slightly higher affinity to the bPR than progesterone were demonstrated. The affinity of the two major metabolites, 17alpha-trenbolone and trendione, was reduced to less than 5% of the 17beta-TbOH-value. The affinity of these three compounds and of MGA to the hSHBG was much lower compared with DHT. MGA showed a 5.3-fold higher affinity than progesterone to the bPR but only a weak affinity to the rhAR. The major MGA metabolites have an affinity to the bPR between 85% and 28% of the affinity of progesterone. In consequence, MGA and TBA metabolites may be hormonally active substances, which will be present in edible tissues and in manure. We conclude that detailed investigations on biodegradation, distribution and bio-efficacy of these substances are necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- E R Bauer
- Institut für Physiologie, Research Center for Milk and Food Weihenstephan, Technical University Munich, Germany
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38
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Lynch CS, Story AJ. Dihydrotestosterone and estrogen regulation of rat brain androgen-receptor immunoreactivity. Physiol Behav 2000; 69:445-53. [PMID: 10913783 DOI: 10.1016/s0031-9384(99)00257-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Androgen-receptor upregulation that occurs with androgenic-anabolic steroid (AAS) administration may be mediated by AAS metabolites, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), and estrogen. Castrated and intact male rats received 14 s.c. daily injections of AAS (2 mg/kg testosterone cypionate, 2 mg/kg nandrolone decanoate, and 1 mg/kg boldenone undecylenate in sesame oil vehicle), DHT (5 mg/kg dihydrotestosterone), EB (5 mg/kg estradiol benzoate), or sesame oil vehicle. Approximately 18-24 h after the fourteenth injection, brain tissues were removed and processed immunocytochemically using the PG-21 androgen-receptor antibody. As reported before, castration eliminated AR-ir (androgen-receptor immunoreactivity) and AAS upregulated AR-ir in the ventromedial hypothalamus (VMHVL), medial amygdala (MePV), and medial preoptic area (MPOM). When compared to AAS, DHT fully upregulated AR-ir in the VM VL and MPOM and partially upregulated AR-ir in the MePV. EB treatment partially upregulated AR-ir in the VMHVL and MePV, but not in the MPOM of castrated rats. Because AR-ir in the MPOM was consistently upregulated by DHT or AAS, and not EB, androgen-receptor availability in this region may be mediated specifically via androgen receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- C S Lynch
- Department of Psychology, University of Louisiana, P.O. Box 43131, Lafayette, LA 70504, USA.
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Lewis MI, Fournier M, Yeh AY, Micevych PE, Sieck GC. Alterations in diaphragm contractility after nandrolone administration: an analysis of potential mechanisms. J Appl Physiol (1985) 1999; 86:985-92. [PMID: 10066714 DOI: 10.1152/jappl.1999.86.3.985] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential mechanisms underlying the improved contractility of the diaphragm (Dia) in adult intact male hamsters after nandrolone (Nan) administration, given subcutaneously over 4 wk via a controlled-release capsule (initial dose: 4.5 mg. kg-1. day-1; with weight gain, final dose: 2.7 mg. kg-1. day-1). Control (Ctl) animals received blank capsules. Isometric contractile properties of the Dia were determined in vitro after 4 wk. The maximum velocity of unloaded shortening (Vo) was determined in vitro by means of the slack test. Dia fibers were classified histochemically on the basis of myofibrillar ATPase staining and fiber cross-sectional area (CSA), and the relative interstitial space was quantitated. Ca2+-activated myosin ATPase activity was determined by quantitative histochemistry in individual diaphragm fibers. Myosin heavy chain (MHC) isoforms were identified electrophoretically, and their proportions were determined by using scanning densitometry. Peak twitch and tetanic forces, as well as Vo, were significantly greater in Nan animals compared with Ctl. The proportion of type IIa Dia fibers was significantly increased in Nan animals. Nan increased the CSA of all fiber types (26-47%), whereas the relative interstitial space decreased. The relative contribution of fiber types to total costal Dia area was preserved between the groups. Proportions of MHC isoforms were similar between the groups. There was a tendency for increased expression of MHC2B with Nan. Ca2+-activated myosin ATPase activity was increased 35-39% in all fiber types in Nan animals. We conclude that, after Nan administration, the increase in Dia specific force results from the relatively greater Dia CSA occupied by hypertrophied muscle fibers, whereas the increased ATPase activity promotes a higher rate of cross-bridge turnover and thus increased Vo. We speculate that Nan in supraphysiological doses have the potential to offset or ameliorate conditions associated with enhanced proteolysis and disordered protein turnover.
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Affiliation(s)
- M I Lewis
- Division of Pulmonary/Critical Care Medicine, The Burns and Allen Research Institute, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, University of California Los Angeles School of Medicine, Los Angeles 90048, USA
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Roy AK, Lavrovsky Y, Song CS, Chen S, Jung MH, Velu NK, Bi BY, Chatterjee B. Regulation of androgen action. VITAMINS AND HORMONES 1999; 55:309-52. [PMID: 9949684 DOI: 10.1016/s0083-6729(08)60938-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 175] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A K Roy
- Department of Cellular and Structural Biology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio 78284-7762, USA
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41
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Strawford A, Barbieri T, Neese R, Van Loan M, Christiansen M, Hoh R, Sathyan G, Skowronski R, King J, Hellerstein M. Effects of nandrolone decanoate therapy in borderline hypogonadal men with HIV-associated weight loss. JOURNAL OF ACQUIRED IMMUNE DEFICIENCY SYNDROMES AND HUMAN RETROVIROLOGY : OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE INTERNATIONAL RETROVIROLOGY ASSOCIATION 1999; 20:137-46. [PMID: 10048900 DOI: 10.1097/00042560-199902010-00005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Serum testosterone concentrations are frequently in the low-normal range (lowest quartile, <500 ng/dl) in men with AIDS-wasting syndrome (AWS) and in other chronic wasting disorders. The response of patients in this group to androgen treatment has not been determined, however. Eighteen men with AWS (mean +/- standard error [SE]: 87% +/- 1% usual body weight; CD4 count 90 +/- 24) and borderline low serum testosterone concentrations (382 +/- 33 ng/dl) completed a 21-day placebo-controlled inpatient metabolic ward study comparing intramuscular (i.m.) placebo (n = 7) with low-dose (65 mg/week; n = 4) and high-dose (200 mg/week; n = 7) nandrolone decanoate, a testosterone analogue. Nitrogen balance, stable isotope-mass spectrometric measurement of de novo lipogenesis (DNL), resting energy expenditure, and gonadal hormone levels were measured. Both low-dose and high-dose nandrolone resulted in significant nitrogen retention (33-52 g nitrogen/14 days, representing gains of 0.5 to 0.9 kg lean tissue/week) compared with placebo (loss of 11 g nitrogen/week). This was reflected biochemically in a borderline significant reduction of high DNL (p < .06). Serum testosterone and gonadotropins were suppressed whereas resting energy expenditure was unchanged by nandrolone treatment. In 10 study subjects completing a 12-week open-label follow-up phase, body weight increased by 4.9 +/- 1.2 kg, including 3.1 +/- 0.5 kg lean body mass, and treadmill exercise performance also improved. In summary, nandrolone decanoate therapy in the absence of an exercise program in borderline hypogonadal men with AWS caused substantial nitrogen retention compared with placebo, similar in extent to the nitrogen retention previously achieved with recombinant growth hormone. It is reasonable to expand the criteria for androgen treatment in AWS to include at least patients in the lowest quartile of serum testosterone.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Strawford
- Department of Nutritional Sciences, University of California at Berkeley, 94720, USA
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Abstract
Anabolic steroids are synthetic derivatives of testosterone that were developed as adjunct therapy for a variety of medical conditions. Today they are most commonly used to enhance athletic performance and muscular development. Both illicit and medically indicated anabolic steroid use have been temporally associated with many subsequent defects within each of the body systems. Testosterone is the preferred ligand of the human androgen receptor in the myocardium and directly modulates transcription, translation, and enzyme function. Consequent alterations of cellular pathology and organ physiology are similar to those seen with heart failure and cardiomyopathy. Hypertension, ventricular remodeling, myocardial ischemia, and sudden cardiac death have each been temporally and causally associated with anabolic steroid use in humans. These effects persist long after use has been discontinued and have significant impact on subsequent morbidity and mortality. The mechanisms of cardiac disease as a result of anabolic steroid use are discussed in this review.
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Celotti F, Negri Cesi P. Anabolic steroids: a review of their effects on the muscles, of their possible mechanisms of action and of their use in athletics. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 1992; 43:469-77. [PMID: 1390296 DOI: 10.1016/0960-0760(92)90085-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Anabolic steroids are synthetic molecules developed in the hope of obtaining a complete separation of the androgenic and myotrophic (anabolic) actions of testosterone. Such a goal has never been fully achieved. However, some synthetic steroids present a partial dissociation between these two activities. Since a single hormonal receptor apparently mediates the androgenic as well as the anabolic actions of testosterone, differences in patterns of androgen metabolization in the muscles and the sex accessory organs have been proposed as a possible cause of this phenomenon. Undoubtedly, androgens are able to exert a trophic effect on skeletal and cardiac muscle fibres in subjects with low circulating levels of testosterone such as prepubertal or hypogonadal males and females; however, the widespread use of anabolic steroids in male athletes to increase their physical performances poses the question of whether these compounds are active in the presence of normal circulating levels of testosterone. Most experimental animal studies indicate that anabolic steroids are ineffective in this situation. Since the results of the experiments performed in humans are largely contradictory, it is still not clear whether anabolic steroids are able to improve athletic performances. These and other relevant issues are reviewed.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Celotti
- Department of Endocrinology, University of Milano, Italy
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44
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Southan GJ, Brooks RV, Cowan DA, Kicman AT, Unnadkat N, Walker CJ. Possible indices for the detection of the administration of dihydrotestosterone to athletes. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 1992; 42:87-94. [PMID: 1558821 DOI: 10.1016/0960-0760(92)90014-a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) can be used by an athlete as an anabolic steroid to evade the current International Olympic Committee approved drug tests. To investigate the possibility of a method for its detection, the heptanoate ester of DHT was administered to two male subjects (150 mg i.m.). Urine samples, collected before and after the injection, were subjected to enzymatic hydrolysis and the excretion rates of DHT, 5 alpha-androstane-3 alpha,17 beta-diol (3 alpha-diol) and testosterone (T) were determined by radioimmunoassay. Relative changes in the excretion of DHT, 3 alpha-diol, 5 alpha-androstane-3 beta,17 beta-diol (3 beta-diol), 5 beta-androstane-3 alpha, 17 beta-diol (5 beta-diol), T and epitestosterone (17 alpha hydroxyandrost-4-en-3-one; Epi-T) were determined by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Following administration of DHT, the urinary excretion rates of DHT, 3 alpha-diol and 3 beta-diol increased when compared to those of T, Epi-T, 5 beta-diol and luteinizing hormone (LH). Concentrations of DHT in the plasma increased whereas those of T, LH and follicle stimulating hormone decreased. The changes following such modest doses of DHT suggest that these ratios of urinary hormones may be used for the detection of doping with DHT.
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Affiliation(s)
- G J Southan
- Department of Chemical Pathology, United Medical School, Guys Hospital, London, England
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Friedl KE, Dettori JR, Hannan CJ, Patience TH, Plymate SR. Comparison of the effects of high dose testosterone and 19-nortestosterone to a replacement dose of testosterone on strength and body composition in normal men. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 1991; 40:607-12. [PMID: 1958561 DOI: 10.1016/0960-0760(91)90283-b] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
We examined the extent to which supraphysiological doses of androgen can modify body composition and strength in normally virilized men. In doubly blind tests, 30 healthy young men received testosterone enanthate (TE) or 19-nortestosterone decanoate (ND), at 100 mg/wk or 300 mg/wk for 6 weeks. The TE-100 mg/wk group served as replacement dose comparison, maintaining pretreatment serum testosterone levels, while keeping all subjects blinded to treatment, particularly through reduction in testicular volumes. Isokinetic strength measurements were made for the biceps brachii and quadriceps femoris muscle groups before treatment and 2-3 days after the 6th injection. Small improvements were noted in all groups but the changes were highly variable; a trend to greater and more consistent strength gain occurred in the TE-300 mg/wk group. There was no change in weight for TE-100 mg/wk but an average gain of 3 kg in each of the other groups. No changes in 4 skinfold thicknesses or in estimated percent body fat were observed. Of 15 circumferences, significant increases were observed only for men receiving TE-300 mg/wk (shoulders) and ND-300 mg/wk (shoulders and chest). The data suggest that high dose androgens increase body mass and may increase strength in normal men but, except for a consistent weight gain with greater than replacement doses, the detectable changes were highly variable and relatively small, especially in comparison to the significant alterations which were observed for other markers of androgen action.
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Affiliation(s)
- K E Friedl
- Exercise Physiology Division, U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick, MA
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46
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Hickson RC, Ball KL, Falduto MT. Adverse effects of anabolic steroids. MEDICAL TOXICOLOGY AND ADVERSE DRUG EXPERIENCE 1989; 4:254-71. [PMID: 2671596 DOI: 10.1007/bf03259912] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Anabolic steroids are used therapeutically for various disorders and as ergogenic aids by athletes to augment strength, muscular development, and to enhance performance. There is a wide range of concomitant temporary and permanent adverse effects with steroid administration. Several well-documented adverse actions of these hormones may develop rapidly within several weeks or less (i.e. altered reproductive function) or require up to several years of steroid intake (i.e. liver carcinoma). More recent studies indicate that glucose intolerance, insulin resistance, increased cardiovascular disease risk profiles, cerebral dangers, musculoskeletal injuries, prostate cancer, psychosis and schizophrenic episodes, among others, accompany anabolic steroid intake. There is, at present, no evidence to support the claim that athletes are less susceptible to adverse effects than those individuals receiving hormone treatment in a clinical setting. Based on the available information which has accumulated primarily from cross-sectional, short term longitudinal, and case studies, there is a need: (a) to develop a comprehensive battery of specific and sensitive markers of adverse effects, particularly those that would be able to detect the onset of adverse actions; and (b) to conduct controlled long term longitudinal studies in order to fully understand the extensiveness and mechanisms involved in the occurrence of adverse effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- R C Hickson
- Department of Physical Education, University of Illinois, Chicago
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Petrow V, Padilla GM, McPhail AT, Bruchovsky N, Schneider SL. Prostate. III--A structural feature characteristic of the rat prostate 5 alpha-reductase active site. JOURNAL OF STEROID BIOCHEMISTRY 1989; 32:399-407. [PMID: 2704237 DOI: 10.1016/0022-4731(89)90213-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
To aid in the design of new inhibitors of steroidal 5 alpha-reductase for treatment of prostate cancer, we have studied the topography of the 5 alpha-reductase active site (5 alpha-R) and of the related androgen (RA) and progesterone (RP) receptors in the region complementary to C.6 of progesterone. To this end we have determined the total structures of 17 alpha-acetoxy-6-methylene-4-pregnene-3,20-dione (VII; R = H) and of 17 beta-hydroxy-6,6-ethylene-4-androsten-3-one (VIa) by X-ray crystal structure analysis and, using these data, have developed Newman projections of the 6 alpha-Me, 6 beta-Me, 6-methylene and 6,6-ethylene derivatives of progesterone. From them we have developed a Newman projection of a composite model formed from steroids (V), (VI), (VIIIa) and (VIIIb). This is shown in Fig. 4 and illustrates the relative conformations of these substituents around C.6. From there we proceeded to receptor-binding studies. Our results led to the conclusion that androgen receptor, (RA), takes up preferred but different conformations when bound to testosterone (T) and to 17 beta-hydroxy-5 alpha-androstan-3-one (5 alpha-dihydrotestosterone, DHT), respectively, and that the resulting steroid-receptor complexes bind preferentially to different chromatin acceptor sites. We have therefore used the convention RT and RDHT in place of RA as appropriate. Working on the assumption that binding affinities reflect spatial contours, we have developed comparative silhouettes for the 5 alpha-R, RP and RDHT protein binding sites complementary to C.6 of the steroidal ligand. These data show that the 5 alpha-reductase active site is characterized by a hydrophobic pocket which specifically accommodates a 6-methylenic moiety and partially accommodates a 6 beta-methyl group. RDHT, in contrast, shows much less specificity and largely accommodates all the above substituents. Progesterone receptor differs in failing to accommodate 6,6-ethylene and 6 beta-methyl, with minimal accommodation of 6-methylene. It possesses a hydrophobic pocket skewed towards the alpha-face of the steroid, thereby allowing optimal binding of the 6 alpha-methyl substituent to the receptor. 6-Methylene-4-pregnene-3,20-dione (V) fails to bind significantly to androgen and progesterone receptors thereby supporting the postulate that its antiprostatic activity stems primarily from 5 alpha-reductase inhibition.
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Affiliation(s)
- V Petrow
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University, Durham, NC 27710
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Abstract
In brief: Gynecomastia is a cruel irony for bodybuilders who use steroids in hope of perfecting their somatotype. These athletes and their advisers perpetuate locker-room theories about which drugs to use to avoid this widely acknowledged feminizing effect. This paper presents four case reports of bodybuilders whose self-administered drug programs resulted in gynecomastia. These examples illustrate treatment strategies bodybuilders have advocated for the prevention and self-treatment of gynecomastia, which include the use of tamoxifen, mesterolone, and human chorionic gonadotropin. In fact, the recommended treatment is complete cessation of drugs. By dispelling unfounded treatment methods, physicians might help to discourage these athletes from such drug use.
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Brandes SJ, Katzenellenbogen JA. Fundamental considerations in the design of fluorine-18 labeled progestins and androgens as imaging agents for receptor-positive tumors of the breast and prostate. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RADIATION APPLICATIONS AND INSTRUMENTATION. PART B, NUCLEAR MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 1988; 15:53-67. [PMID: 3280523 DOI: 10.1016/0883-2897(88)90162-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- S J Brandes
- Department of Chemistry, University of Illinois, Urbana 61801
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50
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Abstract
Chronic administration of an anabolic hormone, nandrolone phenylpropionate, in sedentary female rats for 6 weeks gave a 20% increase in body weight and the same proportional increase in all muscles sampled (heart, diaphragm, soleus, TA, EHP and EDL), such that the muscle/body weight ratio was unchanged. Cardiac muscle was unresponsive to treatment. Acute stimulation of EDL via lateral popliteal nerve gave similar values for contraction time, 1/2 relaxation time and twitch:tetanus ratio in both groups suggesting no slowing of the muscle. Fatigue resistance of EDL was improved with 0.29 +/- 0.029 vs. 0.46 +/- 0.071 of maximum isometric twitch tension being developed after 10 min repetitive stimulation at 4 Hz. This improved endurance was not accompanied by any increase in strength and could not be explained on the basis of cellular hypertrophy, but appears to reflect an increased aerobic capacity of skeletal muscle. The proportion of FOG fibres in EDL increased, 38 +/- 1.1% vs. 46 +/- 1.1%, and this was paralleled in the other skeletal muscles. Specific hypertrophy of FOG and FG fibres could be conclusively demonstrated in soleus and TA, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Egginton
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, University of Birmingham, Great Britain
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