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Fyksen TS, Seljeflot I, Vanberg P, Atar D, Halvorsen S. Platelet activity, coagulation, and fibrinolysis in long-term users of anabolic-androgenic steroids compared to strength-trained athletes. Thromb Res 2024; 238:60-66. [PMID: 38676967 DOI: 10.1016/j.thromres.2024.04.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2023] [Revised: 04/18/2024] [Accepted: 04/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Use of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) is associated with adverse cardiovascular (CV) effects, including potential prothrombotic effects. This study aimed to assess platelet activation and aggregation, coagulation, and fibrinolysis, in long-term AAS users compared to non-using strength-trained athletes. MATERIALS AND METHODS Thirty-seven strength-trained men using AAS were compared to seventeen non-using professional strength-trained athletes at similar age (median 33 years). AAS use was verified by blood and urine analyses. Platelet Function Analyzer 100 (PFA-100) and whole blood impedance aggregometry with thrombin, arachidonic acid, and ADP as agonists, were performed to evaluate platelet aggregation. ELISA methods were used for markers of platelet activation. Fibrinogen, D-dimer, the coagulation inhibitors protein S and C activity, and antithrombin were measured by routine. Fibrinolysis was evaluated by Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) activity. RESULTS There were no significant differences in platelet aggregation between the two groups. Von Willebrand factor was lower among the AAS users (p < 0.01), and P-Selectin was slightly higher (p = 0.05), whereas CD40 Ligand, β-thromboglobulin, and thrombospondin did not differ significantly. No differences were found in the assessed coagulation inhibitors. Higher D-dimer levels (p < 0.01) and lower PAI-1 activity (p < 0.01) were found among the AAS users. CONCLUSIONS The investigated long-term users of AAS did not exhibit elevated platelet activity compared to strength-trained non-using athletes. However, AAS use was associated with higher D-dimer levels and lower PAI-1 activity. These findings suggest that any prothrombotic effect of long-term AAS use may predominantly involve other aspects of the hemostatic system than blood platelets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tea Sætereng Fyksen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Department of Cardiology, Oslo University Hospital Ullevål, Oslo, Norway.
| | - Ingebjørg Seljeflot
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Center for Clinical Heart Research, Department of Cardiology, Oslo University Hospital Ullevål, Oslo, Norway
| | - Paul Vanberg
- Department of Cardiology, Oslo University Hospital Ullevål, Oslo, Norway
| | - Dan Atar
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Department of Cardiology, Oslo University Hospital Ullevål, Oslo, Norway
| | - Sigrun Halvorsen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Department of Cardiology, Oslo University Hospital Ullevål, Oslo, Norway
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Mowaad NA, Elgohary R, ElShebiney S. Effect of Stanozolol and/or Cannabis Abuse on Hypertrophic Mechanism and Oxidative Stress of Male Albino Rat Cardiac Tissue in Relation to Exercise: A Sport Abuse Practice. Cardiovasc Toxicol 2024; 24:527-538. [PMID: 38720122 PMCID: PMC11102414 DOI: 10.1007/s12012-024-09859-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 04/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/19/2024]
Abstract
Adolescents commonly co-abuse many drugs including anabolic androgenic steroids either they are athletes or non-athletes. Stanozolol is the major anabolic used in recent years and was reported grouped with cannabis. The current study aimed at evaluating the biochemical and histopathological changes related to the hypertrophic effects of stanozolol and/or cannabis whether in condition of exercise practice or sedentary conditions. Adult male Wistar albino rats received either stanozolol (5 mg/kg, s.c), cannabis (10 mg/kg, i.p.), and a combination of both once daily for two months. Swimming exercise protocol was applied as a training model. Relative heart weight, oxidative stress biomarkers, cardiac tissue fibrotic markers were evaluated. Left ventricular morphometric analysis and collagen quantification was done. The combined treatment exhibited serious detrimental effects on the heart tissues. It increased heart tissue fibrotic markers (Masson's trichrome stain (p < 0.001), cardiac COL3 (p < 0.0001), and VEGF-A (p < 0.05)), lowered heart glutathione levels (p < 0.05) and dramatically elevated oxidative stress (increased malondialdehyde (p < 0.0001) and 8-OHDG (p < 0.0001)). Training was not ameliorating for the observed effects. Misuse of cannabis and stanozolol resulted in more hypertrophic consequences of the heart than either drug alone, which were at least largely assigned to oxidative stress, heart tissue fibrotic indicators, histological alterations, and morphometric changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Noha A Mowaad
- Narcotics, Ergogenics and Poisons Department, Medical Research and Clinical Studies Institute, National Research Centre, Dokki, P.O. 12622, Giza, Egypt.
| | - Rania Elgohary
- Narcotics, Ergogenics and Poisons Department, Medical Research and Clinical Studies Institute, National Research Centre, Dokki, P.O. 12622, Giza, Egypt
| | - Shaimaa ElShebiney
- Narcotics, Ergogenics and Poisons Department, Medical Research and Clinical Studies Institute, National Research Centre, Dokki, P.O. 12622, Giza, Egypt
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3
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Sansoucy M, Naud JF. Using Proteins As Markers for Anabolic Steroid Abuse: A New Perspective in Doping Control? Chem Res Toxicol 2023; 36:1168-1173. [PMID: 37561919 DOI: 10.1021/acs.chemrestox.3c00166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Drug toxicity is a major concern and has motivated numerous studies to elucidate specific adverse mechanisms, with acetaminophen being the favorite candidate in toxicology studies. Conversely, androgenic anabolic steroids (AASs) also represent a severe public health issue in sports for elite and non-elite athletes. Supraphysiological dosages of AASs are associated with various adverse effects, from cardiovascular to neurological repercussions including liver dysfunction. Yet, few studies have addressed the toxicity of anabolic steroids, and a significant amount of work will be needed to elucidate and understand steroid toxicity properly. This Perspective suggests ideas on how proteomics and liquid chromatography coupled with high-resolution tandem mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS/MS) can contribute to (1) pinpoint serum proteins affected by substantial doses of anabolic steroids that would represent interesting novel candidates for routine testing and (2) provide additional knowledge on androgenic anabolic steroid toxicity to help raise awareness on the harmful effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maxime Sansoucy
- Laboratoire de contrôle du dopage, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, 531 Boulevard des Prairies, Laval, QC H7V 1B7, Canada
| | - Jean-François Naud
- Laboratoire de contrôle du dopage, Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique Centre Armand-Frappier Santé Biotechnologie, 531 Boulevard des Prairies, Laval, QC H7V 1B7, Canada
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4
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Stojko M, Nocoń J, Piłat P, Szpila G, Smolarczyk J, Żmudka K, Moll M, Hawranek M. Innovative Reports on the Effects of Anabolic Androgenic Steroid Abuse-How to Lose Your Mind for the Love of Sport. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1439. [PMID: 37629729 PMCID: PMC10456445 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59081439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Revised: 07/25/2023] [Accepted: 08/04/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Anabolic-androgenic steroids (anabolic-androgenic steroids, AAS) are testosterone-derived compounds whose popularity and use are constantly growing. Chronic use of AAS leads to many hormonal and metabolic disorders in the human body, which often lead to permanent health damage. Changes affect the following systems: cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, reproductive, digestive, and nervous. We decided to collect the existing knowledge in the literature and enrich it with the latest research reports in the field of degenerative effects of AAS on the nervous system. The work aimed to increase public awareness of the dangers and consequences of AAS use and improve it with the latest research on the neurodegenerative effects of AAS. We hope that our work will contribute to raising public awareness and reducing the use of AAS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michał Stojko
- Student’s Scientific Society, III Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Jakub Nocoń
- Student’s Scientific Society, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Patrycja Piłat
- Student’s Scientific Society, III Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Gabriela Szpila
- Student’s Scientific Society, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Joanna Smolarczyk
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 50-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Karol Żmudka
- Student’s Scientific Society, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Martyna Moll
- Student’s Scientific Society, Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
| | - Michał Hawranek
- III Department of Cardiology, Faculty of Medical Sciences in Zabrze, Medical University of Silesia, 40-055 Katowice, Poland
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Thirumalai A, Anawalt BD. Androgenic Steroids Use and Abuse. Urol Clin North Am 2022; 49:645-663. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ucl.2022.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Current Management and Controversies Surrounding Andropause. Urol Clin North Am 2022; 49:583-592. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ucl.2022.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Esposito M, Licciardello G, Privitera F, Iannuzzi S, Liberto A, Sessa F, Salerno M. Forensic Post-Mortem Investigation in AAS Abusers: Investigative Diagnostic Protocol. A Systematic Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11081307. [PMID: 34441242 PMCID: PMC8393338 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11081307] [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] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Anabolic–androgenic steroids (AASs) are a group of synthetic molecules derived from testosterone and its precursors. AASs are widely used illicitly by adolescents and athletes, especially by bodybuilders; AASs are among the most used drugs for improving physical performance, as well as for aesthetic purposes. The use of AASs by professional and recreational athletes is increasing worldwide. This review focused on deaths related to AAS abuse and to investigation of the autopsy results and histopathological findings using a rigorous methodology protocol covering: a complete autopsy, histological analysis, and a broad toxicological investigation. Moreover, we aimed to define an investigative diagnostic protocol supporting forensic pathologists during the post-mortem investigation of AAS abusers. This review was conducted using PubMed Central and Google Scholar databases to find articles published between 1 January 1968 and 30 June 2021, using the following key terms: “(anabolic-androgenic steroids) AND (autopsy); (anabolic-androgenic steroids) AND (forensic)”. A total of 939 articles were screened and 926 did not meet the inclusion criteria. In conclusion, 14 articles were included in this systematic review, reporting 137 fatal cases of AAS abuse in total. The histopathologic studies showed myocardial damage characterized by myocyte hypertrophy, focal myocyte damage with myofibrillar loss, interstitial fibrosis, mostly subepicardial, and small vessel disease. Indeed, in AAS-related cases, autopsy plays a pivotal role in the study of AAS adverse effects and organ damage related to their use or abuse. This systematic review aimed to define a specific workflow in death cases related to AASs, suggesting important future insights to better clarify sudden deaths related to AASs, such as the use of miRNAs. The forensic community needs a unified approach in cases of suspected death related to the use of AASs. There are several occasions to apply this workflow, for example in cases of death of bodybuilders and of young people who die in gymnasiums or during sports activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimiliano Esposito
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.E.); (G.L.); (F.P.); (S.I.); (A.L.)
| | - Gabriele Licciardello
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.E.); (G.L.); (F.P.); (S.I.); (A.L.)
| | - Federico Privitera
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.E.); (G.L.); (F.P.); (S.I.); (A.L.)
| | - Salvatore Iannuzzi
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.E.); (G.L.); (F.P.); (S.I.); (A.L.)
| | - Aldo Liberto
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.E.); (G.L.); (F.P.); (S.I.); (A.L.)
| | - Francesco Sessa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy
- Correspondence: (F.S.); (M.S.); Tel.: +39-0881-736-926 (F.S.); +39-0953-782-060 (M.S.)
| | - Monica Salerno
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, Institute of Legal Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.E.); (G.L.); (F.P.); (S.I.); (A.L.)
- Correspondence: (F.S.); (M.S.); Tel.: +39-0881-736-926 (F.S.); +39-0953-782-060 (M.S.)
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8
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Sessa F, Esposito M, Messina G, Di Mizio G, Di Nunno N, Salerno M. Sudden Death in Adults: A Practical Flow Chart for Pathologist Guidance. Healthcare (Basel) 2021; 9:870. [PMID: 34356248 PMCID: PMC8307931 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare9070870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Revised: 07/06/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The medico-legal term "sudden death (SD)" refers to those deaths that are not preceded by significant symptoms. SD in apparently healthy individuals (newborn through to adults) represents a challenge for medical examiners, law enforcement officers, and society as a whole. This review aims to introduce a useful flowchart that should be applied in all cases of SD. Particularly, this flowchart mixes the data obtained through an up-to-date literature review and a revision of the latest version of guidelines for autopsy investigation of sudden cardiac death (SCD) in order to support medico-legal investigation. In light of this review, following the suggested flowchart step-by-step, the forensic pathologist will be able to apply all the indications of the scientific community to real cases. Moreover, it will be possible to answer all questions relative to SD, such as: death may be attributable to cardiac disease or to other causes, the nature of the cardiac disease (defining whether the mechanism was arrhythmic or mechanical), whether the condition causing SD may be inherited (with subsequent genetic counseling), the assumption of toxic or illicit drugs, traumas, and other unnatural causes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Sessa
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy;
| | - Massimiliano Esposito
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy; (M.E.); (M.S.)
| | - Giovanni Messina
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Foggia, 71122 Foggia, Italy;
| | - Giulio Di Mizio
- Forensic Medicine, Department of Law, Economy and Sociology, Campus “S. Venuta”, Magna Graecia University, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Nunzio Di Nunno
- Department of History, Society and Studies on Humanity, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy;
| | - Monica Salerno
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95121 Catania, Italy; (M.E.); (M.S.)
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Grandperrin A, Schuster I, Rupp T, Izem O, Obert P, Nottin S. Left ventricular dyssynchrony and post-systolic shortening in young bodybuilders using anabolic-androgenic steroids. Am J Physiol Heart Circ Physiol 2021; 321:H509-H517. [PMID: 34242095 DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00136.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Left ventricular (LV) remodeling, characterized by increased LV hypertrophy and depressed systolic and diastolic function, is observed in strength-trained athletes who use anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS). Previous studies suggested a pathological remodeling with an increase in cardiac fibrosis in these athletes, which could promote intraventricular dyssynchrony. In this context, this study evaluated LV dyssynchrony in strength-trained athletes using AAS, hypothesizing that the use of AAS would lead to an increase in post-systolic shortening. Forty-four male subjects (aged 20-40 yr) were divided into three age-matched groups: strength-trained athletes using (users, n = 14) or not (nonusers, n = 15) AAS and healthy sedentary men (controls, n = 15). After completing a survey, each participant was assessed with two-dimensional (2D)-strain echocardiography. LV dyssynchrony was quantified using the standard deviation (SD) of the time to peak for longitudinal strain of the 18 LV-segments (from the apical 4, 3, and 2 chambers views), the longitudinal strain delay index (LSDI), and the segmental post-systolic index (PSI). Users showed mean AAS dosages of 564 ± 288 mg[Formula: see text]wk-1 with a mean protocol duration of 12 ± 6 wk and a history of use of 4.7 ± 1.8 yr. They exhibited a greater LV mass index and depressed systolic and diastolic function when compared with both nonusers and controls. The decrease in LV strain in users was predominantly observed at the interventricular septum level (-16.9% ± 2.5% vs. -19.2% ± 1.8% and -19.0% ± 1.6% in users, nonusers, and controls, respectively, P < 0.01). Users showed higher SD than controls (43 ± 8 ms vs. 32 ± 5 ms, respectively, P < 0.01). The LSDI was significantly higher in users compared with both nonusers and controls (-23.4 ± 9.5 vs. -15.9 ± 9.3 and -9.8 ± 3.9, respectively, P < 0.01). PSI, calculated on the basal inferoseptal, basal anteroseptal, and basal inferolateral segments, were also greater in users compared with the two other groups. Our results reported an increase in LV dyssynchrony in young AAS users that brought new evidences of a pathologic cardiac remodeling in this specific population.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Illicit androgenic anabolic steroids (AAS) use is widespread, but data on LV dyssynchrony are lacking, although it could be increased by a higher prevalence of myocardial fibrosis reported in this population. In AAS users, the decrease in LV strain was predominantly observed in interventricular segments. All dyssynchrony indices were higher in AAS users and several segments exhibited post-systolic shortening. These results showed an association between AAS consumption, LV remodeling, and dyssynchrony.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antoine Grandperrin
- Laboratoire de Phram-écologie Cardiovasculaire (LAPEC) EA4278, Avignon University, Avignon, France
| | - Iris Schuster
- PhyMedExp, Institut National de la Santé et de la Recherche Médicale (INSERM), Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Montpellier University, Montpellier, France
| | - Thomas Rupp
- Inter-university Laboratory of Human Movement Science, University Savoie Mont Blanc, Chambéry, France
| | - Omar Izem
- Laboratoire de Phram-écologie Cardiovasculaire (LAPEC) EA4278, Avignon University, Avignon, France
| | - Philippe Obert
- Laboratoire de Phram-écologie Cardiovasculaire (LAPEC) EA4278, Avignon University, Avignon, France
| | - Stéphane Nottin
- Laboratoire de Phram-écologie Cardiovasculaire (LAPEC) EA4278, Avignon University, Avignon, France
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Jiafeng Y, Decheng S, Xiaoyong L, Yang L, Guangyu L, Min BS. Multiresidue determination of 19 anabolic steroids in animal oil using enhanced matrix removal lipid cleanup and ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. ANALYTICAL METHODS : ADVANCING METHODS AND APPLICATIONS 2021; 13:2374-2383. [PMID: 34027940 DOI: 10.1039/d1ay00437a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
A method for sensitive analysis of 19 anabolic steroids (AS) in animal oil using enhanced matrix removal lipid (EMR-Lipid) cleanup and ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC-MS/MS) was developed. Oil samples were extracted with 20 mL of acetonitrile aqueous solution and purified using EMR-Lipid cartridges. The eluent was evaporated to dryness under nitrogen and analyzed by UHPLC-MS/MS using 0.1% formic acid-acetonitrile and 0.1% formic acid-water solutions as the mobile phase via gradient elution. The method effectively removed unwanted matrix co-extractives better than other extraction cleanup techniques while still delivering acceptable recovery results for most of the AS. The established quantification method showed AS recovery in the range of 72.9-110.7% with good precision (relative standard deviation < 15%).
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Jiafeng
- Liaoning Provincial Inspection and Testing Certification Center, Shenyang 110016, China
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Roşca AE, Vlădăreanu AM, Mititelu A, Popescu BO, Badiu C, Căruntu C, Voiculescu SE, Onisâi M, Gologan Ş, Mirica R, Zăgrean L. Effects of Exogenous Androgens on Platelet Activity and Their Thrombogenic Potential in Supraphysiological Administration: A Literature Review. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10010147. [PMID: 33406783 PMCID: PMC7795962 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10010147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2020] [Revised: 12/22/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS), simply called “androgens”, represent the most widespread drugs used to enhance performance and appearance in a sporting environment. High-dosage and/or long-term AAS administration has been associated frequently with significant alterations in the cardiovascular system, some of these with severe endpoints. The induction of a prothrombotic state is probably the most life-threatening consequence, suggested by numerous case reports in AAS-abusing athletes, and by a considerable number of human and animal studies assessing the influence of exogenous androgens on hemostasis. Despite over fifty years of research, data regarding the thrombogenic potential of exogenous androgens are still scarce. The main reason is the limited possibility of conducting human prospective studies. However, human observational studies conducted in athletes or patients, in vitro human studies, and animal experiments have pointed out that androgens in supraphysiological doses induce enhanced platelet activity and thrombopoiesis, leading to increased platelet aggregation. If this tendency overlaps previously existing coagulation and/or fibrinolysis dysfunctions, it may lead to a thrombotic diathesis, which could explain the multitude of thromboembolic events reported in the AAS-abusing population. The influence of androgen excess on the platelet activity and fluid–coagulant balance remains a subject of debate, urging for supplementary studies in order to clarify the effects on hemostasis, and to provide new compelling evidence for their claimed thrombogenic potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adrian Eugen Roşca
- Division of Physiology and Neuroscience, Department of Functional Sciences, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (S.E.V.); (L.Z.)
- Victor Babeş National Institute of Research-Development in the Pathology Domain, 050096 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Cardiology, Emergency University Hospital of Bucharest, 050098 Bucharest, Romania
- Correspondence: (A.E.R.); (A.-M.V.)
| | - Ana-Maria Vlădăreanu
- Department of Hematology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Emergency University Hospital of Bucharest, 050098 Bucharest, Romania; (A.M.); (M.O.)
- Correspondence: (A.E.R.); (A.-M.V.)
| | - Alina Mititelu
- Department of Hematology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Emergency University Hospital of Bucharest, 050098 Bucharest, Romania; (A.M.); (M.O.)
| | - Bogdan Ovidiu Popescu
- Victor Babeş National Institute of Research-Development in the Pathology Domain, 050096 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Neurology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Colentina Clinical Hospital, 020125 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Corin Badiu
- Department of Endocrinology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, C.I. Parhon National Institute of Endocrinology, 11863 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Constantin Căruntu
- Division of Physiology, Department of Fundamental Disciplines, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania;
- Department of Dermatology, “Prof. N.C. Paulescu” National Institute of Diabetes, Nutrition and Metabolic Diseases, 011233 Bucharest, Romania
| | - Suzana Elena Voiculescu
- Division of Physiology and Neuroscience, Department of Functional Sciences, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (S.E.V.); (L.Z.)
| | - Minodora Onisâi
- Department of Hematology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Emergency University Hospital of Bucharest, 050098 Bucharest, Romania; (A.M.); (M.O.)
| | - Şerban Gologan
- Department of Gastroenterology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Elias Clinical Hospital, 011461 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Radu Mirica
- Department of Surgery, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, “Sf. Ioan” Clinical Hospital, 042122 Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Leon Zăgrean
- Division of Physiology and Neuroscience, Department of Functional Sciences, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 050474 Bucharest, Romania; (S.E.V.); (L.Z.)
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Machek SB, Cardaci TD, Wilburn DT, Willoughby DS. Considerations, possible contraindications, and potential mechanisms for deleterious effect in recreational and athletic use of selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs) in lieu of anabolic androgenic steroids: A narrative review. Steroids 2020; 164:108753. [PMID: 33148520 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2020.108753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2020] [Revised: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 10/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are testosterone and testosterone-derivative compounds sporadically employed by athletes and increasingly used recreationally to acquire a competitive edge or improve body composition. Nevertheless, users are subject to undesired side effects majorly associated with tissue-specific androgen receptor (AR) binding-mediated actions. More recently, selective AR modulators (SARMs) have gained popularity towards delivering androgen-associated anabolic actions with hopes of minimal androgenic effects. While several SARMs are in preclinical and clinical phases intended for demographics subject to hypogonadism, muscle wasting, and osteoporosis, several athletic organizations and drug testing affiliates have realized the increasingly widespread use of SARMs amongst competitors and have subsequently banned their use. Furthermore, recreational users are haphazardly acquiring these compounds from the internet and consuming doses several times greater than empirically reported. Unfortunately, online sources are rife with potential contamination, despite a prevailing public opinion suggesting SARMs are innocuous AAS alternatives. Considering each agent has a broad range of supporting evidence in both human and non-human models, it is important to comprehensively evaluate the current literature on commercially available SARMs to gain better understanding of their efficacy and if they can truly be considered a safer AAS alternative. Therefore, the purpose of this review is to discuss the current evidence regarding AAS and SARM mechanisms of action, demonstrate the efficacy of several prominent SARMs in a variety of scientific trials, and theorize on the wide-ranging contraindications and potential deleterious effects, as well as potential future directions regarding acute and chronic SARM use across a broad range of demographics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven B Machek
- Exercise & Biochemical Nutrition Laboratory, Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation. Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA
| | - Thomas D Cardaci
- Exercise & Biochemical Nutrition Laboratory, Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation. Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA; Department of Exercise Science, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Dylan T Wilburn
- Exercise & Biochemical Nutrition Laboratory, Department of Health, Human Performance, and Recreation. Robbins College of Health and Human Sciences, Baylor University, Waco, TX, USA
| | - Darryn S Willoughby
- Mayborn College of Health Sciences, School of Exercise and Sport Science, University of Mary Hardin-Baylor, Belton, TX, USA.
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Torrisi M, Pennisi G, Russo I, Amico F, Esposito M, Liberto A, Cocimano G, Salerno M, Li Rosi G, Di Nunno N, Montana A. Sudden Cardiac Death in Anabolic-Androgenic Steroid Users: A Literature Review. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 56:medicina56110587. [PMID: 33158202 PMCID: PMC7694262 DOI: 10.3390/medicina56110587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 10/29/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Background and objectives: Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AASs) are a group of synthetic molecules derived from testosterone and its related precursors. AASs are widely used illicitly by adolescents and athletes, especially by bodybuilders, both for aesthetic uses and as performance enhancers to increase muscle growth and lean body mass. When used illicitly they can damage health and cause disorders affecting several functions. Sudden cardiac death (SCD) is the most common medical cause of death in athletes. SCD in athletes has also been associated with the use of performance-enhancing drugs. This review aimed to focus on deaths related to AAS abuse to investigate the cardiac pathophysiological mechanism that underlies this type of death, which still needs to be fully investigated. Materials and Methods: This review was conducted using PubMed Central and Google Scholar databases, until 21 July 2020, using the following key terms: “((Sudden cardiac death) OR (Sudden death)) AND ((androgenic anabolic steroid) OR (androgenic anabolic steroids) OR (anabolic-androgenic steroids) OR (anabolic-androgenic steroid))”. Thirteen articles met the inclusion and exclusion criteria, for a total of 33 reported cases. Results: Of the 33 cases, 31 (93.9%) were males while only 2 (61%) were females. Mean age was 29.79 and, among sportsmen, the most represented sports activity was bodybuilding. In all cases there was a history of AAS abuse or a physical phenotype suggesting AAS use; the total usage period was unspecified in most cases. In 24 cases the results of the toxicological analysis were reported. The most detected AASs were nandrolone, testosterone, and stanozolol. The most frequently reported macroscopic alterations were cardiomegaly and left ventricular hypertrophy, while the histological alterations were foci of fibrosis and necrosis of the myocardial tissue. Conclusions: Four principal mechanisms responsible for SCD have been proposed in AAS abusers: the atherogenic model, the thrombosis model, the model of vasospasm induced by the release of nitric oxide, and the direct myocardial injury model. Hypertrophy, fibrosis, and necrosis represent a substrate for arrhythmias, especially when combined with exercise. Indeed, AAS use has been shown to change physiological cardiac remodeling of athletes to pathophysiological cardiac hypertrophy with an increased risk of life-threatening arrhythmias.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Torrisi
- Legal Medicine, Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies, “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.T.); (G.P.); (I.R.); (F.A.); (M.E.); (A.L.); (G.C.); (M.S.)
| | - Giuliana Pennisi
- Legal Medicine, Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies, “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.T.); (G.P.); (I.R.); (F.A.); (M.E.); (A.L.); (G.C.); (M.S.)
| | - Ilenia Russo
- Legal Medicine, Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies, “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.T.); (G.P.); (I.R.); (F.A.); (M.E.); (A.L.); (G.C.); (M.S.)
| | - Francesco Amico
- Legal Medicine, Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies, “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.T.); (G.P.); (I.R.); (F.A.); (M.E.); (A.L.); (G.C.); (M.S.)
| | - Massimiliano Esposito
- Legal Medicine, Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies, “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.T.); (G.P.); (I.R.); (F.A.); (M.E.); (A.L.); (G.C.); (M.S.)
| | - Aldo Liberto
- Legal Medicine, Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies, “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.T.); (G.P.); (I.R.); (F.A.); (M.E.); (A.L.); (G.C.); (M.S.)
| | - Giuseppe Cocimano
- Legal Medicine, Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies, “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.T.); (G.P.); (I.R.); (F.A.); (M.E.); (A.L.); (G.C.); (M.S.)
| | - Monica Salerno
- Legal Medicine, Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies, “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.T.); (G.P.); (I.R.); (F.A.); (M.E.); (A.L.); (G.C.); (M.S.)
| | - Giuseppe Li Rosi
- Department of Law, Criminology, Magna Graecia University of Catanzaro, 88100 Catanzaro, Italy;
| | - Nunzio Di Nunno
- Department of History, Society and Studies on Humanity, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy;
| | - Angelo Montana
- Legal Medicine, Department of Medical, Surgical and Advanced Technologies, “G.F. Ingrassia”, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy; (M.T.); (G.P.); (I.R.); (F.A.); (M.E.); (A.L.); (G.C.); (M.S.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-3287655428
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Acute myocardial infarction in young newbie bodybuilder using multiple steroid and protein supplements. J Cardiol Cases 2019; 21:134-136. [PMID: 32256860 DOI: 10.1016/j.jccase.2019.11.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2019] [Revised: 10/09/2019] [Accepted: 11/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Coronary artery disease (CAD), the major reason of deaths worldwide is generally known as a disease of the elderly, however it is grasping the youth too. The most common etiology of young CAD is lifestyle changes, smoking, and development of other comorbid conditions such as diabetes and hypertension at an early age. There has been an upward trend in youngsters regarding consciousness about their body build and thus use of various protein supplements and anabolic steroids for faster results. The present case reports a young patient presenting with severe retrosternal left-sided chest pain for 15-20 min to the emergency department. His electrocardiogram was suggestive of acute anterolateral wall ST segment elevation myocardial infarction for which he underwent urgent coronary angiography and percutaneous coronary intervention. His personal history revealed a significant use of steroids, proteins, and other supplements in supraphysiological doses for instant body building efforts without any other significant past medical, surgical, or family history. He showed good recovery and was strongly recommended to stop steroids and protein supplements. In conclusion, supraphysiological doses of protein supplements, anabolic steroids, and other nutritional products bear a risk factor for CAD. <Learning objective: This is evident from the case report that excessive supplements use by body builders for immediate mass gain and performance enhancement may lead to adverse cardiovascular complications. This is mostly prescribed by peer groups or untrained gym professionals without judging their adverse effects so we recommend a detailed history for steroid use and protein supplements in young patients presenting with acute myocardial infarction without other significant risk factors and need for counselling for use of such substances.>.
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Hernández-Guerra AI, Tapia J, Menéndez-Quintanal LM, Lucena JS. Sudden cardiac death in anabolic androgenic steroids abuse: case report and literature review. Forensic Sci Res 2019; 4:267-273. [PMID: 31489392 PMCID: PMC6713204 DOI: 10.1080/20961790.2019.1595350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) have several adverse effects on the cardiovascular system that may lead to a sudden cardiac death (SCD). We herein report a case involving a 24-year-old male, AAS abuser with intramuscular delivery in the 6 months before, who suffered a cardiorespiratory arrest at home’s bathtub when returning from New Year’s party. A forensic autopsy was performed according to the guidelines of the Association for European Cardiovascular Pathology (AECVP). The body showed hypertrophy of skeletal musculature, with low amount of subcutaneous fat and no signs of injury (body mass index, BMI: 26.8 kg/m2). On internal examination, there were multiorgan congestion, acute pulmonary edema, and cardiomegaly (420 g) with severe coronary atherosclerosis and superimposed acute occlusive thrombosis at the left main trunk and left anterior descendant. Areas of scarring were located at the intersection between the posterior wall and the posterior third of the septum (postero-septal). At histology, acute myocardial infarction at the anterior third of the septum and the anterior wall, and subacute myocardial infarction at apical septum and apical posterior wall were detected. Other findings were small intramyocardial vessel disease and myocytes hypertrophy. Chemicotoxicological analysis in blood showed ethanol ((0.90 ± 0.05) g/L), stanazolol (11.31 µg/L), nandrolone (2.05 µg/L) and testosterone (<1.00 µg/L). When confronted with a sudden death in a young athlete we must pay attention to the physical phenotype that may suggest AAS abuse and perform a detailed examination of the heart. Chemicotoxicological analysis is a key to establish the relationship between SCD and AAS abuse.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Isabel Hernández-Guerra
- Histopathology Service, National Institute of Toxicology and Forensic Sciences (NITFS), Canary Islands Department, Tenerife, Spain
| | - Javier Tapia
- Forensic Pathology Service, Institute of Legal Medicine and Forensic Sciences (ILMFS), Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Spain
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16
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Seara FAC, Arantes PC, Domingos AE, Barbosa RAQ, Olivares EL, Sudo RT, Campos de Carvalho AC, Nascimento JHM. Cardiac electrical and contractile disorders promoted by anabolic steroid overdose are associated with late autonomic imbalance and impaired Ca 2+ handling. Steroids 2019; 148:1-10. [PMID: 31028764 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2019.04.001] [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: 12/21/2018] [Revised: 04/02/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
AIM Investigate cardiac electrical and mechanical dysfunctions elicited by chronic anabolic steroid (AS) overdose. METHODS Male Wistar rats were treated with nandrolone decanoate (DECA) or vehicle (CTL) for 8 weeks. Electrocardiography and heart rate variability were assessed at weeks 2, 4, and 8. Cardiac reactivity to isoproterenol was investigated in isolated rat hearts. Action potential duration (APD) was measured from left ventricular (LV) muscle strips. L-type Ca2+ current (ICaL), and transient outward potassium current (Ito) were recorded by whole-cell patch-clamp in LV cardiomyocytes. Sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) Ca2+ mobilization and Ca2+-induced contractile response sensitivity were evaluated in skinned cardiac fibers. Muscarinic type 2 receptor (M2R), β1-adrenergic receptor (β1AR), sarcoplasmic Ca2+ ATPase (SERCA-2a), type 2 ryanodine receptor (RyR2), L-type Ca2+ channel (CACNA1), Kv4.2 (KCND2), and Kv4.3 (KCND3) mRNA expression levels were measured by quantitative RT-PCR. RESULTS Compared with CTL group, DECA group exhibited decreased high frequency band power density (HF) and increased low frequency power density (LF), Cardiac M2R mRNA level was decreased. QTc interval at 2nd, 4th, and 8th week as well as APD30 and APD90 were increased by DECA. Ito density was decreased, while ICaL density was increased by DECA. SR Ca2+ loading and release were decreased by DECA, while contractile sensitivity to Ca2+ was increased versus CTL group. CONCLUSION DECA overdose induced cardiac rhythmic and mechanical abnormalities that can be associated with autonomic imbalance, up-regulated ICaL and down-regulated Ito, abnormal SR Ca2+ mobilization, and increased contractile sensitivity to Ca2+.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fernando A C Seara
- Carlos Chagas Filho Institute of Biophysics, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil.
| | - Paulo C Arantes
- Carlos Chagas Filho Institute of Biophysics, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil
| | - Ainá E Domingos
- Carlos Chagas Filho Institute of Biophysics, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil
| | - Raiana A Q Barbosa
- Carlos Chagas Filho Institute of Biophysics, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil
| | - Emerson L Olivares
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biology and Health Sciences, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Seropedica 23890-000, RJ, Brazil
| | - Roberto T Sudo
- Institute of Biomedical Sciences, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil
| | - Antonio C Campos de Carvalho
- Carlos Chagas Filho Institute of Biophysics, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil
| | - Jose H M Nascimento
- Carlos Chagas Filho Institute of Biophysics, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro 21941-902, RJ, Brazil
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Abstract
Image- and performance-enhancing drugs include a wide range of substances used to promote physical changes to enhance appearance. Anabolic androgen steroids are the most widely used image- and performance-enhancing drugs along with a wide variety of additional substances. The aim of this study was to identify the pathological changes pertaining to the cardiovascular system possibly involved in the death and characterize the substances associated with steroid use and their possible role in the death. A series of deaths involving image- and performance-enhancing drug users were selected. Nandrolone and testosterone were the most frequently identified steroids. The most commonly illegal drugs found were tetrahydrocannabinol, cocaine, and methadone. Antidepressants, opioids, benzodiazepines, and barbiturates were also found. These findings highlight that results obtained from postmortem investigations should be meticulously evaluated to understand the weight that each identified substance may have played in the death process and exclude any alternative causes of death.
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18
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Dahmani H, Louati K, Hajri A, Bahri S, Safta F. Development of an extraction method for anabolic androgenic steroids in dietary supplements and analysis by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry: Application for doping-control. Steroids 2018; 138:134-160. [PMID: 30118779 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2018.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2018] [Revised: 07/26/2018] [Accepted: 08/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
Several studies have highlighted that nutritional supplements may contain undeclared anabolic steroids that are banned by the International Olympic Committee/World Anti-Doping Agency. Any kind of abuse with these drugs is extremely dangerous because of their side effects. Thus, the control of food additives in order to protect the best consumer health and to limit fraudulent practices in the field of sports is essential. This paper describes a simple and effective qualitative gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) method to detect anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS): androsterone, nandrolene, dehydroepiandrosterone, 5ɑ-androstane-3β, 17β-diol, dihydrotestosterone, testosterone, methenolone acetate, methandienone, boldenone and fluoxymesterone, in food supplements. Methyltestosterone was used as internal standard. Target compounds were extracted with a mixture of N-pentane and di-ethylether (7.5:2.5, v/v). A good extraction recovery was obtained by our method for all the AAS (R > 88%). Crude extract was derivatized with N-methyl-N-trimethylsilyl-trifluoracetamide. Separation was performed on a GC connected to quadrupole MS detector using a 5% phenylmethylsiloxane fused silica capillary column (30 m × 0.25 mm i.d.; film thickness, 0.25 µm). Helium was used as carrier gas with a flow rate of 0.3 µl min-1 (measured at 6.1 psi 190 °C). The MS was operated in electron ionization mode (70 eV) and in selected ion monitoring (SIM). The mass spectra of the standard compounds were acquired in full SCAN mode (50-700 m/z) by infusion of a reference solution at 50 µg/ml. Three higher diagnostic ions were monitored for each compound of interest. All AAS get separated with good peak shapes and resolution factor. The total analysis time by our optimised method was only 20 min. The developed method was validated according to Laboratories International Standard regulations for specificity, precision in both liquid and solid matrixes, and memory effect. The Tolerance Interval was judged true. The limit of detection was about 10 ng/g for solid samples and 10 ng/ml for liquid samples. The developed method was then applied to the research of steroids in nine Tunisian commercially dietary supplements using for each compound of interest SIM mode for screening then SCAN mode for confirmation. One of the monitoring samples was positive to methandienone not declared on the label. Our analytical method can be beneficial for AAS screening in dietary supplements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hajer Dahmani
- National Laboratory of Medicaments' Control, 13, Road of Jbel Lakhdhar, Bab Saadoun 1006, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Kaouthar Louati
- Scientific Research Department, El-Ain Post, Box N°204, 3042 Sfax, Tunisia.
| | - Adel Hajri
- National Laboratory of Medicaments' Control, 13, Road of Jbel Lakhdhar, Bab Saadoun 1006, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Senda Bahri
- National Laboratory of Medicaments' Control, 13, Road of Jbel Lakhdhar, Bab Saadoun 1006, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Fathi Safta
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, University of Pharmacy, Road Avicenne 5000 Monastir, Tunisia
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Kayapinar O, Ozde C, Koc Ay E, Keskin M, Kaya A. Anterior Myocardial Infarction in a 26-Year-Old Body Builder with Concomitant Use of Whey Protein Powder and Amino Acid Capsules. ACTA CARDIOLOGICA SINICA 2018; 34:359-362. [PMID: 30065575 DOI: 10.6515/acs.201807_34(4).20180306a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - Cem Ozde
- Cardiology, Duzce Medical School Hospital, Duzce
| | - Esra Koc Ay
- Cardiology, Duzce Medical School Hospital, Duzce
| | - Muhammed Keskin
- Cardiology, Sultan Abdulhamid Han Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Adnan Kaya
- Cardiology, Duzce Medical School Hospital, Duzce
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20
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Nandrolone alter left ventricular contractility and promotes remodelling involving calcium-handling proteins and renin-angiotensin system in male SHR. Life Sci 2018; 208:239-245. [PMID: 30040952 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2018.07.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2018] [Revised: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
AIMS Hypertension is a highly prevalent disease that has been correlated to severe organ damage and mortality. However, the role of androgens in hypertension is controversial. The aim of this study was to evaluate the cardiac effects of the nandrolone decanoate (NDL) in male SHR. MAIN METHODS At 12 weeks of age, male SHR rats were separated into three groups: Control (CON), Nandrolone 10 mg/kg twice weekly (NDL), and NDL plus Enalapril 10 mg/kg/day (NDL-E) groups. The animals were treated for 4 weeks. Haemodynamic parameters were acquired through ventricular catheter implantation. The left ventricle was stained with haematoxylin/eosin or picrosirius red. Western blot analysis of TNF-α, ACE, AT1R, β1-AR, PLB, p-PLBser16 and SERCA2a was performed. KEY FINDINGS Nandrolone increased hypertension in SHR rats and enalapril reduced blood pressure to values below those of the control. NDL increased +dP/dtmax, -dP/dtmax and cardiac hypertrophy, which were prevented in the NDL-E group. Cardiac collagen deposition was increased in the NDL group, with this effect being attenuated by enalapril in NDL-E animals. TNF-α, ACE, AT1R and β1-AR proteins were increased in the NDL, and enalapril decreased them, except for TNF-α. The ratio p-PLBser16/PLB revealed an increase after nandrolone, which was prevented in the NDL-E group. The SERCA2a expression protein and SERCA2a/PLB were increased in NDL animals, which did not occur in the NDL-E group. SIGNIFICANCE Nandrolone has distinct effects on cardiac function and remodelling in male SHR, altering the hypertension development process in the heart through modulation of calcium handling proteins and the renin-angiotensin system.
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Baglai A, Blokland MH, Mol HG, Gargano AF, van der Wal S, Schoenmakers PJ. Enhancing detectability of anabolic-steroid residues in bovine urine by actively modulated online comprehensive two-dimensional liquid chromatography – high-resolution mass spectrometry. Anal Chim Acta 2018; 1013:87-97. [DOI: 10.1016/j.aca.2017.12.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2017] [Revised: 12/17/2017] [Accepted: 12/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Almaiman AA, Almaiman SH, Elagamy EI, Al Wutayd O, Almarzuqi M, Alzunaidi R, Alhatlani S, Eid EE. Side effects of anabolic steroids used by athletes at Unaizah Gyms, Saudi Arabia: a pilot study. J Sports Med Phys Fitness 2018; 59:489-495. [PMID: 29687691 DOI: 10.23736/s0022-4707.18.08366-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A large number of Saudi athletes are recently shown to use androgenic anabolic steroid (AAS) products to achieve rapid muscle growth without realizing the serious health risks of these drugs. Aim of this study was to elucidate the side effects encountered with prolonged use of AAS products by Saudi athletes. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted, in which 16 regular gym members, 12 of them used AAS, were asked to answer a questionnaire and provide blood samples following current AAS course completion. Hemoglobin, serum proteins, lipid profile and hematological parameters were measured. Meanwhile, the parameters of kidneys, liver, heart, and immune system function were monitored. RESULTS The subjects reported taking a 3-month course of an AAS comprising three compounds (testosterone enanthate, nandrolone decanoate and methandienone). A two-week gap separated every two courses, during which tamoxifen citrate (40 mg per day) and clomiphene citrate (10 mg per day) were taken to control serum testosterone levels. The intake of AAS one course had remarkable effects on some parameters related to kidney function. However, AAS three courses or more treatments showed abnormal liver and heart enzymes. Moreover, endogenous testosterone levels decreased dramatically with prolonged use of AAS (more than 10 courses). Alpha 2 protein increased by taking more than 10 courses, which might cause acute phase reactant of liver infection or inflammation. CONCLUSIONS AAS products must be controlled by Saudi ministry of health and should not be taken randomly without the supervision of the healthcare professional.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amer A Almaiman
- Department of Applied Medical Sciences, College of Community (Unaizah), Qassim University, Qassim, Saudi Arabia -
| | - Sulaiman H Almaiman
- Laboratory at King Saud Hospital, Ministry of Health, Unaizah, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
| | - Elsayed I Elagamy
- Department of Applied Medical Sciences, College of Community (Unaizah), Qassim University, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
| | - Osama Al Wutayd
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, Unaizah College of Medicine, Qassim University, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammed Almarzuqi
- Department of Applied Medical Sciences, College of Community (Unaizah), Qassim University, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rayyan Alzunaidi
- Laboratory at King Saud Hospital, Ministry of Health, Unaizah, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
| | - Sami Alhatlani
- Laboratory at King Saud Hospital, Ministry of Health, Unaizah, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
| | - Eltayeb E Eid
- Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
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Marocolo M, Silva-Neto JA, Barbosa Neto O. Acute interruption of treatment with nandrolone decanoate is not sufficient to reverse cardiac autonomic dysfunction and ventricular repolarization disturbances in rats. Steroids 2018; 132:12-17. [PMID: 29366731 DOI: 10.1016/j.steroids.2018.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2017] [Revised: 01/10/2018] [Accepted: 01/16/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
Anabolic androgenic steroids are a class of synthetic compounds derived from testosterone, eventually used by athletes, to improve physical performance. However, anabolic steroids can also modify normal cardiovascular function. Thus, we investigated cardiac electrophysiological and autonomic abnormalities in rats, through a electrocardiographic variability protocol during and after interruption of administration of nandrolone decanoate (DECA) anabolic steroid. Twenty male Wistar rats (60-70 days old) received DECA (10 mg. kg-1i.m) once a week or vehicle, during eight weeks. Electrocardiogram was recorded in conscious rats by a noninvasive method, and time and domain analysis of heart rate variability as well as electrocardiogram intervals (QTc / QTd) were performed. Body mass was lower in treated rats compared to control after 4th and 8th weeks, but not at the end of 14th week. QTc and QTd were longer in DECA group compared to control on 4th, 8th, 11th, but equal on 14th week. Cardiac autonomic dysfunction (vagal attenuation) was present on DECA group after 4th week and did not normalize after interruption of treatment. The animals of DECA group showed a correlation between attenuated parasympathetic modulation and increased correct QT interval. Our data allow us to conclude that long-term treatment with DECA impairs autonomic cardiac physiology, predisposing to cardiovascular risk and sudden death, and interruption of administration does not recovery the normality immediately.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moacir Marocolo
- Physiology and Human Performance Research Group, Department of Physiology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Juiz de Fora, Brazil.
| | - Julio A Silva-Neto
- "Paes de Carvalho" Laboratory of Biophysics of Heart, Department of Physiology, Federal University of Sergipe, Aracaju, Brazil
| | - Octávio Barbosa Neto
- Department of Sport Sciences, Federal University of Triângulo Mineiro, Uberaba, Brazil
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Rodrigues JM, Oliveira VPP, P Furlan J, Munhoz AC, S Rempel MR, Brito MN, Brito NA, Pedrosa MMD, M Costa CE. Immediate and residual effects of low-dose nandrolone decanoate and treadmill training on adipose and reproductive tissues of male Wistar rats. Arch Physiol Biochem 2017; 123:68-77. [PMID: 28019124 DOI: 10.1080/13813455.2016.1260592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Residual effects after nandrolone decanoate (ND) treatment are not reported. OBJECTIVE Immediate and residual effects of low-dose ND and treadmill training were investigated. MATERIALS AND METHODS Male rats were trained and/or ND-treated for four weeks and the assessments were made after this period or four weeks later. RESULTS The groups did not differ in final plasma glucose or AUC of the ivGTT, but hyperinsulinemia was noticed in some trained/treated groups. Training with ND increased muscle mass and ND decreased the reproductive structures. Decreased fat with training was reversed by detraining. DISCUSSION The anabolic action of ND on skeletal muscle was enhanced by training. Fat and lipid changes were more linked to training/detraining, but the effects of ND on the reproductive structures persisted after treatment. CONCLUSIONS The effects of training on fat and muscle were not maintained after detraining, but low-dose ND had persistent effects on the reproductive structures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josilene M Rodrigues
- a Academic Specialization in Physiology, State University of Maringá , Maringá, Brazil
| | - Vinicius P P Oliveira
- a Academic Specialization in Physiology, State University of Maringá , Maringá, Brazil
| | - Julia P Furlan
- b Undergraduation in Physical Education, State University of Maringá , Maringá, Brazil
| | - Ana Claudia Munhoz
- c Undergraduation in Biological Sciences, State University of Maringá , Maringá, Brazil
| | - Marcelo R S Rempel
- d Undergraduation in Medicine, State University of Maringá , Maringá, Brazil , and
| | - Marcia N Brito
- e Department of Physiological Sciences , State University of Maringá , Maringá, Brazil
| | - Nilton A Brito
- e Department of Physiological Sciences , State University of Maringá , Maringá, Brazil
| | - Maria M D Pedrosa
- e Department of Physiological Sciences , State University of Maringá , Maringá, Brazil
| | - Cecília E M Costa
- e Department of Physiological Sciences , State University of Maringá , Maringá, Brazil
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Ventricular androgenic-anabolic steroid-related remodeling: an immunohistochemical study. Int J Legal Med 2017; 131:1589-1595. [DOI: 10.1007/s00414-017-1589-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2016] [Accepted: 04/04/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Abstract
Statistics reporting adolescent use of ergogenic agents are staggering. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance, 6.1% of students from grades 9 through 12 had taken illegal anabolic steroids without a prescription one or more times during their lifetime. Additionally, more adolescent athletes are using non–Food and Drug Administration-regulated herbal supplements that claim ergogenic benefits. Many athletes either are unaware of or do not consider the possible health risks caused by these agents. School-based programs for athletes may be successful in preventing the use of ergogenic agents by increasing knowledge about such agents and offering skills in critical thinking to improve decision-making skills.
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Furlanello F, Serdoz LV, Cappato R, De Ambroggi L. Illicit drugs and cardiac arrhythmias in athletes. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 14:487-94. [PMID: 17667636 DOI: 10.1097/hjr.0b013e3280ecfe3e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
The current management of athletes with cardiac arrhythmias has become complicated by the widespread use of illicit drugs, which can be arrhythmogenic.The World Anti-Doping Agency annually updates a list of prohibited substances and methods banned by the International Olympic Committee that includes different classes of substances namely, anabolic androgenic steroids, hormones and related substances, β2-agonists, diuretics, stimulants, narcotics, cannabinoids, glucocorticosteroids, alcohol, β-blockers and others. Almost all illicit drugs may cause, through a direct or indirect arrhythmogenic effect, a wide range of cardiac arrhythmias (focal or reentry type, supraventricular and/or ventricular) that can even be lethal and which are frequently sport activity related.A large use of illicit drugs has been documented in competitive athletes, but the arrhythmogenic effect of specific substances is not precisely known. Precipitation of cardiac arrhythmias, particularly in the presence of a latent electrophysiologic substrate including some inherited cardiomyopathies, at risk of sudden death or due to long-term consumption of the substances, should raise the suspicion that illicit drugs may be a possible cause and lead cardiologists to investigate carefully this relationship and appropriately prevent the clinical consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Furlanello
- Arrhythmias and Electrophysiology Center, Department of Cardiology, IRCCS Policlinico San Donato, University of Milan, Italy.
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Deligiannis A, Björnstad H, Carre F, Heidbüchel H, Kouidi E, Panhuyzen-Goedkoop NM, Pigozzi F, Schänzer W, Vanhees L. ESC Study Group of Sports Cardiology Position Paper on adverse cardiovascular effects of doping in athletes. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2016; 13:687-94. [PMID: 17001206 DOI: 10.1097/01.hjr.0000224482.95597.7a] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
The use of doping substances and methods is extensive not only among elite athletes, but also among amateur and recreational athletes. Many types of drugs are used by athletes to enhance performance, to reduce anxiety, to increase muscle mass, to reduce weight or to mask the use of other drugs during testing. However, the abuse of doping substances and methods has been associated with the occurrence of numerous health side-effects. The adverse effects depend on the type of the consumed drug, as well as the amount and duration of intake and the sensitivity of the body, since there is a large inter-individual variability in responses to a drug. Usually the doses used in sports are much higher than those used for therapeutic purposes and the use of several drugs in combination is frequent, leading to higher risk of side-effects. Among biomedical side-effects of doping, the cardiovascular ones are the most deleterious. Myocardial infarction, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, thrombosis, arrythmogenesis, heart failure and sudden cardiac death have been noted following drug abuse. This paper reviews the literature on the adverse cardiovascular effects after abuse of prohibited substances and methods in athletes, aiming to inform physicians, trainers and athletes and to discourage individuals from using drugs during sports.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asterios Deligiannis
- Laboratory of Sports Medicine, Aristotle University, Thessaloniki, Greece. stergios@ med.auth.gr
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Christou GA, Christou KA, Nikas DN, Goudevenos JA. Acute myocardial infarction in a young bodybuilder taking anabolic androgenic steroids: A case report and critical review of the literature. Eur J Prev Cardiol 2016; 23:1785-1796. [PMID: 27184497 DOI: 10.1177/2047487316651341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2016] [Accepted: 05/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
We describe a case report of a 30-year-old bodybuilder suffering acute myocardial infarction (AMI). He had been taking stanozolol and testosterone for two months. The coronary angiogram showed high thrombotic burden in the left anterior descending artery without underlying atherosclerosis. Few case reports of AMI in athletes taking anabolic androgenic steroids (AASs) have been reported so far. AAS-related AMI is possibly underreported in the medical literature due to the desire of the affected individuals to hide AAS use. Physicians should always consider the possibility of AAS abuse in the context of a young athlete suffering AMI. AASs can predispose to AMI through the acceleration of coronary atherosclerosis. Additionally, thrombosis without underlying atherosclerosis or vasospasm is highly possible to cause AMI in AAS users. Complications after AMI may be more frequent in AAS users.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Dimitrios N Nikas
- First Department of Cardiology, University Hospital of Ioannina, Greece
| | - John A Goudevenos
- First Department of Cardiology, University Hospital of Ioannina, Greece
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Abstract
Doping -the abuse of anabolic-androgenic steroids in particular- is widespread in amateur and recreational sports and does not solely represent a problem of professional sports. Excessive overdose of anabolic steroids is well documented in bodybuilding or powerlifting leading to significant side effects. Cardiovascular damages are most relevant next to adverse endocrine effects.Clinical cases as well as forensic investigations of fatalities or steroid consumption in connection with trafficking of doping agents provide only anecdotal evidence of correlations between side effects and substance abuse. Analytical verification and self-declarations of steroid users have repeatedly confirmed the presumption of weekly dosages between 300 and 2000 mg, extra to the fact that co-administration of therapeutics to treat side-effects represent a routine procedure. Beside the most frequent use of medications used to treat erectile dysfunction or estrogenic side-effects, a substantial number of antihypertensive drugs of various classes, i.e. beta-blockers, diuretics, angiotensin II receptor antagonists, calcium channel blockers, as well as ACE inhibitors were recently confiscated in relevant doping cases. The presumptive correlation between misuse of anabolic steroids and self-treatment of cardiovascular side effects was explicitly confirmed by detailed user statements.Two representative fatalities of bodybuilders were introduced to outline characteristic, often lethal side effects of excessive steroid abuse. Moreover, illustrative autopsy findings of steroid acne, thrombotic occlusion of Ramus interventricularis anterior and signs of cardiac infarctions are presented.A potential steroid abuse should be carefully considered in cases of medical consultations of patients exhibiting apparent constitutional modifications and corresponding adverse effects. Moreover, common self-medications -as frequently applied by steroid consumers- should be taken into therapeutic considerations.
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Vasilaki F, Tsitsimpikou C, Tsarouhas K, Germanakis I, Tzardi M, Kavvalakis M, Ozcagli E, Kouretas D, Tsatsakis AM. Cardiotoxicity in rabbits after long-term nandrolone decanoate administration. Toxicol Lett 2016; 241:143-51. [DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2015.10.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2015] [Revised: 10/26/2015] [Accepted: 10/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
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Brasil GA, Lima EMD, Nascimento AMD, Caliman IF, Medeiros ARSD, Silva MSB, Abreu GRD, Reis AMD, Andrade TUD, Bissoli NS. Nandrolone decanoate induces cardiac and renal remodeling in female rats, without modification in physiological parameters: The role of ANP system. Life Sci 2015; 137:65-73. [DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2015.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2015] [Revised: 05/28/2015] [Accepted: 07/03/2015] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Emer E, Yildiz O, Seyrek M, Demirkol S, Topal T, Kurt B, Sayal A. High-dose testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone induce cardiotoxicity in rats. Hum Exp Toxicol 2015. [DOI: 10.1177/0960327115595706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to assess cardiotoxic effect of testosterone (TES) and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in Sprague Dawley rats. We compared the impact of subacute (14 days) and subchronic (90 days) administration of suprapharmacologic doses of TES and DHEA on body weight, locomotor activity, muscle strength, echocardiographic parameters, heart histopathology, and oxidative stress markers with the control group. Testosterone (10, 30, and 100 mg/100 g body weight) and DHEA (10 mg/100 g body weight) administration decreased the body weights and locomotor activity ( p < 0.05), and the combination of both increased muscle strength ( p < 0.05) in rats. In our histopathological evaluation, misshapen cell nuclei, disorganized myocardial fibers, and leukocytic infiltrates were observed in high-dose TES (100 mg/100 g)-treated rats, especially on day 14. On day 90, mild changes such as misshapen cell nuclei, disorganized myocardial fibers, and leukocytic infiltrates were observed in TES and DHEA-treated groups. According to our echocardiographic study on day 14 and day 90, TES, especially at high doses, induced increase in left ventricular posterior wall diameter and ejection fraction ( p < 0.05). In this study, blood oxidative stress marker malondialdehyde was increased slightly but not significantly in TES and DHEA groups. On the other hand, antioxidant enzymes such as SOD and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px) levels were slightly but not significantly increased in TES and DHEA groups. These data demonstrate that the potential risk to cardiac health due to exogenous androgen use may be related to oxidative stress in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Emer
- Institute of Forensic Sciences, Ankara University, Dikimevi-Ankara, Turkey
| | - O Yildiz
- Department of Pharmacology, Gülhane Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - M Seyrek
- Department of Pharmacology, Gülhane Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - S Demirkol
- Department of Cardiology, Gülhane Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - T Topal
- Department of Physiology, Gülhane Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - B Kurt
- Department of Pathology, Gülhane Faculty of Medicine, Ankara, Turkey
| | - A Sayal
- Center of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gülhane Medical Academy, Ankara, Turkey
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Lusetti M, Licata M, Silingardi E, Reggiani Bonetti L, Palmiere C. Pathological changes in anabolic androgenic steroid users. J Forensic Leg Med 2015; 33:101-4. [PMID: 26048507 DOI: 10.1016/j.jflm.2015.04.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2015] [Revised: 04/08/2015] [Accepted: 04/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Several classes of recreational and prescription drugs have additional effects on the heart and vasculature, which may significantly contribute to morbidity and mortality in chronic users. The study presented herein focuses on pathological changes involving the heart possibly due to anabolic androgenic steroid use. The role these hormones may play in their occurrence of sudden cardiac death is also investigated. 98 medico-legal cases including 6 anabolic androgenic steroid users were retrospectively reviewed. Autopsies, histology, immunohistochemistry, biochemistry and toxicology were performed in all cases. Pathological changes consisted of various degrees of interstitial and perivascular fibrosis as well as fibroadipous metaplasia and perineural fibrosis within the myocardium of the left ventricle. Within the limits of the small number of investigated cases, our results appear to confirm former observations on this topic and suggest anabolic androgenic steroid's potential causative role in the pathogenesis of sudden cardiac deaths in chronic users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monia Lusetti
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine, Clinical and Public Health, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Section of Legal Medicine, Modena, Italy
| | - Manuela Licata
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine, Clinical and Public Health, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Section of Legal Medicine, Modena, Italy
| | - Enrico Silingardi
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine, Clinical and Public Health, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Section of Legal Medicine, Modena, Italy
| | - Luca Reggiani Bonetti
- Department of Diagnostic Medicine, Clinical and Public Health, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Section of Clinical Pathology, Modena, Italy
| | - Cristian Palmiere
- University Center of Legal Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland.
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Frati P, Busardò FP, Cipolloni L, Dominicis ED, Fineschi V. Anabolic Androgenic Steroid (AAS) related deaths: autoptic, histopathological and toxicological findings. Curr Neuropharmacol 2015; 13:146-59. [PMID: 26074749 PMCID: PMC4462039 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x13666141210225414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2014] [Revised: 10/01/2014] [Accepted: 10/25/2014] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Anabolic androgenic steroids (AASs) represent a large group of synthetic derivatives of testosterone, produced to maximize anabolic effects and minimize the androgenic ones. AAS can be administered orally, parenterally by intramuscular injection and transdermally. Androgens act by binding to the nuclear androgen receptor (AR) in the cytoplasm and then translocate into the nucleus. This binding results in sequential conformational changes of the receptor affecting the interaction between receptor and protein, and receptor and DNA. Skeletal muscle can be considered as the main target tissue for the anabolic effects of AAS, which are mediated by ARs which after exposure to AASs are up-regulated and their number increases with body building. Therefore, AASs determine an increase in muscle size as a consequence of a dose-dependent hypertrophy resulting in an increase of the cross-sectional areas of both type I and type II muscle fibers and myonuclear domains. Moreover, it has been reported that AASs can increase tolerance to exercise by making the muscles more capable to overload therefore shielding them from muscle fiber damage and improving the level of protein synthesis during recovery. Despite some therapeutic use of AASs, there is also wide abuse among athletes especially bodybuilders in order to improve their performances and to increase muscle growth and lean body mass, taking into account the significant anabolic effects of these drugs. The prolonged misuse and abuse of AASs can determine several adverse effects, some of which may be even fatal especially on the cardiovascular system because they may increase the risk of sudden cardiac death (SCD), myocardial infarction, altered serum lipoproteins, and cardiac hypertrophy. The aim of this review is to focus on deaths related to AAS abuse, trying to evaluate the autoptic, histopathological and toxicological findings in order to investigate the pathophysiological mechanism that underlines this type of death, which is still obscure in several aspects. The review of the literature allowed us to identify 19 fatal cases between 1990 and 2012, in which the autopsy excluded in all cases, extracardiac causes of death.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paola Frati
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161, Rome, Italy
- Neuromed, Istituto Mediterraneo Neurologico (IRCCS), Via Atinense 18, Pozzilli, 86077 Isernia, Italy
| | - Francesco P. Busardò
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | - Luigi Cipolloni
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Vittorio Fineschi
- Department of Anatomical, Histological, Forensic and Orthopaedic Sciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 336, 00161, Rome, Italy
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Sonmez A, Haymana C, Aydogdu A, Tapan S, Basaran Y, Meric C, Baskoy K, Dinc M, Yazici M, Taslipinar A, Barcin C, Yilmaz MI, Bolu E, Azal O. Endothelial dysfunction, insulin resistance and inflammation in congenital hypogonadism, and the effect of testosterone replacement. Endocr J 2015; 62:605-13. [PMID: 25924666 DOI: 10.1507/endocrj.ej15-0125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Patients with hypogonadism have poor cardiovascular and metabolic outcomes, and the effect of testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) is not clear. We investigated the presence of inflammation, insulin resistance and endothelial dysfunction in an unconfounded population of congenital hypogonadotrophic hypogonadism (CHH) and the effect of TRT on these subjects. A total of 60 patients with CHH (mean age 21.82±2.22 years) and 70 healthy control subjects (mean age 21.32±1.13 years) were enrolled. The demographic parameters, Asymmetric dimethylarginine (ADMA), TNF-like weak inducer of apoptosis (TWEAK), high sensitive C reactive protein (hs-CRP) and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) levels were measured before and after TRT. The patients had higher Waist Circumferences (WC) (p=0.009), Diastolic Blood Pressures (p=0.02), Triglycerides (p=0.03), ADMA, insulin and HOMA-IR levels (p<0.001 for all) and lower TWEAK levels (p<0.001), compared to the healthy controls. After 5.56 ± 2.04 months of TRT, the patients had significantly elevated systolic blood pressures (p=0.01), body mass indexes and WC (p<0.001 and p=0.001 respectively) and decreased total and HDL cholesterol levels (p=0.032 and p<0.001 respectively). ADMA levels significantly increased (p=0.003), while the alterations in TWEAK, hsCRP and HOMA-IR were not significant. The results of the present study show that endothelial dysfunction, inflammation and insulin resistance are prevalent even in the very young subjects with CHH, who have no metabolic or cardiac problems at present. This increased cardiometabolic risk however, do not improve but even get worse after six months of TRT. Long term follow-up studies are warranted to investigate the unfavorable cardiometabolic effects of TRT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alper Sonmez
- Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Gulhane School of Medicine, 06018 Etlik Ankara, TURKEY
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Pope HG, Wood RI, Rogol A, Nyberg F, Bowers L, Bhasin S. Adverse health consequences of performance-enhancing drugs: an Endocrine Society scientific statement. Endocr Rev 2014; 35:341-75. [PMID: 24423981 PMCID: PMC4026349 DOI: 10.1210/er.2013-1058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 339] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Despite the high prevalence of performance-enhancing drug (PED) use, media attention has focused almost entirely on PED use by elite athletes to illicitly gain a competitive advantage in sports, and not on the health risks of PEDs. There is a widespread misperception that PED use is safe or that adverse effects are manageable. In reality, the vast majority of PED users are not athletes but rather nonathlete weightlifters, and the adverse health effects of PED use are greatly underappreciated. This scientific statement synthesizes available information on the medical consequences of PED use, identifies gaps in knowledge, and aims to focus the attention of the medical community and policymakers on PED use as an important public health problem. PED users frequently consume highly supraphysiologic doses of PEDs, combine them with other PEDs and/or other classical drugs of abuse, and display additional associated risk factors. PED use has been linked to an increased risk of death and a wide variety of cardiovascular, psychiatric, metabolic, endocrine, neurologic, infectious, hepatic, renal, and musculoskeletal disorders. Because randomized trials cannot ethically duplicate the large doses of PEDs and the many factors associated with PED use, we need observational studies to collect valid outcome data on the health risks associated with PEDs. In addition, we need studies regarding the prevalence of PED use, the mechanisms by which PEDs exert their adverse health effects, and the interactive effects of PEDs with sports injuries and other high-risk behaviors. We also need randomized trials to assess therapeutic interventions for treating the adverse effects of PEDs, such as the anabolic-androgen steroid withdrawal syndrome. Finally, we need to raise public awareness of the serious health consequences of PEDs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harrison G Pope
- McLean Hospital (H.G.P.), Harvard Medical School, Belmont, Massachusetts 02478; University of Southern California (R.I.W.), Los Angeles, California 90089; University of Virginia (A.R.), Charlottesville, Virginia 22904; Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, (F.N.), Upsala University, SE-751 24, Upsala, Sweden; United States Anti-Doping Agency (L.B.), Colorado Springs, Colorado 80919; and Brigham and Women's Hospital (S.B.), Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts 02115
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Marques-Neto SR, Ferraz EB, Rodrigues DC, Njaine B, Rondinelli E, Campos de Carvalho AC, Nascimento JHM. AT1 and aldosterone receptors blockade prevents the chronic effect of nandrolone on the exercise-induced cardioprotection in perfused rat heart subjected to ischemia and reperfusion. Cardiovasc Drugs Ther 2014; 28:125-35. [PMID: 24258356 DOI: 10.1007/s10557-013-6503-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Myocardial tolerance to ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is improved by exercise training, but this cardioprotection is impaired by the chronic use of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS). The present study evaluated whether blockade of angiotensin II receptor (AT1-R) with losartan and aldosterone receptor (mineralocorticoid receptor, MR) with spironolactone could prevent the deleterious effect of AAS on the exercise-induced cardioprotection. METHODS AND RESULTS Male Wistar rats were exercised and treated with either vehicle, nandrolone decanoate (10 mg/kg/week i.m.) or the same dose of nandrolone plus losartan or spironolactone (20 mg/kg/day orally) for 8 weeks. Langendorff-perfused hearts were subjected to I/R and evaluated for the postischaemic recovery of left ventricle (LV) function and infarct size. mRNA and protein expression of angiotensin II type 1 receptor (AT1-R), mineralocorticoid receptor (MR), and KATP channels were determined by reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting. Postischaemic recovery of LV function was better and infarct size was smaller in the exercised rat hearts than in the sedentary rat hearts. Nandrolone impaired the exercise-induced cardioprotection, but this effect was prevented by losartan (AT1-R antagonist) and spironolactone (MR antagonist) treatments. Myocardial AT1-R and MR expression levels were increased, and the expression of the KATP channel subunits SUR2a and Kir6.1 was decreased and Kir6.2 increased in the nandrolone-treated rat hearts. The nandrolone-induced changes of AT1-R, MR, and KATP subunits expression was normalized by the losartan and spironolactone treatments. CONCLUSION The chronic nandrolone treatment impairs the exercise-induced cardioprotection against ischaemia/reperfusion injury by activating the cardiac renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and downregulating KATP channel expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvio Rodrigues Marques-Neto
- Laboratório de Eletrofisiologia Cardíaca Antonio Paes de Carvalho, Instituto de Biofísica Carlos Chagas Filho, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Av. Carlos Chagas Filho, 373, CCS, Bloco G, 21.941-902, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Darke S, Torok M, Duflou J. Sudden or Unnatural Deaths Involving Anabolic-androgenic Steroids. J Forensic Sci 2014; 59:1025-8. [DOI: 10.1111/1556-4029.12424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2012] [Revised: 04/25/2013] [Accepted: 05/24/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Shane Darke
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre; University of New South Wales; Sydney NSW 2052 Australia
| | - Michelle Torok
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre; University of New South Wales; Sydney NSW 2052 Australia
| | - Johan Duflou
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre; University of New South Wales; Sydney NSW 2052 Australia
- Department of Forensic Medicine; South Western Sydney Local Health District; PO Box 90 Glebe NSW 2037 Australia
- School of Medical Sciences; University of New South Wales; Sydney NSW 2052 Australia
- Sydney Medical School; University of Sydney; NSW 2008 Australia
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Hyperhomocysteinemia-induced myocardial infarction in a young male using anabolic steroids. Am J Emerg Med 2014; 32:948.e1-2. [PMID: 24650717 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajem.2014.01.041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2014] [Accepted: 01/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
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Olivares EL, Silveira ALB, Fonseca FV, Silva-Almeida C, Côrtes RS, Pereira-Junior PP, Nascimento JHM, Reis LC. Administration of an anabolic steroid during the adolescent phase changes the behavior, cardiac autonomic balance and fluid intake in male adult rats. Physiol Behav 2013; 126:15-24. [PMID: 24382485 DOI: 10.1016/j.physbeh.2013.12.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2013] [Revised: 11/25/2013] [Accepted: 12/17/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Few data are available on adolescent users because most behavioral studies on anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) abuse have been performed in adults. Studies evaluating the impact of long-term effects of AAS abuse on the prepubertal phase are even more uncommon. Accordingly, this study was developed to test the hypothesis that changes induced by the use of AAS during the adolescent phase may be noted in the adult phase even when the AAS treatment cycle is discontinued. Therefore, not only behavioral changes but also possible autonomic and electrolyte disorders were evaluated. For this purpose, we used male prepubertal, 26-day-old (P26) Wistar rats that were treated with vehicle (control, n=10) or testosterone propionate (TP; 5 mg/kg intramuscular (IM) injection, AAS, n=10) five times per week for 5 weeks, totaling 25 applications during the treatment. Aggression tests were performed at the end of the cycle (P54-56), whereas open-field tests (OFTs), elevated plus maze (EPM) behavioral tests and measurements of heart rate variability (HRV), fluid intake and pathology were conducted in the adult phase (P87-92). The AAS group showed greater aggressiveness in the pubertal phase and higher levels of horizontal and vertical exploration and anxiety-related behavior in the adult phase than the control group (P<0.05). HRV tests showed an increase in sympathetic autonomic modulation, and hydroelectrolytic assessment showed lower basal intake levels of hypertonic saline than the control group (P<0.05), without statistically significant changes in the basal intake of water. These data together suggest that the use of AAS during the prepubertal phase induces behavioral, autonomic and hydroelectrolytic changes that manifest in the adult phase even when treatment is discontinued in late adolescence in rats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emerson L Olivares
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biology, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| | - Anderson L B Silveira
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biology, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Fabricia V Fonseca
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biology, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Claudio Silva-Almeida
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biology, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Rafael S Côrtes
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biology, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Pedro P Pereira-Junior
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Laboratory Carlos Chagas Filho, Biophysics Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Jose H M Nascimento
- Cardiac Electrophysiology Laboratory Carlos Chagas Filho, Biophysics Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Luis C Reis
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biology, Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Ozdemir O, Bozkurt I, Ozdemir M, Yavuz O. Side effect of metenolone enanthate on rats heart in puberty: morphometrical study. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 65:745-50. [PMID: 23280519 DOI: 10.1016/j.etp.2012.09.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2012] [Revised: 07/25/2012] [Accepted: 09/19/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was the investigation of effects of the metenolone enanthate (ME) that is used among athletes as doping and muscle amplifier, on hearts of male and female rats that are in puberty using morphometrical methods. A total of 36 rats which were divided into three separate groups (Experiment, ME; vehicle, PO; control, C) each consisting of 6 male and 6 female rats were used. 0.5 mg/kg metenolone enanthate was applied intraperitoneally into experiment subjects 5 times a week over a period of 4 weeks. At the end of experiment, rats were euthanized and their hearts were cut at the level of musculus papillaris after the fixation in formalin. Hearts were taken out and embedded in paraffin wax. Photos were taken at cut surfaces, and thickness, diameters and surface area levels were measured. Left ventriculus mass (LVM) and left ventriculus mass index (LVMI) were calculated. In the study LVM (p<0.005) and LVMI (p<0.05) were found to be significantly higher in the ME group in females whereas left ventricular lumen diameter (LVLD) were found to be significantly lower (p<0.05). Thus left ventricular hypertrophy development was observed. LVM and LVMI were found to be similar in ME and C groups among male rats and the highest level of these data were found in the group. LVM and LVMI were higher among females (p<0.006). In conclusion, it has been shown that the adverse effects of ME on heart were developing starting from puberty and resulting with the enlargement of the heart and left ventricular hypertrophy and especially among females this condition was more evident. It has also been discussed that the continuous use of drugs may further enhance this condition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ozgur Ozdemir
- Selcuk University Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Department of Pathology, 42079, Campus, Konya, Turkey.
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Chimento A, Sirianni R, Zolea F, De Luca A, Lanzino M, Catalano S, Andò S, Pezzi V. Nandrolone and stanozolol induce Leydig cell tumor proliferation through an estrogen-dependent mechanism involving IGF-I system. J Cell Physiol 2012; 227:2079-88. [PMID: 21769864 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.22936] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Several substances such as anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS), peptide hormones like insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I), aromatase inhibitors and estrogen antagonists are offered via the Internet, and are assumed without considering the potential deleterious effects that can be caused by their administration. In this study we aimed to determine if nandrolone and stanozolol, two commonly used AAS, could have an effect on Leydig cell tumor proliferation and if their effects could be potentiated by the concomitant use of IGF-I. Using a rat Leydig tumor cell line, R2C cells, as experimental model we found that nandrolone and stanozolol caused a dose-dependent induction of aromatase expression and estradiol (E2) production. When used in combination with IGF-I they were more effective than single molecules in inducing aromatase expression. AAS exhibited estrogenic activity and induced rapid estrogen receptor (ER)-dependent pathways involving IGF1R, AKT, and ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Inhibitors for these kinases decreased AAS-dependent aromatase expression. Up-regulated aromatase levels and related E2 production increased cell proliferation as a consequence of increased cyclin E expression. The observation that ER antagonist ICI182,780 was also able to significantly reduce ASS- and AAS + IGF-induced cell proliferation, confirmed a role for estrogens in AAS-dependent proliferative effects. Taken together these data clearly indicate that the use of high doses of AAS, as it occurs in doping practice, enhances Leydig cell proliferation, increasing the risk of tumor development. This risk is higher when AAS are used in association with IGF-I. To our knowledge this is the first report directly associating AAS and testicular cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adele Chimento
- Department of Pharmaco-Biology, University of Calabria, Cosenza, Italy
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Angell P, Chester N, Green D, Somauroo J, Whyte G, George K. Anabolic Steroids and Cardiovascular Risk. Sports Med 2012; 42:119-34. [DOI: 10.2165/11598060-000000000-00000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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Montisci M, El Mazloum R, Cecchetto G, Terranova C, Ferrara SD, Thiene G, Basso C. Anabolic androgenic steroids abuse and cardiac death in athletes: morphological and toxicological findings in four fatal cases. Forensic Sci Int 2011; 217:e13-8. [PMID: 22047750 DOI: 10.1016/j.forsciint.2011.10.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2011] [Revised: 10/05/2011] [Accepted: 10/06/2011] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are the main class of doping agents and their consumption produces adverse effects involving several organs and systems. Three cases of sudden cardiac death (SCD) and one of death due to congestive heart failure of previously healthy athletes who were AAS users are herein reported. Concentric cardiac hypertrophy with focal fibrosis (one case), dilated cardiomyopathy with patchy myocyte death (two cases) and eosinophilic myocarditis (one case) were observed and most probably relate to the final event. Molecular investigation for viral genomes was positive in one case (Ebstein virus). Our data confirm previous findings, showing that the most typical cardiac abnormality in AAS abusers is left ventricular hypertrophy, associated with fibrosis and myocytolysis. An exceptional cardiovascular substrate was represented by the case with drug induced eosinophilic myocarditis. These features are at risk of ventricular arrhythmias as well as congestive heart failure. The cause-effect relationship between AAS abuse and cardiac death can be established only by a rigorous methodology with the use of standardized protocols, including precise morphological studies of all target organs to search for chronic toxic effects. Laboratory investigations should focus on AAS searching on a wide range of biological matrices to demonstrate type, magnitude and time of exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Massimo Montisci
- Department of Environmental Medicine and Public Health, Section of Legal Medicine, University of Padua Medical School, Via G. Falloppio 50, 35121 Padova, Italy.
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Deegan RJ, Furman WR. Cardiovascular Manifestations of Endocrine Dysfunction. J Cardiothorac Vasc Anesth 2011; 25:705-20. [DOI: 10.1053/j.jvca.2010.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2010] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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Youssef MYZ, Alqallaf A, Abdella N. Anabolic androgenic steroid-induced cardiomyopathy, stroke and peripheral vascular disease. BMJ Case Rep 2011; 2011:bcr.12.2010.3650. [PMID: 22693308 DOI: 10.1136/bcr.12.2010.3650] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Acute stroke could be the presentation of unrecognised cardiomyopathy postanabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) abuse. A 39-year-old male patient displayed signs of acute stroke, which were associated with AAS abuse over the last 3 years. Despite the absence of symptoms and signs of congestive heart failure at presentation, AAS-induced cardiomyopathy with a thrombus in the left ventricle was discovered to be the aetiology of his stroke and peripheral vascular disease. Awareness of the complications of AAS led to the prompt treatment of the initially unrecognised dilated cardiomyopathy, and stroke.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maged Y Z Youssef
- Department of General Internal Medicine, Mubarak Al Kabeer Teaching Hospital, Kuwait University, Kuwait.
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Bruder-Nascimento T, Cordellini S. Vascular adaptive responses to physical exercise and to stress are affected differently by nandrolone administration. Braz J Med Biol Res 2011; 44:337-44. [PMID: 21445526 DOI: 10.1590/s0100-879x2011007500043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2010] [Accepted: 02/18/2011] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Androgenic anabolic steroid, physical exercise and stress induce cardiovascular adaptations including increased endothelial function. The present study investigated the effects of these conditions alone and in combination on the vascular responses of male Wistar rats. Exercise was started at 8 weeks of life (60-min swimming sessions 5 days per week for 8 weeks, while carrying a 5% body-weight load). One group received nandrolone (5 mg/kg, twice per week for 8 weeks, im). Acute immobilization stress (2 h) was induced immediately before the experimental protocol. Curves for noradrenaline were obtained for thoracic aorta, with and without endothelium from sedentary and trained rats, submitted or not to stress, treated or not with nandrolone. None of the procedures altered the vascular reactivity to noradrenaline in denuded aorta. In intact aorta, stress and exercise produced vascular adaptive responses characterized by endothelium-dependent hyporeactivity to noradrenaline. These conditions in combination did not potentiate the vascular adaptive response. Exercise-induced vascular adaptive response was abolished by nandrolone. In contrast, the aortal reactivity to noradrenaline of sedentary rats and the vascular adaptive response to stress of sedentary and trained rats were not affected by nandrolone. Maximum response for 7-10 rats/group (g): sedentary 3.8 ± 0.2 vs trained 3.0 ± 0.2*; sedentary/stress 2.7 ± 0.2 vs trained/stress 3.1 ± 0.1*; sedentary/nandrolone 3.6 ± 0.1 vs trained/nandrolone 3.8 ± 0.1; sedentary/stress/nandrolone 3.2 ± 0.1 vs trained/stress/nandrolone 2.5 ± 0.1*; *P < 0.05 compared to its respective control. Stress and physical exercise determine similar vascular adaptive response involving distinct mechanisms as indicated by the observation that only the physical exercise-induced adaptive response was abolished by nandrolone.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Bruder-Nascimento
- Departamento de Farmacologia, Instituto de Biociências, Universidade Estadual Paulista "Júlio de Mesquita Filho", Botucatu, SP, Brasil
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