Life Glow Plus Super Life Glow Life Glow Basic Bone Dense Calcium Taheebo Life Tea Germanium Colloidal Minerals Methyl Sulfonyl Methane Transfer Factor Immune Egg	Vibrant Life Home Web All VL Products Family Of Three Chelation Formulas Oral Chelation Ingredient Comparisons The Wednesday Letter Karl Loren Viewpoints Frequently Asked Questions Testimonials Free Radicals Central Page For 18 Web Sites	Vibrant Life Home Page Shopping Cart	Separate Search Page or search below
Navigation Help	Karl Loren Background	Ingredients Technical	Write To Karl Loren	Table Of Contents

DHEA

Summary

This is a summary and linking page for other pages on this web site relating to the substance called DHEA

Click on the image to go to the page which links to all the other pages on this web site on the subject of "oral chelation."  DHEA is an important ingredient in the Super Life Glow oral chelation formula.

Top Of Menu

HealthGate Documents

Record 1 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu

Title

Replacement of dehydroepiandrosterone enhances T-lymphocyte insulin binding in postmenopausal women.

Author

Casson PR; Faquin LC; Stentz FB; Straughn AB; Andersen RN; Abraham GE; Buster JE

Address

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tennessee, Memphis, USA.

Source

Fertil Steril, 1995 May, 63:5, 1027-31

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate bioavailability of 3 weeks of oral micronized DHEA and to delineate changes induced on insulin sensitivity, morphometric indexes, and lipoprotein profiles. DESIGN: Oral micronized DHEa (50 mg/d) was administered in 3-week treatments to 11 postmenopausal women in a prospective, placebo-controlled, randomized, blinded, crossover trial with an interarm washout. After dose (23 hour) serum DHEA, DHEAS, T, and cortisol levels were measured, as were fasting lipoproteins, oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTT), T-lymphocyte insulin binding and degradation, and urine collagen cross-links. Morphometric changes were determined by hydrostatic weighing. RESULTS: Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, DHEA, T, and free T increased up to two times premenopausal levels with treatment. Fasting triglycerides declined; no change in collagen cross-links or morphometric indexes was noted. Oral glucose tolerance test parameters did not change, but both T-lymphocyte insulin binding and degradation increased with DHEA. CONCLUSION: Fifty milligrams per day of oral DHEA gives suprahysiologic androgen levels; 25 mg/d may be more appropriate. Dehydroepiandrosterone enhanced tissue insulin sensitivity and lowered serum triglycerides. Rationale is provided for postmenopausal replacement therapy with this androgen.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

95237422

MeSH Heading (Major)

Insulin|*BL; Postmenopause|*PH; Prasterone|AA/AD/BL/*TU; T-Lymphocytes|*ME

MeSH Heading

Aged; Body Mass Index; Bone and Bones|ME; Cross-Over Studies; Female; Glucose Tolerance Test; Human; Middle Age; Placebos; Prospective Studies; Support, Non-U.S. Gov't; Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.; Testosterone|BL; Triglycerides|BL

Publication Type

CLINICAL TRIAL; JOURNAL ARTICLE; RANDOMIZED CONTROLLED TRIAL

ISSN

0015-0282

Country of Publication

UNITED STATES

Record 2 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu

Title

A review of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA).

Author

Shealy CN

Address

Shealy Institute, Springfield, MO 65803, USA.

Source

Integr Physiol Behav Sci, 1995 Sep, 30:4, 308-13

Abstract

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is quantitatively the most abundant hormone in humans and mammals, with a wide variety of physiological effects, including major regulatory effects upon the immune system. Two of the most striking aspects of DHEA are a steady decline in DHEA with age and a significant deficiency in DHEA in patients with several major diseases, including cancer, atherosclerosis, and Alzheimer's disease. The hormone is secreted in a non-sulfated (DHEA) and sulfated form (DHEA-S). The two are apparently interchangeable, and it appears likely that its physiological effects are achieved by derivative molecules that have yet to be identified.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

96380214

MeSH Heading (Major)

Prasterone|DF/ME/*PH/TU

MeSH Heading

Animal; Human

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE; REVIEW; REVIEW, TUTORIAL

ISSN

1053-881X

Country of Publication

UNITED STATES

Record 3 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu

Title

Differences in androgens of HIV positive patients with and without Kaposi sarcoma.

Author

Christeff N; Winter C; Gharakhanian S; Thobie N; Wirbel E; Costagliola D; Nunez EA; Rozenbaum W

Address

U224, INSERM affiliÆee au CNRS, FacultÆe de MÆedecine X Bichat BP, Paris, France.

Source

J Clin Pathol, 1995 Jun, 48:6, 513-8

Abstract

AIM--Since most forms of Kaposi sarcoma are much more common in men than in women, the aim of this study was to examine serum concentrations of sex steroids in HIV positive men with and without Kaposi sarcoma. METHODS--Blood samples from 34 HIV positive men without Kaposi sarcoma (KS-) and 28 with Kaposi sarcoma (KS+) and from 35 HIV negative men (controls) were analysed for adrenal and gonadal steroids. Further analysis was done in subgroups classified by CD4 lymphocyte counts. RESULTS--KS+ patients had significantly higher serum dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and testosterone concentrations than the KS- patients, and their DHEA, DHEA sulphate, testosterone, and androstenedione values were higher than in the controls. The KS+ patients with more than 500 CD4 lymphocytes per mm3 had significantly higher serum DHEA, DHEA sulphate, and testosterone than the KS- patients with the same CD4 counts; those with 500-200 CD4 cells/mm3 had higher serum DHEA and testosterone than the equivalent KS- men; and those with < 200 CD4 cells/mm3 had raised DHEA only compared with KS- men. Both KS+ and KS- men had higher serum progesterone and oestradiol than the controls. Glucocorticoids were not significantly altered. CONCLUSIONS--The high androgen levels in KS+ patients, particularly in the early stages of the disease (> 500 CD4 cells/mm3), may affect the immune system by inducing an abnormal cytokine profile, or by increasing T8 proliferation and activation, or both. This raises the question of the relationship between androgens and Kaposi sarcoma.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

95395054

MeSH Heading (Major)

Androgens|*BL; HIV Infections|*BL; Sarcoma, Kaposi|*BL/IM

MeSH Heading

Adult; Androstenedione|BL; Comparative Study; CD4 Lymphocyte Count; Human; Male; Middle Age; Prasterone|AA/BL; Radioimmunoassay; Support, Non-U.S. Gov't; Testosterone|BL

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0021-9746

Country of Publication

ENGLAND

Record 4 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu

Title

Dehydroepiandrosterone and insulinaemia.

Author

Svacina S; Sonka J; Haas T

Address

IIIrd Dept. of Internal Medicine, 1st Medical Faculty, Charles Universtiy, Prague, Czech Republic.

Source

Sb Lek, 1995, 96:4, 303-6

Abstract

Low dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and hyperinsulinaemia are assumed to be risk factors of atherosclerosis. Exogenous hyperinsulinaemia during hyperinsulinaemic clamp decreases DHEA. We have evaluated interaction of these hormones during 2 weeks of therapeutic starvation in 11 obese patients (mean BMI 41.2 kg/m2), 5 nondiabetics and 6 diabetics with diet only therapy. Comparing diabetics with normals we have found no differences in BMI and blood DHEA, DHEAS and insulin levels. We have found a light implication of negative correlation of insulin to DHEA and DHEAS level in diabetics (r = -0.71, -0.73, p = 0.16, 0.18). During starvation insulinaemia is declining, DHEA initial increase is followed by a decrease (r = 0.93, p = 0.01). We conclude that insulin decrease during starvation could be a cause of DHEA decrease. This finding is unexpected according to the potential of exogenous insulin to suppress DHEA. Further investigation of endogenous DHEA and insulin relation is necessary.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

96313636

MeSH Heading (Major)

Atherosclerosis|*BL; Insulin|*BL; Prasterone|AA/BL/*DF

MeSH Heading

Human; Obesity|BL; Obesity in Diabetes|BL; Risk Factors; Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0036-5327

Country of Publication

CZECH REPUBLIC

Record 5 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu

Title

Human dehydroepiandrosterone sulfotransferase. Purification, molecular cloning, and characterization.

Author

Falany CN; Comer KA; Dooley TP; Glatt H

Address

Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Alabama at Birmingham 35294, USA.

Source

Ann N Y Acad Sci, 1995 Dec, 774:, 59-72

Abstract

Human tissues possess at least four distinct forms of cytosolic ST, three of which are involved in the sulfation of steroids. DHEA-ST is responsible for the majority of hydroxysteroid and bile acid sulfation in human tissues and abundant levels of the enzyme are present in human liver and adrenal tissues. In the adult human adrenal, DHEA-ST has been localized immunologically to the zona reticularis of the adrenal cortex. No age- or gender-related differences in the expression of DHEA-ST activity in adult human liver cytosols have been reported. The cDNA encoding DHEA-ST has been isolated from a human liver cDNA library and expressed in both mammalian COS cells and E. coli. Purification and molecular characterization studies suggest a single form of DHEA-ST in human tissues. The properties of DHEA-ST expressed in either mammalian or bacterial cells are very similar to those of the native enzyme. DHEA-ST can also bioactivate a number of procarcinogens to reactive electrophilic forms. Hydroxymethyl PAHs are sulfated and bioactivated at a relatively rapid rate by DHEA-ST, whereas 1'-hydroxysafrole and N-hydroxy-2-acetylaminofluorene are bioactivated to a lesser extent.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

96170332

MeSH Heading (Major)

Sulfotransferases|CH/GE/IP/*ME

MeSH Heading

Adrenal Glands|EN; Adult; Amino Acid Sequence; Animal; Arylsulfotransferase|CH; Human; Liver|EN; Molecular Sequence Data; Prasterone|AA/ME; Rats; Sequence Alignment; Substrate Specificity; Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0077-8923

Country of Publication

UNITED STATES

Record 6 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu

Title

Effect of dehydroepiandrosterone on glucose uptake in cultured human fibroblasts.

Author

Nakashima N; Haji M; Sakai Y; Ono Y; Umeda F; Nawata H

Address

Third Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan.

Source

Metabolism, 1995 Apr, 44:4, 543-8

Abstract

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulfate derivative (DHEA-S) reportedly have antidiabetic and antiobesity effects. The effect of DHEA on glucose uptake in cultured human fibroblasts was examined. Incubation of cells with supraphysiologic concentrations of DHEA (10(-5) mol/L) for > or = 10 hours enhanced 2-deoxyglucose (2-DG) uptake significantly (P < .05). Supraphysiologic concentrations of insulin (10(-7) mol/L) increased the sensitivity of glucose uptake to DHEA. Conversely, the sensitivity of glucose uptake to insulin was increased by incubating cells with 10(-6) mol/L DHEA. Both the abundance of transcripts encoding glucose transporter-1 (Glut-1) and the maximal velocity (Vmax) of 2-DG transport were increased in cultured fibroblasts incubated with DHEA. Cultured fibroblasts expressed a specific binding factor with low affinity for [3H]DHEA (maximal number of binding sites, 18,496 sites per cell; Kd, 298 nmol/L). Other androgen hormones exerted a less-marked effect on glucose uptake; DHEA-S had no effect. These results suggested that DHEA increases Glut-1 mRNA through binding to a specific factor in cultured human fibroblasts and thereby stimulates glucose uptake in these cells.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

95240462

MeSH Heading (Major)

Fibroblasts|*ME; Glucose|*ME; Prasterone|AA/ME/*PD; Skin|CY/*ME

MeSH Heading

Adult; Binding Sites; Cells, Cultured; Deoxyglucose|PK; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Female; Human; Male; Monosaccharide Transport Proteins|GE; RNA, Messenger|ME

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0026-0495

Country of Publication

UNITED STATES

Record 7 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu

Title

Effects of insulin reduction with benfluorex on serum dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), DHEA sulfate, and blood pressure in hypertensive middle-aged and elderly men.

Author

Nestler JE; Beer NA; Jakubowicz DJ; Colombo C; Beer RM

Address

Department of Internal Medicine, Medical College of Virginia/Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond 23298.

Source

J Clin Endocrinol Metab, 1995 Feb, 80:2, 700-6

Abstract

To determine whether a reduction in insulinemia would be associated with a rise in serum dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) sulfate in insulin-resistant men, 29 middle-aged (30-59 yr old) and 28 elderly (60-80 yr old) hypertensive men were enrolled into a single blind, placebo-controlled study, in which benfluorex was administered to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce circulating insulin. Men in each age group received either benfluorex (150 mg) or placebo three times daily for 6 weeks, and fasting serum insulin, glucose, DHEA, DHEA sulfate, and cortisol were determined before and after treatment. Glucose tolerance was also assessed by an oral glucose tolerance test. Benfluorex treatment lowered diastolic and systolic blood pressures and improved glucose tolerance in both age groups. In middle-aged men, benfluorex (n = 12) reduced both the area under the curve for glucose (AUCGLUCOSE; from 977 +/- 27 to 814 +/- 27 mmol/L.min; P = 0.0001) and the AUCINSULIN (from 78.1 +/- 7.9 to 44.5 +/- 5.7 nmol/L.min; P < 0.0001) during the oral glucose tolerance test. In elderly men, benfluorex (n = 15) also reduced both the AUCGLUCOSE (from 1100 +/- 60 to 864 +/- 26 mmol/L.min; P < 0.0001) and the AUCINSULIN (from 88.9 +/- 5.6 to 44.8 +/- 5.8 nmol/L.min; P < 0.0001). Concurrent with the reduction in insulinemia, benfluorex treatment was associated with rises in both serum DHEA sulfate and unconjugated DHEA. In middle-aged men, serum DHEA sulfate and DHEA rose from 6.80 +/- 0.75 to 10.52 +/- 1.02 mumol/L (P < 0.015) and from 13.69 +/- 1.95 to 22.78 +/- 2.90 nmol/L (P < 0.03), respectively. In elderly men, serum DHEA sulfate and DHEA rose from 5.16 +/- 0.67 to 8.36 +/- 1.21 mumol/L (P < 0.015) and from 8.47 +/- 0.99 to 22.61 +/- 3.24 nmol/L (P < 0.0005), respectively. In neither middle-aged nor elderly men did serum cortisol change with benfluorex treatment. Neither glucose tolerance nor serum DHEA, DHEA sulfate, or cortisol levels changed in either middle-aged (n = 17) or elderly (n = 13) men treated with placebo. We conclude that benfluorex treatment lowers blood pressure, improves glucose tolerance, reduces the glucose-stimulated insulin response, and increases serum DHEA and DHEA sulfate in both middle-aged and elderly men.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 400 WORDS)

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

95155565

MeSH Heading (Major)

Aging|*PH; Androgens|*BL; Blood Pressure|*DE; Fenfluramine|*AA/TU; Hypertension|BL/*DT/PP; Insulin Antagonists|*TU

MeSH Heading

Aged; Antilipemic Agents|TU; Blood Glucose|AN; Human; Hydrocortisone|BL; Male; Middle Age; Placebos; Prasterone|AA/BL; Support, Non-U.S. Gov't; Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

Publication Type

CLINICAL TRIAL; JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0021-972X

Country of Publication

UNITED STATES

Record 8 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu

Title

Steroid gradients across the cancerous breast: an index of altered steroid metabolism in breast cancer?

Author

Massobrio M; Migliardi M; Cassoni P; Menzaghi C; Revelli A; Cenderelli G

Address

Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Torino, Italy.

Source

J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol, 1994 Nov, 51:3-4, 175-81

Abstract

The concentrations of 17 beta-estradiol, estrone, testosterone (T), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate, androstenedione (A), cortisol and prolactin (PRL) were determined in the peripheral venous blood and in the lateral thoracic vein of 14 premenopausal and 34 postmenopausal women who underwent surgery for a breast carcinoma. The difference between the two blood samples, defined as concentration gradient across the cancerous breast, was calculated for all hormones. A significant peripheral-local concentration gradient was found for DHEA and A both in pre- and postmenopausal patients, whereas for T it was observed only in postmenopausal subjects. Furthermore, DHEA and A gradients were correlated to the presence of estrogen receptors as determined by a radioligand binding assay. An inverse relationship between DHEA gradient and the expression of estrogen receptors was observed in premenopausal women, whereas in postmenopausal patients an opposite, although not significant, trend was found. These results suggest that in the cancerous breast: (1) DHEA, A and T (the latter only in postmenopause) could be taken up from plasma, and thus there could be a storage of these steroids inside the breast tissue and/or perhaps some alterations in their local metabolism; (2) androgens could play a different role in breast carcinogenesis in relation to the estrogen circulating levels and to the expression of estrogen receptors.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

95071925

MeSH Heading (Major)

Breast Neoplasms|BL/*ME; Steroids|BL/*ME

MeSH Heading

Adult; Aged; Androstenedione|ME; Estradiol|ME; Estrone|ME; Female; Human; Hydrocortisone|ME; Menopause; Middle Age; Prasterone|AA/ME; Prolactin|ME; Support, Non-U.S. Gov't; Testosterone|BL; Tissue Distribution

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0960-0760

Country of Publication

ENGLAND

Record 9 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu

Title

Effect of the nonsteroidal antiandrogen nilutamide on adrenal androgen secretion.

Author

Decensi A; Torrisi R; Marroni P; Pensa F; Padovani P; Boccardo F

Address

Department of Medical Oncology II, National Institute for Cancer Research, Genoa, Italy.

Source

Prostate, 1994, 24:1, 17-23

Abstract

The nonsteroidal androgen-receptor antagonist nilutamide has previously been shown to inhibit adrenal androgen steroidogenesis in patients with prostatic carcinoma treated in combination with an LHRH agonist. In order to understand better the mechanisms subserving this observation, we have studied the effects of nilutamide alone on the serum concentrations of androstenedione (A), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), and DHEA-sulphate (DHEA-S) in 12 patients with prostatic cancer and compared them with those achieved in 21 patients treated with the agonist D-Trp-6-LHRH. In addition, the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)-stimulated adrenal response and the thyrotropin releasing hormone (TRH)-stimulated prolactin (PRL) response observed in the patients treated with nilutamide were compared with a control group of healthy age-matched controls. No significant variation in the basal concentrations of adrenal androgens occurred either within or between both treatment groups. In response to ACTH, a decreased 17-alpha hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP) accumulation and an augmented A/17-OHP ratio were observed in the antiandrogen group (P < 0.05 for both), suggesting the partial removal of the 17,20 lyase block which was distinctive of the untreated controls, while no significant difference was found for other steroids. Basal PRL levels were not affected by the antiandrogen, but the response to TRH was increased. We conclude that no significant inhibition of adrenal androgen secretion occurs after nilutamide or LHRH agonist treatment. Rather, administration of the antiandrogen alone may partially remove the physiological decrease in adrenal androgen secretion observed in the elderly.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

94119729

MeSH Heading (Major)

Adrenal Glands|*DE/ME/*SE; Androgen Antagonists|*PD; Androgens|BI/BL/*SE; Antineoplastic Agents|*PD; Imidazoles|*PD; Neoplasms, Hormone-Dependent|*DT/ME/*PP; Prostatic Neoplasms|*DT/ME/*PP

MeSH Heading

Aged; Androstenedione|BI/BL/SE; Comparative Study; Corticotropin|PD; Human; Male; Middle Age; Prasterone|AA/BI/BL/SE; Triptorelin|PD

Publication Type

CLINICAL TRIAL; JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0270-4137

Country of Publication

UNITED STATES

Record 10 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu

Title

Dissociation of adrenal androgen and cortisol secretion in Cushing's syndrome.

Author

Cunningham SK; McKenna TJ

Address

Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes Mellitus, St. Vincent's Hospital, Dublin, Ireland.

Source

Clin Endocrinol (Oxf), 1994 Dec, 41:6, 795-800

Abstract

OBJECTIVES: While ACTH may modulate adrenal androgen production, there is evidence that other factors are required. Cushing's disease and ectopic ACTH secretion provide a little utilized opportunity to examine adrenal androgen levels in conditions of ACTH excess. We have compared plasma cortisol values with plasma levels of androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), DHEA-sulphate (DHEAS), testosterone and an index of free testosterone, the testosterone/sex hormone binding globulin ratio, prior to treatment in patients with Cushing's syndrome. PATIENTS AND MEASUREMENTS: Plasma from 15 adult patients with Cushing's disease and three adults with the ectopic ACTH syndrome was obtained prior to treatment and submitted to specific immunoassays for the measurement of the above steroids. RESULTS: Plasma cortisol values of 15 patients with Cushing's disease (range 326-1140 nmol/l, normal range 190-690 nmol/l) were elevated in 9; in contrast, plasma androstenedione (4.1-11.3 nmol/l, normal range, men 2.1-7.7, women 3.3-9.9 nmol/l) was elevated in only two patients, plasma DHEAS (3.3-17.8 mumol/l, normal range, men 4.5-18.4, women 3.5-11.8 mumol/l) was elevated in only 4 patients and plasma DHEA (4.8-45.2 nmol/l, normal range 11-48 nmol/l) was normal or low in all 15 patients. Plasma androstenedione was markedly elevated (74 nmol/l) in one of three patients with ectopic ACTH syndrome, moderately elevated in another, and normal in the third patient. In contrast, plasma DHEA and DHEAS levels were suppressed in the patient with the highest androstenedione level and low or normal in the other two patients. CONCLUSIONS: These data suggest that ACTH alone does not control adrenal androgen secretion. The data also suggest that variability in the processing of proopiomelanocortin (the precursor of ACTH and related peptides) occurring in Cushing's disease and ectopic ACTH syndrome may account for differences in the relation of cortisol to androgens observed between the disorders and when compared to that in normal subjects.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

95196325

MeSH Heading (Major)

Adrenal Glands|*PP; Androgens|*SE; Cushing's Syndrome|BL/*PP; Hydrocortisone|BL/*SE

MeSH Heading

Adolescence; Adult; Androstenedione|BL; ACTH Syndrome, Ectopic|BL/PP; Female; Fluoroimmunoassay; Human; Male; Middle Age; Prasterone|AA/BL; Radioimmunoassay; Testosterone|BL

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0300-0664

Country of Publication

ENGLAND

Record 11 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu

Title

Hyperandrogenism due to 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase deficiency with accessory adrenocortical tissue: a hormonal and metabolic evaluation.

Author

Paula FJ; Dick de Paula I; Pontes A; Schmitt FC; Mendonça BB; Foss MC

Address

Departamento de ClÆinica MÆedica, Faculdade de Medicina de Botucatu, Universidade Estadual Paulista, SP, Brasil.

Source

Braz J Med Biol Res, 1994 May, 27:5, 1149-58

Abstract

1. Adrenal ectopic tissue has been detected in the paragonadal region of normal women. In patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase (21-OH) deficiency, the manifestation of hyperplasia of paragonadal accessory adrenal tissue has been usually reported to occur in males. Probably, this is the first report of a female with 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3 beta-HSD) deficiency with ectopic adrenal tissue in ovaries. However, the occurrence of hyperplasia of adrenal rests among women with classical congenital adrenal hyperplasia may not be rare, especially among patients with a late diagnosis. 2. We report a woman with 3 beta-HSD deficiency whose definitive diagnosis was made late at 41 years of age immediately before surgery for the removal of a uterine myoma. During surgery, exploration of the abdominal cavity revealed the presence of bilateral accessory adrenal tissue in the ovaries and in the para-aortic region. The patient had extremely high levels of ACTH (137 pmol/l), DHEA (901.0 nmol/l), DHEA-S (55.9 mumol/l), androstenedione (70.2 nmol/l), testosterone (23.0 nmol/l) and 17 alpha-hydroxypregnenolone (234.4 nmol/l) suggesting 3 beta-HSD deficiency. 3. In view of these elevated androgen levels, with an absolute predominance of DHEA and DHEA-S, we evaluated the effect of this hormonal profile on carbohydrate tolerance and insulin response to glucose ingestion. 4. The patient presented normal glucose tolerance but her insulin response was lower than that of 14 normal women (area under the curve, 3 beta-HSD = 17,680 vs 50,034 pmol/l for the control group over a period of 3 h after glucose ingestion).(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

95093382

MeSH Heading (Major)

Adrenal Rest Tumor|BL/*CO/PA; Hyperandrogenism|CO/EN/*ET; Ovarian Neoplasms|BL/*CO/PA; 3-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenases|*DF/ME

MeSH Heading

Adult; Androstenedione|BL; Blood Glucose|ME; Case Report; Corticotropin|AD/BL; Female; Glucose Tolerance Test; Human; Insulin|BL; Prasterone|AA/BL; Support, Non-U.S. Gov't; Testosterone|BL; Time Factors

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0100-879X

Country of Publication

BRAZIL

Record 12 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu

Title

Disparate effects of insulin reduction with diltiazem on serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels in obese hypertensive men and women.

Author

Beer NA; Jakubowicz DJ; Beer RM; Nestler JE

Address

Department of Internal Medicine, Hospital de Clinicas Caracas, Venezuela.

Source

J Clin Endocrinol Metab, 1994 Oct, 79:4, 1077-81

Abstract

Evidence suggests that amelioration of hyperinsulinemic insulin resistance in men with calcium channel blockers of the dihydropyridine class is associated with a fall in serum insulin and a rise in serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) concentrations. The present study was conducted to determine whether 1) the nondihydropyridine calcium channel blocker diltiazem also reduces circulating insulin levels in humans, and 2) a reduction in circulating insulin with a calcium channel blocker is associated with a rise in serum DHEA-S concentrations in women as well as men. Ten obese hypertensive men and 13 obese hypertensive postmenopausal women were studied. Subjects were assessed at baseline and after the oral administration of diltiazem (60 mg, three times daily) for 18 days. Diltiazem treatment was associated with reductions in fasting serum insulin levels in both the men (from 91 +/- 14 to 56 +/- 12 pmol/L; P < 0.03) and women (from 92 +/- 20 to 48 +/- 9 pmol/L; P = 0.05). Serum glucose levels did not change in either group. In men, concurrent with the fall in serum insulin levels, serum DHEA-S levels rose from 4.05 +/- 1.06 to 6.91 +/- 1.32 mumol/L (P < 0.04), and serum DHEA levels rose from 14.4 +/- 3.0 to 24.3 +/- 4.6 nmol/L (P = 0.05) with diltiazem treatment, whereas serum cortisol did not change. In contrast, diltiazem administration in the women was not associated with any change in serum DHEA-S, DHEA, or cortisol levels. These observations suggest that the action of calcium channel blockers to lower fasting serum insulin levels is not specific for the dihydropyridine class and applies to both men and women. Furthermore, the finding of a sex-based disparity in DHEA-S and DHEA responses to insulin reduction suggests that the metabolism of these steroids may be regulated differently in men than in women.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

95051242

MeSH Heading (Major)

Diltiazem|*TU; Hypertension|BL/*CO/*DT; Insulin|*BL; Obesity|*CO; Prasterone|*AA/BL

MeSH Heading

Adult; Blood Glucose|AN; Blood Pressure|DE; Female; Human; Male; Middle Age; Sex Characteristics; Support, Non-U.S. Gov't; Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0021-972X

Country of Publication

UNITED STATES

Record 13 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu

Title

Effects of a reduction in circulating insulin by metformin on serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate in nondiabetic men.

Author

Nestler JE; Beer NA; Jakubowicz DJ; Beer RM

Address

Department of Internal Medicine, Medical College of Virginia/Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond 23298.

Source

J Clin Endocrinol Metab, 1994 Mar, 78:3, 549-54

Abstract

Evidence suggests that hyperinsulinemic insulin resistance may reduce serum levels of the adrenal steroid dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) sulfate in humans. This study was conducted to assess the influence of physiological concentrations of insulin on serum adrenal steroid levels by lowering circulating insulin in nondiabetic men through the administration of the biguanide metformin. A total of 28 nondiabetic men were studied. The study group consisted of 16 obese and hypertensive men, and the control group of 12 nonobese and normotensive men. The men were studied at baseline and after the oral administration of 500 mg metformin, 3 times daily, for 21 days. Metformin administration resulted in significant reductions in serum insulin levels and concurrent increases in serum DHEA sulfate levels in both groups of men. The mean fasting serum DHEA sulfate concentration rose by 48% in the obese hypertensive men (from 5.9 +/- 0.8 to 8.7 +/- 0.7 mumol/L; P < 0.02) and by 80% in the nonobese normotensive men (from 3.5 +/- 0.5 to 6.3 +/- 0.9 mumol/L; P < 0.05). When the results from both groups were combined, changes in serum DHEA sulfate levels (i.e. day 21 value minus day 0 value) correlated positively with baseline fasting serum insulin levels (r = 0.44; P = 0.02; n = 28). Moreover, changes in fasting serum DHEA sulfate levels correlated inversely with changes in fasting serum insulin levels (r = -0.38; P < 0.05; n = 28). These findings lend further credence to the idea that insulin acts as a physiological regulator of DHEA sulfate metabolism and lowers circulating DHEA sulfate concentrations in men.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

94171957

MeSH Heading (Major)

Insulin|*BL; Metformin|*PD; Prasterone|*AA/BL

MeSH Heading

Adult; Human; Hypertension|BL; Lipids|BL; Male; Obesity|BL; Reference Values; Support, Non-U.S. Gov't; Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0021-972X

Country of Publication

UNITED STATES

Record 14 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu

Title

Plasma 3 beta-hydroxy-delta 5-steroids in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency.

Author

Young J; Couzinet B; Pholsena M; Nahoul K; Labrie F; Schaison G

Address

Service d'Endocrinologie et des Maladies de la Reproduction, HÈopital Bicetre, Kremlin BicÈetre, France.

Source

J Clin Endocrinol Metab, 1994 Feb, 78:2, 299-304

Abstract

There is little information about the plasma concentrations of 3 beta-hydroxy-delta 5-steroids (delta 5-steroids) in untreated patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 21-hydroxylase deficiency. To further study the delta 5 pathway, we measured plasma levels of delta 5- and delta 4-steroids in 21 adult patients with different degrees of 21-hydroxylase deficiency (11 salt-wasters, 5 simple virilizers, and 5 patients with the nonclassical form of the disease). In all patients, investigations were performed after withdrawal of steroid treatment for at least 10 days. In addition, catheterization of gonadal and adrenal veins was performed in two salt-wasting male patients displaying bilateral testicular tumors to study adrenal secretion of delta 5- and delta 4-steroids. In one of them, surgical resection of the intratesticular adrenal rests gave the opportunity to measure 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3 beta HSD) activity. In all untreated patients, an increase in plasma delta 4-steroids was observed. In contrast, although plasma levels of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) were not significantly modified in simple virilizers, a paradoxical decrease in all delta 5-steroids was observed in salt-wasters. Catheterization of the adrenal veins confirmed the decrease in delta 5-steroids, particularly DHEA and DHEAS. The androstenedione/DHEA ratio was increased in all patients proportionally to the severity of the disease, suggesting an increase in adrenal 3 beta HSD. In vitro analysis of 3 beta HSD activity showed a 4-fold increase in intratesticular adrenal tissue compared to that in normal adrenals. A positive correlation between the androstenedione/DHEA ratio and plasma ACTH levels was observed, suggesting a long term stimulatory effect of ACTH on 3 beta HSD. Angiotensin-II could have an additive effect on ACTH-induced 3 beta HSD activity.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

94149126

MeSH Heading (Major)

Adrenal Hyperplasia, Congenital|*BL/*ET; Hydroxysteroids|*BL; Pregnenes|*BL; Steroid 21-Monooxygenase|BL/*DF

MeSH Heading

Adult; Corticotropin|BL/PH; Female; Human; Male; Multienzyme Complexes|ME; Prasterone|AA/BL; Progesterone Reductase|ME; Radioimmunoassay; Renin|BL; Severity of Illness Index; Steroid Isomerases|ME

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0021-972X

Country of Publication

UNITED STATES

Record 15 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu
Return To Menu Position #20

Title

An open study of dehydroepiandrosterone in systemic lupus erythematosus.

Author

van Vollenhoven RF; Engleman EG; McGuire JL

Address

Division of Immunology and Rheumatology, Stanford University Medical Center, CA 94305.

Source

Arthritis Rheum, 1994 Sep, 37:9, 1305-10

Abstract

OBJECTIVE. To determine if dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) has clinical benefits in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). METHODS. Ten female patients with mild to moderate SLE and various disease manifestations were given DHEA (200 mg/day orally) for 3-6 months. The patients were given other medications as clinically indicated, and followed with respect to overall disease activity and specific outcome parameters. RESULTS. After 3-6 months of DHEA treatment, indices for overall SLE activity including the SLEDAI (SLE Disease Activity Index) score and physician's overall assessment were improved, and corticosteroid requirements were decreased. Of 3 patients with significant proteinuria, 2 showed marked and 1 modest reductions in protein excretion. DHEA was well tolerated, the only frequently noted side effect being mild acneiform dermatitis. CONCLUSION. DHEA shows promise as a new therapeutic agent for the treatment of mild to moderate SLE. Further studies of DHEA in the treatment of SLE are warranted.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

95032242

MeSH Heading (Major)

Lupus Erythematosus, Systemic|BL/*DT/PP; Prasterone|AE/*TU

MeSH Heading

Adrenal Cortex Hormones|AD/TU; Adult; Aged; Androgens|BL; Female; Human; Middle Age; Proteinuria|DT; Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

Publication Type

CLINICAL TRIAL; JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0004-3591

Country of Publication

UNITED STATES

Record 16 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu
Return To Menu Position #20

Title

Physiological importance of dehydroepiandrosterone.

Author

Ebeling P; Koivisto VA

Address

Second Department of Medicine, Helsinki University Hospital, Finland.

Source

Lancet, 1994 Jun, 343:8911, 1479-81

Abstract

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), with its sulphate conjugate (DHEAS), is the most abundant steroid hormone in the circulation but its physiological importance is unclear. We propose that DHEA has either oestrogen-like or androgen-like effects depending on the hormonal milieu. In premenopausal women DHEA is either an oestrogen antagonist, perhaps through the competitive binding of its metabolite 5-androstene-3 beta, 17 beta-diol (ADIOL) and oestradiol to the oestrogen receptor, or an androgen through its metabolism to androstenedione and testosterone. In women DHEA contributes to abdominal obesity and insulin resistance: in the premenopausal high oestrogen concentrations may counterbalance the androgenic effects of DHEA but in the postmenopausal metabolism to testosterone may increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, though this effect may be counterbalanced by the age-dependent decline in DHEA and also by the oestradiol-like effects of ADIOL. In some breast cancer cell lines in a low oestrogen milieu DHEA has an oestradiol-like effect, stimulating tumour growth, whereas in oestradiol abundance DHEA antagonises the growth-stimulating effect of oestradiol. In men, with an androgenic milieu, DHEA acts like an oestrogen and protects against cardiovascular disease.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

94260791

MeSH Heading (Major)

Prasterone|BL/*PH

MeSH Heading

Breast Neoplasms|ME; Cardiovascular Diseases|BL; Female; Human; Insulin Resistance|PH; Male; Menopause|ME; Obesity|ME; Reference Values

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE; REVIEW; REVIEW, TUTORIAL

ISSN

0140-6736

Country of Publication

ENGLAND

Record 17 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu
Return To Menu Position #20

Title

Dehydroepiandrosterone inhibits human platelet aggregation in vitro and in vivo.

Author

Jesse RL; Loesser K; Eich DM; Qian YZ; Hess ML; Nestler JE

Address

Department of Medicine, Medical College of Virginia/Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond 23298, USA.

Source

Ann N Y Acad Sci, 1995 Dec, 774:, 281-90

Abstract

The hypothesis has been advanced that the adrenal steroids dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and DHEA sulfate (DHEAS) exert antiatherogenic and cardioprotective actions. Platelet activation has also been implicated in atherogenesis. To determine if DHEA and DHEAS affect platelet activation, the effects of these steroids on platelet aggregation were assessed both in vitro and in vivo. When DHEAS was added to pooled platelet-rich plasma before the addition of the agonist arachidonate, either the rate of platelet aggregation was slowed or aggregation was completely inhibited. Inhibition of platelet aggregation by DHEA was both dose- and time-dependent. Inhibition of platelet aggregation by DHEA was accompanied by reduced platelet thromboxane B2 (TxB2) production. Inhibition of platelet aggregation by DHEA was also demonstrated in vivo. In a randomized, double-blind trial, 10 normal men received either DHEA 300 mg (n = 5) or placebo capsule (n = 5) orally three times daily for 14 days. In one man in the DHEA group arachidonate-stimulated platelet aggregation was inhibited completely during DHEA administration, whereas in three other men in the DHEA group the rate of platelet aggregation was prolonged, and the sensitivity and responsiveness to agonist were reduced. None of the men in the placebo group manifested any change in platelet activity. These findings suggest that DHEA retards platelet aggregation in humans. Inhibition of platelet activity by DHEA may contribute to the putative antiatherogenic and cardioprotective effects of DHEA.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

96170349

MeSH Heading (Major)

Platelet Aggregation|*DE; Platelet Aggregation Inhibitors|*PD; Prasterone|AD/*PD

MeSH Heading

Human; Male; Support, Non-U.S. Gov't; Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.; Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.; Thromboxane B2|ME

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0077-8923

Country of Publication

UNITED STATES

Record 18 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu
Return To Menu Position #20

Title

Lack of effect of exercise training on dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate.

Author

Milani RV; Lavie CJ; Barbee RW; Littman AB

Address

Department of Internal Medicine, Ochsner Clinic, Alton Ochsner Medical Foundation, New Orleans, Louisiana, USA.

Source

Am J Med Sci, 1995 Dec, 310:6, 242-6

Abstract

Although functions of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulfate ester are unknown, investigators have found an inverse relation between DHEA-sulfate levels and coronary artery disease, suggesting its importance as an inverse coronary risk factor. In previous studies, where behavioral therapy was used to try to reduce stress and social isolation, DHEA levels increased--although other confounding factors, including enhanced physical activity, also were affected. To determine the influence of physical activity alone on plasma DHEA-sulfate levels in patients with coronary artery disease, the authors studied the effects of exercise training by measuring plasma DHEA-sulfate levels and other parameters in 96 patients at baseline and after 12 weeks of cardiac rehabilitation and exercise training. They confirmed that DHEA-sulfate levels decreased with age (r = 0.41; P < 0.0001) and that DHEA-sulfate levels correlated with body mass index (r = 0.32; P < 0.001), but not with other baseline risk factors. Exercise training during cardiac rehabilitation resulted in a 43% increase in exercise capacity (P < 0.0001) and was associated with improvement in other cardiac risk factors; however, there were no significant changes in plasma DHEA-sulfate levels (106 +/- 77 micrograms/dL versus 102 +/- 76 micrograms/dL). Although behavior therapy in combination with exercise training was shown to lead to concomitant increases in DHEA-sulfate and physical activity, exercise training alone has no significant impact on DHEA-sulfate, thereby strengthening the suggested role of behavioral changes in modifying this hormone.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

96101345

MeSH Heading (Major)

Exercise Therapy|*; Prasterone|*AA/BL

MeSH Heading

Aged; Behavior; Coronary Disease|BL/PX/RH; Female; Human; Male; Middle Age; Prospective Studies; Quality of Life; Regression Analysis

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0002-9629

Country of Publication

UNITED STATES

Record 19 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu
Return To Menu Position #20

Title

Disparate effects of weight reduction by diet on serum dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate levels in obese men and women.

Author

Jakubowicz DJ; Beer NA; Beer RM; Nestler JE

Address

Department of Internal Medicine, Medical College of Virginia/Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond 23298, USA.

Source

J Clin Endocrinol Metab, 1995 Nov, 80:11, 3373-6

Abstract

To assess the effect of weight reduction on serum dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)-sulfate, insulin, and glucose, these parameters were assessed in 18 men and 29 women before and after weight loss achieved by a 2-month 1000-1400 kcal diet. Men and women did not differ at baseline with respect to age, body mass index (BMI), or serum insulin and glucose, but serum DHEA-sulfate was almost 2-fold higher in women than men (5.4 +/- 0.5 vs. 2.8 +/- 0.2 mumol/L; P < 0.001). During the diet, men and women experienced similar reductions in BMI of 3.5 kg/m2 and 3.2 kg/m2, respectively. Fasting serum insulin fell by 38% in men and 33% in women, and did not differ between sexes at the diet's end (135 +/- 7 vs. 156 +/- 8 pmol/L; P = NS). Serum glucose fell slightly in both men and women, but did not differ between sexes. Weight loss in men was associated with a 125% rise in serum DHEA-sulfate from 2.8 +/- 0.2 to 6.3 +/- 0.3 mumol/L (P < 0.0001). In contrast, serum DHEA-sulfate did not change with weight loss in women (P = 0.35). Serum DHEA-sulfate at the end of the diet did not differ between men and women (6.3 +/- 0.3 vs. 5.2 +/- 0.5 mumol/L; P = 0.10). Hence, dietary weight loss accompanied by equivalent reductions in body mass index and serum insulin between sexes was associated with a marked rise in serum DHEA-sulfate in men, whereas in women serum DHEA-sulfate did not change. Although speculative, these findings are consistent with the idea that insulin acts in a sex-specific fashion to reduce circulating DHEA-sulfate in men only.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

96064810

MeSH Heading (Major)

Diet, Reducing|*; Obesity|*BL/*DH; Prasterone|*AA/BL; Sex Characteristics|*; Weight Loss|*

MeSH Heading

Adult; Female; Human; Male; Middle Age; Support, Non-U.S. Gov't; Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0021-972X

Country of Publication

UNITED STATES

Record 20 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu
Return To Menu Position #20

Title

Reassessment of adrenal androgen secretion in women with polycystic ovary syndrome.

Author

Carmina E; Gonzalez F; Chang L; Lobo RA

Address

Cattedra di Endocrinologia, Universita di Palermo, Italy.

Source

Obstet Gynecol, 1995 Jun, 85:6, 971-6

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To reevaluate the clinical significance of elevations of adrenal androgens in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). METHODS: Thirty women with PCOS and ten ovulatory controls were evaluated. Serum dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) sulfate and 11 beta-hydroxyandrostenedione were measured before and after 3 and 6 months of GnRH agonist (GnRH-A) therapy. All controls and 15 women with PCOS received intravenous ACTH before and after GnRH-A therapy. RESULTS: Twenty-one (70%) of the women with PCOS had elevations of DHEA sulfate, and 16 (53%) had elevations in 11 beta-hydroxyandrostenedione. Only two women with PCOS had normal values of both adrenal androgens. After GnRH-A therapy, only 11 subjects (37%) had elevated values of DHEA sulfate. Four of 16 women had reductions in 11 beta-hydroxyandrostenedione. Only those with elevated baseline DHEA sulfate levels had reductions after GnRH-A therapy. The reduction of DHEA sulfate with GnRH-A correlated with the reduction in androstenedione. Of the subjects who had reductions in DHEA sulfate with GnRH-A therapy, there was a blunted response of DHEA to ACTH after treatment. CONCLUSION: Our findings suggest that the ovary may influence the prevalence and magnitude of adrenal androgen excess in PCOS.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

95288089

MeSH Heading (Major)

Androstenedione|*AA/BL; Polycystic Ovary Syndrome|DT/*SE; Prasterone|*AA/BL

MeSH Heading

Adult; Case-Control Studies; Corticotropin|PD; Female; Human; Leuprolide|TU; Triptorelin|TU

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0029-7844

Country of Publication

UNITED STATES

Record 21 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu
Return To Menu Position #20

Title

Altered adrenal steroid metabolism underlying hypercortisolism in female endurance athletes.

Author

Lindholm C; Hirschberg AL; Carlström K; von Schoultz B

Address

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden.

Source

Fertil Steril, 1995 Jun, 63:6, 1190-4

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To explore possible changes in adrenal steroid metabolism and androgenic-anabolic status in female endurance athletes as a mechanism for their hypercortisolism. DESIGN: Adrenal steroids and androgenic-anabolic factors were studied during basal conditions and in response to ACTH stimulation related to menstrual status. SETTING: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden. PARTICIPANTS: Thirteen female elite middle to long distance runners (six eumenorrheic, seven oligoamenorrheic) and seven regularly menstruating controls. INTERVENTIONS: Blood samples were collected before and after an injection of 250 micrograms IV synthetic ACTH 1-24. Body weight, height, and body fat were measured. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Basal serum concentrations of cortisol, androstenedione (A), DHEA, DHEAS, 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone (17-OHP), T, steroid-binding proteins, and insulin-like growth factor I and ACTH-induced response (area under the curve) of cortisol, DHEA, and 17-OHP. RESULTS: Oligoamenorrheic athletes had higher basal cortisol and A concentrations compared with healthy controls, whereas basal levels of DHEA and DHEAS were normal. Important findings in the oligoamenorrheic athletes were a significantly lower ratio between the ACTH-induced increments of DHEA and 17-OHP and an increased ratio between basal A and DHEAS. Insulin-like growth factor I was correlated negatively to sex hormone-binding globulin and to the amount of body fat in the combined material. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate a redistribution of adrenal steroid metabolism in favor of glucocorticoid production in female endurance athletes. We suggest that hypercortisolism in female endurance athletes is a physiological adaptation to maintain adequate blood glucose levels during a condition of energy deficiency.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

95269818

MeSH Heading (Major)

Adrenal Cortex Hormones|*BL; Adrenal Gland Hyperfunction|*BL/ET; Hydrocortisone|*BL; Physical Endurance|*PH; Running|*

MeSH Heading

Adult; Amenorrhea|BL/ET; Androstenedione|BL; Cosyntropin|DU; Female; Human; Hydroxyprogesterones|BL; Insulin-Like Growth Factor I|ME; Prasterone|AA/BL; Support, Non-U.S. Gov't; Testosterone|BL

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0015-0282

Country of Publication

UNITED STATES

Record 22 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu
Return To Menu Position #20

Title

Hyperinsulinaemia and decreased plasma levels of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate in premenopausal women with coronary heart disease.

Author

S…owinska Srzednicka J; Malczewska B; Srzednicki M; Chotkowska E; Brzezinska A; Zgliczynski W; Ossowski M; Jeske W; Zgliczynski S; Sadowski Z

Address

Department of Endocrinology, Medical Centre for Postgraduate Education, Warsaw, Poland.

Source

J Intern Med, 1995 May, 237:5, 465-72

Abstract

OBJECTIVES. The purpose of the study was to establish plasma levels of insulin, ovarian sex hormones and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) and to evaluate their correlations with lipids in premenopausal women with angiographically demonstrated coronary stenosis. DESIGN. Differences in plasma levels of insulin, ovarian sex hormones, DHEA-S and lipids between groups were compared by analysis of variance. SETTING. From January 1993 until December 1993 patients were diagnosed in the Outpatient Clinic of the Department of Endocrinology Medical Centre for Postgraduate Education, Warsaw. SUBJECTS. Premenopausal women with normal oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) results, with and without coronary stenosis were studied: 21 women after acute myocardial infarction with angiographically demonstrated coronary stenosis (women with CHD), and 14 women with chest pain, a positive exercise test without significant changes of coronary arteries on coronarography (women with normal coronarography, NC). The control group consisted of nine, healthy women with no risk factors for CHD. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES. In premenopausal women with CHD, the decreased plasma level of DHEA-S and hyperinsulinaemia were anticipated. RESULTS. In women with CHD, the plasma levels of DHEA-S (926.5 +/- 83 ng mL-1) were significantly lower than those in women with NC (1375.7 +/- 181 ng mL-1) and in healthy controls (1984 +/- 127 ng mL-1), P < 0.02 and P < 0.001, respectively. The fasting insulin and insulin response to an OGTT in women with CHD and with NC was higher than in healthy subjects. A significant decrease of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, HDL-2 cholesterol and apolipoprotein A-I, and an increase of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol C and apolipoprotein B levels in women with CHD compared to healthy controls were observed. A negative correlation between fasting insulin and the plasma levels of DHEA-S was established. CONCLUSION. In premenopausal women, hyperinsulinaemia and decreased DHEA-S levels may contribute to the development of coronary atherosclerosis.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

95256795

MeSH Heading (Major)

Coronary Disease|*BL/ET/RA; Hyperinsulinism|BL/*CO; Prasterone|*AA/BL; Premenopause|*BL; Sex Hormones|*BL

MeSH Heading

Adult; Coronary Angiography; Female; Human; Insulin|BL; Lipids|BL; Middle Age; Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0954-6820

Country of Publication

ENGLAND

Record 23 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu
Return To Menu Position #20

Title

Dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate, body fat distribution and insulin in obese men.

Author

Herranz L; Megia A; Grande C; González Gancedo P; Pallardo F

Address

Endocrinology Department, Hospital La Paz, Madrid, Spain.

Source

Int J Obes Relat Metab Disord, 1995 Jan, 19:1, 57-60

Abstract

Sex steroid hormones may be involved in determining body fat distribution in men. Recent evidence suggests that insulin may be an important regulator of sex hormones metabolism in men. Few data, however, are available on the relationship of dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEA-SO4), a major secretory product of the adrenal gland, to regional distribution of body fat or to insulin levels in men. We therefore examined the association of DHEA-SO4, total testosterone and free testosterone to waist-to-hip ratio (WHR) and to subscapular-to-triceps ratio (STR) in 34 obese, otherwise healthy men. In addition, we examined the relation between these sex steroid hormones and insulin response to an oral glucose tolerance test. DHEA-SO4 was significantly positively related to STR and significantly negatively related to insulin area. These associations remained significant after adjustment for age and obesity. Using multiple linear regression, DHEA-SO4 was independently related to both STR and insulin area. Without claiming any causality in the observed associations, we conclude that, in obese men, high DHEA-SO4 levels are related to centralized adiposity, while low DHEA-SO4 levels are related to hyperinsulinemia.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

95235677

MeSH Heading (Major)

Adipose Tissue|*; Body Composition|*; Insulin|*BL; Obesity|*PP; Prasterone|*AA/BL

MeSH Heading

Adolescence; Adult; Anthropometry; Body Constitution; Body Mass Index; Glucose Tolerance Test; Human; Male; Middle Age; Regression Analysis; Testosterone|BL

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

Country of Publication

ENGLAND

Record 24 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu
Return To Menu Position #20

Title

Twenty-four-hour mean plasma testosterone concentration declines with age in normal premenopausal women.

Author

Zumoff B; Strain GW; Miller LK; Rosner W

Address

Department of Medicine, Beth Israel Medical Center, New York, New York 10003, USA.

Source

J Clin Endocrinol Metab, 1995 Apr, 80:4, 1429-30

Abstract

The 24-h mean plasma concentration of total testosterone (T) was measured in 33 healthy, regularly cycling, nonobese women between 21 and 51 yr of age. Percent free T was measured in 17 of them. Plasma dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) were measured in 24 of them, and the DHEA-to-T and DHEAS-to-T ratios were calculated. It was found that the concentration of total T showed a steep decline with age; the regression equation was: T (nanomoles per L) = 37.8 x age-1.12 (r = -0.54; P < 0.003). According to this equation, the expected T concentration of a woman of 40 would be 0.61 nmol/L, about half that of a woman of 21 (1.3 nmol/L). The percent free T did not vary significantly with age, so free T concentration likewise showed a steep decline with age. The DHEA-to-T and DHEAS-to-T ratios were both age invariant, clearly because the levels of DHEA and DHEAS also decline steeply with age, as previously reported.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

95229848

MeSH Heading (Major)

Aging|*BL; Circadian Rhythm|*; Premenopause|*BL; Testosterone|*BL

MeSH Heading

Adult; Female; Human; Middle Age; Osmolar Concentration; Prasterone|AA/BL; Reference Values

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0021-972X

Country of Publication

UNITED STATES

Record 25 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu
Return To Menu Position #20

Title

Dehydroepiandrosterone and body fat.

Author

Clore JN

Address

Department of Internal Medicine, Medical College of Virginia, Richmond 23298, USA.

Source

Obes Res, 1995 Nov, 3 Suppl 4:, 613S-616S

Abstract

Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) is the most abundant circulating adrenal steroid in man, yet its physiologic role and that of its parent compound DHEA are unknown. Age-related decreases in DHEA in association with increases in obesity, insulin resistance, and atherosclerosis are well known. Recent investigations in lower mammals (which do not secrete DHEA) have suggested that DHEA (or its metabolites) may function as an antiobesity agent in these models of obesity independent of food intake. Proposed mechanisms for the decrease in fat mass and lower weight gain when DHEA is given orally include increases in futile cycling and peroxisomal beta-oxidation and decreases in de novo lipogenesis. Alterations in the availability of reducing equivalents for lipid synthesis do not appear to explain this decrease. Changes in pancreatic insulin secretion or insulin sensitivity may also be responsible for some of these effects. Studies in humans have failed to demonstrate a beneficial effect of DHEA on body composition or energy expenditure at either pharmacologic or physiologic replacement doses for 1-3 months. Administration of DHEA to men or women has also not been shown to alter insulin sensitivity as measured by the minimal model or the euglycemic clamp technique. The effect of DHEA on peroxisomal beta-oxidation and de novo lipogenesis is not known. We conclude that a significant role for DHEA in the pharmacologic treatment of human obesity is unlikely.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

96235900

MeSH Heading (Major)

Adipose Tissue|*; Prasterone|PD/*PH

MeSH Heading

Animal; Human; Insulin|BL/PD; Metabolism; Obesity|DT

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE; REVIEW; REVIEW, TUTORIAL

ISSN

1071-7323

Country of Publication

UNITED STATES

Record 26 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu
Return To Menu Position #20

Title

Responses of plasma adrenocortical steroids to low dose ACTH in normal subjects.

Author

Daidoh H; Morita H; Mune T; Murayama M; Hanafusa J; Ni H; Shibata H; Yasuda K

Address

Third Department of Internal Medicine, Gifu University School of Medicine, Japan.

Source

Clin Endocrinol (Oxf), 1995 Sep, 43:3, 311-5

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: The standard ACTH test in clinical use employs a pharmacological dose of ACTH which assesses the maximum secretory capacity of the adrenal cortex. We have investigated the responses of plasma adrenocortical steroids including cortisol, aldosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) to physiological doses of ACTH (ACTH 1-24, tetracosactide, Cortrosyn) and determined the minimal dose which induces a response equivalent to that induced by a pharmacological dose of ACTH. DESIGN: Rapid ACTH tests at various physiological (0-1, 0.5, 1 and 5 micrograms) and standard pharmacological (250 micrograms) intravenous doses. SUBJECTS: Seven healthy normal volunteers. MEASUREMENTS: Plasma cortisol, aldosterone and DHEA were measured. Peak value and the increment from basal value were used as indices of responses. RESULTS: Each steroid responded to physiological doses of ACTH in a dose dependent manner. The minimum dose inducing an equivalent response to 250 micrograms ACTH was 0.5 micrograms for peak and incremental values in cortisol and DHEA, while that for aldosterone was 0.1 microgram. The time to peak for each steroid was delayed as the dose increased. Plasma aldosterone and DHEA peaked significantly earlier than plasma cortisol in 1-5 micrograms and 0.5-5-micrograms ACTH tests, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that the sensitivity of secretion to physiological doses of ACTH in descending order is aldosterone > DHEA = cortisol. When peak and incremental values are used, sufficient doses of ACTH are 0.1 microgram for plasma aldosterone and 0.5 microgram for plasma cortisol and DHEA in the rapid ACTH test.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

96046855

MeSH Heading (Major)

Adrenal Cortex Hormones|*BL; Cosyntropin|*AD/PD

MeSH Heading

Adult; Aldosterone|BL; Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; Female; Human; Hydrocortisone|BL; Male; Prasterone|BL; Support, Non-U.S. Gov't; Time Factors

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0300-0664

Country of Publication

ENGLAND

Record 27 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu
Return To Menu Position #20

Title

Dehydroepiandrosterone concentration in breast cancer tissue is related to its plasma gradient across the mammary gland.

Author

Brignardello E; Cassoni P; Migliardi M; Pizzini A; Di Monaco M; Boccuzzi G; Massobrio M

Address

Department of Clinical Pathophysiology, University of Turin, Torino, Italy.

Source

Breast Cancer Res Treat, 1995, 33:2, 171-7

Abstract

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) has been shown to affect the growth of mammary carcinomas both in vitro and in vivo. In humans, very high levels of DHEA and/or dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) have been found in breast tissues and secretions, and epidemiological studies suggest a role of these steroids in the modulation of breast cancer growth. An uptake from plasma and a transformation from precursors can be both postulated, but the main source of the adrenal C19 steroids found within the breast is debated. Attempting to clarify this point, in ten patients undergoing surgery for breast cancer we studied: a) DHEAS and DHEA concentrations in tumor tissue; b) the differences between DHEAS (or DHEA) concentration in peripheral venous plasma and that draining the affected breast, that we assume to reflect the arteriovenous gradient of these steroids; c) DHEA sulfatase activity in tumor tissue. Results show that DHEA sulfatase activity is not related to DHEAS or DHEA concentrations in breast cancer tissue. A negative DHEA plasma gradient across the breast is unveiled, whereas DHEAS levels are not different in blood supplying and draining the breast with cancer. The DHEA plasma gradient across the breast is positively related to DHEA concentration in tumor tissue. Data are consistent with the hypothesis that the plasma source contributes remarkably to DHEA found within breast cancer tissue.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

95268093

MeSH Heading (Major)

Breast Neoplasms|*ME; Prasterone|*AN/BL

MeSH Heading

Adult; Aged; Arylsulfatases|ME; Female; Human; Middle Age; Radioimmunoassay; Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0167-6806

Country of Publication

NETHERLANDS

Record 28 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu
Return To Menu Position #20

Title

Decreased testosterone and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate concentrations are associated with increased insulin and glucose concentrations in nondiabetic men.

Author

Haffner SM; Valdez RA; Mykkänen L; Stern MP; Katz MS

Address

Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio 78284.

Source

Metabolism, 1994 May, 43:5, 599-603

Abstract

Although many studies indicate that increased androgenicity is associated with insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia in both premenopausal and postmenopausal women, relatively few data are available on this relationship in men. We examined the association of sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), total and free testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-SO4), and estradiol to glucose and insulin concentrations before and during an oral glucose tolerance test in 178 men from the San Antonio Heart Study, a population-based study of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Total and free testosterone and DHEA-SO4 were significantly inversely associated with insulin concentrations. Free testosterone and DHEA-SO4 were also significantly inversely correlated with glucose concentrations. SHBG was weakly positively associated with glucose concentrations. Estradiol was not related to glucose or insulin concentrations. After adjustment for age, obesity, and body fat distribution, insulin concentrations remained significantly inversely correlated with free testosterone (r = -.23), total testosterone (r = -.21), and DHEA-SO4 (r = -.21; all P < .01). In conclusion, we observed that increased testosterone and DHEA-SO4 are associated with lower insulin concentrations in men. This is in striking contrast to women, where increased androgenicity is associated with insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

94231972

MeSH Heading (Major)

Blood Glucose|*AN; Insulin|*BL; Prasterone|*AA/BL; Sex Characteristics|*; Testosterone|*BL

MeSH Heading

Adult; Aging|BL; Anthropometry; Female; Human; Male; Middle Age; Osmolar Concentration; Reference Values; Regression Analysis; Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin|AN; Support, Non-U.S. Gov't; Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.; Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0026-0495

Country of Publication

UNITED STATES

Record 29 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu
Return To Menu Position #20

Title

Aromatase in bone cell: association with osteoporosis in postmenopausal women.

Author

Nawata H; Tanaka S; Tanaka S; Takayanagi R; Sakai Y; Yanase T; Ikuyama S; Haji M

Address

Third Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan.

Source

J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol, 1995 Jun, 53:1-6, 165-74

Abstract

To clarify the possible action of adrenal androgen on bone cell, the existence, characteristics and regulation of aromatase in human osteoblast-like osteosarcoma cells (HOS) and primary cultured osteoblast-like cells from normal human bones (HO) were examined in this study. Significant positive correlation between bone mineral density (BMD) and serum dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) was found in 120 postmenopausal women (51-99 years old) but no correlation was seen between BMD and serum estradiol (E2). In subset analysis, strongly positive correlation of serum DHEA-S and estrone (E1) with BMD was observed in postmenopausal women aged less than 69 years old. Administration of DHEA to ovariectomized rat significantly increased BMD and decreased relative osteoid volume in femur. These in vivo findings strongly suggested that serum adrenal androgen may be converted to estrogen in peripheral organ, especially, osteoblast and be important steroids to maintain BMD. [3H]DHEA was converted to [3H]androstenedione and [3H]androstenedione to [3H]estrone in primary cultured human osteoblast. Osteoblast-like cells showed aromatase activity, and an apparent Km and the Vmax were 4.74 +/- 0.78 nM (mean +/- SD, n = 3) and 0.83 +/- 0.79 fmol/mg protein/h for HOS, and 4.6 +/- 2.9 nM and 279 +/- 299 fmol/mg protein/h (mean +/- SD, n = 19) for HO, respectively. The aromatase activity was significantly increased by dexamethasone in a dose-dependent manner. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction analysis revealed that dexamethasone increased the transcript of P450AROM gene. Osteoblast-specific promoters were also determined. Dexamethasone and 1 alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 synergistically enhanced aromatase activity and P450AROM mRNA expression. These results demonstrate that adrenal androgen, DHEA, is converted to E1 in osteoblast by P450AROM which is positively regulated by glucocorticoid and 1 alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 and important to maintain BMD in the 6 to 7th decade, after menopause.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

95352444

MeSH Heading (Major)

Aromatase|*ME; Bone and Bones|*EN; Osteoporosis|*EN

MeSH Heading

Aged; Androstenedione|PD; Animal; Base Sequence; Bone Density; Calcitriol|PD; DNA Primers|CH; Female; Gene Expression; Human; Menopause; Middle Age; Molecular Sequence Data; Osteoblasts|EN; Osteosarcoma|EN; Ovariectomy; Prasterone|PD; Promoter Regions (Genetics); Rats; RNA, Messenger|GE; Testosterone|PD

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE; REVIEW; REVIEW, TUTORIAL

ISSN

0960-0760

Country of Publication

ENGLAND

Record 30 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu
Return To Menu Position #20

Title

Gemfibrozil treatment is associated with elevated adrenal androgen, androstanediol glucuronide and cortisol levels in dyslipidemic men.

Author

Hautanen A; Mänttäri M; Manninen V; Adlercreutz H

Address

Department of Clinical Chemistry, University of Helsinki, Finland.

Source

J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol, 1994 Dec, 51:5-6, 307-13

Abstract

We have investigated the role of steroid hormones as coronary risk factors in the Helsinki Heart Study population of dyslipidemic middle-aged men. We compare here the effects of gemfibrozil and placebo on the serum levels of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), its sulfate (DHEAS), their metabolite androstanediol glucuronide (3 alpha-AdiolG), androstenedione, cortisol, testosterone, and sex-hormone binding globulin (SHBG) in non-smokers. We also examined the associations between steroid and lipoprotein levels in both treatment groups. Compared with placebo gemfibrozil treatment was associated with significant elevations of the mean levels of DHEA 10.2 vs 8.0 nmol/l; P < 0.005, of DHEAS 8.0 vs 5.8 mumol/l; P < 0.001, of 3 alpha AdiolG 18.3 vs 8.4 nmol/l; P < 0.001, of androstenedione 5.7 vs 5.1 nmol/l; P < 0.02, and of cortisol 426 vs 358 nmol/l; P < 0.001. The mean SHBG levels decreased from 46.4 to 41.7 nmol/l; P = 0.03 with gemfibrozil treatment. No difference was found in testosterone levels 17.7 vs 18.8 nmol/l; P = 0.11, or the ratio of testosterone/SHBG 0.45 vs 0.43; P = 0.23. Positive correlations were found between high density lipoprotein-cholesterol and DHEAS (r = 0.267; P < 0.01) and DHEA (r = 0.282; P < 0.01) levels and negative correlations between low density lipoprotein-cholesterol and 3 alpha-AdiolG (r = -0.400; P < 0.001) and cortisol (r = -0.281; P < 0.01) levels in the gemfibrozil group. Our results indicate that gemfibrozil treatment increases the production and turnover of adrenal androgens and cortisol, and suggest that activation of the adrenocortical function and increased metabolism of androgens are related to the improved lipoprotein pattern during gemfibrozil treatment.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

95127500

MeSH Heading (Major)

Adrenal Cortex Hormones|*BL; Androgens|*BL; Androstane-3,17-diol|*AA/BL; Gemfibrozil|*TU; Hydrocortisone|*BL; Hypercholesterolemia|BL/*DT

MeSH Heading

Adult; Case-Control Studies; Human; Linear Models; Lipoproteins, HDL Cholesterol|DE; Male; Middle Age; Prasterone|AA/BL; Sex Hormone-Binding Globulin|DE; Support, Non-U.S. Gov't; Testosterone|BL

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0960-0760

Country of Publication

ENGLAND

Record 31 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu
Return To Menu Position #20

Title

Endocrine evaluation of incidentally discovered adrenal masses (incidentalomas) [see comments]

Author

Osella G; Terzolo M; Borretta G; Magro G; Alí A; Piovesan A; Paccotti P; Angeli A

Address

Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin, S. Luigi Hospital, Italy.

Source

J Clin Endocrinol Metab, 1994 Dec, 79:6, 1532-9

Abstract

Since 1989, 45 patients [pts; 26 females and 19 males, aged 19-79 yr (median, 58)] bearing incidentally discovered adrenal masses were studied. The aim of the study was to verify the prevalence of hormone activity in clinically silent adrenal masses. Endocrine work-up included determination of urinary catecholamines and their metabolites, measurement of PRA and aldosterone levels in clino- and orthostatic posture, and basal and dynamic [dexamethasone (dex) suppression and ovine CRH stimulation] evaluation of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. The most frequent finding was the reduction of dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) levels below the third percentile of controls in 19 (42%) pts. DHEA-S levels were significantly lower in pts than in controls [68 (range, 5-1000) vs. 208 (34-326) micrograms/dL; 1.8 (0.1-27.1) vs. 5.6 (0.9-8.8) mumol/L; P < 0.001]. Three pts (7%) had high 24-h mean serum cortisol levels, and 6 (14%) had blunted day-night amplitude of cortisol rhythm. Defective dex suppressibility was found in 15% of pts vs. 8% of controls (P < 0.05). ACTH and cortisol responses to ovine CRH did not significantly differ between pts and controls, although blunted ACTH responses were found in 22% of the cases. The above-mentioned endocrine alterations could be accounted for by autonomous cortisol secretion by the adrenal nodule at a rate not sufficient to give clinical expression, but able to inhibit to some extent the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis. These results indicate that silent cortisol hypersecretion is frequently observed in pts with adrenal incidentaloma even if progression to overt Cushing's syndrome seems unlikely. Indeed, the size of the mass and the hormone pattern remained substantially unchanged in 9 pts followed up for 12 months. From merely a cost/benefit ratio, the evaluation of DHEA-S levels and dex suppression has sufficient sensitivity to identify the occurrence of silent hypercortisolism.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

95081256

MeSH Heading (Major)

Adrenal Gland Neoplasms|DI/*ME/PA; Hormones|*ME

MeSH Heading

Adenoma|DI/ME/PA; Adult; Aged; Aldosterone|BL; Carcinoma|DI/ME/PA; Catecholamines|UR; Corticotropin|BL; Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone|DU; Dexamethasone|DU; Female; Human; Hydrocortisone|BL; Male; Middle Age; Pheochromocytoma|DI/ME/PA; Prasterone|AA/BL; Renin|BL; Tomography, X-Ray Computed; Ultrasonography

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0021-972X

Country of Publication

UNITED STATES

Record 32 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu
Return To Menu Position #20

Title

Accumulation of 5 alpha-reduced androgen glucosiduronates associated with impaired removal in young male hemodialysis patients.

Author

Boudou P; Naret C; Fiet J; Bonete R; Tritto G; Le Duc A; Poignet JL; Man NK

Address

Department of Hormonal Biology, Saint-Louis University Hospital, Paris, France.

Source

J Clin Endocrinol Metab, 1995 Dec, 80:12, 3489-93

Abstract

Hypothalamic-pituitary gonadal function is commonly altered in dialysis patients. Even though an improvement in general status and well-being has been noted after recombinant human erythropoietin supplementation, no significant changes were observed in the sex hormone profile. Pituitary gonadal axis as well as 5 alpha-reduced androgen glucosiduronates (i.e. 5 alpha-androstane,3 alpha,17 beta-diol and androsterone) profiles were studied in 23 young male stable dialyzed patients and compared to an age-matched group of healthy subjects. 5 alpha-Reduced androgen glucosiduronates are products of peripheral testosterone (T) metabolism and seem to be a useful tool in assessment of the male androgen status. Their polarity facilitates their urinary excretion, and their clearance is similar to the glomerular filtration rate in healthy men. We observed 1) a pituitary-Leydig cell dysfunction supported by normal serum estradiol and T levels, low free T, and increased LH levels; 2) an alteration of the dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) sulfate-DHEA interconversion, reflected by a dramatic decrease in DHEA while DHEA sulfate levels remained in the normal range; 3) an accumulation of 5 alpha-reduced androgen glucosiduronates, whose removal was impaired as shown by their very low sieving coefficients (< 0.012). Taken together, the above observations are consistent with alteration of spermatogenesis with respect to dialysis duration in which earlier elevated baseline serum LH levels indicate a primary defect in Leydig cell function.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

96094385

MeSH Heading (Major)

Androstane-3,17-diol|*BL; Androsterone|*AA/BL; Hemodialysis|*

MeSH Heading

Adolescence; Adult; Comparative Study; Human; Male; Prasterone|BL; Reference Values; Testosterone|BL

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0021-972X

Country of Publication

UNITED STATES

Record 33 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu
Return To Menu Position #20

Title

Plasma androgens in autism.

Author

Tordjman S; Anderson GM; McBride PA; Hertzig ME; Snow ME; Hall LM; Ferrari P; Cohen DJ

Address

Department of Psychiatry, UniversitÆe de Paris-Sud, France.

Source

J Autism Dev Disord, 1995 Jun, 25:3, 295-304

Abstract

Plasma levels of testosterone and the adrenal androgen dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S) were measured in male autistic subjects (31 prepubertal, 8 postpubertal), mentally retarded/cognitively impaired subjects (MR, 12 prepubertal), and normal control subjects (NC, 10 prepubertal, 11 postpubertal). Mean levels of plasma testosterone were similar in the postpubertal autistic (4.54 +/- 1.12 ng/ml) and postpubertal NC (5.02 +/- 1.87 ng/ml) groups. Plasma DHEA-S levels in postpubertal autistic (2170 +/- 1020 ng/ml) and postpubertal NC (1850 +/- 777 ng/ml) groups also were not significantly different. Similarly, no significant group differences were seen for testosterone or DHEA-S in the prepubertal autistic, MR, or NC individuals, although prepubertal MR individuals with cerebral palsy did have increased plasma DHEA-S levels compared to age-matched MR or NC individuals. Significant negative correlations were found between testosterone and whole blood serotonin (5-HT) levels in the combined (all subjects, all ages) groups and in the autistic group, suggesting that the effect of puberty on whole blood 5-HT may deserve further study. Data indicate that altered secretion of the androgens is not a common feature of autism. However, abnormalities of adrenal androgen secretion may be present in individuals with cerebral palsy.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

96040411

MeSH Heading (Major)

Autism, Infantile|*BL; Prasterone|*AA/BL; Testosterone|*BL

MeSH Heading

Adolescence; Adult; Child; Child, Preschool; Human; Male; Mental Retardation|BL; Puberty|BL; Reference Values; Serotonin|BL; Support, Non-U.S. Gov't; Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0162-3257

Country of Publication

UNITED STATES

Record 34 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu
Return To Menu Position #20

Title

Adrenal incidentaloma, a five year experience.

Author

Terzolo M; Osella G; Alì A; Reimondo G; Borretta G; Magro GP; Luceri S; Paccotti P; Angeli A

Address

Department of Clinical and Biological Sciences, University of Turin S. Luigi Hospital, Italy.

Source

Minerva Endocrinol, 1995 Mar, 20:1, 69-78

Abstract

Since 1989, 45 patients 26 females and 19 males, aged 19-79 years (median 58) bearing incidentally discovered adrenal masses were studied. Endocrine work-up included determination of urinary catecholamines and their metabolites, measurement of plasma renin activity and aldosterone levels in clino- and orthostatic posture, basal and dynamic (dexamethasone-suppression, o-CRH stimulation) evaluation of hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. The most frequent finding was the reduction of DHEA-S levels below the 3rd percentile of controls in 19 (42%) patients. As a whole group, DHEA-S levels were significantly lower in patients than in controls: 68 (5-1000) micrograms/dL vs 208 (34-326) micrograms/dL; p < 0.001. Three patients (7%) had high 24-h mean serum cortisol levels and 6 (14%) had blunted day-night amplitude of cortisol rhythm. Defective dexamethasone suppressibility was found in 15% of patients vs 8% of controls (p < 0.05). ACTH and cortisol responses after o-CRH did not significantly differ between patients and controls although blunted ACTH responses were found in 22% of cases. The above mentioned endocrine alterations could be accounted for by autonomous cortisol secretion by the adrenal nodule at a rate not sufficient to give clinical expression but able to inhibit to some extent the HPA axis. These results indicate that silent cortisol hypersecretion is frequently observed in patients with adrenal incidentaloma even if progression to overt Cushing's syndrome seems unlikely, at least in a short-term follow-up. From a mere cost-benefit ratio, the evaluation of DHEA-S levels and dex-suppression has sufficient sensitivity to identify the occurrence of silent hypercortisolism.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

95379649

MeSH Heading (Major)

Adrenal Gland Neoplasms|DI/*EP/PA/SC/SE

MeSH Heading

Adenoma|DI/EP/PA/SE; Adult; Aged; Algorithms; Carcinoma|DI/EP/SC/SE; Case-Control Studies; Catecholamines|UR; Corticotropin|SE; Corticotropin-Releasing Hormone|DU; Dexamethasone|DU; Diagnostic Imaging; Female; Human; Hydrocortisone|SE; Hypertension|ET; Hypothalamo-Hypophyseal System|PP; Lung Neoplasms; Male; Middle Age; Pheochromocytoma|DI/EP/PA/SE; Pituitary-Adrenal System|PP; Prasterone|AA/BL; Retrospective Studies

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE; REVIEW; REVIEW, MULTICASE

ISSN

0391-1977

Country of Publication

ITALY

Record 35 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu
Return To Menu Position #20

Title

Biosynthesis and assay of neurosteroids in rats and mice: functional correlates.

Author

Robel P; Young J; Corpéchot C; Mayo W; Perché F; Haug M; Simon H; Baulieu EE

Address

INSERM U33, Le Kremlin-BicÈetre, France.

Source

J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol, 1995 Jun, 53:1-6, 355-60

Abstract

Pregnenolone (PREG), synthesized de novo in rodent brain, is the precursor of PREG sulfate (S) and progesterone (PROG). PROG is further converted to 5 alpha-pregnane 3, 20-dione (DH PROG) and to 3 alpha-hydroxy-5 alpha-pregnan-20-one (TH PROG). PROG, DH PROG and TH PROG have been measured in the brain of male and female rats. Neither PROG nor DH PROG disappeared from brain, contrary to plasma, after combined adrenalectomy (ADX) and gonadectomy (CX). Trilostane decreased PROG and increased PREG in the brain of CX+ADX rats and mice, in accordance with a precursor to product relationship. As previously described in CX male mice, the neurosteroid DHEA and its analog 3 beta-methyl-androst-5-en-17-one (CH3-DHEA) inhibited the aggressive behavior of female mice towards lactating female intruders. The decrease of biting attacks by DHEA was definitely more prominent in females neonatally imprinted with testosterone. The degree of inhibition of aggressive behavior was related to the decrease of PREG S concentrations in brain. The memory-enhancing effects of DHEA S and PREG S in male mice have been previously documented. Infusion of PREG S (12 fmol) into the nucleus basalis magnocellularis (NBM) of the rat after the acquisition trial enhanced memory performance in a two-trial recognition task (TTRT). Conversely, TH PROG (6 fmol), which potentiates GABAergic neurotransmission, disrupted performance when injected before the acquisition trial. Accordingly, we have found a positive correlation between the performances of 2-year-old rats in the TTRT and the concentrations of PREG S in the hippocampus, namely animals which performed best had the highest steroid levels.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

95352475

MeSH Heading (Major)

Behavior, Animal|*PH; Pregnenolone|*ME; Progesterone|*ME

MeSH Heading

Adrenalectomy; Aggression|DE; Aging; Animal; Female; GABA|PD; Human; Infant, Newborn; Lactation; Male; Memory|PH; Mice; Orchiectomy; Prasterone|PD; Radioimmunoassay; Rats; Rats, Sprague-Dawley; Stanolone|AA/PD

Publication Type

JOURNAL ARTICLE; REVIEW; REVIEW, TUTORIAL

ISSN

0960-0760

Country of Publication

ENGLAND

Record 36 from database: MEDLINE
Return To Top Of Menu
Return To Menu Position #40

Title

C16 hydroxylation of 3beta-hydroxy-delta5-steroids during the early neonatal period.

Author

Tagawa N; Kusuda S; Kobayashi Y

Address

Clinical Chemistry Laboratory, Kobe Pharmaceutical University, Japan.

Source

Biol Pharm Bull, 1997 Dec, 20:12, 1295-9

Abstract

Temporal changes of the serum levels of 16-hydroxypregnenolone (3beta,16alpha-dihydroxy-5-pregnen-20-one) 3-sulfate (16-OH-Preg S) and 16-hydroxydehydroepiandrosterone (3beta,16alpha-dihydroxy-5-androsten-17-one) 3-sulfate (16-OH-DHEA S) were investigated by analyzing the levels of their precursor steroids, pregnenolone (3beta-hydroxy-5-pregnen-20-one) 3-sulfate (Preg S) and dehydroepiandrosterone (3beta-hydroxy-5-androsten-17-one) 3-sulfate (DHEA S), respectively, in the early neonatal period. The serum levels of these steroids were measured by GC-MS in full-term (gestational age: 37-41 weeks), pre-term (gestational age: 28-36 weeks) and extremely immature (gestational age: 24-27 weeks) infants. The changes in 16-hydroxysteroid production were also investigated by analyzing the ratios of the serum levels of 16-OH-Preg S and Preg S (16-OH-Preg S/Preg S ratio), and 16-OH-DHEA S and DHEA S (16-OH-DHEA S/DHEA S ratio). It was confirmed that the 16-hydroxylation of DHEA S and Preg S increased after birth, and the 16-OH-Preg S/Preg S ratio in full-term infants was significantly higher than in pre-term and extremely immature infants at days 0, 1-6 and 7-13. On the other hand, there were no significant differences between the 16-OH-DHEA S/DHEA S ratios of the three groups at days 0, 1-6 or 7-13. The mechanism of differences in the 16-hydroxylation of Preg S and DHEA S is also discussed.

Language of Publication

English

Unique Identifier

98107796

MeSH Heading (Major)

Hydroxysteroids|BL/*ME

MeSH Heading

Calibration; Chromatography, High Pressure Liquid; Female; Human; Hydroxylation; Hydroxypregnenolone|BL/ME; Infant, Newborn; Infant, Premature|ME; Male; Mass Fragmentography; Prasterone|AA/BL/ME; Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

Publication Type

CLINICAL TRIAL; JOURNAL ARTICLE

ISSN

0918-6158

Country of Publication

JAPAN

Record 37 from database: MEDLINE

Title

Androgen-related effects on peripheral glucose metabolism in women with congenital adrenal hyperplasia.

Author

Paula FJ; Gouveia LM; Paccola GM; Piccinato CE; Moreira AC; Foss MC

Address

Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of SÃao Paulo, RibeirÃao Preto, Brazil.

Source

Horm Metab Res, 1994 Nov, 26:11, 552-6

Abstract

The study was designed to investigate the influence of androgens on peripheral glucose metabolism in women with congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH). Nine normal women and seven women with CAH were studied (4 with the classical form of 21-hydroxylase deficiency [C 21-OH] and 3 with nonclassical 21-hydroxylase deficiency [NC 21-OH]). The study was performed using the forearm model combined with local indirect calorimetry. The insulin level reached 30 minutes after glucose ingestion was significantly greater (p < .05) in patients with CAH. The patients with C 21-OH had elevated androstenedione (A) and testosterone (T) and low DHEA-S and presented a 35% greater insulin response to a glucose stimulus than the control group, area under the curve (AUC) of 9457 +/- 887 vs 6989 +/- 833 microU/ml.3 hours. Patients with NC 21-OH had slightly elevated T, A and DHEA-S and presented an insulin response that was similar to the control group, AUC = 7208 +/- 1935 microU/ml.3 hours. Despite the greater muscle mass of the patients with CAH the forearm glucose uptake during the three hours of the study was lower in these patients than in normal women (CAH = 100.9 +/- 10.0 vs control group = 132.5 +/- 21.2 mg/100 ml forearm). The ratio of insulin response to the increment of forearm glucose uptake over a period of 3 h was significantly higher in patients with CAH (control group = 59.6 +/- 6.5 vs CAH = 98.6 +/- 19.4 microU.ml-1/mg.100 ml forearm-1, p < 0.05). These results suggest that insulin sensitivity is decreased in patients with CAH.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

Language of Publicati