Dihydrotestosterone

Cell · 2025

Researchers found that the androgen 5α-dihydrotestosterone (5α-DHT) activates a membrane receptor called GPR133 in muscle cells, which increases levels of a molecule called cyclic AMP (cAMP) and enhances muscle strength. They also identified the structure of this receptor when bound to 5α-DHT, providing insights into how androgens are recognized by this receptor.

• 5α-DHT activates the GPR133 receptor in muscle cells.
• Activation of GPR133 increases cyclic AMP levels.
• The structure of GPR133 bound to androgens was determined.

Cancers · 2025

Researchers observed that frequent ejaculation may help reduce the risk of prostate cancer by influencing hormonal mechanisms in the prostate. They suggest that regular ejaculation could be a potential preventive strategy against prostate cancer, alongside other known risk factors.

• Prostate cancer accounts for about 15% of cancers diagnosed in men.
• Ejaculation may regulate prostate health through hormonal interactions.
• Frequent ejaculation, without risky sexual behaviors, could lower prostate cancer risk.

International journal of molecular sciences · 2022

Researchers observed that endocrine disruptors (EDs) can negatively affect the prostate gland, which is crucial for male fertility. They found that these disruptors may influence the development and progression of prostate cancer by altering cellular pathways, particularly those related to androgen receptor signaling.

• EDs can impact molecular mechanisms in the prostate gland.
• Prostate cancer is linked to changes in androgen receptor signaling.
• Altered regulation of cell growth may lead to prostate cancer onset and progression.

Medical molecular morphology · 2010

Researchers observed that androgens, particularly a potent form called DHT, are present in higher concentrations in breast cancer tissues compared to blood. They found that androgens generally inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells, but the relationship between androgen receptors and patient outcomes is still unclear. Additionally, a specific type of breast cancer, known as molecular apocrine carcinoma, shows increased androgen signaling and unique characteristics.

• DHT levels are higher in breast cancer tissue than in plasma.
• Androgens mainly have growth-inhibiting effects on breast cancer cells.
• Molecular apocrine breast carcinoma is characterized by being ER negative and AR positive.

Molecular and cellular endocrinology · 2008

Researchers observed that two specific enzymes in the prostate regulate the activity of the androgen receptor, which is important for male development and prostate health. One enzyme converts a potent androgen into an inactive form, while the other converts it back, suggesting potential targets for treating conditions related to androgen levels.

• Type 3 3alpha-HSD converts 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone into an inactive form.
• RoDH like 3alpha-HSD converts the inactive form back into the potent androgen.
• These enzymes play a role in regulating androgen action in the prostate.

Molecular and cellular endocrinology · 2007

Researchers found that specific enzymes, known as hydroxysteroid dehydrogenases (HSDs), act as molecular switches that control the availability of a potent hormone, 5alpha-DHT, to its receptor in the prostate. They identified two types of HSDs that either activate or deactivate this hormone, influencing how it affects the body.

• HSDs regulate access to the androgen receptor in the prostate.
• Type 3 3alpha-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase converts 5alpha-DHT to an inactive form.
• Another enzyme converts the inactive form back to 5alpha-DHT, controlling its effects.

Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology · 2001

Researchers observed that androgens, like testosterone and DHT, play important roles in development and adult functions. They found that the effects of these hormones are mediated through a specific androgen receptor gene and involve various proteins that help regulate gene activity in different tissues and cell types.

• Androgens are crucial for many biological processes in both embryos and adults.
• The primary androgen receptor gene is located on the X-chromosome.
• Different proteins influence how androgens regulate gene activity in various tissues.

Journal of andrology · 1992

Researchers observed that dihydrotestosterone (DHT) acts primarily within specific tissues, like skin and the prostate, rather than being accurately reflected in blood levels. They found that a metabolite called 3 alpha androstanediol glucuronide is a better indicator of DHT formation in these tissues and can vary with conditions like hirsutism and acne.

• DHT is mainly produced from testosterone and acts locally in target tissues.
• Blood levels of DHT do not reliably indicate its production in the body.
• 3 alpha androstanediol glucuronide is a key marker for DHT formation, especially in skin.