Androgen Receptor Blockade Induces the Phagocytosis of MRSA and Pseudomonas Aeruginosa by Monocyte-Derived Macrophages In Vitro

This study examines how androgen receptor (AR) blockade affects the phagocytic activity of monocyte-derived macrophages against MRSA and Pseudomonas aeruginosa in vitro. It finds that testosterone and its metabolite, DHT, reduce macrophage phagocytosis of these bacteria in a dose-dependent manner. Blocking the AR with enzalutamide and inhibiting testosterone conversion to DHT with finasteride reverses this effect, enhancing bacterial clearance. These results suggest that testosterone dampens macrophage phagocytic functions through AR binding and DHT conversion, highlighting potential therapeutic targets for improving immune responses in wound healing, especially in the elderly. The study's findings are supported by 4 to 6 independent trials.