Cutaneous Androgen Metabolism: Basic Research And Clinical Perspectives

The document from 2002 discusses how the skin, particularly the pilosebaceous unit, is capable of synthesizing androgens from cholesterol or converting weaker androgens into more potent ones using six major enzyme systems. These enzymes are found in various skin cells, with some showing higher activity in acne-prone areas or in the skin of acne patients. The study highlights the presence of different isoenzymes in sebaceous glands and hair follicles, which are involved in androgen metabolism. It also suggests that certain serum levels of androgen metabolites could potentially serve as markers for hyperandrogenic states, such as in hirsutism, although their use in acne is still debated. The document concludes that developing more potent and specific antagonists for these isoenzymes could improve the treatment and possibly prevent androgen-dependent skin conditions.