Effect of Carbamates on mRNA Encoding Lipid Enzymes in Hamster Flank Organs

The study explored the impact of four steroidal carbamates on mRNA expression for lipid enzymes in the androgen-dependent pilosebaceous complexes of hamster flank organs. The aim was to assess the antiandrogenic potential of these compounds for treating androgen-dependent conditions. It was found that testosterone (T) and progesterone (P), along with the carbamates, increased mRNA expression for several lipid enzymes, but the combination of P with carbamates decreased the expression of some enzymes. The carbamates did not bind to the progesterone receptor but did inhibit 5α-reductase activity. The study, which involved 12 groups of 4 hamsters each, concluded that carbamates 7-10 could alter the mRNA expression pattern induced by T and P, suggesting their therapeutic potential for androgen-dependent diseases. The IC50 values for 5α-reductase inhibition by the carbamates were also determined, further supporting their potential use.