TLDR The new compounds may be more effective and cheaper than current treatments for conditions like baldness.
The study explored the synthesis and effects of five novel steroid derivatives as 5α-reductase inhibitors, which are crucial for treating androgen-dependent conditions like baldness. These compounds, featuring an ester moiety at C-3 and conjugated double bonds at C-4 and C-16, were tested in both in vivo and in vitro settings. The results showed that these derivatives had higher activity than finasteride, a common treatment, with compound 11b exhibiting a significantly lower IC50 of 1.8 nM compared to finasteride's 8.5 nM. In vivo, they effectively reduced prostate weight in testosterone-treated, castrated hamsters. The presence of halogens enhanced their activity without binding to androgen receptors, suggesting fewer side effects. These findings suggested that these compounds could be more effective and cost-efficient alternatives for treating androgen-related conditions.
45 citations
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February 2005 in “Steroids” Four new compounds were more effective than finasteride in treating prostate issues and hair loss, with one being 100 times more active and safe for use.
42 citations
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May 2003 in “Mini-reviews in Medicinal Chemistry” New steroidal compounds could be effective for treating conditions related to 5α-reductase enzyme activity.
20 citations
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February 2002 in “Expert Opinion on Therapeutic Patents” New research is needed to create better drugs that block the enzyme responsible for conditions like male baldness and prostate enlargement.
193 citations
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August 1985 in “Endocrinology” Different animals have unique versions of the enzyme that changes testosterone into another hormone, which is important for creating effective treatments for prostate and hair loss conditions.
20 citations
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February 2002 in “Expert Opinion on Therapeutic Patents” New research is needed to create better drugs that block the enzyme responsible for conditions like male baldness and prostate enlargement.
59 citations
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May 2014 in “Expert Opinion on Therapeutic Targets” The document concludes that targeting 5α-reductase, the androgen receptor, and hair growth genes, along with using compounds with anti-androgenic properties, could lead to more effective hair loss treatments.
11 citations
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August 1997 in “Expert Opinion on Therapeutic Patents” Many potential alopecia treatments need more testing to confirm they promote acceptable hair growth with minimal side effects.
20 citations
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March 2005 in “Current Medicinal Chemistry” New compounds show promise for treating hair loss, enlarged prostate, and prostate cancer, with some being more effective and having different side effects than current treatments.
3 citations
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January 2016 in “Elsevier eBooks” Steroid hormones are crucial for body functions and have various medical uses, but their misuse can lead to dependence.
