TLDR Testosterone in our bodies helps increase insulin secretion from the pancreas.
The study from 2020 demonstrated that testosterone (T) affects β cell function in both men and women. The researchers found that T undergoes intracrine conversion in target tissues to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) via the enzyme 5α-reductase (5α-R), or to the active estrogen 17β-estradiol (E2) via the aromatase enzyme. This process was observed in both male and female human pancreas sections. The study also showed that exposure to 5α-R inhibitors or the aromatase inhibitor inhibited T enhancement of glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS). The conclusion was that male and female human islets convert T into DHT and E2 via the intracrine activities of SRD5A1 and aromatase, and this process is necessary for T enhancement of GSIS.
237 citations,
December 2001 in “Urology” Blocking the enzyme 5α-reductase can shrink the prostate and help treat enlarged prostate issues.
5 citations,
January 2001 in “Advances in protein chemistry” 5α-reductase inhibitors help treat disorders caused by DHT and have potential for future therapies.
32 citations,
April 1999 in “Expert Opinion on Investigational Drugs” Finasteride effectively treats male hair loss, improving growth and density.
5 citations,
January 2017 in “Endocrinology” Genetic defects in testosterone production can cause hormonal and developmental disorders, and more research is needed to understand androgen regulation and develop safer treatments.
49 citations,
January 2004 in “Journal of steroid biochemistry and molecular biology/The Journal of steroid biochemistry and molecular biology” Selective non-steroidal inhibitors of 5α-reductase type 1 can help treat DHT-related disorders.
11 citations,
January 2000 in “The Journal of Steroid Biochemistry and Molecular Biology” LY320236 is a strong blocker of two enzymes that change testosterone into dihydrotestosterone and might help treat conditions related to male hormones.
