Is Dihydrotestosterone a Classic Hormone?

    June 2017 in “ Endocrine Reviews ”
    Bradley D. Anawalt
    Image of study
    TLDR Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) mainly affects nearby cells, doesn't significantly change prostate hormonal environment or cancer risk, and doesn't play a main role in causing hair loss or acne. More research is needed on its effects on heart health, sexual function, and bone health.
    The 2017 article "Is Dihydrotestosterone a Classic Hormone?" examined the role of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in human physiology. The authors found that DHT, traditionally seen as a major sex steroid hormone in men, primarily acts as a paracrine hormone, affecting nearby cells rather than circulating throughout the body. The study revealed that the prostate and skin self-regulate DHT concentrations independently of serum DHT concentrations. It was also noted that exogenous testosterone therapy for male hypogonadism or androgen-based male hormonal contraceptives is unlikely to significantly change the prostate hormonal environment or the potential risk of prostate cancer. The article also stated that DHT does not seem to play a primary role in the development of male or female androgenic alopecia or acne. The authors concluded that further research is needed to understand DHT's physiological effects, including its specific role in cardiovascular health, sexual function, and bone health.
    Discuss this study in the Community →

    Research cited in this study

    6 / 6 results

    Related Community Posts Join

    6 / 134 results

      community Is this broscience? From More Plates, More Dates

      in Research/Science  21 upvotes 9 months ago
      The conversation discusses whether finasteride's reduction of DHT and increase in scalp testosterone contribute to hair follicle miniaturization. Some participants argue testosterone does not cause miniaturization, while others suggest that even with reduced DHT, other androgens like testosterone may still contribute to hair loss.

      community Saying creatine causes loss on fin/dut makes no sense and this is why

      in Finasteride/Dutasteride  42 upvotes 10 months ago
      The conversation discusses whether creatine causes hair loss for those using finasteride or dutasteride, with some suggesting creatine might increase DHT or upregulate androgen receptors, potentially leading to hair loss. Others argue the evidence is not conclusive, citing limited studies and personal anecdotes, with some avoiding creatine as a precaution.

      community Androgenetic alopecia is a skin disease: DHT-mediated skin disorders

      in Research/Science  65 upvotes 1 year ago
      Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) impacts various skin conditions, including Androgenetic alopecia and seborrheic dermatitis, by causing overactivity in sebaceous glands. Topical medications Tacrolimus and Clobetasol can reduce these inflammatory conditions, and treatments like RU58841, Minoxidil, and Finasteride may also be beneficial.

      community Why is dht bad for scalp hair but good for hair on the rest of body?

      in Satire  109 upvotes 1 year ago
      The conversation discusses why DHT (dihydrotestosterone) negatively affects scalp hair but promotes growth elsewhere on the body. Various opinions include genetic predispositions, differences in hair follicle reactions to DHT, and the potential role of Omega-3 in reducing inflammation and promoting hair health.

    Related Research

    1 / 1 results