Mechanism of Action of Bolandiol (19-Nortestosterone-3β,17β-Diol), a Unique Anabolic Steroid with Androgenic, Estrogenic, and Progestational Activities
TLDR Bolandiol, a synthetic steroid, builds muscle and bone without greatly affecting sex glands, and works differently from other hormones.
The study investigated bolandiol (19-nortestosterone-3β,17β-diol), an anabolic steroid with androgenic, estrogenic, and progestational activities. Bolandiol increased lean body mass and bone mineral density in castrate adult male rats without significantly stimulating sex accessory glands. It showed weak binding to androgen, progesterone, and estrogen receptors and did not convert to estrogen via aromatase or require 5α-reduction for its effects. Bolandiol promoted muscle growth in immature castrate rats and increased uterine weight in immature female rats, partially blocked by an estrogen receptor antagonist. Its ability to suppress luteinizing hormone (LH) and maintain muscle mass with minimal prostate stimulation suggested potential as a male contraceptive and treatment for hypogonadism and osteoporosis. Further studies were needed to clarify its mechanisms and long-term effects.
