Molecular Interactions of Natural and Synthetic Steroids in Female Hamsters’ Flank Organs

The study explored how testosterone (T), progesterone (P), levonorgestrel (LNG), and synthetic steroids influenced mRNA expression for enzymes involved in lipid metabolism in female hamster flank organs. The results showed that T, P, and LNG, as well as combinations of these with synthetic steroids, increased mRNA expression for certain enzymes, indicating a role in lipid synthesis and potential effects on sebum composition. Specifically, LNG was linked to increased expression of squalene synthase, which might relate to its acne-improving effects. Synthetic steroids 5 and 6, when combined with T, decreased mRNA expression due to 5α-reductase inhibition and lack of AR binding. The combination of P with steroids 5 or 6 did not enhance enzyme mRNA expression. These findings help to understand how different steroids regulate lipid metabolism in the pilosebaceous unit. The study was funded by CONACYT (project number 54853).