TLDR Omega-6 fats in certain cells boost male hormone production.
The study "Omega-6 highly unsaturated fatty acids in Leydig cells facilitate male sex hormone production" found a link between omega-6 highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFAs) and male steroid hormone production. Using a FADS2−/− mouse model, the research discovered that the enzyme FADS2, which is crucial for HUFA biosynthesis, is highly expressed in Leydig cells that produce male steroid hormones. Disruption of FADS2 led to a significant decrease in omega-6 HUFAs and a reduced capacity to produce steroid hormones. The study also found that hormone-sensitive lipase (HSL) preferentially hydrolyzed cholesteryl esters with omega-6 HUFAs. High levels of male steroid hormones, which have been linked to conditions like androgenetic alopecia, acne, and prostate cancer, have been associated with a diet high in omega-6 HUFAs and low in omega-3 HUFAs. The study suggests that omega-3 HUFAs may suppress excessive biosynthesis of male steroid hormones by balancing the omega-6/omega-3 ratio in Leydig cells.
14 citations,
September 2018 in “International Journal of Molecular Sciences” Mackerel-derived fermented fish oil helps hair grow by activating growth pathways and increasing cell proliferation.
50 citations,
February 2013 in “Annals of Clinical Biochemistry” Understanding how DHT works is important for diagnosing and treating hormone-related disorders.
124 citations,
July 2012 in “Archives of Dermatological Research” Targeting androgen receptors could be a promising way to treat skin disorders with fewer side effects.
147 citations,
October 2004 in “Experimental dermatology” Hormones like testosterone affect skin functions and can cause skin issues when in excess; treatments to manage these effects are only somewhat effective.
August 2024 in “Skin Research and Technology” Omega-6 and LDL cholesterol increase the risk of hair loss.
138 citations,
July 2015 in “Clinical, Cosmetic and Investigational Dermatology” Eating less sugar, milk, and saturated fats and more vegetables and fish may help treat and prevent acne.
50 citations,
February 2013 in “Annals of Clinical Biochemistry” Understanding how DHT works is important for diagnosing and treating hormone-related disorders.
3 citations,
January 2017 in “Journal of cosmetology & trichology” The nutritional supplement improved hair quality and reduced hair loss.
1 citations,
January 2010 in “Springer eBooks” Certain micronutrients may improve hair and nail health, but more research is needed to confirm their benefits.
