This study validated a highly sensitive gas chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (GC-MS/MS) assay to quantify sex steroid hormones in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and serum samples from 47 men. The results showed that dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) was the predominant sex steroid in CSF, followed by androstenedione and testosterone, while dihydrotestosterone (DHT), estradiol (E2), and estrone (E1) were present at lower levels, and progesterone was generally undetectable. Strong correlations were found between CSF and serum levels for all sex steroids except E2. The study suggests that testosterone in CSF originates from circulating testosterone, DHT results from local conversion of testosterone, and E2 is derived from local conversion of androstenedione in the CNS. This assay provides a new tool for exploring the role of sex steroids in the human central nervous system.
59 citations
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November 2018 in “Psychoneuroendocrinology” Lower levels of certain brain chemicals are linked to worse PTSD symptoms in men.
89 citations
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August 2013 in “PloS one” Androgen receptors are active in many tissues of both male and female mice, not just reproductive organs.
24 citations
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September 1996 in “Mycoses” Androgenic steroids can slow down or stop the growth of certain skin fungi.
3 citations
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March 2021 in “Metabolites” Hair loss causes differ between men and women due to changes in hormone levels and inflammation-related pathways.
8 citations
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January 1996 in “Gynecological Endocrinology” Cyproterone acetate is the preferred treatment for women's hyperandrogenism when estrogen/progestogen use is safe.
105 citations
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January 2009 in “Medicine” Hirsutism is more linked to high androgen levels than acne or hair loss, and a mix of hormonal tests is best for diagnosis; certain treatments can reduce symptoms.
6 citations
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September 2005 in “Expert Opinion on Pharmacotherapy” Androgen therapy can help with symptoms like low libido in women, but more research is needed to understand its long-term safety and effects on health.
16 citations
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February 2018 in “European Journal of Endocrinology” Diagnosing hyperandrogenism in women is complex and requires accurate testing methods and consideration of SHBG levels.