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'''Prasterone''', also known as dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), is an endogenous [[steroid hormone]] produced in the adrenal glands, gonads, and brain. It serves as a precursor to male and female sex hormones, including [[estrogen]]s and [[androgen]]s. Prasterone is the most abundant circulating steroid hormone in humans, but its exact role in health and disease is still under investigation.
== Prasterone ==
 
[[File:Dehydroepiandrosteron.svg|Prasterone chemical structure|thumb|right]]
 
'''Prasterone''', also known as '''dehydroepiandrosterone''' ('''DHEA'''), is an endogenous [[steroid hormone]] that is produced in the [[adrenal glands]], [[gonads]], and [[brain]]. It serves as a precursor to male and female sex hormones, including [[testosterone]] and [[estrogen]].
 
== Biochemistry ==
 
Prasterone is synthesized from [[cholesterol]] through the action of the enzyme [[cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme]] (CYP11A1), which converts cholesterol into [[pregnenolone]]. Pregnenolone is then converted into prasterone by the enzyme [[3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase]].
 
In the body, prasterone can be converted into [[androstenedione]], which can then be further converted into testosterone or [[estrone]], a form of estrogen. This conversion is facilitated by the enzymes [[17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase]] and [[aromatase]].
 
== Function ==


==Production and Metabolism==
Prasterone plays a role in the development of secondary sexual characteristics during puberty. It also has various effects on the [[immune system]], [[metabolism]], and [[central nervous system]].
Prasterone is synthesized from cholesterol through a series of enzymatic reactions. In the adrenal glands, the production of prasterone is stimulated by the adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH). Once produced, prasterone can be converted into [[testosterone]], [[estradiol]], and other steroid hormones. Its metabolism occurs mainly in the liver, where it is transformed into various metabolites that are excreted in the urine.


==Functions==
== Clinical Use ==
The physiological role of prasterone is complex and not fully understood. It is believed to have multiple functions, including:


* Serving as a precursor to more potent androgens and estrogens, which are vital for various bodily functions.
Prasterone is used as a supplement to treat various conditions, including [[adrenal insufficiency]], [[lupus]], and [[depression]]. It is also marketed as an anti-aging supplement, although its efficacy for this purpose is not well established.
* Modulating the immune system, potentially influencing autoimmunity and inflammation.
* Influencing brain function, which may affect mood, cognitive abilities, and well-being.


==Clinical Uses==
== Pharmacokinetics ==
Prasterone has been investigated for its potential therapeutic uses in a variety of conditions, including:


* [[Adrenal insufficiency]], where it may help in restoring steroid levels.
[[File:Dehydroepiandrosterone_molecule_ball.png|Prasterone molecular model|thumb|left]]
* [[Aging]], as its levels decline with age, with some studies suggesting that supplementation might have anti-aging effects.
* [[Menopausal symptoms]], where it may alleviate symptoms by increasing levels of estrogens and androgens.
* [[Sexual dysfunction]], by potentially improving libido and sexual function.
* [[Osteoporosis]], as it may have a role in bone metabolism and help in improving bone density.


However, the effectiveness and safety of prasterone supplementation for these conditions are still subjects of ongoing research, and its use is not universally endorsed in clinical practice.
Prasterone is available in oral, topical, and injectable forms. When taken orally, it is rapidly absorbed and metabolized in the liver. The bioavailability of oral prasterone is low due to extensive first-pass metabolism.


==Side Effects and Risks==
== Effects on Hormone Levels ==
Supplementation with prasterone can lead to side effects, particularly when taken in high doses. These may include:


* Oily skin and acne
[[File:Testosterone_levels_following_a_single_oral_dose_of_300_mg_crystalline_or_micronized_DHEA_in_premenopausal_women.png|Testosterone levels after DHEA administration|thumb|right]]
* Hair loss
* Increased facial hair in women
* Mood changes
* Elevated blood pressure


Long-term effects and the risk of hormone-sensitive cancers (such as breast and prostate cancer) are not well understood, and prasterone supplements should be used cautiously, especially in individuals with a history of these conditions.
Administration of prasterone can increase levels of testosterone and estrogen in the body. This effect is more pronounced in individuals with low baseline levels of these hormones.


==Regulation==
== Side Effects ==
In some countries, prasterone is available as a dietary supplement, while in others, it is classified as a controlled substance or prescription medication. The regulatory status varies widely, reflecting the ongoing debate about its health benefits and risks.


==Conclusion==
Common side effects of prasterone supplementation include [[acne]], [[hirsutism]], and [[mood changes]]. Long-term use may increase the risk of hormone-sensitive cancers.
Prasterone is a key steroid hormone with multiple potential roles in human health and disease. While it offers promising therapeutic benefits, further research is needed to fully understand its effects and to establish safe and effective guidelines for its use in clinical practice.


== Research ==
Research on prasterone is ongoing, with studies investigating its potential benefits in [[cognitive function]], [[bone density]], and [[cardiovascular health]].
== Related Pages ==
* [[Testosterone]]
* [[Estrogen]]
* [[Adrenal gland]]
* [[Steroid hormone]]
[[Category:Steroid hormones]]
[[Category:Endocrinology]]
[[Category:Endocrinology]]
[[Category:Steroid hormones]]
{{medicine-stub}}
== Prasterone ==
<gallery>
File:Dehydroepiandrosteron.svg|Prasterone
File:Dehydroepiandrosterone molecule ball.png|Prasterone
File:Testosterone levels following a single oral dose of 300 mg crystalline or micronized DHEA in premenopausal women.png|Prasterone
File:Estradiol and dehydroepiandrosterone levels after a single intramuscular injection of Gynodian Depot in women.png|Prasterone
</gallery>
== Prasterone ==
<gallery>
File:Dehydroepiandrosteron.svg|Prasterone
File:Dehydroepiandrosterone molecule ball.png|Prasterone
File:Testosterone levels following a single oral dose of 300 mg crystalline or micronized DHEA in premenopausal women.png|Prasterone
File:Estradiol and dehydroepiandrosterone levels after a single intramuscular injection of Gynodian Depot in women.png|Prasterone
</gallery>

Latest revision as of 10:55, 23 March 2025

Prasterone[edit]

Prasterone chemical structure

Prasterone, also known as dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), is an endogenous steroid hormone that is produced in the adrenal glands, gonads, and brain. It serves as a precursor to male and female sex hormones, including testosterone and estrogen.

Biochemistry[edit]

Prasterone is synthesized from cholesterol through the action of the enzyme cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (CYP11A1), which converts cholesterol into pregnenolone. Pregnenolone is then converted into prasterone by the enzyme 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase.

In the body, prasterone can be converted into androstenedione, which can then be further converted into testosterone or estrone, a form of estrogen. This conversion is facilitated by the enzymes 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and aromatase.

Function[edit]

Prasterone plays a role in the development of secondary sexual characteristics during puberty. It also has various effects on the immune system, metabolism, and central nervous system.

Clinical Use[edit]

Prasterone is used as a supplement to treat various conditions, including adrenal insufficiency, lupus, and depression. It is also marketed as an anti-aging supplement, although its efficacy for this purpose is not well established.

Pharmacokinetics[edit]

Prasterone molecular model

Prasterone is available in oral, topical, and injectable forms. When taken orally, it is rapidly absorbed and metabolized in the liver. The bioavailability of oral prasterone is low due to extensive first-pass metabolism.

Effects on Hormone Levels[edit]

Testosterone levels after DHEA administration

Administration of prasterone can increase levels of testosterone and estrogen in the body. This effect is more pronounced in individuals with low baseline levels of these hormones.

Side Effects[edit]

Common side effects of prasterone supplementation include acne, hirsutism, and mood changes. Long-term use may increase the risk of hormone-sensitive cancers.

Research[edit]

Research on prasterone is ongoing, with studies investigating its potential benefits in cognitive function, bone density, and cardiovascular health.

Related Pages[edit]

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