The battle that the drug-free athlete engages in is not an easy one. He must face up to drug-using and abusing competition and drug-based competitive standards in every contest. What the Metabolic Diet does is to give him the same kind of benefits the drug user obtains.
By introducing anabolic steroids into his body, the drug user increases the circulating amount of anabolic hormones and other compounds, which in turn produces the desired anabolic effect of muscle growth. The Metabolic Diet does the same thing, only instead of introducing the anabolic substances from an exogenous source outside the body, the diet stimulates the production of anabolic hormones IN THE BODY. It is LEGAL and it is SAFE.
Find out more about the Metabolic Diet and the Anabolic Solution
1: Biomed Chromatogr. 2004 Apr;18(3):155-9.
Validation of a GC-MS screening method for anabolizing agents in solid
nutritional supplements.
Van Thuyne W, Delbeke FT.
Doping Control Laboratory, Ghent University, Salisburylaan 133, B-9820
Merelbeke, Belgium.
A sensitive and selective method for the screening of 28 different compounds
including testosterone and prohormones, nandrolone and prohormones, stanozolol
and metandienone in solid nutritional supplements is described and validated.
The different substances are extracted from the solid nutritional supplements by
liquid-liquid extraction with a mixture of pentane and freshly distilled
diethylether (9/1) after dissolving the supplement in NaOH (1 N). The
anabolizing agents are derivatized with a mixture of MSTFA/NH(4)I/ethanethiol
(320/1/2), routinely used for the derivatization of anabolic steroids extracted
from urine. The TMS-derivatives are analysed by GC-MS in the SIM mode. The
limits of detection were in the range from 2 to 40 ng/g. One supplement was
analysed with this method and was found to contain several forbidden substances
according to IOC doping regulations. All detected compounds, except
dihydrotestosterone, could be confirmed with GC-MS(2), proving that the proposed
method is suitable for the screening of anabolizing agents in solid nutritional
supplements. Copyright 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
PMID: 15103700 [PubMed]
2: Rev Med Suisse Romande. 2003 Feb;123(2):93-6.
[In Process Citation]
[Article in French]
Zorzoli M.
Service medical Union Cycliste Internationale Aigle. mario.zorzoli@uci.ch
If doping is generally considered a phenomena of the sports world, the use of
substances to achieve a better performance is an attitude which is rapidly
spreading out in our society. Doping behavior is defined as the consumption of a
product in order to face or pass an obstacle and be more performant. Even among
adolescents, the will to increase the efficiency in sport or to modify the body
appearance, push some people to use any kind of products: nutritional
supplements, doping agents (anabolic steroids, amphetamines, etc.), with all the
associated risks due to the doubtful origin of some of these substances, the way
they are consumed or their side effects. It is important that the medical
community, and those who are in contact with the adolescents, realize that this
kind of behavior exists, so to face it in an adequately manner, the same way
they deal with the problem of alcohol, tobacco or drugs.
PMID: 15095688 [PubMed]
3: Int J Sports Med. 2004 Apr;25(3):241-2.
Left Ventricular Dimensions and Function in Strength Athletes - Re: Hartgens F,
Cheriex EC, Kuipers H. Prospective Echocardiographic Assessment of
Androgenic-anabolic Steroids Effects on Cardiac Structure and Function in
Strength Athletes. Int J Sports Med 2003; 24: 344 - 351 -.
Kindermann W, Urhausen A.
Institute of Sports and Preventive Medicine, Department of Clinical Medicine,
University of Saarland, Saarbrucken, Germany. w.kindermann@mx.uni-saarland.de
PMID: 15088251 [PubMed]
4: Heart. 2004 May;90(5):496-501.
Comment in:
Heart. 2004 May;90(5):473-5.
Are the cardiac effects of anabolic steroid abuse in strength athletes
reversible?
Urhausen A, Albers T, Kindermann W.
Institute of Sports and Preventive Medicine, University of Saarland
Saarbruecken, Germany. a.urhausen@rz.uni-sb.de
OBJECTIVE: To investigate the reversibility of adverse cardiovascular effects
after chronic abuse of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) in athletes. METHODS:
Doppler echocardiography and cycle ergometry including measurements of blood
pressure at rest and during exercise were undertaken in 32 bodybuilders or
powerlifters, including 15 athletes who had not been taking AAS for at least 12
months (ex-users) and 17 currently abusing AAS (users), as well as in 15
anabolic-free weightlifters. RESULTS: Systolic blood pressure was higher in
users (mean (SD) 140 (10) mm Hg) than in ex-users (130 (5) mm Hg) (p < 0.05) or
weightlifters (125 (10) mm Hg; p < 0.001). Left ventricular muscle mass related
to fat-free body mass and the ratio of mean left ventricular wall thickness to
internal diameter were not significantly higher in users (3.32 (0.48) g/kg and
42.1 (4.4)%) than in ex-users (3.16 (0.53) g/kg and 40.3 (3.8)%), but were lower
in weightlifters (2.43 (0.26) g/kg and 36.5 (4.0)%; p < 0.001). Left ventricular
wall thickness related to fat-free body mass was also lower in weightlifters,
but did not differ between users and ex-users. Left ventricular wall thickness
was correlated with a point score estimating AAS abuse in users (r = 0.49, p <
0.05). In all groups, systolic left ventricular function was within the normal
range. The maximum late transmitral Doppler flow velocity (Amax) was higher in
users (61 (12) cm/s) and ex-users (60 (12) cm/s) than in weightlifters (50 (9)
cm/s; p < 0.05 and p = 0.054). CONCLUSIONS: Several years after discontinuation
of anabolic steroid abuse, strength athletes still show a slight concentric left
ventricular hypertrophy in comparison with AAS-free strength athletes.
PMID: 15084541 [PubMed]
5: Heart. 2004 May;90(5):473-5.
Comment on:
Heart. 2004 May;90(5):496-501.
Cardiac effects of anabolic steroids.
Payne JR, Kotwinski PJ, Montgomery HE.
Anabolic steroid abuse in athletes has been associated with a wide range of
adverse conditions, including hypogonadism, testicular atrophy, impaired
spermatogenesis, gynaecomastia, and psychiatric disturbance. But what effect
does steroid abuse have on the cardiovascular system?
Publication Types:
Comment
Editorial
PMID: 15084526 [PubMed]
6: Addiction. 2004 May;99(5):570-8.
Drug use by Brazilian students: associations with family, psychosocial, health,
demographic and behavioral characteristics.
De Micheli D, Formigoni ML.
Department of Psychobiology, Federal University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
demicheli@psicobio.epm.br
AIMS: In the last few years, epidemiological studies in Brazil have detected
significant increases in the use and abuse of psychoactive drugs by adolescents;
however, there is a paucity of data on the factors associated with this use.
OBJECTIVES: To assess the prevalence of drug use by students from public schools
in a Brazilian city and to evaluate the influence of age, school achievement,
family, psychosocial, health, demographic and behavioural characteristics on
regular drug use. DESIGN: This cross-sectional study was conducted using a
representative sample of 6417 students attending public schools in the city of
Barueri, Brazil and included adolescents from the 5th grade of elementary school
to the 3rd year of high school. The Brazilian version of the Drug Use Screening
Inventory (DUSI-R) was administered in the classroom by trained educational
advisers without teachers being present. FINDINGS: Prevalence rates for the
previous month were: alcohol: 48%, tobacco: 22.5%, cannabis: 14%,
inhalants/solvents: 5%, cocaine: 3%, tranquillizers: 0.5%, amphetamines: 0.9%,
anabolic steroids: 0.1% and ecstasy: 0.9%. With the exceptions of tranquillizers
and amphetamines, the older students reported significantly higher frequencies
and amounts of drug use than the younger ones. Boys reported a significantly
higher consumption of alcohol, cannabis, cocaine and ecstasy than girls, as well
as higher percentages of frequent/heavy use. Logistic regression analysis
detected that poor school achievement, a poor or bad relationship with those
with whom they live, studying in the evening period, presence of antisocial
behaviour, family problems and friends who use drugs were factors significantly
associated with drug use. CONCLUSIONS: The findings suggest that preventive
programmes should be more comprehensive in scope, rather than focusing only on
information about the negative consequences of drug use.
PMID: 15078231 [PubMed]
7: Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2004 Mar;36(3):490-7.
Body composition changes in bodybuilders: a method comparison.
van Marken Lichtenbelt WD, Hartgens F, Vollaard NB, Ebbing S, Kuipers H.
Department of Human Biology, Maastricht University, The Netherlands.
Marken.Lichtenbelt@HB.unimaas.nl
INTRODUCTION: Few studies report on validation of body composition changes using
the four-compartment model (4C), and no such studies are available in strength
training. Here we present such a validation study for the determination of body
fat and fat-free mass changes in bodybuilders, who used exercise and
androgenic-anabolic steroids. METHODS: The study was carried out with 27 male
bodybuilders in a cross-sectional study. Fifteen of these subjects also
participated in an intervention program where body composition changes were
measured. The 4C model served as the gold standard. The alternative mechanistic
methods were underwater weighing (uww), deuterium dilution (dil),
three-compartment model incorporating total body water (3Cw), three-compartment
model incorporating bone mineral content (3Cb), and descriptive methods, namely
dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA), prediction equations based on body mass
index (BMI), skinfold measurement, and bioimpedance analyses. RESULTS: From the
cross-sectional study, it appeared that biases and errors of most mechanistic
methods were small (maximal 0.5% BF and 3.4%BF, respectively; exception 3Cb
model). The 3Cw model had the lowest error (0.9%BF). The descriptive methods had
small biases (exception BMI) but relatively large errors (range: 5.5-8%).
Results on body composition changes (intervention study) were comparable with
the results from the cross-sectional study. CONCLUSIONS: Using the 4C model as
the standard for determination of body fat and fat-free mass, this study
revealed that apart from the prediction equation based on BMI and the 3Cb model,
all methods gave acceptable group mean values. When accurate measurements on
body composition and/or body composition changes on an individual level are
needed, only the 3Cw model could serve as an alternative for the 4C method.
PMID: 15076792 [PubMed]
8: Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2004 Mar;36(3):484-9.
Bodybuilders' body composition: effect of nandrolone decanoate.
van Marken Lichtenbelt WD, Hartgens F, Vollaard NB, Ebbing S, Kuipers H.
Department of Human Biology, Maastricht University, The Netherlands.
MarkenLichtenbelt@HB.unimaas.nl
INTRODUCTION: The use of androgenic-anabolic steroids (AAS) among bodybuilders
to increase muscle mass is widespread. Nandrolone decanoate (ND) is one of the
most popular misused AAS, although the effects on body composition are
equivocal. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine the effect of
ND on body composition in male bodybuilders, with special reference to muscle
mass alterations. METHODS: Using a randomized "double-blind"
"placebo-controlled" design, 16 experienced male bodybuilders (age: 19-44 yr)
either received ND (200 mg.wk(-1), intramuscularly) or placebo for 8 wk. Body
composition was assessed using the four-component model, combining results from
underwater weighing, dual-energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA), and deuterium
dilution. Total bone mineral content and density were measured using DXA. Water
compartments (extracellular water [ECW] and intracellular water [ICW]) were
determined using deuterium dilution and bromide dilution. RESULTS: ND
administration resulted in significant increments of body mass (+2.2 kg),
fat-free mass (FFM: +2.6 kg), and total body water (+1.4 kg). No significant
changes in fat mass, percentage fat, ECW, ICW, ECW/ICW ratio, hydration of the
FFM, and on bone mineral measurements were observed. CONCLUSIONS: The results
show that the administration of 200 mg.wk(-1) of ND (intramuscularly) for 8 wk
significantly increased body mass and FFM, whereas fat mass, bone mineral
content, bone mineral density, and the hydration of the FFM remained unaffected.
These data indicate that the changes can be attributed to an increase of muscle
mass.
PMID: 15076791 [PubMed]
9: Nurs Times. 2004 Mar 23-29;100(12):30-1.
A nursing perspective on the misuse of anabolic steroids.
Rollo I.
There is widespread use of anabolic steroids in the athletic community (Windsor
and Dumitru, 1988). The potential health complications associated with this
represents a serious risk to an otherwise healthy population. It is important
for nurses to be knowledgeable about anabolic steroid abuse and to be able to
identify users and populations most exposed to these drugs.
PMID: 15067908 [PubMed]
10: Mayo Clin Proc. 2004 Apr;79(4 Suppl):S14-8.
Potential anabolic effects of androgens on bone.
Kearns AE, Khosla S.
Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism, and Nutrition, Mayo Clinic
College of Medicine, 200 First St SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
kearns.ann@mayo.edu
Sex steroid hormones are essential to normal skeletal growth and maintenance
throughout life in both men and women. The importance of estrogens to bone
health in women becomes obvious at menopause when estrogen deficiency occurs and
results in accelerated bone loss. After menopause, estrogen deficiency results
in drastic changes in the androgen-estrogen ratio. Thus, the relative importance
of androgens after menopause may increase. Androgens also appear to be important
for bone health in pre-menopausal women. Evidence from human, animal, and
laboratory studies is leading to a better understanding of the effects of
androgens on bone in women.
Publication Types:
Review
Review, Tutorial
PMID: 15065633 [PubMed]
11: Przegl Lek. 2003;60(11):706-9.
[In Process Citation]
[Article in Polish]
Borkowski J, Siemiatkowski A, Jedynak M, Czaban SL, Wolczynski S.
Klinika Anestezjologii i Intensywnej Terapii Akademii Medycznej w Bialymstoku.
jacekbor@amb.edu.pl
Many studies show important disturbances in hormonal balance in patients with
severe sepsis. There are a lot of factors, which are involved in this process
but the role of sex steroid hormones is unknown; especially, the role of
testosterone, which is one of the anabolic hormones and a immune function
modulator. We hope that sex steroid hormone mechanisms of action recognition in
septic shock may help in treatment of such patients. The aim of this study was
to evaluate changes in sex hormone concentrations in septic patients and their
prognostic significance. We studied serum level of luteinizing hormone (LH),
testosterone (T) and prolactin (PRL) in 20 patients with septic shock and in
healthy male volunteers (n = 20). Septic patients were divided into two groups:
survivors (group I, n = 10) and nonsurvivors (group II, n = 10). We noticed
significant decrease of testosterone and LH serum levels in septic group vs the
controls and correlation between T and LH serum levels and survival. Acute lung
injury was associated with higher PRL serum level and was independent from the
LH and T serum level. We also noticed incorrect pituitary down-regulation of
testosterone secretion. Our study showed that sex steroid hormones can be good
prognostic factors of survival and complications of septic shock.
PMID: 15058038 [PubMed]
12: Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol. 2004 Mar;92(3):377-8.
Oxandrolone treatment of childhood hereditary angioedema.
Church JA.
Division of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Department of Pediatrics, Childrens
Hospital Los Angeles and Keck of School of Medicine, The University of Southern
California, Los Angeles, California 90027, USA. jchurch@chla.usc.edu
BACKGROUND: The virilizing effects of danazol, stanozolol, and
methyltestosterone significantly restrict the usefulness of these agents in the
treatment of children with hereditary angioedema (HAE). Oxandrolone is a
synthetic anabolic steroid with limited virilizing effects that has been used in
a variety of pediatric conditions and has an acceptable safety profile.
OBJECTIVE: To report the effective use of oxandrolone in a 6-year-old boy with
recurrent, life-threatening episodes of angioedema. METHODS: Oxandrolone was
administered at a dose of 0.1 mg/kg per day. Symptoms and laboratory findings
were evaluated by parental report and laboratory analysis of serum C1 esterase
inhibitor and C4 levels, respectively. RESULTS: Oxandrolone therapy resulted in
a marked reduction in clinical episodes and normalization of serum complement
levels; cessation of oxandrolone therapy resulted in recurrence of symptoms and
decreased complement levels. However, early signs of virilization were noted.
CONCLUSIONS: Oxandrolone treatment was associated with significant clinical and
laboratory evidence of a therapeutic effect in a prepuberal boy with HAE. It is
imperative to treat HAE with the lowest dose of oxandrolone that controls
life-threatening episodes of angioedema.
Publication Types:
Case Reports
PMID: 15049404 [PubMed]
13: Eur J Appl Physiol. 2004 Mar 20 [Epub ahead of print]
Update on nandrolone and norsteroids: how endogenous or xenobiotic are these
substances?
Bricout V, Wright F.
UFR de Sciences, Departement STAPS, Universite d'Avignon, 33 rue Pasteur, 84000,
Avignon, France.
Norsteroids are xenobiotics with androgenic and anabolic properties known since
as far back as the 1930s. In doping controls, the use of the banned xenobiotic
norsteroids is detected in the competitor's urines by the measurement of
norandrosterone (19-NA) and noretiocholanolone (19-NE), which are the main
metabolites for nandrolone (NT) and most norsteroids with anabolic properties.
In 1996, the IOC subcommission "Doping and Biochemistry of Sport" informed the
Heads of the "IOC Accredited Laboratories" that the recommended cut-off limit
for reporting an offence was to be 1-2 ng ml(-1) urine for either 19-NA or
19-NE. We will discuss how technical progress in gas chromatography coupled to
high-resolution mass spectrometry permitted a dramatic increase in sensitivity
with a detection limit of 1 pg ml(-1) urine, or less, and an assay limit of
20-50 pg ml(-1) urine, for either 19-NA or 19-NE. As a paradox, norsteroids have
been known for decades as not only xenobiotics but also obligatory endogenous
intermediates in the biosynthesis of estrogens from androgens in all species,
man included. It is this biochemical observation which fed the active scientific
and medical controversy initiated in 1998 over the possibly endogenous
production of nandrolone and metabolites well over the new IOC's recommended
cut-off limit of 2 ng ml(-1) urine. Notwithstanding the particular technical
difficulties attached, we will provide data and discuss the minute endogenous
levels detected and measured in man either at rest, after performance or
training and compare them to the relatively high levels reported in male
athlete's doping controls today. We will also discuss data on the
pharmacological effects of some contraceptive therapies containing norsteroids
in women. In view of the well-documented noxious effects repeatedly observed
after anabolic steroid misuse, the confirmation and implementation of
technically proven procedures for reporting norsteroid abuse in sports seems an
important enough goal to protect athlete's health against such abuses and
justifies up dating the review of the patent scientific and medical experience
and knowledge gained over the last 50 years on nandrolone and its minor
production in man and woman.
PMID: 15042372 [PubMed]
14: Regul Toxicol Pharmacol. 2004 Apr;39(2):229-38.
Testosterone-stimulated weanlings as an alternative to castrated male rats in
the Hershberger anti-androgen assay.
Ashby J, Lefevre PA, Tinwell H, Odum J, Owens W.
Syngenta Central Toxicology Laboratory, Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Cheshire,
SK10 4TJ, UK. john.ashby@syngenta.com
We showed previously that stimulation of weanling male rats with the synthetic
androgen 17-methyltestosterone (17MT) caused premature growth of the sex
accessory tissues such that the activity of the two anti-androgens flutamide and
DDE could be demonstrated (Regul. Toxicol. Pharmacol. 35 (2002) 280). We
suggested that that protocol should be evaluated as an alternative to the
castrated male rat Hershberger assay. In the present paper we justify changing
the assay protocol to use testosterone propionate (TP), in place of 17MT, as the
stimulating androgen. This change enables biochemical formation of
dihydrotestosterone from testosterone, a conversion not possible when using
17MT. This change in the protocol enables detection of the
testosterone-5-reductase inhibitor finasteride. The modified TP-stimulated
weanling male rat assay is shown to have similar sensitivity to that of the
castrated male rat Hershberger assay in detection of the anti-androgens
flutamide, procymidone, vinclozolin, and DDE, and of the biochemical inhibitor
finasteride. The anti-androgen linuron and the anabolic steroid trenbolone were
also detected as positive by the TP-stimulated weanling male assay. It is
suggested that this modified assay for anti-androgens should be validated as an
alternative to the Hershberger assay, thereby reducing animal stress by
obviating the need for surgical castration.
PMID: 15041151 [PubMed]
15: N J Med. 1999 Mar;96(3):49-51.
Steroids. Building a better you?
Berlin B.
The use of anabolic steroids was first reported in the 1950s among weight
lifters seeking to gain an edge in strength and muscle size. Since then,
anabolic steroids have been used to augment strength and appearance. Today,
steroids reach far beyond the world of professional athletes to high school
locker rooms, neighborhood gyms, and suburban fitness centers. An estimated one
million Americans use anabolic steroids for nonmedical purposes, supporting an
illicit $400 million market.
PMID: 15038237 [PubMed]
16: Biomed Pap Med Fac Univ Palacky Olomouc Czech Repub. 2003
Dec;147(2):119-30.
Smallanthus sonchifolius and Lepidium meyenii - prospective Andean crops for the
prevention of chronic diseases.
Valentova K, Ulrichova J.
Institute of Medical Chemistry and Biochemistry, Faculty of Medicine, Palacky
University, Hnevotinska 3, Olomouc, 775 15, Czech Republic.
Smallanthus sonchifolius (yacon) and Lepidium meyenii (maca) were the
traditional crops of the original population of Peru where they are also still
used in folk medicine. These plants are little known in Europe and Northern
America although at least yacon can be cultivated in the climatic conditions of
these regions. This article deals with the botany and the composition, the
structure of main constituents, biological activity of these plants and the
cultivation of yacon in the Czech Republic. The potential of yacon tubers to
treat hyperglycemia, kidney problems and for skin rejuvenation and the
antihyperglycemic and cytoprotective activity of its leaves seems to be related
mostly to its oligofructan and phenolic content, respectively. Maca alkaloids,
steroids, glucosinolates, isothicyanates and macamides are probably responsible
for its aptitude to act as a fertility enhancer, aphrodisiac, adaptogen,
immunostimulant, anabolic and to influence hormonal balance. Yacon and maca are
already on the European market as prospective functional foods and dietary
supplements, mainly for use in certain risk groups of the population, e.g.
seniors, diabetics, postmenopausal women etc.
PMID: 15037892 [PubMed]
17: Drugs. 2004;64(7):725-50.
The anabolic androgenic steroid oxandrolone in the treatment of wasting and
catabolic disorders: review of efficacy and safety.
Orr R, Fiatarone Singh M.
School of Exercise and Sport Science, Faculty of Health Sciences, The University
of Sydney, Sydney, Australia. R.Orr@fhs.usyd.edu.au
There has been increasing interest in the development of effective agents that
can be safely used to promote anabolism in the clinical setting for patients
with chronic wasting conditions as well as in the prevention and treatment of
frailty associated with loss of muscle tissue in aging (sarcopenia).One such
agent is the anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) oxandrolone, which has been used
in such clinical situations as HIV-related muscle wasting, severe burn injury,
trauma following major surgery, neuromuscular disorders and alcoholic hepatitis
for over 30 years. In the US, oxandrolone is the only AAS that is US
FDA-approved for restitution of weight loss after severe trauma, major surgery
or infections, malnutrition due to alcoholic cirrhosis, and Duchenne's or
Becker's muscular dystrophy.Our review of the use of oxandrolone in the
treatment of catabolic disorders, HIV and AIDS-related wasting, neuromuscular
and other disorders provides strong evidence of its clinical efficacy.
Improvements in body composition, muscle strength and function, status of
underlying disease or recovery from acute catabolic injury and nutritional
status are significant in the vast majority of well designed trials. However,
oxandrolone has not yet been studied in sarcopenia.Unlike other orally
administered C17alpha-alkylated AASs, the novel chemical configuration of
oxandrolone confers a resistance to liver metabolism as well as marked anabolic
activity. In addition, oxandrolone appears not to exhibit the serious
hepatotoxic effects (jaundice, cholestatic hepatitis, peliosis hepatis,
hyperplasias and neoplasms) attributed to the C17alpha-alkylated AASs.
Oxandrolone is reported to be generally well tolerated and the most commonly
documented adverse effects are transient elevations in transaminase levels and
reductions in high density lipoprotein cholesterol level.However, optimal
risk:benefit ratios for oxandrolone and other agents in its class will need to
be refined before widespread clinical acceptance of AASs as a therapeutic option
in sarcopenia and other chronic wasting conditions.
PMID: 15025546 [PubMed]
18: J Appl Physiol. 2004 Apr;96(4):1341-8.
RhoA expression during recovery from skeletal muscle disuse.
McClung JM, Thompson RW, Lowe LL, Carson JA.
Department of Exercise Science, School of Public Health, University of South
Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA.
Functional overload and anabolic steroid administration induce signaling
pathways that regulate skeletal muscle RhoA expression. The purpose of this
study was to determine RhoA and associated protein expression at the onset of
disuse and after a brief period of reloading. Male Sprague-Dawley rats were
randomly assigned to cage control (Con), 3 days of hindlimb suspension (Sus), or
3 days of hindlimb suspension with 12 h of reloading (12-h Reload). The
reloading stimuli consisted of 12 h of resumed normal locomotion after 3 days of
hindlimb suspension. Plantaris muscle-to-body weight (mg/g) ratio decreased 17%
from Con with Sus but returned to Con with 12-h Reload, increasing 13% from Sus.
Sus decreased RhoA protein concentration 46%, whereas 12-h Reload induced a 24%
increase compared with Sus. The ratio of cytosolic- to membrane-associated RhoA
protein was not changed with either Sus or 12-h Reload. RhoA mRNA concentration
was decreased 48% by Sus, and 12-h Reload induced a 170% increase from Sus.
beta(1)-Integrin protein, a transmembrane protein associated with RhoA
activation, was not altered by Sus but increased 155% with 12-h Reload. Although
beta(1)-integrin mRNA was not altered by Sus, it increased 70% from Con with
12-h Reload. Rho family member Cdc42 protein associated with the muscle membrane
was decreased 60% with Sus, and 12-h Reload induced a 172% increase compared
with Sus. In conclusion, decreased RhoA protein expression and mRNA abundance
are early adaptations to disuse but recover rapidly after normal locomotion is
resumed.
PMID: 15016791 [PubMed]
19: Steroids. 2004 Feb;69(2):101-9.
Screening of free 17-alkyl-substituted anabolic steroids in human urine by
liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry.
Leinonen A, Kuuranne T, Kotiaho T, Kostiainen R.
Doping Control Laboratory, United Laboratories Ltd., Helsinki, Finland.
A qualitative liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization tandem mass
spectrometry method was developed for screening of the abuse of
4-chlorodehydromethyltestosterone, danazol, fluoxymesterone, formebolone,
metandienone, oxandrolone, and stanozolol. The introduced method measures
simultaneously nine different 17-alkyl-substituted anabolic androgenic steroids
or their unconjugated metabolites in human urine, using methyltestosterone as an
internal standard. Sample preparation involved one-step liquid extraction.
Liquid chromatographic separation was achieved on a reversed-phase column with
methanol-water gradient containing 5 mmol/l ammonium acetate and 0.01% (v/v)
acetic acid. Compounds were ionized in the positive mode and detected by
multiple reaction monitoring. All steroids within the study could be selectively
detected in urine with detection limits of 0.1-2.0 ng/ml. The method showed good
linearity up to 250 ng/ml with correlation coefficients higher than 0.9947. With
simple and fast sample preparation, low limits of detection, and high
selectivity and precision, the developed method provides advantages over the
present testing methods and has the potential for routine qualitative screening
method of unconjugated 17-alkyl-substituted anabolic steroids in human urine.
PMID: 15013688 [PubMed]
20: Med J Aust. 2004 Mar 15;180(6):298-303.
7: Treatment of osteoporosis: why, whom, when and how to treat. The single most
important consideration is the individual's absolute risk of fracture.
Seeman E, Eisman JA.
Endocrine Unit, Austin and Repatriation Medical Centre, Studley Road,
Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia. egos@unimelb.edu.au
All women and men with a history of fragility fractures should be considered for
treatment of osteoporosis to reduce their risk of future fracture. There is
high-level evidence for the anti-fracture efficacy of treatment in women with
osteoporosis, particularly if there is prevalent fracture; the evidence is less
compelling for women with osteopenia, with or without a fracture, and for men.
The rigorously investigated drugs reported to reduce vertebral fractures are the
bisphosphonates alendronate and risedronate, the selective oestrogen-receptor
modulator raloxifene, the anabolic agent parathyroid hormone and, most recently,
strontium ranelate. Only the two bisphosphonates and hormone replacement therapy
(HRT) have been reported to reduce hip fractures in community-dwelling women,
and calcium plus vitamin D and hip protectors have been reported to reduce these
fractures in elderly people in institutions. HRT is not recommended in women for
fracture risk reduction alone. Evidence for the anti-fracture efficacy of
calcitonin, fluoride, anabolic steroids and active vitamin D metabolites is
insufficient to justify their use; lifestyle changes, while not shown to reduce
fracture risk, may have a role in maintaining bone strength throughout life.
Publication Types:
Case Reports
Review
Review, Tutorial
PMID: 15012571 [PubMed]
21: Chirurgia (Bucur). 2003 Sep-Oct;98(5):437-41.
[In Process Citation]
[Article in Romanian]
Gugila I, Ruxanda A, Vasile L, Iordache V.
Clinica III Chirurgie, Spitalul Clinic de Urgenta Craiova, Bd. Maresal Ion
Antonescu, nr. 60, 1100, Craiova.
The authors are presenting one case of Osler's hereditary angioneurotic oedema,
rare genetic disease with dominant autosomal transmission linked to the 11-th
chromosome, with clinical aspects resembling to those of surgical acute abdomen,
with difficult diagnostic problems. The treatment consist in: fresh plasma
administration, antihistaminic drugs and anabolic steroids. The simple
laparotomy under general anaesthesia by orotraheal intubation being very
dangerous. The patients with Osler's hereditary angioneurotic oedema must be
followed-up by the allergology services and educated regarding the disease and
it's risks to avoid diagnostic errors with following negative consequences.
PMID: 14999972 [PubMed]
22: Int J Sports Med. 2004 Feb;25(2):124-9.
Analysis of non-hormonal nutritional supplements for anabolic-androgenic
steroids - results of an international study.
Geyer H, Parr MK, Mareck U, Reinhart U, Schrader Y, Schanzer W.
Institute of Biochemistry, German Sport University, Cologne, Germany.
h.geyer@biochem.dshs-koeln.de
Several recent studies have shown evidence of some nutritional supplements
containing prohibited anabolic androgenic steroids, so-called prohormones, which
were not declared on the label. Therefore, a broad-based investigation of the
international nutritional supplement market was initiated to clarify the extent
of this problem. From October 2000 until November 2001, 634 non-hormonal
nutritional supplements were purchased in 13 countries from 215 different
suppliers. Most supplements were bought in shops in the respective countries
(578 samples = 91.2 %) and on the internet (52 samples = 8.2 %). 289 supplements
were from prohormone-selling companies and 345 supplements came from companies
which do not offer prohormones. After isolation from the supplement matrix 11
different anabolic androgenic steroids, mainly prohormones of testosterone and
nandrolone, were analysed by gas-chromatography/mass spectrometry. Out of the
634 samples analysed 94 (14.8 %) contained anabolic androgenic steroids not
declared on the label ("positive supplements"). We could not obtain reliable
data for 66 samples (10.4 %) due to matrix effects. In relation to the total
number of products purchased per country, most of the positive supplements were
bought in the Netherlands (25.8 %), in Austria (22.7 %), in the UK (18.8 %) and
the USA (18.8 %). According to the label, all positive supplements were from
companies located in only five countries: the USA, the Netherlands, the UK,
Italy and Germany. 21.1 % of the nutritional supplements from prohormone-selling
companies contained anabolic androgenic steroids, whereas 9.6 % of the
supplements from companies not selling prohormones were positive. The positive
supplements showed anabolic androgenic steroid concentrations of 0.01 micro g/g
up to 190 micro g/g. The administration of supplements containing nandrolone
prohormones adding up to a total uptake of more than 1 micro g resulted in
positive doping results for norandrosterone for several hours.
Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
PMID: 14986195 [PubMed]
23: Sichuan Da Xue Xue Bao Yi Xue Ban. 2004 Jan;35(1):77-9.
[Effect of nandrolone phenylpropionate on hepatic albumin mRNA and granulational
alpha 1(I) procollagen mRNA in burned rats]
[Article in Chinese]
Cen Y, Li K, Liu N, Liu XX.
Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University,
Chengdu 610041, China.
OBJECTIVE: To assess the mechanism for the effect of nandrolone phenypropionate
(NP) on hepatic albumin mRNA and granulational alpha 1(I) procollagen mRNA in
burned rats with the aim to underpin the clinical application of anabolic
steroids. METHODS: Thirty-two Wistar rats with a deep second-degree cutaneous
burn of 20% total body surface area were randomly divided into two groups to
receive either 5 mg/kg NP (NP group) or normal saline as placebo(control group)
every other day. The expression copy quantities of albumin-mRNA in liver tissue
and alpha 1 (I) procollagen mRNA in granulation wound were measured by
quantitative fluorescent RT-PCR respectively on the post-burned days 4, 7, 14
and 21. RESULTS: The expression levels of albumin-mRNA and alpha 1 (I)
procollagen mRNA in NP group were much higher than those in control group. The
7th and 14th days were the periods in which the albumin-mRNA and alpha 1 (I)
procollagen mRNA expression had been increasing obviously (P < 0.01).
CONCLUSION: Nandrolone phenylpropionate could effectively up-regulate the
expression of albumin-mRNA in liver tissue and the alpha 1 (I) procollagen mRNA
in granulation wound.
PMID: 14981822 [PubMed]
24: Am J Sports Med. 2004 Mar;32(2):534-42.
Current concepts in anabolic-androgenic steroids.
Evans NA.
UCLA-Orthopaedic Hospital, Los Angeles, California, USA. drnicke@yahoo.com
Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) are synthetic derivatives of testosterone.
According to surveys and media reports, the legal and illegal use of these drugs
is gaining popularity. Testosterone restores sex drive and boosts muscle mass,
making it central to 2 of society's rising preoccupations: perfecting the male
body and sustaining the male libido. The anabolic effects of AAS have been
questioned for decades, but recent scientific investigation of supraphysiologic
doses supports the efficacy of these regimens. Testosterone has potent anabolic
effects on the musculoskeletal system, including an increase in lean body mass,
a dose-related hypertrophy of muscle fibers, and an increase in muscle strength.
For athletes requiring speed and strength and men desiring a cosmetic muscle
makeover, illegal steroids are a powerful lure, despite the risk of subjective
side effects. Recent clinical studies have discovered novel therapeutic uses for
physiologic doses of AAS, without any significant adverse effects in the short
term. In the wake of important scientific advances during the past decade, the
positive and negative effects of AAS warrant reevaluation. Guidelines for the
clinical evaluation of AAS users will be presented for sports medicine
practitioners.
PMID: 14977687 [PubMed]
25: Ital Heart J. 2003 Dec;4(12):829-37.
Arrhythmogenic effects of illicit drugs in athletes.
Furlanello F, Bentivegna S, Cappato R, De Ambroggi L.
Center of Clinical Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology, Istituto Policlinico San
Donato, University of Milan, San Donato, Milanese, MI, Italy.
furlanello@interfree.it
Cardiac arrhythmias are among the most important causes of non-eligibility to
sports activities, and may be due to different causes (cardiomyopathies,
myocarditis, coronary abnormalities, valvular diseases, primary electrical
disorders, abuse of illicit drugs). The list of illicit drugs banned by the
International Olympic Committee and yearly updated by the World Anti-Doping
Agency includes the following classes: stimulants, narcotics, anabolic agents
(androgenic steroids and others such as beta-2 stimulants), peptide hormones,
mimetics and analogues, diuretics, agents with an antiestrogenic activity,
masking agents. Almost all illicit drugs may cause, through a direct or indirect
arrhythmogenic effect, in the short, medium or long term, a wide range of
cardiac arrhythmias (focal or reentry type, supraventricular and/or
ventricular), lethal or not, even in healthy subjects with no previous history
of cardiac diseases. Therefore, given the widespread abuse of illicit drugs
among athletes, in the management of arrhythmic athletes the cardiologist should
always take into consideration the possibility that the arrhythmias be due to
the assumption of illicit drugs (sometimes more than one type), especially if no
signs of cardiac diseases are present. On the other hand, in the presence of
latent underlying arrhythmogenic heart disease including some inherited
cardiomyopathies at risk of sudden cardiac death, illicit drugs could induce
severe cardiac arrhythmic effects.
Publication Types:
Review
Review, Tutorial
PMID: 14976846 [PubMed]
26: Health Promot Int. 2004 Mar;19(1):61-7.
Evaluation of a health promotion programme to prevent the misuse of androgenic
anabolic steroids among Swedish adolescents.
Nilsson S, Allebeck P, Marklund B, Baigi A, Fridlund B.
Department of Primary Health Care, Varberg, Sweden.
s.nilsson@neptunuskliniken.nu
The aim of this study was to design an appearance programme in order to prevent
the misuse of androgenic anabolic steroids among adolescents and to evaluate the
adolescents' perception of this programme. The study was performed in all
schools in a primary health care area on the south west coast of Sweden. The
intervention targeted all 16- and 17-year-old males and females (n = 921). The
intervention and evaluation were completed by 451 boys. The strategy of the
appearance programme was to create awareness of and to discuss attitudes towards
steroid hormones among these adolescents. Youth leaders and health workers, who
discussed these subjects with adolescents over a period of 2 years, carried out
the intervention programme. The perception of the programme was analysed
anonymously using questionnaires. Effects on the total population of youths were
assessed by two cross-sectional surveys. The intervention programme was well
received by the adolescents. The misuse of androgenic anabolic steroids had a
tendency to decrease after the appearance programme. We demonstrated a method
for involving the community in an appearance programme to reduce misuse of
anabolic steroids and showed that youth were sensitive to our discussions about
appearance and attitudes. This study indicates that drug abuse among adolescents
can be decreased by health promotion activities, such as group discussions.
Controlled studies are needed before the results of this appearance programme
can be generalized.
PMID: 14976173 [PubMed]
27: J Periodontol. 2003 Dec;74(12):1771-7.
Anabolic potential of fibroblasts from chronically inflamed gingivae grown in a
hyperglycemic culture medium in the presence or absence of insulin and nicotine.
Soory M, Tilakaratne A.
Department of Periodontology, Guy's King's and St. Thomas' Dental Institute,
King's College Dental Hospital, London, UK. mena.soory@kcl.ac.uk
BACKGROUND: Impaired fibroblast function due to hyperglycemia shows reversal in
response to insulin. The aim of this investigation was to use a hyperglycemic
cell-culture model to study the anabolic products of androgen metabolism in
fibroblasts in response to insulin and nicotine. METHODS: Human gingival
fibroblasts were derived from chronically inflamed gingivae of six nondiabetic
periodontal patients with no history of smoking. Six cell lines were established
in monolayer culture in 24 well multiwell plates, and duplicate incubations were
performed with each cell line for all three experiments. Eagle's minimum
essential medium was used in a range of individual experiments, with
radiolabeled testosterone as substrate, in the presence or absence of (1)
glucose (1 to 4,000 microg/ml); (2) insulin (1 to 100 microg/ml) independently;
(3) an effective concentration of glucose (500 microg/ml) with serial
concentrations of insulin (1 to 100 microg/ml); and (4) effective concentrations
of nicotine (250 microg/ml), glucose, and their combinations in response to
insulin (5 microg/ml). The controls contained no agents other than the
radiolabeled substrate. At the end of a 24-hour incubation period, the medium
was solvent extracted with ethyl acetate, and androgen metabolites were
separated by thin-layer chromatography and were quantified using a radioisotope
scanner. RESULTS: The androgen substrate 14C-testosterone was metabolized mainly
to 5alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and 4-androstenedione. (1) Glucose at a
concentration of 500 microg/ml reduced yields of DHT by 36% (n = 6; P < 0.01).
(2) Insulin caused a small but significant inhibition of DHT in normoglycemic
cells. (3) Serial concentrations of insulin significantly counteracted the
inhibitory effects of glucose on the yields of DHT (n = 6; P < 0.01). (4) The
independent inhibitory effects of nicotine and glucose on metabolic yields of
DHT were marginally more pronounced in combination but significantly overcome in
the presence of insulin. CONCLUSION: Human gingival fibroblasts obtained from
chronically inflamed tissue of nondiabetic patients demonstrated that the
inhibitory effects of glucose and nicotine on androgen metabolism can be
overcome by insulin, in varying degrees.
PMID: 14974818 [PubMed]
28: J Strength Cond Res. 2004 Feb;18(1):194-6.
Self-reported training methods of mixed martial artists at a regional reality
fighting event.
Amtmann JA.
Applied Health Science Program, Montana Tech, Butte, Montana 59701, USA.
jamtmann@mtech.edu
This study surveyed 28 athletes competing at a regional mixed martial arts (MMA)
event. The survey attempted to gather information regarding overall training
volume, supplement use, and specific exercises used. The survey return rate was
100% (28/28). Twenty-five out of the 28 athletes supplemented their training
with strength training. Overall frequency of strength training sessions/week
ranged from 1-7, and overall frequency of fighting specific training
sessions/week ranged from 3-12. Five out of the 28 athletes used/had used
anabolic-androgenic steroids. Twelve of the MMA athletes did not perform
exercises specifically for the neck musculature, and only 8 used the power clean
and/or power snatch within their strength-training program. The results suggest
that strength and conditioning specialists should educate MMA athletes regarding
the importance of balanced training, effective exercises, and the side effects
of anabolic androgenic steroid use.
PMID: 14971990 [PubMed]
29: Sidahora. 2003;(3):8-13.
[Anabolic steroids and HIV]
[Article in Spanish]
Iafolla M.
Publication Types:
Newspaper Article
PMID: 14971356 [PubMed]
30: J Endocrinol Invest. 2003 Sep;26(9):919-23.
Indirect evidence of hormone abuse. Proof of doping?
Minuto F, Barreca A, Melioli G.
Chair of Endocrinology, DiSEM, University of Genova, Italy. minuto@unige.it
Besides anabolic steroids, the most common performance-enhancing hormones are
erythropoietin (EPO), insulin, GH, and gonadotropins, mostly indistinguishable
from endogenous hormones and with very short half-life. This makes virtually
impossible to demonstrate their use by measuring their concentration in the
blood or urine. A possible approach to the problem may lie in in-direct
demonstration through detection of the biological effects of these substances.
The finding of an increased hematocrit level is suspicious but not clearly
demonstrative of EPO abuse. Very high levels of circulating EPO could be
associated with a strong suspicion of doping, when associated to other abnormal
parameters, such as Ht, sTFRr, EPO, RDW. The presence of antibodies against the
polysaccharide fraction of lateral chains of EPO has been observed only in
patients treated with rhEPO. Owing to the pulsatile pattern of GH, particularly
during physical exercise, pathologically high values may be found in normal
subjects. Therefore, as in the case of EPO, evidence of GH abuse can be gathered
only indirectly by detecting the biological effects of its administration. In
training subjects GH treatment increased GH, IGF-I, IGFBP-3 and ALS, and
decreased IGBP-2. After cessation of treatment IGF-I, IGFBP-3 and ALS approached
basal values between 49 and 96 h. Also the bone parameters PICP ICIP, PIUP and
osteocalcin increased significantly. Four days after cessation of treatment,
levels of PIIIP and ICTP were still abnormally elevated. In conclusion,
increases in IGF-I, IGFBP-3, ALS, PIIIP and ICTP are all indicative of recent GH
abuse or of acromegaly.
PMID: 14964446 [PubMed]
31: AIDS Read. 2003 Dec;13(12 Suppl):S15-21.
Testosterone replacement for hypogonadism: clinical findings and best practices.
Hengge UR.
Heinrich Heine University Medical School, Dusseldorf, Germany.
Hypogonadism is highly prevalent in HIV-infected patients and has been
associated with the late stages of AIDS and AIDS wasting. There are a number of
studies exploring treatment options. Testosterone replacement, with the
exception of the transscrotal delivery patch, has been observed to have a
beneficial effect on lean body mass and body weight in hypogonadal and eugonadal
men with the AIDS wasting syndrome. Resistance exercise training also has had
favorable effects on body weight and muscle cell mass. In hypogonadal men with
AIDS treated with testosterone replacement therapy, researchers noted a positive
effect on depression scores.
Publication Types:
Review
Review, Tutorial
PMID: 14959695 [PubMed]
32: Ann Pharmacother. 2004 Mar;38(3):448-57. Epub 2004 Jan 30.
Pharmacologic therapy for HIV-associated lipodystrophy.
Benavides S, Nahata MC.
College of Pharmacy, Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA.
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of pharmacologic therapy in the
treatment of HIV-associated lipodystrophy, with a focus on the treatment of fat
redistribution. Drug therapies that have been shown to be beneficial in other
forms of lipodystrophy and are currently being evaluated in HIV-associated
lipodystrophy are also discussed. DATA SOURCES: A MEDLINE search was conducted
from 1996 to February 2003. Bibliographies of all articles were reviewed and
pertinent articles were included. Abstracts from major meetings in 2002 and 2003
were also reviewed. STUDY SELECTION AND DATA EXTRACTION: All published studies
were included in the review. DATA SYNTHESIS: Lipodystrophy has become more
prevalent in patients with HIV. Lipodystrophy consists of adipose redistribution
and metabolic abnormalities including dyslipidemia and insulin resistance.
Treatment of lipodystrophy has been directed at either decreasing the amount of
visceral adipose tissue (VAT), dorsocervical adipose tissue (commonly known as
buffalo hump) and/or increase subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT). Recombinant
human growth hormone (rhGH) decreases VAT and buffalo hump, although it has been
associated with a high frequency of adverse effects. Metformin and the
thiazolidinediones have favorable metabolic effects, but were not found to be
effective in correcting body compositional changes associated with
lipodystrophy. Anabolic steroids and l-carnitine are not effective in the
treatment of lipodystrophy. CONCLUSIONS: No drug therapy exists to fully
ameliorate or correct the cosmetic changes of HIV-associated lipodystrophy.
Clinicians must weigh the benefits and risks of each agent and individualize
treatment for each patient.
PMID: 14755064 [PubMed]
33: Adv Skin Wound Care. 2004 Jan-Feb;17(1):36, 38-9.
The right mix: using nutritional interventions and an anabolic agent to manage a
stage IV ulcer.
Collins N.
Publication Types:
Case Reports
PMID: 14752325 [PubMed]
34: Br J Sports Med. 2004 Feb;38(1):97-8.
Raised concentrations of C reactive protein in anabolic steroid using
bodybuilders.
Grace FM, Davies B.
Department of Health and Exercise Science, School of Applied Sciences,
University of Glamorgan, Pontypridd, Wales, UK. fgrace2@glam.ac.uk
OBJECTIVE: To examine levels of C reactive protein in users of anabolic
androgenic steroids (AAS) compared with age matched control groups consisting of
AAS using (but abstinent)/resistance trained and non-drug using/sedentary
controls. METHOD: Subjects included AAS using bodybuilders (n = 10);
bodybuilders who denied AAS use (n = 10); sedentary controls (n = 8). Venous
blood was sampled, from which serum concentrations of C reactive protein, male
sex hormones, and cardiac troponin T were determined. RESULTS: A significantly
altered hormonal profile in the AAS using group provided indirect confirmation
of AAS use. C reactive protein concentrations were significantly (p<0.05) higher
in the AAS using bodybuilders. There was no relation between C reactive protein
and cardiac troponin T. CONCLUSION: AAS using bodybuilders had significantly
higher C reactive protein concentrations, indicating a greater propensity to
develop peripheral arterial disease.
PMID: 14751958 [PubMed]
35: J Trauma. 2004 Jan;56(1):37-44.
The long-term effect of oxandrolone on hepatic acute phase proteins in severely
burned children.
Thomas S, Wolf SE, Murphy KD, Chinkes DL, Herndon DN.
Department of Surgery, Shriners Hospitals for Children and University of Texas
Medical Branch, Galveston, 77550, USA.
BACKGROUND: Acute phase protein production is a hallmark of severe burns. We
wondered whether anabolic treatment with oxandrolone would affect these
proteins. METHODS: Thirty-five children with > or =40% total body surface area
burns were randomized to receive either placebo or oxandrolone (0.1 mg/kg by
mouth twice daily) from postoperative day 5 to 1 year postburn. Levels of
constitutive proteins and acute phase proteins were measured at admission; at
discharge; and at 6, 9, and 12 months after burn. Total albumin supplementation
and hepatic transaminases were also assessed. RESULTS: Constitutive proteins
such as albumin, prealbumin, and retinol-binding protein levels increased (p <
0.05), and acute phase proteins such as alpha 1-acid glycoprotein, C3
complement, alpha 2-macroglobulin, and fibrinogen levels significantly decreased
in the oxandrolone group compared with placebo (p < 0.05). Albumin
supplementation during the acute hospitalization was reduced in the oxandrolone
group. Hepatic transaminases remained within normal levels. CONCLUSION:
Treatment with oxandrolone in severe burns significantly increases constitutive
protein and reduces acute phase protein levels.
Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
Randomized Controlled Trial
PMID: 14749563 [PubMed]
36: Neurosci Lett. 2004 Feb 12;356(2):131-4.
Increased dopamine transporter density in the male rat brain following chronic
nandrolone decanoate administration.
Kindlundh AM, Rahman S, Lindblom J, Nyberg F.
Department of Pharmaceutical Bioscience, Division of Biological Research on Drug
Dependence, Uppsala University, Box 591, S-75124 Uppsala, Sweden.
anna.kindlundh@farmbio.uu.se
Adolescent males currently employ anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) to become
intoxicated, besides the traditional desires of an improved physical appearance
and enhanced sports performance. Several studies indicate that AAS affect the
brain reward system. Recently chronic administration with nandrolone decanoate
to male rats has been shown to increase the dopamine transporter (DAT) density
in the striatum visualised in vivo by positron emission tomography. The present
study aimed to investigate if the increased DAT density could be confirmed using
in vitro autoradiography following a comparable regimen of nandrolone treatment.
Specific binding of 50 pM [125I] RTI-55 in the presence of 1 microM citalopram
was used to label DAT. Two weeks of nandrolone decanoate administration at the
supra-therapeutic doses 1, 5 and 15 mg/kg per day increased DAT density in the
caudate putamen at all three doses. In conclusion, this study confirms that
chronic nandrolone administration increases dopamine transporter density in the
CPU and therefore supports the theory that AAS affects the dopamine system in
the male rat brain.
PMID: 14746881 [PubMed]
37: Tidsskr Nor Laegeforen. 2004 Jan 22;124(2):170-2.
[Acute myocardial infarction in a young man who had been using androgenic
anabolic steroids]
[Article in Norwegian]
Halvorsen S, Thorsby PM, Haug E.
Hjerte-Lungesenteret, Ulleval universitetssykehus, 0407 Oslo.
sigrun.halvorsen@ulleval.no
BACKGROUND: A few case reports suggest that the use of androgenic anabolic
steroids may be associated with myocardial infarction. MATERIAL AND METHODS:
Case report. RESULTS: We report the case of a 27-year-old male body builder with
acute myocardial infarction due to occlusion of the proximal left anterior
descending coronary artery. He was treated with primary angioplasty with stent
implantation and intra-aortic balloon support, but still developed a large
myocardial infarction as determined by both echocardiography and myocardial
perfusion tomography. The patient had been using androgenic anabolic steroids
regularly for ten years. There was no family history of heart disease or lipid
disorder. INTERPRETATION: The actual frequency of myocardial infarction and even
sudden death among users of anabolic steroids is presumably underreported in the
medical literature. A causal relationship is not established, but a pathogenic
role is plausible. Use of androgenic anabolic steroids has been associated with
platelet hyperactivity, effects on vasoreactivity and changes in lipid levels.
It is important for clinicians to be aware of this association and to counsel
patients carefully about this and other side effects that may occur with these
agents.
Publication Types:
Case Reports
PMID: 14743229 [PubMed]
38: Chem Soc Rev. 2004 Jan 10;33(1):1-13. Epub 2003 Dec 08.
Sports drug testing--an analyst's perspective.
Trout GJ, Kazlauskas R.
Australian Sports Drug Testing Laboratory, Australian Government Analytical
Laboratories, Sydney, Australia. graham.trout@agal.gov.au
Sport plays a major role in the lives of many people, both for active
participation and as entertainment. Sport is now a huge nationally and
internationally based industry. The desire to win has led some athletes to
resort to the use of performance enhancing drugs. With huge financial rewards
now available in some sports the pressure to excel has grown. Some have argued
that drug use should be given free rein, however most people are of the view
that it is athletic prowess that should be applauded not the efficacy of various
performance enhancing drugs. Apart from the obvious aspects of equality and fair
play, the use of drugs is associated with significant health risks. In the
1960's the use of stimulants in sports such as cycling led to the death of at
least one cyclist. Since 1968 the International Olympic Committee (IOC) has
required all Olympic Games' host cities to provide laboratory facilities for the
analysis and detection of performance enhancing drugs. There are now 29 IOC
accredited laboratories throughout the world that routinely test samples from
athletes for the presence of such drugs. The purpose of this tutorial review is
to give an overview of drug testing procedures, including those that were used
at the last summer Olympic Games in Sydney 2000, and the incorporation of the
latest developments in analytical chemistry technology in the drug testing
process. More recently, developments in biotechnology mean that the use of whole
new classes of drugs are banned in sport, often requiring new methodologies and
techniques for their analysis. The contest between those who wish to cheat and
those who wish to maintain fair play in sport is an ongoing one.
Publication Types:
Review
Review, Tutorial
PMID: 14737504 [PubMed]
39: Anal Bioanal Chem. 2004 Mar;378(5):1313-21. Epub 2004 Jan 21.
Application of the revised EU criteria for the confirmation of anabolic steroids
in meat using GC-MS.
Stolker AA, Linders SH, van Ginkel LA, Brinkman UA.
Laboratory for Analytical Chemistry, National Institute of Public Health and the
Environment, P.O. Box 1, 3720 BA, Bilthoven, The Netherlands.
linda.stolker@rivm.nl
The EU criteria for the confirmation of the presence of illegal compounds in
biological matrices were recently revised. The old and the revised criteria were
applied to relative ion intensities obtained for five anabolic steroids
(methylboldenone, methyltestosterone, ethynylestradiol, beta-boldenone and
beta-nortestosterone) in meat (cow, pig, turkey) and fish at concentrations
ranging from 0.5 to 5.0 microg/kg. Confirmatory analysis was done by GC-MS;
therefore four diagnostic ions had to be monitored and three ion ratios had to
be calculated and tested against the criteria. Application of the old and
revised criteria, with either standards or fortified samples as reference,
showed mutually rather divergent results. Confirmation according to the revised
EU criteria and using fortified samples as a reference gave the best results; in
other words the highest percentage of diagnostic ion ratios within the tolerance
intervals. A correlation was found between the percentage of these ion ratios
and the signal/noise (S/N) ratio of the least intense ion of interest in the
recorded MS spectrum. Although there were distinct differences in the results
obtained for different analytes and sample types, it is safe to conclude that at
S/N=3 the percentage of ratios within the tolerance intervals generally will be
at or below 50%, while for S/N>/=10, the percentage increases to over 90%. In
the present study, fully satisfactory results were obtained down to about 2
microg/kg, but not for lower analyte concentrations.
PMID: 14735271 [PubMed]
40: Orv Hetil. 2003 Dec 7;144(49):2425-7.
[Severe nephrotic syndrome in a young man taking anabolic steroid and creatine
long term]
[Article in Hungarian]
Revai T, Sapi Z, Benedek S, Kovacs A, Kaszas I, Viranyi M, Winkler G.
Szent Janos Korhaz, II. Belgyogyaszat, Nefrologia.
Anabolic steroids and creatine supplementation is one of the current abuse used
by body builders. It is less known that this combination beside of many
deleterious effects may also cause renal damage. Authors report a case of
diffuse membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis type I in a 22-year-old man who
had been taking continuously methandion in a large quantity and 200 grams of
creatine daily, and was sent to the outpatient nephrologic unit with typical
clinical signs of nephrosis syndrome. They also call attention to the role of
the continuously consumed creatine in the renal failure.
Publication Types:
Case Reports
PMID: 14725210 [PubMed]
41: J Sci Med Sport. 2003 Dec;6(4):387-97.
The effects of anabolic-androgenic steroids upon resting and peak exercise left
ventricular heart wall motion kinetics in male strength and power athletes.
Climstein M, O'Shea P, Adams KJ, DeBeliso M.
Faculty of Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, Department of
Rehabilitation, Harbord Diggers' Memorial, Sydney, Australia.
Previous investigations reported alterations in myocardial fibres and systolic
function associated with anabolic-androgenic steroid consumption by athletes.
Advances in bio-medical technology have allowed further investigation in
assessing the possible effects of anabolic-androgenic steroids on gross left
ventricular kinetics. Twenty-three male strength and power athletes with a past
and current history of anabolic-androgenic steroid consumption (x 46 days, range
28 days to 70 days), were compared to 23 controls. Testing consisted of resting
and immediate post-exercise transthoracic left ventricular wall cardiokymograms.
Statistical results identified no difference over time between groups or
condition. Cardiokymographic waveform analysis found 32.61% of all (n =184)
waveforms to be abnormal (Type II, n = 56 or Type III, n = 4). There were 14
treatment subjects (60.87%) who demonstrated an abnormal waveform as compared to
9 controls (39.13%). A significant difference (p < or = 0.01) in the overall
proportions of waveform types was identified where the treatment group exhibited
41.30% abnormal waveforms, compared to 23.91% by controls. Additionally, two
athletes (1 treatment, 1 control) demonstrated abnormal left ventricular wall
motions (Type III) analogous to impaired left ventricular performance. The
results indicated: (a) highly strength trained athletes with no history of
anabolic-androgenic steroid usage exhibited an unexpected high incidence of Type
II waveforms (28.26% pre/23.91% post); (b) a comparable group of strength
trained athletes using anabolic-androgenic steroids exhibited a significantly
higher percentage of abnormal waveforms as compared to controls (34.78%
pre/37.21% post). Based on these results, high intensity strength training with
and without anabolic-androgenic steroid supplementation induced alterations in
the left ventricular wall motion.
Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
Controlled Clinical Trial
PMID: 14723389 [PubMed]
42: IEEE Trans Med Imaging. 2004 Jan;23(1):53-62.
Measurement of trabecular bone thickness in the limited resolution regime of in
vivo MRI by fuzzy distance transform.
Saha PK, Wehrli FW.
Medical Image Processing Group, Department of Radiology, University of
Pennsylvania, Fourth Floor, Blockley Hall, 423 Guardian Drive, Philadelphia, PA
19104-6021, USA. saha@mipg.upenn.edu
Trabecular or cancellous bone, the type of bone found in the vertebrae and near
the joints of long bones, consists of a network of plates and struts. Accurate
measurement of trabecular thickness is of significant interest, for example, to
assess the effectiveness of anabolic (bone forming) agents of patients with
osteoporosis. Here, we introduce a new fuzzy distance transform (FDT)-based
thickness computation method that obviates binary segmentation and that can
effectively deal with images acquired at a voxel size comparable to the typical
trabecular bone thickness. The method's robustness is shown on the basis of
micro-CT images of human trabecular bone, resampled at progressively coarser
resolution and after application of rotation and addition of noise as a means to
simulate the in vivo situation. Reproducibility of the method is demonstrated
with micro-CT images by comparing histograms of thickness within and between
data sets and with micro-MRI volume data sets of human volunteers imaged
repeatedly. Finally, with in vivo micro-MR images from a prior study in rabbits
subjected to corticosteroid exposure, it is demonstrated that short-term
treatment resulting in trabecular thinning can be quantified with the new
method.
Publication Types:
Evaluation Studies
Validation Studies
PMID: 14719687 [PubMed]
43: Fertil Steril. 2004 Jan;81(1):226.
Comment on:
Fertil Steril. 2003 Jun;79 Suppl 3:1659-61.
Duration of azoospermia following anabolic steroids.
Drakeley A, Gazvani R, Lewis-Jones I.
Publication Types:
Comment
Letter
PMID: 14711580 [PubMed]
44: Adv Ren Replace Ther. 2003 Jul;10(3):194-212.
Protein and energy nutrition among adult patients treated with chronic
peritoneal dialysis.
Mehrotra R, Kopple JD.
Division of Nephrology and Hypertension, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance,
CA 90502, USA. rmehrotra@rei.edu
Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) in adult patients treated with chronic
peritoneal dialysis (CPD), which is highly prevalent and frequently severe in
its manifestation, poses a significant therapeutic dilemma. The causes of PEM
include inflammation, low nutrient intake, nutrient losses during dialysis,
metabolic acidemia, coexisting illnesses, and possibly the endocrine disorders
of uremia. Treatment strategies for PEM in CPD patients include the following:
attempt to treat the potentially reversible causes of anorexia, increase
nutrient intake (by nutritional counseling, oral food supplements, consideration
of appetite stimulants and intraperitonial amino acid solutions), and the
correction of metabolic acidosis. Coexisting illnesses engendering PEM should be
treated. Experimental evidence suggests that such agents as anabolic steroids,
human growth hormone, insulin-like growth factor-I, and L-carnitine may engender
positive protein balance in these individuals. Finally, the use of
anti-inflammatory agents to improve the nutritional status of malnourished CPD
patients remains to be defined. There is a need to carry out clinical trials
that examine whether an improvement in the nutritional status of CPD patients is
associated with an improvement in their mortality, morbidity and/or quality of
life.
PMID: 14708073 [PubMed]
45: Neuroscience. 2004;123(3):647-66.
Differential effects of testosterone on protein synthesis activity in male and
female quail brain.
Dermon CR, Stamatakis A, Giakoumaki S, Balthazart J.
Department of Biology, University of Crete, Heraklion 714 09, Crete, Greece.
In Japanese quail, testosterone (T) increases the Nissl staining density in the
medial preoptic nucleus (POM) in relation to the differential activation by T of
copulatory behavior. The effect of T on protein synthesis was quantified here in
97 discrete brain regions by the in vivo autoradiographic (14)C-leucine (Leu)
incorporation method in adult gonadectomized male and female quail that had been
treated for 4 weeks with T or left without hormone. T activated male sexual
behaviors in males but not females. Overall Leu incorporation was increased by T
in five brain regions, many of which contain sex steroid receptors such as the
POM, archistriatum and lateral hypothalamus. T decreased Leu incorporation in
the medial septum. Leu incorporation was higher in males than females in two
nuclei but higher in females in three nuclei including the hypothalamic
ventromedial nucleus. Significant interactions between effects of T and sex were
seen in 13 nuclei: in most nuclei (n=12), T increased Leu incorporation in males
but decreased it in females. The POM boundaries were defined by a denser Leu
incorporation than the surrounding area and incorporation was increased by T
more in males (25%) than in females (6%). These results confirm that protein
synthesis in brain areas relevant to the control of sexual behavior can be
affected by the sex of the subjects or their endocrine condition and that T can
have differential effects in the two sexes. These anabolic changes should
reflect the sexually differentiated neurochemical mechanisms mediating
behavioral activation.
PMID: 14706777 [PubMed]
46: Analyst. 2003 Nov;128(11):1373-81.
Detection of hormonal anabolic compounds in calf urine and unverified
growth-promoting preparations: application of the AR-LUX bioassay for screening
and determination of androgenic activity.
Blankvoort BM, Aarts JM, Schilt R, Geerdink P, Spenkelink B, Rodenburg RJ.
Department of Bioanalysis, TNO Pharma, the Netherlands.
Despite a ban by the European Union, the use of anabolic steroids and
repartitioning agents in cattle is still occasionally observed. Due to
continuing improvements in analytical techniques, very low detection limits for
individual compounds have been achieved. In response to these developments,
cocktails composed of several steroids have been applied, thus hampering
detection due to lower levels of the individual compounds. Bioassays capable of
measuring the integrated effect of cocktails might therefore provide valuable
additional tools in controlling the use of illegal anabolics. We investigated
the feasibility of using the AR-LUX assay to detect the presence in cattle urine
of growth promoters that exert their effects via androgen response elements
(AREs). The AR-LUX assay is based on a human cell line featuring a luciferase
reporter gene under transcriptional control of an authenticated ARE. Several
column purification and liquid/liquid extraction methods were investigated to
optimize the efficiency of anabolic compounds extraction and minimize cytotoxic
effects of the urine matrix. The AR-LUX assay was found to be applicable to the
detection of anabolic steroids excreted in urine samples with a discriminatory
power similar to that of GC-MS analysis. Finally, some liquid products probably
destined for growth-promoting purposes confiscated outside the Netherlands were
analyzed. Although common chemical-analytical methods did not detect any
anabolic steroids in these samples, the presence of compounds activating
ARE-mediated gene expression was clearly established.
PMID: 14700232 [PubMed]
47: J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol. 2003 Dec;87(4-5):269-77.
Effects of prolonged stanozolol treatment on antioxidant enzyme activities,
oxidative stress markers, and heat shock protein HSP72 levels in rat liver.
Pey A, Saborido A, Blazquez I, Delgado J, Megias A.
Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology I, Faculty of Chemistry,
Complutense University, 28040 Madrid, Spain.
The abuse of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) to enhance physical performance
is widespread in sport communities despite their reported side effects. Since
the biochemical bases for the hepatotoxic effects of these compounds are largely
unknown, this investigation was aimed at testing whether prolonged (8 weeks)
treatment with high doses (2 mg kg(-1) body weight; 5 d wk(-1)) of stanozolol
(ST), either alone or in conjunction with treadmill-exercise training, induced
changes in oxidative stress biomarker levels and antioxidant defence systems in
rat liver. After ST oral administration, the mean values of serum parameters
related to hepatic function were within normal ranges. No changes in protein
carbonyl content and in the reduced to oxidized glutathione (GSH/GSSG) ratio
were detected in liver homogenates of ST-treated rats, whereas thiobarbituric
acid-reactive substances (TBARS) levels resulted increased (P<0.05). Total
superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPX)
activities were higher (P<0.05) in the liver of treated rats but mitochondrial
SOD and glutathione reductase (GR) activities, and the 72 kDa heat shock protein
(HSP72) level were not modified. Chronic exercise alone did not change any of
the above parameters except for a remarkable enhancement of HSP72 expression; in
no case training modified the effects of ST treatment. The present data show
that 8 wk ingestion of ST, either with or without concurrent exercise training,
can induce oxidative stress in rat liver despite the up-regulation of enzymatic
antioxidant activities.
PMID: 14698208 [PubMed]
48: J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 2003 Dec;58(12):M1103-10.
The mechanisms of androgen effects on body composition: mesenchymal pluripotent
cell as the target of androgen action.
Bhasin S, Taylor WE, Singh R, Artaza J, Sinha-Hikim I, Jasuja R, Choi H,
Gonzalez-Cadavid NF.
Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism, and Molecular Medicine, Charles R. Drew
University of Medicine and Science, Los Angeles, California 90059, USA.
sbhasin@ucla.edu
Testosterone supplementation increases muscle mass primarily by inducing muscle
fiber hypertrophy; however, the mechanisms by which testosterone exerts its
anabolic effects on the muscle are poorly understood. The prevalent view is that
testosterone improves net muscle protein balance by stimulating muscle protein
synthesis, decreasing muscle protein degradation, and improving the
reutilization of amino acids. However, the muscle protein synthesis hypothesis
does not adequately explain testosterone-induced changes in fat mass, myonuclear
number, and satellite cell number. We postulate that testosterone promotes the
commitment of pluripotent stem cells into the myogenic lineage and inhibits
their differentiation into the adipogenic lineage. The hypothesis that the
primary site of androgen action is the pluripotent stem cell provides a unifying
explanation for the observed reciprocal effects of testosterone on muscle and
fat mass.
Publication Types:
Review
Review, Tutorial
PMID: 14684707 [PubMed]
49: J Anim Sci. 2003 Dec;81(12):3052-6.
Effects of growth implants on consumer perceptions of meat tenderness in beef
steers.
Barham BL, Brooks JC, Blanton JR Jr, Herring AD, Carr MA, Kerth CR, Miller MF.
Department of Animal and Food Sciences, Texas Tech University, Lubbock
79409-2162, USA.
Anabolic steroid implants are routinely used to increase growth performance and
profitability; however, there are concerns that the use of implants,
particularly those containing trenbolone acetate, may have detrimental effects
on carcass quality and beef tenderness. Thus, the objectives of the current
study were to determine the effects of various commonly used implant regimens on
shear force values, sensory properties, and consumer satisfaction of beef top
loin steaks from cattle of Bos indicus influence. Cattle were supplied by
producers that agreed to provide sire and dam information in exchange for
carcass and sensory data. Steers (n = 2,748) were assigned randomly to one of
three implant treatments (12/sire; four steers from each sire were placed into
each treatment group): 1) unimplanted controls (n = 1,368); 2) Synovex-S
followed by another Synovex-S (n = 660); or 3) Synovex-S followed by Revalor-S
(n = 720). Steaks sampled after 3, 7, and 14 d of aging indicated that
unimplanted cattle had lower (P < 0.05) Warner-Bratzler Shear force values than
those from implanted animals. No differences (P > 0.05) in shear force values
were found between the two treatments or the control groups for steaks sampled
following a 21-d aging period. Steaks from implanted animals sampled after 3, 7,
and 14 d aging were rated lower (P < 0.05) for initial and sustained trained
sensory panel tenderness scores. Consumers failed to detect any differences in
steak samples related to implant treatment after 7 and 14 d of aging. Consumer
education level and family income did not affect overall acceptability (P > 0.10
and 0.18, respectively) or tenderness acceptability (P > 0.11 and 0.68,
respectively); however, consumers with postgraduate degrees recorded lower (P <
0.05) overall quality, beef flavor, juiciness, and tenderness scores than
consumers in all other education classifications. Additionally, family income
had no effect on overall quality (P > 0.21), beef flavor (P > 0.28), juiciness
(P > 0.58), or tenderness (P > 0.45) scores. Results indicate that using a
moderate implant program in Bos indicus-influenced cattle has no detrimental
effects on beef tenderness and consumer acceptability.
PMID: 14677861 [PubMed]
50: J Anim Sci. 2003 Dec;81(12):3028-34.
Effects of flax supplementation and a combined trenbolone acetate and estradiol
implant on circulating insulin-like growth factor-I and muscle insulin-like
growth factor-I messenger RNA levels in beef cattle.
Dunn JD, Johnson BJ, Kayser JP, Waylan AT, Sissom EK, Drouillard JS.
Department of Animal Sciences and Industry, Kansas State University, Manhattan
66506, USA.
We evaluated effects of a 5% (dry matter basis) ground flaxseed supplement
(flax) and a trenbolone acetate and estradiol-17beta implant, Revalor-S, on
circulating IGF-I and muscle IGF-I messenger RNA (mRNA). Sixteen crossbred
yearling steers (initial BW = 397 kg) were assigned randomly to one of four
treatments: 1) flax/implant; 2) nonflax/implant; 3) flax/nonimplant; and 4)
nonflax/nonimplant. Serum was harvested from blood collected on d 0 (before
implant or flax addition), 14, and 28, and used in subsequent analyses of
circulating IGF-I. Biopsy samples (0.5 g) were obtained from the longissimus
muscle on d 0, 14, and 28. Total RNA was isolated from the muscle samples, and
real-time quantitative-PCR was used to assess relative differences in IGF-I
mRNA. Flax supplementation had no effect (P > 0.10) on circulating IGF-I
concentrations. Following implantation, sera from implanted steers had 52 and
84% greater (P < 0.05) IGF-I concentrations than sera from nonimplanted steers
on d 14 and 28, respectively. On d 28, local muscle IGF-I mRNA levels increased
2.4-fold (P < 0.01) in biopsy samples obtained from implanted compared with
nonimplanted steers. Muscle biopsy samples from nonflax cattle had 4.4-fold
higher (P < 0.01) levels of IGF-I mRNA than those from flax cattle on d 28. To
determine whether a component of flax, alpha-linolenic acid (alphaLA), was
directly responsible for IGF-I mRNA down-regulation, we incubated primary
cultures of bovine satellite cells, from implanted and nonimplanted steers, in
two concentrations of alphaLA (10 nM and 1 microM). An implant x dose
interaction (P < 0.05) was observed for IGF-I mRNA concentrations in bovine
satellite cells cultured for 72 h with alphaLA. Satellite cells from
nonimplanted steers had similar (P > 0.10) IGF-I mRNA concentration regardless
of the level of alphaLA exposure; however, satellite cells from implanted steers
exposed to 10 nM and 1 microM alphaLA had 2.5- and 2.0-fold greater IGF-I mRNA
levels, respectively, than cells from implanted steers that were not exposed to
alphaLA (P < 0.05). Administration of a Revalor-S implant increased circulating
IGF-I and local muscle IGF-I mRNA concentrations in finishing cattle. However,
muscle IGF-I mRNA levels were decreased by flax supplementation. Muscle cell
culture experiments suggested that alphaLA was not responsible for the IGF-I
mRNA down-regulation.
PMID: 14677858 [PubMed]
51: Dis Colon Rectum. 2003 Dec;46(12):1690-7.
Effects of recombinant human growth hormone and nandrolone phenylpropionate on
the healing of ischemic colon anastomosis in rats.
Yarimkaya A, Apaydin B, Unal E, Karabicak I, Aydogan F, Uslu E, Erginoz E, Artis
T, Eyuboglu E.
Department of General Surgery, SSK Hospital, Karamursel, Turkey.
PURPOSE: Recombinant human growth hormone and nandrolone phenylpropionate are
two different anabolic agents. This study was designed to investigate the
effects of these anabolic agents on the healing of ischemic colon anastomosis in
rats. METHODS: Seventy adult male Wistar rats were divided into five groups (n =
14). Group I was the sham laparotomy group. In the other groups, surgical
procedures consisting of transsection and anastomosis were made at a distance 3
cm from the peritoneal reflection. Group II was the nonischemic control group.
Ischemic colon model was produced in the remaining groups. Group III was the
untreated control group. Groups IV and V received recombinant human growth
hormone and nandrolone phenylpropionate, respectively. Bursting pressure and
hydroxyproline levels were measured on the third and seventh postoperative days
to evaluate anastomotic healing. RESULTS: Recombinant human growth hormone
increased both collagen deposition and bursting pressure significantly at
postoperative Days 3 and 7 compared with the sham and untreated control groups
(P < 0.005). When compared with the untreated control, nandrolone
phenylpropionate significantly increased collagen deposition at postoperative
Days 3 and 7 (P < 0.005) and bursting pressure only at postoperative Day 3 (P <
0.005). CONCLUSIONS: Recombinant human growth hormone has more favorable
therapeutic effects on the healing of ischemic colonic anastomoses than
nandrolone phenylpropionate. Recombinant human growth hormone also improves
healing of nonischemic colonic anastomosis.
PMID: 14668597 [PubMed]
52: Appl Spectrosc. 2003 Jul;57(7):791-6.
Friedel-Crafts acylation as a quality control assay for steroids.
Studer J, Purdie N, Krouse JA.
Department of Chemistry, Oklahoma State University, Stillwater, Oklahoma
74078-0447, USA.
The rapid Friedel-Crafts chromogenic acylation of alkene groups at ambient
temperatures using a 25:1 mixture of 98% acetyl chloride and 70% perchloric acid
is shown to have all the properties needed to serve as a potential quality
control reagent that can be used to routinely discriminate among steroid
analogs. Although ostensibly a non-selective reagent, from these and prior
applications in terpenes and polyunsaturated acid esters, it is seen that the
reaction is capable of discriminating bewteen geometric isomers and even
enantiomers. The selectivity towards acylation of the alpha- over the
beta-position at C-17 makes the method adaptable to screening for anabolic
steroids. Reactions at that position produce the more unusual results, including
a positive color reaction for alpha-methyltestosterone even though there is no
alkene functional group in the vicinity of C-17. For molecules with more than
one alkene, concurrent acylations are independent one from the other and, in the
absence of any interferences, their spectral properties are found to be
additive.
PMID: 14658657 [PubMed]
53: Physiol Genomics. 2004 Jan 15;16(2):275-83. Epub 2003 Nov 25.
Altered mRNA abundance of ASB15 and four other genes in skeletal muscle
following administration of beta-adrenergic receptor agonists.
McDaneld TG, Hancock DL, Moody DE.
Department of Animal Sciences, Purdue University, West Lafayette 47907-2054,
USA.
Beta-adrenergic receptor agonists (BA) stimulate skeletal muscle growth.
However, downstream signaling pathways that facilitate this effect remain poorly
defined. Objectives of this study were to identify genes differentially
expressed after administration of a novel BA and to evaluate the expression of
one of those genes in additional models of skeletal muscle growth.
Differentially expressed gene fragments were identified through differential
display of skeletal muscle biopsies from five steers 24 h after administration
of the BA. Five gene fragments designated DD53, DD143, DD163, DD209, and DD214
were identified. Tissue distribution of these genes was evaluated by RT-PCR.
While DD53, DD163, DD209, and DD214 were expressed across tissues, DD143 mRNA
expression was most abundant in skeletal muscle. DD143, later identified as
bovine ASB15, was evaluated in rats following administration of anabolic
compounds. Thirteen 7-wk-old female rats were randomly assigned to each of four
treatment groups including: control, clenbuterol, trenbolone acetate (TBA), and
growth hormone (GH). Changes in rat Asb-15 mRNA were measured at 30 min, 12 h,
and 24 h following intraperitoneal injections of each compound. Clenbuterol
treatment decreased Asb-15 mRNA in skeletal muscle at 12 and 24 h (P < 0.01) and
also decreased mRNA in lung at 12 h (P < 0.05). TBA and GH treatments did not
alter Asb-15 mRNA in any of the tissues evaluated (P > 0.10). These results are
the first to associate an Asb gene family member with muscle growth or BA
administration and suggest a potential role for ASB15 in beta-agonist-induced
skeletal muscle hypertrophy.
PMID: 14645738 [PubMed]
54: Burns. 2003 Dec;29(8):793-7.
Oxandrolone induced lean mass gain during recovery from severe burns is
maintained after discontinuation of the anabolic steroid.
Demling RH, DeSanti L.
Department of Surgery, Trauma and Burn Center, Brigham & Women's Hospital, 75
Francis Street, Boston, MA 02115, USA. rhdemling@partners.org
Weight loss and lean mass loss from burn induced catabolism can be more rapidly
restored when the anabolic steroid oxandrolone is added to optimum nutrition
compared to nutrition alone. Our purpose in this study was to determine whether
the regained lean body mass (LBM) is retained 6 months after stopping
oxandrolone. Forty-five severe burn patients, entering the recovery phase were
randomized into a nutrition group alone or with the addition of oxandrolone,
20mg per day upon admission to the acute burn rehabilitation (RH) unit.
Oxandrolone was discontinued after at least 80% of the involuntary weight loss
occurring in the acute burn period, was restored. Body composition was measured
using bioelectric impedence analysis (BIA). We found that patients receiving
oxandrolone, in the rehabilitation unit, regained weight and lean mass two to
three times faster than with nutrition alone. The difference was statistically
significant (P<0.05). All patients were discharged from RH on a nutrition and
exercise program and monitored in the outpatient burn center. After 6 months,
body weight and body composition were again measured. We found that the body
weight and lean mass which was restored during RH, was maintained 6 months after
discontinuation of oxandrolone. Lost lean mass was not yet restored in the
nutrition alone group. We can conclude that body weight and lean mass which is
lost, due to burn induced catabolism, can be effectively restored in the
post-burn recovery period with oxandrolone. The body weight and lost lean mass
which is regained, is maintained 6 months after stopping the drug.
Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
Randomized Controlled Trial
PMID: 14636753 [PubMed]
55: Clin Chem. 2004 Feb;50(2):355-64. Epub 2003 Nov 21.
[13C]Nandrolone excretion in trained athletes: interindividual variability in
metabolism.
Baume N, Avois L, Schweizer C, Cardis C, Dvorak J, Cauderay M, Mangin P, Saugy
M.
Laboratoire suisse d'Analyse du Dopage, Institut de Medecine Legale, Departement
Universitaire de Medecine et Sante Communautaires, Lausanne, Switzerland.
BACKGROUND: Nandrolone is one of the most abused anabolic steroids, and its use
in doping is increasing, as revealed by numerous positive cases during recent
years in various sports. Different authors have reported the possible natural
production of nandrolone metabolites in humans, and some of these authors argued
that exhaustive exercise could increase nandrolone production in the body or
induce dehydration and consequently lead to an increase of nandrolone
metabolites in urine. METHODS: Volunteers (n = 22) ingested two 25-mg doses of
[(13)C]nandrolone at 24-h intervals and collected urine specimens for 5 days.
The labeled nandrolone metabolites 19-norandrosterone and 19-noretiocholanolone
were identified and quantified by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. RESULTS:
Interindividual variability was observed in nandrolone excretion patterns and
kinetics, as well as for the noretiocholanolone:norandrosterone ratio. The
amounts of nandrolone metabolites measured at the excretion peak varied between
1180 and 38 661 microg/L for norandrosterone and 576 and 12 328 microg/L for
noretiocholanolone. At the end of the excretion period, the
noretiocholanolone:norandrosterone ratio was sometimes >1. The analysis of
numerous spot-urine samples allowed the determination of an acceptable
correlation between urinary creatinine and specific gravity for placebo- and
steroid-treated individuals: y = 0.0052ln(x) + 1.0178 (r(2) = 0.8142) and y =
0.0068ln(x) + 1.0172 (r(2) = 0.7730), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: The excretion
kinetics and patterns of labeled nandrolone show interindividual variability.
More investigations are currently underway to estimate the influence of
exhaustive exercises on excretion of labeled nandrolone metabolites in urine.
Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
PMID: 14633920 [PubMed]
56: J AOAC Int. 2003 Sep-Oct;86(5):916-24.
Single-laboratory validation of a modified liquid chromatographic method with UV
detection for determination of trenbolone residues in bovine liver and muscle.
MacNeil JD, Reid J, Neiser CD, Fesser AC.
Centre for Veterinary Drug Residues, Saskatoon Laboratory, Canadian Food
Inspection Agency, 116 Veterinary Rd, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada S7N 2R3.
jmacneil@inspection.gc.ca
Trenbolone acetate is a synthetic testosterone analog registered for use in a
number of countries as a growth-promoting hormone, applied as an implant in the
ears of feedlot cattle. The method is intended for the detection and
quantitation of trace amounts of alpha- and beta-trenbolone in bovine tissues
(muscle, liver) by liquid chromatography (LC) with UV detection and eliminates
the use of the structural analog, 19-nortestosterone, as an internal standard.
Trenbolone residues are extracted from tissues that have been homogenized in
sodium acetate with a 3-phase liquid-liquid extraction by adding a mixture of
water-acetonitrile-dichloromethanehexane, with trenbolone residues
preferentially partitioned into the middle acetonitrile layer. The extract is
passed through solid-phase extraction cartridges (both C18 and silica gel)
using, respectively, methanol-water and acetone-toluene as eluents.
Reversed-phase high-performance LC separation is performed, an octadecyl-bonded
column with methanol-acetonitrile-water used as mobile phase for sample
analysis. The limit of detection is 0.2 ng/g in muscle tissue and 0.6 ng/g in
liver tissue, with coefficients of variation of 3.5-12.1% for alpha- and
beta-trenbolone at concentrations from 0.2 to 4.0 ng/g fortified in muscle and
3.3-26.0% from liver fortified at 0.6-10.0 ng/g. Absolute recoveries of 40-130%
were observed, but the use of fortified matrix curves eliminated recovery
correction. Critical control points were identified in a pH adjustment step and
an evaporation step during method validation, which included ruggedness testing.
Analysis of incurred tissues (bovine liver and muscle) stored at -20 degrees C
for over 25 weeks did not identify any significant loss of residues.
Publication Types:
Evaluation Studies
PMID: 14632391 [PubMed]
57: J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci. 2003 Dec 5;798(1):69-77.
Optimization of the separation of a complex mixture of natural and synthetic
anabolic steroids by micellar liquid chromatography.
Izquierdo-Hornillos R, Gonzalo-Lumbreras R.
Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Universidad
Complutense, 28040 Madrid, Spain. hornillo@qium.uccm.es
A systematic optimization of the HPLC separation of a complex mixture containing
natural and synthetic anabolic steroids by micellar liquid chromatography using
a Hypersil (150 mm x 3.0 mm i.d., 5 microm) C18 column and UV detection at 245
nm (exception is made for oxymetolone and danazol which were monitorized at 280
nm) has been carried out. The isocratic micellar mobile phases (from binary to
quaternary) consisted of sodium dodecyl sulphate and organic modifiers such as
acetonitrile, tetrahydrofuran, propanol, butanol or pentanol. The effect of the
organic modifiers, surfactant concentration, temperature, ionic strength and
flow-rate on the separation has been studied. A micellar mobile phase 5%
propanol and 40 mM surfactant allowed the separation of 12 steroids out of 14
tested in about 20 min. A bivariant optimization method for the micellar mobile
phase propanol-surfactant corroborated the above results.
PMID: 14630361 [PubMed]
58: Eur J Mass Spectrom (Chichester, Eng). 2003;9(5):459-64.
Stereospecific ion-molecule reactions of anabolic-type steroid tertiary alcohols
with proton-donating cations.
Zaikin VG, Borisov RS.
Topchiev Institute of Petrochemical Synthesis, Russian Academy of Sciences,
Leninskii pr. 29, 119991 Moscow, Russia. zaikin@ips.ac.ru
Isobutane and methane chemical ionization (CI) mass spectra of C-17a-epimeric,
17a-substituted 3-methoxyestra-1,3,5(10),8-tetraen-17a-ols and at C-17-epimeric
17-substituted 3-methoxyestra-1,3,5(10)-trien-17-ols, as well as of some their
derivatives, have been studied. In each epimeric pair, the peak intensity ratio
[MH-H(2)O](+) / [MH](+) is greater for stereoisomers having an axial (or
quasi-axial) hydroxyl group. The same regularity in the peak intensity ratio
[MH-CH(3)COOH](+) / [MH](+) is valid for acetates in the D-homo series. The
observed quantitative differences in CI mass spectra of epimers are explained by
steric hindrance of the attack of the proton-donating cation caused by the
angular 18-methyl group. No differences in the ease of elimination of the
silanol molecule were observed in CI mass spectra of epimeric silyl ethers.
Publication Types:
Review
Review, Tutorial
PMID: 14624015 [PubMed]
59: Am J Sports Med. 2003 Nov-Dec;31(6):1007-9.
Asynchronous bilateral achilles tendon ruptures and androstenediol use.
Battista V, Combs J, Warme WJ.
Orthopaedic Surgery Service, William Beaumont Army Medical Center, El Paso,
Texas 79920-5001, USA.
Publication Types:
Case Reports
PMID: 14623672 [PubMed]
60: Transpl Int. 1992;5 Suppl 1:S185-6.
Somatomedin C (IGF I) plasma levels after orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT)
in end-stage cirrhotic patients.
Corti A, De Gasperi A, Oppizzi G, Pannacciulli E, Cristalli A, Fantini G, Mazza
E, Prosperi M, Rocchini A, Sabbadini D, Savi C, Scaiola A, Vai S, Romani F,
DeCarlis L, Rondinara GF.
Department of Anaesthesia, Ospedale Niguarda Ca'Granda, Milano, Italy.
Insulin-like growth factors [IGF I and II or somatomedins (SMS)] are
polypeptides chemically and biologically correlated with insulin. The main
source of synthetic activity and secretion is the liver, although many other
tissues have been demonstrated to synthesize SMS. In the circulation, they are
not present in a free form, but are mostly bound to a specific carrier protein
independently synthesized in the liver. Hepatic or extrahepatic storage organs
have not been demonstrated; the half life of the SMS-binding protein complex is
between 3 and 4. Synthesis of SMS is regulated by GH, insulin, thyroxine and
nutrition (caloric and protein intake, and nitrogen balance). The role of
corticosteroids is still a matter of debate: in patients treated with steroids
SMS blood levels have been shown to be within normal limits, while biological
activity has been demonstrated to be significantly reduced by SMS inhibitors,
probably induced by corticosteroid therapy. The biological properties of SMS are
related to their structural homology with insulin, and can be summarized as
follows: A. Insulin-like activity (glucose oxidation, lipogenesis, glycogen
synthesis, inhibition of lipolysis and glycogenolysis); B. Sulphation activity
(incorporation of sulphate and leucine into glycosaminglycans of the cartilage);
C. Stimulation of fibroblast multiplication; D. Amplification of other hormone
activities (GH); E. Complementary anabolic activity with insulin. Low levels of
SMS have been demonstrated in hypopituitarism (secondary) or in other diseases
independent of GH reduced secretion (primary) such as malnutrition,
malabsorption, acute or chronic liver failure and uraemia. Negative nitrogen
balance, hypocaloric and/or low protein diets are usually correlated with low
levels of SMS. Recently, Schalch et al. reported on the role of orthotopic liver
transplantation (OLT) in normalizing SMS blood levels in a group of end-stage
liver diseased patients. This preliminary paper deals with changes in IGF-I
plasma levels (somatomedin C) in a group of patients affected by end-stage liver
cirrhosis before and after OLT.
PMID: 14621770 [PubMed]
61: Eur Respir J Suppl. 2003 Nov;46:76s-80s.
Endocrinological disturbances in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Creutzberg EC, Casaburi R.
Dept of Respiratory Medicine, University Hospital Maastricht, The Netherlands.
E.Creutzberg@PUL.Unimaas.NL
In this overview, the available literature on endocrinological disturbances in
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is reviewed, with stress on growth
hormone/insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I), thyroid hormone and the anabolic
steroids. In COPD, little is known about circulating growth hormone or IGF-I
concentrations. Some authors find a decrease in growth hormone or IGF-I, others
an increase. An increase of growth hormone might reflect a nonspecific response
of the body to stress (for instance, hypoxaemia). Until now, only one controlled
study on growth hormone supplementation has been published, which however did
not reveal any functional benefits. Before growth hormone supplementation can be
advised as part of the treatment in COPD, further controlled studies must be
performed to investigate its functional efficacy. The prevalence of thyroid
dysfunction in COPD and its role in pulmonary cachexia has not been extensively
studied. So far, there is no evidence that thyroid function is consistently
altered in COPD, except perhaps in a subgroup of patients with severe
hypoxaemia. Further research is required to more extensively study the
underlying mechanisms and consequences of disturbed thyroid function in this
subgroup of COPD patients. A few studies have reported the results of anabolic
steroid supplementation in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Although some
studies have discerned that low circulating levels of testosterone are common in
males with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, little is known about the
prevalence, the underlying causes or functional consequences of hypogonadism in
these patients. The use of systemic glucocorticosteroids and an influence of the
systemic inflammatory response have been suggested as contributing to low
testosterone levels. It can be hypothesised that low anabolic hormones will
reduce muscle mass and eventually result in a diminished muscle function.
Further evidence is required before testosterone replacement can be recommended
for males with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
PMID: 14621109 [PubMed]
62: Sichuan Da Xue Xue Bao Yi Xue Ban. 2003 Oct;34(4):708-10.
[The effects of nandrolone phenylpropionate on androgen receptor of liver and
sexual glands in burned rats]
[Article in Chinese]
Li K, Cen Y, Liu X, Luo X.
Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, West China Hospital, Sichuan University,
Chengdu 610041, China.
OBJECTIVE: To assess the effects of nandrolone phenylpropionate (NP) on androgen
receptor (AR) of liver and sexual glands in burned rats for supporting the
clinical application of anabolic steroids. METHODS: Thirty-two Wistar rats with
a deep second-degree cutaneous burn of 20% total body surface area were randomly
divided into two groups to receive either 5 mg/kg NP (NP group) or normal saline
as placebo (control group) every other day. The mean integrated optical density
(mIOD) of androgen receptor (AR) in liver, testis, ovary tissues were measured
by immunohistochemistry ENVISION and LSAB respectively on the 4th, 7th, 14th and
21st days after scalding. RESULTS: The density of AR in liver tissue in NP group
was higher than that in control group (P < 0.05). The density of AR in testis
and ovary tissues showed no significant difference between NP group and control
group at every time-point (P > 0.05). The side-effect of NP at this dose level
on sexual glands seemed limited. CONCLUSION: Nandrolone phenylpropionate
up-regulated the density of AR in liver tissue, whereas it had no significant
effects on the density of AR in testis and ovary tissues. NP was used with
safety at this dose level in rats.
PMID: 14619588 [PubMed]
63: Endocrinology. 2004 Feb;145(2):922-9. Epub 2003 Nov 14.
Transgenic expression of 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 in
osteoblasts reveals an anabolic role for endogenous glucocorticoids in bone.
Sher LB, Woitge HW, Adams DJ, Gronowicz GA, Krozowski Z, Harrison JR, Kream BE.
Department of Medicine, MC-1850, University of Connecticut Health Center, 263
Farmington Avenue, Farmington, CT 06030, USA.
Glucocorticoid excess leads to bone loss, primarily by decreasing bone
formation. However, a variety of in vitro models show that glucocorticoids can
promote osteogenesis. To elucidate the role of endogenous glucocorticoids in
bone metabolism, we developed transgenic (TG) mice in which a 2.3-kb Col1a1
promoter fragment drives 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2
(11beta-HSD2) expression in mature osteoblasts. 11beta-HSD2 should metabolically
inactivate endogenous glucocorticoids in the targeted cells, thereby reducing
glucocorticoid signaling. The inhibitory effect of 300 nm hydrocortisone on
percent collagen synthesis was blunted in TG calvariae, demonstrating that the
transgene was active. Collagen synthesis rates were lower in TG calvarial organ
cultures compared with wild-type. Trabecular bone parameters measured by
microcomputed tomography were reduced in L3 vertebrae, but not femurs, of 7- and
24-wk-old TG females. These changes were also not seen in males. In addition,
histomorphometry showed that osteoid surface was increased in TG female
vertebrae, suggesting that mineralization may be impaired. Our data demonstrate
that endogenous glucocorticoid signaling is required for normal vertebral
trabecular bone volume and architecture in female mice.
PMID: 14617568 [PubMed]
64: Life Sci. 2003 Dec 12;74(4):419-34.
Effects of anabolic steroids and antioxidant vitamins on ethanol-induced tissue
injury.
Celec P, Jani P, Smrekova L, Mrlian A, Kudela M, Hodosy J, Boor P, Kristova V,
Jakubovsky J, Jezova D, Halcak L, Bozek P, Slamova J, Ulicna O, Hojsik D,
Jurkovieova I.
Faculty of Medicine, Georg-August University, Gottingen, Germany.
petercelec@hotmail.com
Various mechanisms are involved in the process of ethanol-induced tissue
impairment. Oxidative stress and its effects are among the most important. We
compared the effects of antioxidant vitamins (vitamin C and E in combination)
and steroids (testosterone and nandrolone separately) on the toxicity of ethanol
in rats. Animals (male Wistar rats, n = 48) were randomised into following
groups-Control, Ethanol, Testosterone, Ethanol + Testosterone, Ethanol +
Nandrolone, Ethanol + Vitamins. Alcohol was given daily by gavage in a dose of 5
g/kg of body weight. On the 27th day of the study the animals were sacrificed by
decapitation and tissue samples were taken. Metabolic status, parameters of the
hepatic metabolism, hormone levels (testosterone, ACTH, corticosterone),
lipoperoxidation markers (malondialdehyde and conjugated diens in forebrain
cortex and in cerebellum) and advanced glycation end-products were analysed.
Tissue samples underwent histological examination. Histological outcomes showed
a protective effect of antioxidants on hepatic and cerebellar injury caused by
chronic ethanol intake. Anabolic steroids protected especially the central
nervous tissue against the toxicity of alcohol. Both, antioxidant vitamins and
anabolic steroids protect against the ethanol-induced toxicity, however, this
effect is tissue specific.
PMID: 14609721 [PubMed]
65: Horm Behav. 2003 Sep;44(3):271-80.
Glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD65) immunoreactivity in brains of aggressive,
adolescent anabolic steroid-treated hamsters.
Grimes JM, Ricci LA, Melloni RH Jr.
Behavioral Neuroscience Program, Department of Psychology, 125 Nightingale Hall,
Northeastern University, 360 Huntington Avenue, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
Chronic anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) treatment during adolescence
facilitates offensive aggression in male Syrian hamsters (Mesocricetus auratus).
The current study assessed whether adolescent AAS exposure influenced the
immunohistochemical localization of glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD65), the
rate-limiting enzyme in the synthesis of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), in
areas of hamster brain implicated in aggressive behavior. Hamsters were
administered high dose AAS throughout adolescence, scored for offensive
aggression, and then examined for differences in GAD65 puncta to regions of the
hamster brain important for aggression. When compared with control animals,
aggressive AAS-treated hamsters showed significant increases in the area covered
by GAD65 immunoreactive puncta in several of these aggression regions, including
the anterior hypothalamus, ventrolateral hypothalamus, and medial amygdala.
Conversely, aggressive AAS-treated hamsters showed a significant decrease in
GAD65-ir puncta in the lateral septum when compared with oil-treated controls.
However, no differences in GAD65 puncta were found in other aggression areas,
such as the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis and central amygdala. Together,
these results support a role for altered GAD65 synthesis and function in
adolescent AAS-facilitated offensive aggression.
PMID: 14609549 [PubMed]
66: J Sci Med Sport. 2003 Sep;6(3):307-12.
Blood pressure and rate pressure product response in males using high-dose
anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS).
Grace F, Sculthorpe N, Baker J, Davies B.
Centre for Ergogenic Drugs Research, School of Applied Sciences, University of
Glamorgan, Pontyridd, Wales, UK.
The literature regarding the blood pressure response to AAS use is equivocal. In
addition, there is currently little data available on the Rate Pressure Product
(RPP) response to anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) use. The experimental aim
of this study was to investigate the effects of AAS administration in
combination with resistance training on blood pressure and rate pressure product
in male amateur bodybuilders and compare the results with a morphologically
matched, resistance trained control group. Subjects were divided into two groups
(n=16 AAS users; n=16 controls). Systolic and Diastolic Blood Pressure, RPP.
Resting Heart Rate and Body Composition measurements were obtained before (Pre),
during (During) and 6-8 weeks following (Post) the AAS cycle in the AAS users
with similar time intervals for the control group. No significant cardiovascular
or morphological changes in the control group were found throughout the study.
Significant increases in both diastolic (P<0.01) and mean arterial blood
pressures (P<0.05) were found from Pre to Post cycle in the AAS group. RPP also
increased significantly (P<0.01) from pre to post AAS cycle. All cardiovascular
parameters returned to normal baseline measurements between 6 and 8 weeks post
cycle. No blood pressure measurements throughout the study were consistent with
clinically defined hypertension. The findings indicate that the AAS group
exhibited significant increases in standard cardiovascular measurements compared
with the control bodybuilders, and provides a contraindication to AAS use
especially in borderline hypertensives.
Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
Controlled Clinical Trial
PMID: 14609147 [PubMed]
67: Haematologica. 2003 Nov;88(11):ECR33.
Littoral cell angioma of the spleen in a patient with severe aplastic anaemia.
Tholouli E, Roulson JA, Byers R, Burton I, Liu Yin JA.
Department of Haematology and Histopathology, Manchester Royal Infirmary,
Manchester, UK.
Littoral cell angioma (LCA) is a rare benign tumour of the spleen. We describe a
patient with aplastic anaemia who, following multiple treatments with rabbit and
horse Anti-Thymocyte Globulin and anabolic steroids developed marked
splenomegaly and hypersplenism. LCA was diagnosed post splenectomy. This is the
first case of LCA associated with aplastic anaemia and its treatment.
Publication Types:
Case Reports
PMID: 14607765 [PubMed]
68: Chest. 2003 Nov;124(5):1733-42.
A role for anabolic steroids in the rehabilitation of patients with COPD? A
double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial.
Creutzberg EC, Wouters EF, Mostert R, Pluymers RJ, Schols AM.
Department of Pulmonology, University Hospital Maastricht, Maastricht, The
Netherlands. E.Creutzberg@PUL.Unimaas.NL
STUDY OBJECTIVES: Skeletal muscle weakness commonly occurs in patients with
COPD. Long-term use of systemic glucocorticosteroids further contributes to
muscle weakness. Anabolic steroids could be an additional mode of intervention
to improve outcome of pulmonary rehabilitation by increasing physiologic
functioning, possibly mediated by increasing erythropoietic function. PATIENTS
AND METHODS: We randomly assigned 63 male patients with COPD to receive on days
1, 15, 29, and 43 a deep IM injection of 50 mg of nandrolone decanoate (ND)
[Deca-Durabolin; N.V. Organon; Oss, The Netherlands] in 1 mL of arachis oil, or
1 mL of arachis oil alone (placebo) in a double-blind design. All patients
participated in a standardized pulmonary rehabilitation program. Outcome
measures were body composition by deuterium and bromide dilution, respiratory
and peripheral muscle function, incremental exercise testing, and health status
by the St. George's Respiratory Questionnaire. RESULTS: Treatment with ND
relative to placebo resulted in higher increases in fat-free mass (FFM; mean,
1.7 kg [SD, 2.5] vs 0.3 kg [SD, 1.9]; p = 0.015) owing to a rise in
intracellular mass (mean, 1.8 kg [SD, 3.1] vs - 0.5 kg [SD, 3.1]; p = 0.002).
Muscle function, exercise capacity, and health status improved in both groups to
the same extent. Only after ND were increases in erythropoietic parameters seen
(erythropoietin: mean, 2.08 U/L [SD, 5.56], p = 0.067; hemoglobin: mean, 0.29
mmol/L [SD, 0.73], p = 0.055). In the total group, the changes in maximal
inspiratory mouth pressure (PImax) and peak workload were positively correlated
with the change in hemoglobin (r = 0.30, p = 0.032, and r = 0.34, p = 0.016,
respectively), whereas the change in isokinetic leg work was correlated with the
change in erythropoietin (r = 0.38, p = 0.013). In the patients receiving
maintenance treatment with low-dose oral glucocorticosteroids (31 of 63
patients; mean, 7.5 mg/24 h [SD, 2.4]), greater improvements in PImax (mean, 6.0
cm H(2)O [SD, 8.82] vs - 2.18 cm H(2)O [SD, 11.08], p = 0.046), and peak
workload (mean, 20.47 W [SD, 19.82] vs 4.80 W [SD, 7.74], p = 0.023) were seen
after 8 weeks of treatment with ND vs placebo. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, a
short-term course of ND had an overall positive effect relative to placebo on
FFM without expanding extracellular water in patients with COPD. In the total
group, the improvements in muscle function and exercise capacity were associated
with improvements in erythropoietic parameters. The use of low-dose oral
glucocorticosteroids as maintenance medication significantly impaired the
response to pulmonary rehabilitation with respect to respiratory muscle function
and exercise capacity, which could be restored by ND treatment.
Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
Randomized Controlled Trial
PMID: 14605042 [PubMed]
69: Lancet. 2003 Nov 1;362(9394):1466.
Athletes' "designer steroid" leads to widening scandal.
Kondro W.
Publication Types:
News
PMID: 14603927 [PubMed]
70: Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2003 Nov;35(11):1929-34.
Erratum in:
Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2004 Feb;36(2):349. Speiring Barry A [corrected to
Spiering Barry A]
Effect of muscle oxygenation during resistance exercise on anabolic hormone
response.
Hoffman JR, Im J, Rundell KW, Kang J, Nioka S, Spieiring BA, Kime R, Chance B,
Speiring BA.
The College of New Jersey, Ewing, NJ 08628, USA. hoffmanj@tcnj.edu
PURPOSE: The mechanisms that underlie the affect of acute program variables on
muscle growth and strength development for strength/power athletes have been of
great interest. This investigation examined the affects of two different
resistance exercise protocols on muscle oxygenation, and the anabolic hormonal
response to such exercise. METHODS: Eleven experienced resistance-trained male
athletes performed four sets of the squat exercise using either a low-intensity,
high-volume (LI; 15 repetitions at 60% one-repetition maximum [1-RM]) or
high-intensity, low-volume (HI; 4 repetitions at 90% 1-RM) load. Venous blood
samples were obtained before (Pre), immediate (IP), 20- (20P), and 40-min (40P)
postexercise. Continuous-wave near-infrared spectroscopy was used to measure
oxygen desaturation during exercise. RESULTS: No differences in muscle
deoxygenation were seen between LI and HI. However, time-dependent postexercise
reoxygenation was significantly different between the two exercise sessions
(35.3 +/- 17.4 s vs 24.5 +/- 14.3 s in LI and HI, respectively). Testosterone
and growth hormone (GH) concentrations were significantly elevated from Pre at
IP, 20P, and 40P in both LI and HI. GH concentrations were higher (P<0.05) for
LI than at HI at 20P and 40P. CONCLUSION: Muscle oxygen recovery kinetics
appeared to be influenced by differences in the intensity and volume of
exercise, and delayed reoxygenation appears to affect the GH response to
exercise.
PMID: 14600561 [PubMed]
71: Biol Pharm Bull. 2003 Nov;26(11):1563-9.
Bone anabolic effects of S-40503, a novel nonsteroidal selective androgen
receptor modulator (SARM), in rat models of osteoporosis.
Hanada K, Furuya K, Yamamoto N, Nejishima H, Ichikawa K, Nakamura T, Miyakawa M,
Amano S, Sumita Y, Oguro N.
Central Research Laboratories, Kaken Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Shinomiya, Kyoto,
Japan. furuya_kazuyuki@kaken.co.jp
A novel nonsteroidal androgen receptor (AR) binder, S-40503, was successfully
generated in order to develop selective androgen receptor modulators (SARMs). We
evaluated the binding specificity for nuclear receptors (NRs) and osteoanabolic
activities of S-40503 in comparison with a natural nonaromatizable steroid,
5alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT). The compound preferentially bound to AR with
nanomolar affinity among NRs. When S-40503 was administrated into orchiectomized
(ORX) rats for 4 weeks, bone mineral density (BMD) of femur and muscle weight of
levator ani were increased as markedly as DHT, but prostate weight was not
elevated over the normal at any doses tested. In contrast, DHT administration
caused about 1.5-fold increase in prostate weight. The reduced virilizing
activity was clearly evident from the result that 4-week treatment of normal
rats with S-40503 showed no enlargement of prostate. To confirm the bone
anabolic effect, S-40503 was given to ovariectomized (OVX) rats for 2 months.
The compound significantly increased the BMD and biomechanical strength of
femoral cortical bone, whereas estrogen, anti-bone resorptive hormone, did not.
The increase in periosteal mineral apposition rate (MAR) of the femur revealed
direct bone formation activity of S-40503. It was unlikely that the
osteoanabolic effect of the compound was attribute to the enhancement of muscle
mass, because immobilized ORX rats treated with S-40503 showed a marked increase
in BMD of tibial cortical bone without any actions on the surrounding muscle
tissue. Collectively, our novel compound served as a prototype for SARMs, which
had unique tissue selectivity with high potency for bone formation and lower
impact upon sex accessory tissues.
PMID: 14600402 [PubMed]
72: Int J Sports Med. 2003 Nov;24(8):620-6.
Nandrolone Progress Report to the UK Sports Council from the Expert Committee on
Nandrolone February 2003.
Callicott R, Kicman AT; Expert Committee on Nandrolone, UK Sports Council.
Publication Types:
Guideline
PMID: 14598200 [PubMed]
73: J Endocrinol. 2003 Nov;179(2):237-44.
Endocrine responses to the oral ingestion of a physiological dose of essential
amino acids in humans.
Groschl M, Knerr I, Topf HG, Schmid P, Rascher W, Rauh M.
Department of Paediatrics, Friedrich-Alexander-Universitat Erlangen-Nuremberg,
Germany.
The response of insulin, human growth hormone (hGH), cortisol, leptin and
ghrelin, in addition to various metabolic parameters, was measured at 10 minute
intervals following the oral ingestion of a standardised physiological dose of
essential amino acids (AA). Twenty-eight healthy male, fasted volunteers (aged
18-40 yrs, BMI 18.0-24.5 kg/m(2)) took part in the study; 13 volunteers in the
AA group, nine subjects in an iso-caloric control group, and a further six
subjects served as fasting controls. Twenty minutes after ingestion, insulin
reached peak concentrations that were up to 500% higher than basal values
(P<0.0001). The AA group and iso-caloric control group showed a similar insulin
response. AA ingestion led to an increase in hGH secretion with maximum
concentrations being 2100+/-1013% higher than the basal values (P<0.0001). In
contrast, no changes in hGH concentrations were observed in the iso-caloric
controls; in the fasting controls only a slight increase in hGH was found
towards the end of the fasting period. While cortisol decreased significantly
(P<0.01) during the study in the AA group, neither control group showed a
significant change in this parameter. Changes in leptin levels remained
insignificant in all three groups, whereas ghrelin showed a different profile in
each of the three groups, i.e. a continuous rise towards the end of the study
period (P<0.001) in the AA group, a less significant effect for the fasting
group, and no effect at all in the iso-caloric control group. There was no
significant correlation between the concentrations or the area under curve of
the hormones measured in any of the groups. The endocrine data provided in this
study indicate that a single bolus of essential AA in fasted individuals is
associated with both anabolic and catabolic hormonal responses.
Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
Controlled Clinical Trial
PMID: 14596675 [PubMed]
74: Chudoku Kenkyu. 2003 Jul;16(3):299-305.
[Sports and doping]
[Article in Japanese]
Yoshida T.
Publication Types:
Review
Review, Tutorial
PMID: 14582352 [PubMed]
75: DNA Cell Biol. 2003 Sep;22(9):541-6.
Administration of parathyroid hormone, prostaglandin E2, or
1-alpha,25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 restores the bone inductive activity of rhBMP-2
in aged rats.
Kabasawa Y, Asahina I, Gunji A, Omura K.
Oral Surgery, Department of Oral Restitution, Division of Oral Health Science,
Tokyo Medical and Dental University Graduate School, Tokyo, Japan.
Bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) induces bone formation in young rodents, but
aging causes a reduction in the bone-forming ability of BMP. Most patients who
require bone reconstruction are relatively old. Accordingly, we examined whether
anabolic hormones could restore the bone inductive activity of rhBMP-2 in aged
rats. rhBMP-2 in a carrier pellet was implanted subcutaneously in both 4- and
50-week-old female Wistar rats. PTH, PGE2, or 1,25(OH)2D3 was injected every day
during the period of BMP implantation. The pellets were harvested, and were
examined both histologically and biochemically 2 weeks after implantation.
Bone-forming ability was measured by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity and
calcium (Ca) content. Pellets in 50-week-old rats showed a significant reduction
in bone formation compared to pellets in 4-week-old rats. However, daily
injections of PTH into 50-week-old rats restored both ALP activity (103 +/-
4.6%) and Ca content (105 +/- 2.6%). 1,25(OH)2D3 and PGE2 also restored Ca
content (103 +/- 4.5% and 98 +/- 3.8%, respectively) and stimulated ALP activity
(142 +/- 2.3% and 133 +/- 3.6%). These results show that the administration of
these hormones restores bone-forming ability in aged rats. A combination
treatment of these hormones with rhBMP-2 might be applicable to the
reconstruction of bone defects in elderly patients.
PMID: 14577906 [PubMed]
76: Behav Neurosci. 2003 Oct;117(5):904-11.
Effects of pubertal anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) administration on
reproductive and aggressive behaviors in male rats.
Farrell SF, McGinnis MY.
Center for Anatomy & Functional Morphology, Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New
York, NY, USA.
Adolescence in human males is a hormonally sensitive period when many adult
behaviors develop, including sexual and aggressive behaviors. Using a rat model,
the authors examined the effects of three anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS)
during puberty: testosterone, nandrolone, and stanozolol. Copulation,
vocalizations, scent-marking, and aggression were tested following AAS exposure.
Relative to gonadally intact controls, rats injected with testosterone showed a
significant increase in scent-marking and aggression in the opponent's home
cage. Nandrolone had no effect. Stanozolol significantly inhibited all
behaviors. Results suggest that depending on the chemical structure of the
steroid, AAS exposure during puberty affects several androgen-dependent
behaviors. Because adolescence in humans is a period of hormonal change, abuse
of AAS, particularly stanozolol, during this time may disrupt the establishment
of normal adult behavior patterns. (c) 2003 APA, all rights reserved
PMID: 14570541 [PubMed]
77: World J Urol. 2003 Nov;21(5):341-5. Epub 2003 Oct 18.
Androgens and male fertility.
Dohle GR, Smit M, Weber RF.
Department of Urology, Erasmus University Medical Center, P.O. Box 2040, 3000 CA
Rotterdam, The Netherlands. G.R. Dohle@erasmusmc.nl
Androgens play a crucial role in the development of male reproductive organs
such as the epididymis, vas deferens, seminal vesicle, prostate and the penis.
Furthermore, androgens are needed for puberty, male fertility and male sexual
function. High levels of intratesticular testosterone, secreted by the leydig
cells, are necessary for spermatogenesis. Intratesticular testosterone is mainly
bound to androgen binding protein and secreted into the seminiferous tubules.
Inside the sertoli cells, testosterone is selectively bound to the androgen
receptor and activation of the receptor will result in initiation and
maintenance of the spermatogenic process and inhibition of germ cell apoptosis.
The androgen receptor is found in all male reproductive organs and can be
stimulated by either testosterone or its more potential metabolite
dihydrotestosterone. Severe defects of the androgen receptor may result in
abnormal male sexual development. More subtle modulations can be a potential
cause of male infertility. Treatment of an infertile man with testosterone does
improve spermatogenesis, since exogenous administrated testosterone and its
metabolite estrogen will suppress both GnRH production by the hypothalamus and
Luteinising hormone production by the pituitary gland and subsequently suppress
testicular testosterone production. Also, high levels of testosterone are needed
inside the testis and this can never be accomplished by oral or parenteral
administration of androgens. Suppression of testosterone production by the
leydig cells will result in a deficient spermatogenesis, as can be seen in men
taking anabolic-androgenic steroids. Suppression of spermatogenesis by
testosterone administration is also the basis for the development of a male
contraceptive. During cytotoxic treatment or irradiation suppression of
intratesticular testosterone production cells may prevent irreversible damage to
the spermotogonial stem cells.
PMID: 14566423 [PubMed]
78: Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2004 Jan;171(3):298-305. Epub 2003 Oct 14.
Testosterone reinforcement: intravenous and intracerebroventricular
self-administration in male rats and hamsters.
Wood RI, Johnson LR, Chu L, Schad C, Self DW.
Department of Cell and Neurobiology, Keck School of Medicine at the University
of Southern California, Los Angeles 90033, USA. riw@usc.edu
RATIONALE: Anabolic steroids are drugs of abuse. However, the potential for
addiction remains unclear. Testosterone induces conditioned place preference in
rats and oral self-administration in hamsters. OBJECTIVES: To determine if male
rats and hamsters consume testosterone by intravenous (IV) or
intracerebroventricular (ICV) self-administration. METHODS: With each nose-poke
in the active hole during daily 4-h tests in an operant conditioning chamber,
gonad-intact adult rats and hamsters received 50 microg testosterone in an
aqueous solution of beta-cyclodextrin via jugular cannula. The inactive
nose-poke hole served as a control. Additional hamsters received vehicle
infusions. RESULTS: Rats ( n=7) expressed a significant preference for the
active nose-poke hole (10.0+/-2.8 responses/4 h) over the inactive hole
(4.7+/-1.2 responses/4 h). Similarly, during 16 days of testosterone
self-administration IV, hamsters ( n=9) averaged 11.7+/-2.9 responses/4 h and
6.3+/-1.1 responses/4 h in the active and inactive nose-poke holes,
respectively. By contrast, vehicle controls ( n=8) failed to develop a
preference for the active nose-poke hole (6.5+/-0.5 and 6.4+/-0.3 responses/4
h). Hamsters ( n=8) also self-administered 1 microg testosterone ICV (active
hole:39.8+/-6.0 nose-pokes/4 h; inactive hole: 22.6+/-7.1 nose-pokes/4 h). When
testosterone was replaced with vehicle, nose-poking in the active hole declined
from 31.1+/-7.6 to 11.9+/-3.2 responses/4 h within 6 days. Likewise, reversing
active and inactive holes increased nose-poking in the previously inactive hole
from 9.1+/-1.9 to 25.6+/-5.4 responses/4 h. However, reducing the testosterone
dose from 1 microg to 0.2 microg per 1 microl injection did not change
nose-poking. CONCLUSIONS: Compared with other drugs of abuse, testosterone
reinforcement is modest. Nonetheless, these data support the hypothesis that
testosterone is reinforcing.
PMID: 14557917 [PubMed]
79: Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol. 2003 Nov;285(5):R1076-85.
Regulation of androgen receptor