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 expression at the onset of functional overload
in rat plantaris muscle.
Lee WJ, Thompson RW, McClung JM, Carson JA.
Univ. of South Carolina, Dept. of Exercise Science, 1300 Wheat St., Columbia SC
29208, USA.
Skeletal muscle androgen receptor (AR) expression at the onset of functional
overload (OV) has not been well described. It is also not known if overload
and/or anabolic steroid differentially regulate AR expression. The purpose of
this study was to examine AR gene expression at the onset of functional OV in
rat plantaris muscle with and without nandrolone decanoate (ND) administration.
The functional significance of AR protein induction was examined using skeletal
alpha-actin promoter activity in transiently transfected CV-1 fibroblast cells.
Male Sprague-Dawley rats ( approximately 125 g) were functionally overloaded for
1, 3, 7, or 21 days. A subset of animals was given an ND (6 mg/kg) injection at
day 0 and then overloaded for 3 days. Control animals underwent sham surgeries.
AR protein concentration increased 106 and 279% after 7 and 21 days of OV,
respectively. AR mRNA increased 430% after 7 days of OV. AR protein expression
in C2C12 murine myotubes subjected to 1% chronic radial stretch for 18 h was
elevated 101% compared with control. ND treatment increased AR protein
concentration 1,300% compared with controls, and there was no additional effect
when ND and OV were combined. ND with 3 days of OV treatment increased AR mRNA
expression 50% compared with control. AR overexpression in transiently
transfected CV-1 fibroblast cells increased -424 bp skeletal alpha-actin
promoter activity 80 to 1,800% in a dose-dependent fashion. Co-overexpression of
either serum response factor (SRF) or active RhoA with AR overexpression induced
a synergistic 36- and 28-fold induction of skeletal alpha-actin promoter.
Cotransfection of AR, SRF, and active RhoA induced 180-fold increase in skeletal
alpha-actin promoter activity. In conclusion, AR protein expression is increased
after 7 days of functional OV, and this induction is regulated
pretranslationally. AR induction in conjunction with SRF and RhoA signaling may
be an important regulator of gene expression during overload-induced muscle
growth.
PMID: 14557238 [PubMed]
80: Pflugers Arch. 2003 Dec;447(3):345-55. Epub 2003 Oct 11.
RhoA induction by functional overload and nandrolone decanoate administration in
rat skeletal muscle.
McClung JM, Lee WJ, Thompson RW, Lowe LL, Carson JA.
Integrative Muscle Biology Laboratory, Department of Exercise Science, Norman J.
Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC
29208, USA.
The regulation of skeletal muscle regeneration and growth in response to
functional overload is a coordinated interaction of mechanical and endocrine
signaling pathways. This study's purpose was to determine if RhoA expression and
activity in rat plantaris muscle was induced by functional overload with or
without anabolic steroid administration. Male Sprague Dawley (125 g) rats were
subjected to bilateral ablation of the gastrocnemius muscle for 3 and 21 days
and treated with nandrolone decanoate (ND, 6 mg/kg b.w.) or sesame seed oil
injections. Western blot analysis revealed that RhoA protein expression was
induced 2.1-fold by overload and 1.9-fold by ND at 3 days. RhoA protein remained
elevated by overload after 21 days (3.8-fold). In addition, RhoA protein
expression in C2C12 myotubes was induced after 18 h of 1% (1.8-fold) or 2%
(2.2-fold) chronic radial stretch. Competitive RT PCR revealed that RhoA mRNA
concentration increased 1.9-fold with ND, 2.9-fold with overload, and 11.8-fold
with overload and ND administration when compared to sham at 3 days, indicating
pre-translational control of RhoA by ND and a synergism between ND and overload
to up-regulate RhoA mRNA. The ratio of RhoA protein associated with the muscle
membrane fraction, an indicator of RhoA activity, increased 3.7-fold after 3
days of overload compared to controls. Although ND with overload (3.8-fold)
produced a larger induction of RhoA protein than overload alone, the ratio of
RhoA protein associated with the membrane fraction was not altered by ND
treatment at 3 days. In conclusion, RhoA is an integrator of both mechanical and
growth factor signaling whose expression and activity are increased by the
combination of anabolic steroid and functional overload treatments in rat
plantaris muscle.
PMID: 14556075 [PubMed]
81: J Anim Sci. 2003 Oct;81(10):2395-400.
Effect of repeated administration of combination trenbolone acetate and
estradiol implants on growth, carcass traits, and beef quality of long-fed
Holstein steers.
Scheffler JM, Buskirk DD, Rust SR, Cowley JD, Doumit ME.
Department of Animal Science, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824,
USA.
Our objective was to determine the effect of repeated use of implants on feedlot
performance and carcass characteristics of Holstein cattle. Holstein steers (n =
128) weighing an average of 211 kg were blocked by weight and randomly assigned
to 16 pens. At the start of the trial (d 0), pens were assigned to one of four
treatments: 1) nonimplanted control (C); 2) implant on d 0, 112, and 224 (T3);
3) implant on d 112 and 224 (T2); and 4) implant on d 224 (T1). Component TE-S
implants (120 mg of trenbolone acetate and 24 mg of estradiol per implant) were
used for all treatments during the 291-d feeding period. Over the course of the
study, T2 and T3 cattle had greater ADG and final weights than C and T1 cattle
(P < 0.05). Steers were harvested at a commercial abattoir on d 291. Hot carcass
weights of T3 steers were greater than those of C and T1 steers (P < 0.05).
Dressing percentage, adjusted 12th-rib fat, percentage of kidney, pelvic, and
heart fat, yield grade, and longissimus color were not different among
treatments (P > or = 0.26). Longissimus muscle areas (LMA) of T2 and T3
carcasses were larger than LMA of C (P < 0.01). No USDA Select carcasses were
produced from C cattle, whereas the percentage of Select carcasses from
implanted cattle ranged from 10 to 18%. Skeletal maturity advanced (P < 0.05)
progressively with each additional implant. Steaks from T3 carcasses had a
higher percentage of protein than controls (P < 0.05) and were less tender than
all other treatments (P < 0.05). Repeated administration of combination
trenbolone acetate and estradiol implants increased ADG and resulted in heavier
carcasses with larger LMA. Administration of three successive implants decreased
tenderness of Holstein beef, and resulted in more advanced skeletal maturity
scores.
PMID: 14552364 [PubMed]
82: Keio J Med. 2003 Sep;52(3):147-50.
Treatment with vitamin D3 and/or vitamin K2 for postmenopausal osteoporosis.
Iwamoto J, Takeda T, Ichimura S.
Department of Sports Medicine, School of Medicine, Keio University, Tokyo,
Japan. jiwamoto@sc.itc.keio.ac.jp
It is established in Japan that treatment with 1alpha-hydroxyvitamin D3
(alfacalcidol) slightly reduces bone turnover, sustains lumbar bone mineral
density (BMD), and prevents osteoporotic vertebral fractures in postmenopausal
women with osteoporosis, while vitamin K2 (menatetrenone) enhances
gamma-carboxylation of bone glutamic acid residues and secretion of osteocalcin,
sustains lumbar BMD, and prevents osteoporotic fractures in patients with
osteoporosis. Available evidence suggests that the effect of vitamin K2 on
mineralization by human periosteal osteoblasts is enhanced in the presence of
1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3 in vitro. The effect of vitamin K2 on BMD in
ovariectomized rats is affected by the plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 level in
vivo, and is significant only when rats are fed a diet containing vitamin D3.
Based on this line of evidence, combined treatment with alfacalcidol and
menatetrenone for osteoporosis is surmised to be more effective than treatment
with menatetrenone alone, and may have anabolic effects on osteoporotic bone.
This combined treatment may increase bone formation as well as bone resorption
over the mild anti-resorptive effect of alfacalcidol itself, and shows the
greatest effect on lumbar BMD or the incidence of vertebral fractures in studies
in which the mean age and years since menopause of subjects were low and the
degree of osteoporosis was mild. It may be effective for mild postmenopausal
osteoporosis in which age-related deterioration of trabecular bone properties
remains below the threshold for vertebral fractures, even if bone resorption is
increased and trabecular bone has deteriorated.
Publication Types:
Review
Review, Tutorial
PMID: 14529146 [PubMed]
83: Neuroendocrinol Lett. 2003 Jun-Aug;24(3-4):167-9.
The steroid-responsive hiccup reflex arc: competitive binding to the
corticosteroid-receptor?
Dickerman RD, Overby C, Eisenberg M, Hollis P, Levine M.
Department of Neurosurgery, North Shore University Hospital, New Hyde Park, NY,
USA. drrdd@yahoo.com
Hiccups occurring secondary to high-doses of corticosteroids are a
well-recognized problem in the field of neurosurgery. Numerous reports of oral,
intravenous and intraarticular corticosteroids inducing hiccups exist in the
literature. To date, there is only one case of anabolic steroids inducing
hiccups. We now present a case of a patient who underwent a suboccipital
craniotomy for resection of a cerebellar pontine angle meningioma.
Postoperatively the patient was on high doses of Decadron and Oxandrin, an
anabolic-anticatabolic agent used to combat the deleterious effects of
corticosteroids. The patient suffered intractable hiccups postoperative day one,
resistant to Thorazine. Oxandrin was discontinued to assess the possibility of a
anabolic steroid-induced singultus. The hiccups resolved within 24 hours. This
report validates the previous report on anabolic steroids inducing hiccups and
exemplifies the ability for steroids as a class, due to there backbone
structural homology, to induce function even as competitive inhibitors.
Publication Types:
Case Reports
PMID: 14523351 [PubMed]
84: J Appl Physiol. 2004 Feb;96(2):531-9. Epub 2003 Sep 26.
Effect of training status and exercise mode on endogenous steroid hormones in
men.
Tremblay MS, Copeland JL, Van Helder W.
College of Kinesiology, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Canada.
mark.tremblay@statcan.ca
The purpose of this study was to determine the acute anabolic and catabolic
hormone response to endurance and resistance exercise bouts of equal volume in
subjects with differing training status. Twenty-two healthy men were recruited
who were either resistance trained (n = 7), endurance trained (n = 8), or
sedentary (n = 7). Three sessions were completed: a resting session, a 40-min
run at 50-55% maximal oxygen consumption, and a resistance exercise session.
Expired gases were monitored continuously during exercise, and the endurance and
resistance exercise sessions were individually matched for caloric expenditure.
Blood samples were drawn before exercise and 1, 2, 3, and 4 h after the start of
the exercise. Plasma was analyzed for luteinizing hormone,
dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, cortisol, and free and total testosterone.
Androgens increased in response to exercise, particularly resistance exercise,
whereas cortisol only increased after resistance exercise.
Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels increased during the resistance exercise
session and remained elevated during recovery in the resistance-trained
subjects. Endurance-trained subjects displayed less pronounced changes in
hormone concentrations in response to exercise than resistance-trained subjects.
After an initial postexercise increase, there was a significant decline in free
and total testosterone during recovery from resistance exercise (P < 0.05),
particularly in resistance-trained subjects. On the basis of the results of this
study, it appears that the endogenous hormone profile of men is more dependent
on exercise mode or intensity than exercise volume as measured by caloric
expenditure. The relatively catabolic environment observed during the resistance
session may indicate an intensity-rather than a mode-dependent response.
PMID: 14514704 [PubMed]
85: Psychiatr Prax. 2003 May;30 Suppl 2:S73-4.
[Acute paranoid psychotic symptoms after i.m. injection of nandrolone]
[Article in German]
Teuber I, Freiwald D, Volz HP.
Krankenhaus fur Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie Schloss Werneck,
Balthasar-Neumann-Platz 1, 97440 Werneck.
Affective disorders and impulsivity are quite common when using anabolic
substances, in this case-study one of the rather rare cases of a psychotic
disorder following the abuse of androgenic steroids is described. A 30-year old
formerly healthy white male was admitted as inpatient to psychiatric hospital
showing symptoms of anxiety and paranoid ideation. In the last 1.5 years he had
consumed androgenic steroids, directly before the onset of the first psychotic
symptoms 8 weeks before admission he had received an i.m.-injection of
nandrolone. Under therapy with neuroleptics the patient recovered completely
within 2 months.
Publication Types:
Case Reports
PMID: 14509043 [PubMed]
86: Neurosci Biobehav Rev. 2003 Aug;27(5):413-36.
Behavioral and physiological responses to anabolic-androgenic steroids.
Clark AS, Henderson LP.
Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Dartmouth College, 6207 Moore
Hall, Hanover, NH 03755, USA. ann.s.clark@dartmouth.edu
Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) are synthetic derivatives of testosterone
originally designed for therapeutic uses to provide enhanced anabolic potency
with negligible androgenic effects. Although AAS continue to be used clinically
today, the medical benefits of low therapeutic doses of AAS stand in sharp
contrast to the potential health risks associated with the excessive doses
self-administered not only by elite athletes and body builders, but by a growing
number of recreational users, including adolescent boys and girls. The
deleterious effects of AAS on peripheral organs and the incidence of altered
behaviors in AAS abusers have been well documented in a number of excellent
current reviews for clinical populations. However, a comparable synthesis of
nonclinical studies has not been made. Our purpose in this review is to
summarize the literature for animal models of the effects of supraphysiological
doses of AAS (e.g. those that mimic human abuse regimes) on behaviors and on the
neural circuitry for these behaviors. In particular, we have focused on studies
in rodents that have examined how AAS alter aggression, sexual behaviors,
anxiety, reward, learning, and locomotion and how AAS alter the expression and
function of neurotransmitter systems and other signaling molecules that underlie
these behaviors.
Publication Types:
Review
Review, Tutorial
PMID: 14505684 [PubMed]
87: Eur J Clin Pharmacol. 2003 Nov;59(8-9):571-7. Epub 2003 Sep 12.
The anti-doping hot-line, a means to capture the abuse of doping agents in the
Swedish society and a new service function in clinical pharmacology.
Eklof AC, Thurelius AM, Garle M, Rane A, Sjoqvist F.
Department of Clinical Pharmacology, Huddinge University Hospital, 14185
Stockholm, Sweden.
With the support of the Swedish National Institute of Health a national
information service was started in 1993 aiming to capture the abuse of doping
agents in the general public. It was organized as a telephone service, called
the Anti-Doping Hot-Line, from our department and managed by trained nurses
co-operating with clinical pharmacologists. Important information collected
about all callers (anonymous) was: date of call, its origin, category of caller,
doping experience and main question being asked. Abusers were asked about their
age, sex, affiliation, abused drug(s), duration of abuse, habit of
administration and adverse reactions (ADRs). Between October 1993 and December
2000 25,835 calls were received with a peak during spring and autumn. Most calls
(12,400) came from non-abusers, 60% being males. Callers connected with gyms
represented the largest group (30%). Most calls about specific drugs concerned
anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS). Other drugs or products included ephedrine,
clenbuterol and creatine. The most commonly abused anabolic steroids were
testosterone, nandrolone-decanoate, methandienone and stanozolol. The ten most
commonly reported ADRs of AAS were aggressiveness (835), depression (829), acne
(770), gynecomastia (637), anxiousness (637), potency problems (413), testicular
atrophy (404), sleep disorders (328), fluid retention (318) and mood
disturbances (302). Female side effects included menstruation disturbances, hair
growth in the face, lower voice and enlarged clitoris. During the period
1996-200, totally 4339 persons reported about 10,800 side effects. This figure
should be compared with the very low number of ADRs (27) reported by prescribers
to the Swedish ADR committee during the same period. Abuse of doping agents
appears to be a new public health problem that needs detection, medical care and
prevention.
PMID: 13680032 [PubMed]
88: Psychiatr Prax. 2003 May;30(Suppl 2):73-74.
[Acute Paranoid Symptoms Following Intramuscular Injection of Nandrolone]
[Article in German]
Teuber I, Freiwald D, Volz HP.
Krankenhaus fur Psychiatrie und Psychotherapie Schloss Werneck.
Affective disorders and impulsivity are quite common when using anabolic
substances, in this case-study one of the rather rare cases of a psychotic
disorder following the abuse of androgenic steroids is described. A 30-year old
formerly healthy white male was admitted as inpatient to psychiatric hospital
showing symptoms of anxiety and paranoid ideation. In the last 1,5 years he had
consumed androgenic steroids, directly before the onset of the first psychotic
symptoms 8 weeks before admission he had received an i. m.-injection of
nandrolone. Under therapy with neuroleptics the patient recovered completely
within 2 months.
PMID: 13130341 [PubMed]
89: Sports Med. 2003;33(12):921-39.
Popular sports supplements and ergogenic aids.
Juhn M.
Department of Family Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine,
Seattle, Washington, USA.
This article reviews the evidence-based ergogenic potential and adverse effects
of 14 of the most common products in use by recreational and elite athletes
today. Both legal and prohibited products are discussed. This is an aggressively
marketed and controversial area of sports medicine worldwide. It is therefore
prudent for the clinician to be well versed in the more popular supplements and
drugs reputed to be ergogenic in order to distinguish fact from
fiction.Antioxidants, proteins and amino acids are essential components of diet,
but additional oral supplementation does not increase endurance or strength.
Caffeine is ergogenic in certain aerobic activities. Creatine is ergogenic in
repetitive anaerobic cycling sprints but not running or swimming. Ephedrine and
pseudoephedrine may be ergogenic but have detrimental cardiovascular effects.
Erythropoietin is ergogenic but increases the risk of thromboembolic events.
beta-Hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate has ergogenic potential in untrained
individuals, but studies are needed on trained individuals. Human growth hormone
and insulin growth factor-I decrease body fat and may increase lean muscle mass
when given subcutaneously. Pyruvate is not ergogenic. The androgenic precursors
androstenedione and dehydroepiandrosterone have not been shown to increase any
parameters of strength and have potentially significant adverse effects.
Anabolic steroids increase protein synthesis and muscle mass but with many
adverse effects, some irreversible. Supplement claims on labels of product
content and efficacy can be inaccurate and misleading.
Publication Types:
Review
Review Literature
PMID: 12974658 [PubMed]
90: Domest Anim Endocrinol. 2003 Aug;25(2):155-74.
Growth hormone modulates cholecalciferol metabolism with moderate effects on
intestinal mineral absorption and specific effects on bone formation in growing
dogs raised on balanced food.
Tryfonidou MA, Holl MS, Oosterlaken-Dijksterhuis MA, Vastenburg M, van den Brom
WE, Hazewinkel HA.
Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary
Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 8, P.O. Box 80154, 3508 TD Utrecht, The
Netherlands. M.A.Tryfonidou@vet.uu.nl
The aim of the study was to investigate the influence of growth hormone (GH) on
Vitamin D3 metabolism and the subsequent effects on calcium (Ca) homeostasis and
skeletal growth in growing dogs. A group of Miniature Poodles received
supraphysiological doses of GH (GH group; n = 6; 0.5 IU GH per kg body per day)
from 12 to 21 weeks of age and was compared with a control placebo-treated group
(n = 8). Biologic activity of GH in the GH compared to the control group was
indicated by (a) the 2.5- to 3.5-fold increase in the plasma concentrations of
insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I), (b) the increased production of
1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol as indicated by the significantly increased plasma
1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol concentrations and the 12.9-fold increase in renal
1alpha-hydroxylase gene expression, and (c) the inhibited production of
24,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol as indicated by the significantly lower plasma
24,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol concentrations and the similar levels of renal
24-hydroxylase gene expression. Despite the distinct effects on Vitamin D(3)
metabolism in the GH group, there were only moderate effects on the intestine,
i.e. at 20 weeks of age there was a significant increase of 14.4 and 5.6% in
fractional absorption of Ca and phosphate (Pi), respectively, compared to the
control group. GH administration resulted in significantly elevated glomerular
filtration rate, with no differences in Pi urine excretion as a result of a
concomitant increase in the tubular reabsorption of Pi. GH had only limited
disturbing effects on endochondral ossification as indicated by the maintenance
of the regularity of the growth plates. However, GH had specific anabolic
effects on bone formation without concomitant effect on bone resorption that may
result in disorders of skeletal remodeling and manifestation of enostosis.
Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
Controlled Clinical Trial
PMID: 12972373 [PubMed]
91: Haematologica. 2003 Sep;88(9):ECR30.
Littoral cell angioma of the spleen in a patient with severe aplastic anaemia.
Tholouli E, Roulson JA, Byers R, Burton I, Liu Yin JA.
Royal Manchester Childrens Hospital, Hospital Road, Manchester, M27 4HA.
etholouli@yahoo.co.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.
PMID: 12969823 [PubMed]
92: Brain Res. 2003 Oct 3;986(1-2):139-47.
Anabolic androgenic steroid nandrolone decanoate reduces hypothalamic
proopiomelanocortin mRNA levels.
Lindblom J, Kindlundh AM, Nyberg F, Bergstrom L, Wikberg JE.
Department of Neuroscience, Division of Pharmacology, Uppsala University, Box
591 BMC, S-751 24 Uppsala, Sweden.
Supratherapeutical doses of anabolic androgenic steroids (AASs) have dramatic
effects on metabolism in humans, and also inhibit feeding and reduce the rate of
body weight gain in rats. In order to test the hypothesis that the AAS metabolic
syndrome is accompanied by alterations in the central melanocortin system, we
evaluated body weight, food intake and hypothalamic agouti-related protein
(AgRP) and proopiomelanocortin (POMC) mRNA levels following administration of
different doses of the anabolic androgenic steroid nandrolone decanoate. In
order to distinguish changes induced by the steroid treatment per se from those
resulting from the reduced food intake and growth rate, we also compared the
effect of nandrolone decanoate on AgRP and POMC mRNA expression with both
normally fed, and food restricted control groups. We here report that
administration of nandrolone specifically reduces arcuate nucleus POMC mRNA
levels while not affecting the expression level of AgRP. The effect on POMC
expression was not observed in the food restricted controls, excluding the
possibility that the observed effect was a mere response to the reduced food
intake and body weight. These results raise the possibility that some of the
metabolic and behavioural consequences of AAS abuse may be the result of
alterations in the melanocortin system.
PMID: 12965238 [PubMed]
93: J Androl. 2003 Sep-Oct;24(5):765-74.
Pharmacokinetics and degree of aromatization rather than total dose of different
preparations determine the effects of testosterone: a nonhuman primate study in
Macaca fascicularis.
Weinbauer GF, Partsch CJ, Zitzmann M, Schlatt S, Nieschlag E.
Institute of Reproductive Medicine of the University, Domagkstrasse 11, D-48129
Munster, Germany.
Currently available testosterone (T) preparations differ substantially in their
pharmacokinetic profile that might influence their androgenic properties in
terms of suppression of the gonadal axis, effects on anabolic parameters, lipid
metabolism, and erythropoiesis. The present work was undertaken to determine the
physiological effects of three T preparations with different serum kinetics.
Twenty adult male cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) were randomly
assigned to receive treatment for 28 weeks with either T enanthate (TE) every 4
weeks, T buciclate (TB) every 7 weeks, or T undecanoate (TU) every 10 weeks or
remaining untreated (controls). Each injection delivered 20 mg pure T per
kilogram body weight. Pharmacokinetic profiles demonstrated higher peak levels
of T for TE-treated animals; serum half-lives were longer for TU or TB.
Estradiol levels (area under the curve) were significantly higher in TB vs TU or
TE. All T regimens suppressed serum luteinizing hormone bioactivity and
testicular volumes declined (all P <.001 vs controls). Sperm counts were
markedly lowered in all animals but least in TE (P <.01 vs TB or TU). During
recovery phase, return to normal for all three parameters occurred significantly
earlier in TE-treated animals, followed by those given TU, compared with TB (all
P <.001 between groups). Body weight increased significantly during T exposure.
This effect was stronger and more sustained in TB vs TU or TE (both P <.001).
Serum creatinine and hemoglobin increased with high significance in all
T-treated animals (all P <.001 vs controls). The lowering impact of T on serum
lipids was markedly stronger in the longer-acting T preparations in comparison
with TE, as were effects on purine metabolism (all P <.001). The pattern of
exposure and degree of aromatization rather than overall exposure to T determine
its effects in the preclinical primate model. Both fluctuations of androgen
concentrations and the conversion rate to estradiol influence gonadal
suppression as well as metabolism. These results have to be considered in men
receiving treatment for hypogonadism or regimens for hormonal contraception.
PMID: 12954670 [PubMed]
94: J Chromatogr B Analyt Technol Biomed Life Sci. 2003 Sep 5;794(2):215-25.
Method development for corticosteroids and anabolic steroids by micellar liquid
chromatography.
Gonzalo-Lumbreras R, Izquierdo-Hornillos R.
Faculty of Chemistry, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, E-28040 Madrid, Spain.
A systematic optimization of the HPLC separation of a complex mixture containing
urinary steroids (anabolics and corticoids), boldenone and bolasterone
(synthetic anabolics) by micellar liquid chromatography 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 made of 5% propanol
and 40 mM surfactant allowed the separation of 13 steroids in about 23 min. A
bivariant optimization method for the micellar mobile phase surfactant-propanol
corroborated the above results. The separations obtained show good perspectives
for future developments.
PMID: 12954374 [PubMed]
95: J Immunoassay Immunochem. 2003;24(3):265-72.
Non-invasive screening for treatment of heifers with the anabolic steroid
melengestrol acetate (MGA) by feces analysis.
Lange IG, Daxenberger A, Hageleit M, Pfaffl MW, Meyer HH.
Institut fur Physiologie, TU Munchen-Weihenstephan, Weihenstephaner,
Freising-Weihenstephan, Germany. lange@wzw.tum.de
For eight weeks, two heifers each had been orally administered daily doses of 0,
1.5, or 5 mg melengestrol acetate (MGA) in a feed premix. Four heifers received
the labeled dose of 0.5 mg/day. Regular feces samples were taken throughout the
experiment. A rapid screening method for the determination of MGA in feces was
developed, consisting of liquid extraction, clean-up on solid-phase extraction
cartridges and quantification by enzyme immunoassay (ELISA). Residues in feces
were dose-dependent with mean values of < 0.25, 2.0, 4.4, or 15.4 ng/g for 0,
0.5, 1.5, and 5 mg/day doses, respectively. In contrast to urine analysis, feces
analysis appeared to be a suitable means of non-invasive screening before
slaughter for surveillance of MGA treatment and verification of its compliance
with labeled dosage.
Publication Types:
Validation Studies
PMID: 12953971 [PubMed]
96: Folia Med (Plovdiv). 2003;45(1):37-40.
Effects of submaximal training and anabolic androgenic steroids administration
on steroidogenic enzyme activity in rat Leydig cells.
Koeva YA, Georgieva KN, Atanassova PK, Delchev SD.
Department of Anatomy and Histology, Medical University, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
yvetta_k@abv.bg
The purpose of the present study was to investigate the single and combined
effects of submaximal training and anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) treatment
on the activity of 3beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3betaHSD) in rat Leydig
cells (LC). Forty male Wistar rats were distributed into 4 groups. Half of them
exercised on treadmill. After 2 weeks half of the trained and sedentary rats
received weekly either 10 mg x kg(-1) Nandrolone Decanoate (ND) or Placebo (Pl)
i.m. for 6 weeks. The day after the last exercises all the groups: 1) sedentary
+ Pl (SP); 2) sedentary + ND (SND); 3) trained + Pl (TP) and 4) trained + ND
(TND) were decapitated. On fresh cryostat sections of the testes of each animal
enzymehistochemical reaction for the activity of 3betaHSD was carried out. Our
results demonstrate that in sedentary rats ND treatment decreased the activity
of 3betaHSD in the LC in comparison to SP. Endurance training also decreased the
activity of 3betaHSD in TP group compared to SP. On sections of the testes of
group TND a pronounced reduction in the enzyme activities of 3betaHSD in the LC
was found in comparison with the other groups. In conclusion we suggest that
submaximal endurance training and/or administration of AAS downregulate the
steroidogenic enzyme activity of rat Leydig cells.
PMID: 12943067 [PubMed]
97: Folia Med (Plovdiv). 2003;45(2):34-7.
ATP and LPL histochemical activity of rat cardiomyocytes and adipocytes treated
with androgenic anabolic steroids.
Delchev SD, Atanassova PK.
Department of Anatomy, Histology & Embryology, Medical University, Plovdiv,
Bulgaria.
AIM: To study the effect of short-term and long-term treatment with retabolil,
an androgenic anabolic steroid, on the activity of the enzymes ATP and LPL in
rat cardiomyocytes and adipocytes. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Six male Wistar rats
(mean weight 195-200 g.) were given retabolil 50 mg/kg once subcutaneously,
another six were treated with retabolil at the same dose subcutaneously once a
week for 6 weeks and another six were used as controls treating them with
physiological saline in the same way. After six weeks the animals were
sacrificed. Fragments of the left ventricle of the heart and of the subcutaneous
tissue from the gluteal region were resected and enzyme-histochemical reactions
for ATP and LPL were performed on fresh cryostat sections. RESULTS: The
cardiomyocytes of the rats treated only once with retabolil showed no changes in
the ATP and LPL activity in comparison with the controls. In the rats given a
long-term treatment with retabolil, the enzyme-histochemical reaction for ATP
was better expressed while that for LPL was weak. The subcutaneous adipose
tissue of the long-term retabolil-treated animals contained some adipocytes that
expressed positive LPL and ATP activity. CONCLUSIONS: Our data suggest that
androgenic anabolic steroids exert an effect on the activity of the enzymes ATP
and LPL in rat cardiomyocytes and adipocytes which depends on the duration of
treatment.
PMID: 12943056 [PubMed]
98: Ann Clin Psychiatry. 2003 Jun;15(2):121-30.
An evaluation of anabolic-androgenic steroid abusers over a period of 1 year:
seven case studies.
Fudala PJ, Weinrieb RM, Calarco JS, Kampman KM, Boardman C.
Department of Psychiatry, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA. fudala.p@mail.trc.upenn.edu
The purpose of the study was to evaluate anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS)
abusing adults every 2 weeks with a comprehensive behavioral and clinical
assessment battery. The study was conducted at the University of Pennsylvania
Treatment Research Center; 10 subjects were enrolled and 7 completed the
protocol. AASs and other drugs were obtained and self-administered by subjects
through their usual mechanisms. On-study evaluations included medical,
behavioral, and drug-use assessments. While a high incidence of mood disorders
and substance abuse was found, few clinically relevant changes in physiological
parameters or laboratory measures were noted throughout the study. Changes as
measured by various behavioral rating scales were observed across time; however,
these changes were not clearly related to periods of reported AAS use.
Additional factors such as life events, subjects' other drug use, and the
extended duration of activity of some of the AAS preparations probably
influenced the results. Differences in subject-reported adverse effects were
seen with respect to periods of AAS use and nonuse. Cycles of AAS nonuse were
associated with a greater percentage of subject-reported increased testicular
size, appetite, frequency of sexual activity, and libido. The results provide
the first long-term, prospective evaluation of the effects of AASs, when these
drugs are administered in a naturalistic pattern of abuse.
Publication Types:
Case Reports
PMID: 12938869 [PubMed]
99: Leg Med (Tokyo). 2003 Mar;5 Suppl 1:S29-33.
Testing for anabolic steroids in hair: a review.
Kintz P.
Institut de Medecine Legale, 11 rue Humann, F-67000 Strasbourg, France.
pascal.kintz@wanadoo.fr
It is generally accepted that chemical testing of biological fluids is the most
objective means of diagnosis of drug use. The presence of a drug analyte in a
biological specimen can be used to document exposure. The standard in drug
testing is the immunoassay screen, followed by the gas chromatographic-mass
spectrometric confirmation conducted on a urine sample. In recent years,
remarkable advances in sensitive analytical techniques have enabled the analysis
of drugs in unconventional biological specimens such as hair. The advantages of
this sample over traditional media like urine and blood are obvious: collection
is almost noninvasive, relatively easy to perform, and in forensic situations it
may be achieved under close supervision of law enforcement officers to prevent
adulteration or substitution. Moreover, the window of drug detection is
dramatically extended to weeks, months or even years. The aim of this review is
to document the current detection of anabolic steroids in hair.
Publication Types:
Review
Review, Tutorial
PMID: 12935548 [PubMed]
100: Leg Med (Tokyo). 2001 Jun;3(2):114-8.
Progressive idiopathic bilateral striato-pallido-dentate calcinosis (Fahr's
disease) in a person with anabolic steroid abuse.
Buttner A, Sachs H, Mall G, Tutsch-Bauer E, Weis S.
Institute of Legal Medicine, Ludwig-Maximilians University, Frauenlobstrasse 7a,
D-80337 Munich, Germany. andreas.buettner@rechts.med.uni-muenchen.de
A 33-year-old male black student suddenly died during a basketball game. His
previous medical history, including his neurological status, was unremarkable,
but he was known to take anabolic steroids for several years. At autopsy, the
cause of death was due to a fresh myocardial infarction. On neuropathological
examination, there was extensive bilateral symmetrical calcification involving
the basal ganglia as well as the dentate nuclei and the white matter of the
cerebellum (Fahr's disease). A possible correlation between anabolic
steroid-induced hypercalcemia and brain calcification is discussed.
PMID: 12935532 [PubMed]
101: J Strength Cond Res. 2003 Aug;17(3):455-62.
The effects of L-carnitine L-tartrate supplementation on hormonal responses to
resistance exercise and recovery.
Kraemer WJ, Volek JS, French DN, Rubin MR, Sharman MJ, Gomez AL, Ratamess NA,
Newton RU, Jemiolo B, Craig BW, Hakkinen K.
Human Performance Laboratory, Department of Kinesiology, University of
Connecticut, Storrs, CT 06269, USA. kraemer@uconnvm.uconn.edu
The purpose of this investigation was to examine the influence of L-carnitine
L-tartrate (LCLT) supplementation using a balanced, cross-over,
placebo-controlled research design on the anabolic hormone response (i.e.,
testosterone [T], insulin-like growth factor-I, insulin-like growth
factor-binding protein-3 [IGFBP-3], and immunofunctional and immunoreactive
growth hormone [GHif and GHir]) to acute resistance exercise. Ten healthy,
recreationally weight-trained men (mean +/- SD age 23.7 +/- 2.3 years, weight
78.7 +/- 8.5 kg, and height 179.2 +/- 4.6 cm) volunteered and were matched, and
after 3 weeks of supplementation (2 g LCLT per day), fasting morning blood
samples were obtained on six consecutive days (D1-D6). Subjects performed a
squat protocol (5 sets of 15-20 repetitions) on D2. During the squat protocol,
blood samples were obtained before exercise and 0, 15, 30, 120, and 180 minutes
postexercise. After a 1-week washout period, subjects consumed the other
supplement for a 3-week period, and the same experimental protocol was repeated
using the exact same procedures. Expected exercise-induced increases in all of
the hormones were observed for GHir, GHif, IGFBP-3, and T. Over the recovery
period, LCLT reduced the amount of exercise-induced muscle tissue damage, which
was assessed via magnetic resonance imaging scans of the thigh. LCLT
supplementation significantly (p < 0.05) increased IGFBP-3 concentrations prior
to and at 30, 120, and 180 minutes after acute exercise. No other direct effects
of LCLT supplementation were observed on the absolute concentrations of the
hormones examined, but with more undamaged tissue, a greater number of intact
receptors would be available for hormonal interactions. These data support the
use of LCLT as a recovery supplement for hypoxic exercise and lend further
insights into the hormonal mechanisms that may help to mediate quicker recovery.
Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
Randomized Controlled Trial
PMID: 12930169 [PubMed]
102: Rev Prat. 2003 Jun 15;53(12):1315-9.
[Substance abuse in adolescents]
[Article in French]
Vignau J, Karila L.
Service d'addictologie CHRU-clinique de la Charite-59037 Lille.
j-vignau@chru-lille.fr
During adolescence, addition per se is not a major issue. Drug use is either a
physiological experience or a symptom related to psychopathological condition
and other forms of psychic suffering. The most relevant parameters predictive of
poor outcome are the precocity of the first experiences, the auto-therapeutic
use, the repetition of drug intake, and the various types of individual and
social vulnerability. Assimilated to addiction, some inappropriate and
compulsive ways to modify body shape (dieting, and anabolic steroid abuse) are
seen in teenagers although they are difficult to identify. Prevention and
treatment in youths requires a pragmatic attitude from the adults, avoiding
minimisation or dramatization of drug use and its consequences. Particular
attention has to be paid on the detection of underlying psychiatric disorders.
Treatment of problematic drug abuse in adolescents is based on both contextual
interventions including systematic support of the families and a
multidisciplinary approach.
Publication Types:
Review
Review, Tutorial
PMID: 12920940 [PubMed]
103: Drug Metab Dispos. 2003 Sep;31(9):1117-24.
Glucuronidation of anabolic androgenic steroids by recombinant human
UDP-glucuronosyltransferases.
Kuuranne T, Kurkela M, Thevis M, Schanzer W, Finel M, Kostiainen R.
Division of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Helsinki, Finland.
A multidimensional study on the glucuronidation of anabolic androgenic steroids
and their phase I metabolites by 11 recombinant human
UDP-glucuronosyltransferases (UGTs) was carried out using liquid
chromatographic-tandem mass spectrometric analyses. Large differences between
the enzymes with respect to the conjugation profiles of the 11 tested aglycones
were detected. Two UGTs, 1A6 and 1A7, did not exhibit measurable activity toward
any of the aglycones that were examined in this study. Regioselectivity was
demonstrated by UGTs 1A8, 1A9, and 2B15 that preferentially catalyzed hydroxyl
glucuronidation at the 17beta-position. Most of the other enzymes glucuronidated
hydroxyl groups at both the 3alpha- and the 17beta-positions. Clear
stereoselectivity was observed in glucuronidation of diastereomeric nandrolone
metabolites (5alpha-estran-3alpha-ol-17-one and 5beta-estran-3alpha-ol-17-one),
whereas such specificity was not seen when analogous methyltestosterone
metabolites were assayed. UGTs 1A1, 1A3, 1A4, 1A8, 1A9, 1A10, 2B4, 2B7, and 2B15
readily glucuronidated 5alpha-androstane-3alpha,17beta-diol, but none of them
exhibited methyltestosterone glucuronidation activity. In agreement with the
latter observations, we found that the methyltestosterone glucuronidation
activity of human liver microsomes is extremely low, whereas in induced rat
liver microsomes it was significantly higher. The homology among UGTs 1A7 to
1A10 at the level of amino acid sequence is very high, and it was thus
surprising to find large differences in their activity toward this set of
aglycones. Furthermore, the high activity of UGT1A8 and 1A10 toward some of the
substrates indicates that extrahepatic enzymes might play a role in the
metabolism of anabolic androgenic steroids.
PMID: 12920167 [PubMed]
104: J Am Coll Cardiol. 2003 Aug 6;42(3):588; author reply 588-9.
Comment on:
J Am Coll Cardiol. 2003 Jan 15;41(2):280-4.
Anabolic steroid-induced echocardiographic characteristics of professional
football players?
Scharhag J, Urhausen A, Kindermann W.
Publication Types:
Comment
Letter
PMID: 12906994 [PubMed]
105: Expert Opin Drug Saf. 2003 May;2(3):287-304.
Drug-induced cholestasis.
Velayudham LS, Farrell GC.
Storr Liver Unit, Westmead Millennium Institute, University of Sydney, NSW,
Australia.
Drugs may cause several overlapping syndromes of cholestasis, the
pathophysiological syndrome resulting from impaired bile flow. These reactions
comprise approximately 17% of all hepatic adverse drug reactions (ADRs) and they
may be severe. Causes of 'pure' (bland) cholestasis include oestrogens and
anabolic steroids; rarer associations are with antimicrobials and NSAIDs.
'Cholestatic hepatitis' is a common drug reaction in which liver injury and
inflammation cause significant elevation of serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT)
as well as cholestasis. Chlorpromazine and ketoconazole are classic examples,
but it is now exemplified by amoxycillin-clavulanate and other oxy-penicillins.
Chronic cholestasis results from small bile duct injury leading to the vanishing
bile duct syndrome (VBDS), a disorder mimicking primary biliary cirrhosis, or
from injury to larger bile ducts causing secondary sclerosing cholangitis.
Whilst there is increasing evidence of a genetic predisposition to cholestatic
drug reactions, there are currently no pretreatment tests to predict drug
safety. Prevention of severe reactions therefore relies on early detection of
liver injury and prompt drug withdrawal. Symptomatic management includes relief
of pruritus and correction of fat-soluble vitamin deficiency. In small cohort
studies, ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) arrested progressive cholestasis in
two-thirds of cases, but evidence for use of corticosteroids is anecdotal. This
review considers diagnosis, pathogenesis, prevention and management of
drug-induced cholestasis, with particular reference to frequently- and
newly-described causes.
Publication Types:
Review
Review, Academic
PMID: 12904107 [PubMed]
106: Br J Sports Med. 2003 Aug;37(4):335-8; discussion 338.
General practitioners and doping in sport: attitudes and experience.
Laure P, Binsinger C, Lecerf T.
Laboratoire de Psychologie Appliquee Stress et Societe, Universite de Reims, Bat
6, Moulin de La Housse, 51687 Reims Cedex 2, France. patrick.laure@wanadoo.fr
OBJECTIVES: To examine the attitudes to, and knowledge of, doping in sport of
French general practitioners (GPs), and their contact with drug taking athletes
on an everyday basis. METHODS: A total of 402 GPs were randomly selected from
all over France and interviewed by telephone, using a prepared script. RESULTS:
The response rate was 50.5% (153 men and 49 women; mean (SD) age 45.6 (5.6)
years). Of the respondents, 73% confirmed that they had the list of banned
products, and only 34.5% stated that they were aware of the latest French law,
brought into effect in March 1999, concerning the fight against doping. Some 11%
had directly encountered a request for prescription of doping agents over the
preceding 12 months (the requested substances were mainly anabolic steroids,
stimulants, and corticosteroids), and 10% had been consulted by an athlete who
was using doping drugs and was frightened of the health risks (the substances
used were mainly anabolic steroids). Over half (52%) of the GPs favoured the
prescription of drug substitutions to athletes who used doping agents. According
to 87.5% of respondents, doping is a public health problem, and 80% stated that
doping is a form of drug addiction. Most (89%) said that a GP has a role to play
in doping prevention, but 77% considered themselves poorly prepared to
participate in its prevention. CONCLUSION: The results suggest that (a) GPs have
limited knowledge of doping and (b) are confronted with doping in their daily
practice, at least occasionally.
PMID: 12893720 [PubMed]
107: Aging Clin Exp Res. 2003 Apr;15(2):123-30.
Anabolic and catabolic hormonal responses to experimental two-set low-volume
resistance exercise in sedentary and active elderly people.
Kostka T, Patricot MC, Mathian B, Lacour JR, Bonnefoy M.
Service de Medecine Geriatrique, Centre Hospitalier Lyon-Sud, Faculte de
Medecine de Lyon-Sud, Lyon, France. prevmed@poczta.onet.pl
BACKGROUND AND AIMS: The influence of acute low-volume resistance exercise on
serum growth hormone (GH), insulin-like growth factor I (IGF-I),
dehydroepiandrosterone sulphate (DHEAS), total testosterone (TT) and cortisol
was ascertained in elderly subjects. METHODS: Forty-seven independent,
community-dwelling volunteers aged >65 years were recruited: 23 (11 men, 12
women) were sedentary individuals, and 24 (12 men, 12 women) had been regularly
involved in physical activity for several years. The protocol consisted of two
sets of leg extensions: one graded by loading to reach maximal power; the other
consisted of 10 consecutive leg extensions using a load corresponding to maximal
power. RESULTS: IGF-I levels increased immediately after exercise, returning
almost completely to pre-exercise values by the 15-minute post-exercise time
point. The changes in all four study groups were similar. Not any of the groups
presented systematic exercise-induced changes in circulating GH, DHEAS and TT
levels. With respect to pre-exercise cortisol levels, significant decreases were
observed both at the immediate and at the 15-minute post-exercise time points.
These changes were independent of gender and physical activity level.
CONCLUSIONS: Our data indicate that low-volume resistance exercise may decrease
cortisol levels and increase serum anabolic/catabolic hormone ratios. In view of
the experimental character of our resistance training protocol and the lack of
control-day data, these results should be corroborated by long-term low-volume
resistance training programs.
PMID: 12889843 [PubMed]
108: Aviakosm Ekolog Med. 2003;37(3):20-3.
[The use of large doses of retabolil and support loads for prevention of
osteopenia in male rats during suspension]
[Article in Russian]
Durnova GN.
The histological and histomorphometric techniques were used to evaluate effects
of anabolic steroid rhetabolil and graded support loads on the osteopenia
progress in suspended rats. Thirty-day head-down tail suspension was found to
inhibit body mass gain, induce a moderate stress reaction, dampen the
longitudinal bone growth and provoke osteopenia in the spongy metaphysis of
rats' tibiae. Rhetabolil injection at a total dose of 10 mg per 100 g of the
body mass (a large dose) prevented tibial osteopenia, and yet it hampered bone
growth in length. Daily 3-hr. support loads also inhibited osteopenia in the
suspended rats, especially when combined with the rhetabolil injections. The
unfavorable side-effect of the dose was virtually complete thymus aplasia in all
animals. Hence, large rhetabolil doses as a means against osteopenia in the
inadequately loaded locomotor system should be given with great care and require
further investigations.
PMID: 12882032 [PubMed]
109: Aviakosm Ekolog Med. 2003;37(3):17-20.
[The effect of retabolil and support loads on atrophied muscles in suspended
rats]
[Article in Russian]
Il'ina-Kakueva EI.
In experiments with rats histological and morphometric methods were employed to
study effects of anabolic steroid rhetabolil and a combination of rhetabolil
with predetermined support loads on development of atrophy in m. soleus and m.
gastrocnemius. Muscular atrophy was provoked by tail suspension of rats for a
period of 30 days. Rhetabolil was injected once a week I/M at a total dose of 10
mg per 100 g of the body mass. The experiment showed that this dose of
rhetabolil had no effect on atrophy development; neither it amplified the
favorable effect of support loads observed in earlier experiments with injection
of small doses of rhetabolil. A supposition was made that the anti-atrophy
effects of rhetabolil combined with the support loads are dose dependent. It was
concluded that large doses of rhetabolil do not activate anabolic processes in
the load-deprived muscles.
PMID: 12882031 [PubMed]
110: Ann Clin Biochem. 2003 Jul;40(Pt 4):321-56.
Anabolic steroids in sport: biochemical, clinical and analytical perspectives.
Kicman AT, Gower DB.
Address Drug Control Centre, King's College London, London SE1 9NN, UK.
andrew.kcman@kcl.ac.uk
International Olympic Committee accredited laboratories play a key role in
upholding the principle of fair play and innate ability, as desired by the
majority of sports competitors and spectators. Not only does doping damage the
image of sport, but it can also be harmful to the individual. The great majority
of samples test negative but, when an adverse finding is declared, the
analytical data must be of a sufficiently high standard to withstand legal
challenges by third parties. The most widely misused performance-enhancing drugs
are the anabolic-androgenic steroids, commonly referred to as 'anabolic
steroids'. This review attempts to address the complex issues concerning
anabolic steroids in sport by considering the clinical, biochemical and
analytical perspectives.
Publication Types:
Review
Review, Tutorial
PMID: 12880534 [PubMed]
111: Jpn J Physiol. 2003 Apr;53(2):77-87.
Nandrolone decanoate reduces changes induced by hindlimb suspension in
voltage-dependent tension of rat soleus muscle.
Bouhlel A, Joumaa WH, Leoty C.
Laboratoire de Physiologie Generale, CNRS UMR 6018, Faculte des Sciences et des
Techniques, Universite de Nantes, 2 rue de la Houssiniere, B.P. 92208, 44322
Nantes Cedex 3, France.
The effect of 8 weeks of nandrolone decanoate treatment (15 mg kg(-1)/week, 5
weeks under normal conditions followed by 3 weeks of unloading) was tested for
the voltage-dependence of activation and steady-state inactivation of
contraction in isolated small bundles (2-4 cells) of intact slow-twitch skeletal
muscle in rats. Twenty-four male rats were divided into three groups (8
rats/group, weight matched) for 8 weeks: (1) control, (2) unloaded, and (3)
unloaded-treated. Compared with age-matched control values (unloaded vs.
control), suspension induced a shift in the isometric tension characteristics
toward fast-twitch types in the soleus muscle. In contrast, nandrolone decanoate
treatment of suspended animals reduced unweighting-induced atrophy in the muscle
and maintained: (1) the relative amplitude of twitch tension to the maximal
Ca(2+) activated in saponin-treated fibers (control: 3.6 +/- 0.4%, unloaded: 6.9
+/- 1.1% and unloaded-treated: 4.6 +/- 0.2%), (2) the time to peak tension
(control: 130 +/- 18 ms, unloaded: 85 +/- 12 ms and unloaded-treated: 110 +/- 11
ms), (3) the time constant of relaxation (control: 320 +/- 12 ms, unloaded: 120
+/- 13 ms and unloaded-treated: 349 +/- 20 ms), (4) the relative amplitude of
K(+) contracture tension to the maximal Ca(2+) activated in saponin-treated
fibers (control: 82.9 +/- 3.1%, unloaded: 65.1 +/- 2.8%, and unloaded-treated:
91.7 +/- 1.9%), (5) the potential at 50% of the activation curve (control: -40.4
+/- 1.2 mV, unloaded: -35.5 +/- 1.6 mV, and unloaded-treated: -48.4 +/- 1.2 mV),
and (6) the potential at 50% of the inactivation curve (control: 42.2 +/- 1.9
mV, unloaded: -34.5 +/- 1.1 mV, and unloaded-treated: -37.9 +/- 1.1 mV). This
study clearly shows that treatment with anabolic-androgenic steroids can prevent
atrophy and functional changes induced by 3 weeks of unweighting in rat skeletal
muscles.
PMID: 12877764 [PubMed]
112: Int J Sports Med. 2003 Jul;24(5):344-51.
Prospective echocardiographic assessment of androgenic-anabolic steroids effects
on cardiac structure and function in strength athletes.
Hartgens F, Cheriex EC, Kuipers H.
Netherlands Centre for Doping Affairs, Capelle aan den IJssel, The Netherlands.
fhartgens@wxs.nl
Since the abuse of androgenic-anabolic steroids (AAS) has been associated with
the occurrence of serious cardiovascular disease in young athletes, we performed
two studies to investigate the effects of short-term AAS administration on heart
structure and function in experienced male strength athletes, with special
reference to dose and duration of drug abuse. In Study 1 the effects of AAS were
assessed in 17 experienced male strength athletes (age 31 +/- 7 y) who
self-administered AAS for 8 or 12 - 16 weeks and in 15 non-using strength
athletes (age 33 +/- 5 y) in a non-blinded design. In Study 2 the effects of
administration of nandrolone decanoate (200 mg/wk i. m.) for eight weeks were
investigated in 16 bodybuilders in a randomised double blind, placebo controlled
design. In all subjects M-mode and two-dimensional Doppler-echocardiography were
performed at baseline and after 8 weeks AAS administration. In the athletes of
Study 1 who used AAS for 12 - 16 weeks a third echocardiogram was also made at
the end of the AAS administration period. Echocardiographic examinations
included the determination of the aortic diameter (AD), left atrium diameter
(LA), left ventricular end diastolic diameter (LVEDD), interventricular septum
thickness (IVS), posterior wall end diastolic wall thickness (PWEDWT), left
ventricular mass (LVM), left ventricular mass index (LVMI), ejection fraction
(EF) and right ventricular diameter (RVD). For assessment of the diastolic
function measurements of E and A peak velocities and calculation of E/A ratio
were used. In addition, acceleration and deceleration times of the E-top (ATM
and DT, respectively) were determined. For evaluation of factors associated with
stroke volume the aorta peak flow (AV) and left ventricular ejection times
(LVET) were determined. In Study 1 eight weeks AAS self-administration did not
result in changes of blood pressure or cardiac size and function. Additionally,
duration of AAS self-administration did not have any impact on these parameters.
Study 2 revealed that eight weeks administration of nandrolone decanoate did not
induce significant alterations in blood pressure and heart morphology and
function. Short-term administration of AAS for periods up to 16 weeks did not
lead to detectable echocardiographic alterations of heart morphology and
systolic and diastolic function in experienced strength athletes. The
administration regimen used nor the length of AAS abuse did influence the
results. Moreover, it is concluded that echocardiographic evaluation may provide
incomplete assessment of the actual cardiac condition in AAS users since it is
not sensitive enough to detect alterations at the cellular level. Nevertheless,
from the present study no conclusions can be drawn of the cardiotoxic effects of
long term AAS abuse.
PMID: 12868045 [PubMed]
113: Int J Sports Med. 2003 Jul;24(5):337-43.
Anabolic androgenic steroids produce dose-dependant increase in left ventricular
mass in power atheletes, and this effect is potentiated by concomitant use of
growth hormone.
Karila TA, Karjalainen JE, Mantysaari MJ, Viitasalo MT, Seppala TA.
Laboratory of Substance Abuse, National Public Health Institute, Helsinki,
Finland. tuomo.karila@ktl.fi
Power athletes abuse anabolic androgenic steroids (AASs) and growth hormone (GH)
to gain their muscular mass and strength. We wanted to determine how massive,
self-administered doses of AASs with or without GH affect the left ventricular
(LV) dimensions in power athletes. These substances are assumed to increase
LVmass mainly by thickening the ventricular walls. Anecdotal evidence suggests a
higher risk of cardiovascular events in AAS abusers. We were interested to see
if LV dimensions and function in AAS abusers would indicate this increased risk.
Twenty healthy male power athletes using massive doses of AAS without (n = 16)
or with (n = 4) GH volunteered for the study. The controls were 15 sedentary
male non-users of hormones. LV mass, geometry and filling were studied using
standard echocardiographic methods. We found a significant association between
LV mass and AAS dose (r = 0.54, p < 0.015). In contrast to the controls, LV mass
(274 g in the athletes, 167 g in the controls) among the AAS abusers did not
correlate with body weight or height. Concomitant use of AAS and GH further
increased LV mass and associated with concentric remodelling of LV. Multiple
regression analysis indicated that the mean AAS dose accounted for 29 %, age for
14 % and systolic blood pressure for 17 % of the variance in LV mass. We
concluded that AAS abuse associates dose-dependently with myocardial hypertrophy
and that concomitant use of GH associates with concentric remodelling of the LV.
Our findings suggest that AASs and GH have a direct effect on the myocardium.
PMID: 12868044 [PubMed]
114: Naunyn Schmiedebergs Arch Pharmacol. 2003 Aug;368(2):91-8. Epub 2003 Jul
12.
Nandrolone treatment decreases the level of rat kidney alpha(1B)-adrenoceptors.
Uhlen S, Lindblom J, Kindlundh A, Mugisha P, Nyberg F.
Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Uppsala University, Box 591 BioMedical
Centre, 751 24 Uppsala, Sweden.
Abuse of anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) is associated with serious side
effects, such as hypertension and fluid retention. Renal alpha(1)- and
alpha(2)-adrenoceptors are implicated in the regulation of blood pressure and
fluid balance. In the present study, the levels of renal alpha(1A)-, alpha(1B)-,
alpha(2A)- and alpha(2B)-adrenoceptors, and spleen alpha(1B)-adrenoceptors, were
quantified in tissue membranes from rats treated with the AAS nandrolone
decanoate (15 mg/kg) for 14 days. The radioligands used were [(3)H]-prazosin and
[(3)H]-RX821002. The nandrolone treatment caused a 50% reduction of kidney
alpha(1B)-adrenoceptors (from 15 fmol/mg protein in control rats to 6.5 fmol/mg
protein in treated rats). In contrast, the levels of kidney alpha(1A)-,
alpha(2A)- and alpha(2B)-, and spleen alpha(1B)-adrenoceptors were unaffected.
These results raise the possibility that a decreased level of kidney
alpha(1B)-adrenoceptors may cause some of the effects observed on blood pressure
and fluid balance in heavy abuse of AAS.
PMID: 12861436 [PubMed]
115: Hum Reprod Update. 2003 May-Jun;9(3):207-22.
Sex steroids and bone: current perspectives.
Balasch J.
Institut Clinic of Gynecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology, Faculty of
Medicine-University of Barcelona, Hospital Clinic-Institut d'lnvestigacions
Biomediques August Pi i Sunyer, Barcelona, Spain. jbalasch@medicina.ub.es
Although the process of bone remodelling or its control has not yet been fully
elucidated there is, at present, sufficient information available to conclude
that ovarian steroids (estrogens, androgens, progesterone) play an essential
role in skeletal homeostasis. The mechanism of action of sex steroids on the
skeleton is still not entirely clear, but it has traditionally included indirect
effects on systemic hormones that regulate calcium balance and a direct
receptor-mediated action. More recently, changes in cytokine production within
the bone marrow, as well as pro-apoptotic and anti-apoptotic effects in the
osteoblastic cells, have been proposed as new perspectives on the cellular and
molecular mechanisms by which sex steroids influence adult bone homeostasis.
Mechanical loading, when combined with estrogens or androgens, results in a
greater osteogenic response than either condition separately. Women are
especially at risk for osteoporosis if they have had a premature or surgical
menopause and have not received hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Other
reproductive factors that can help to identify women with osteopenia and
emphasize the role of sex steroids in preserving bone mass in premenopausal
women include: age at menarche, menstrual history and irregularities (including
those associated with excessive exercise), age at menopause, previous
hysterectomy, hyperprolactinaemia, anorexia nervosa, scoliosis, ovarian
dysgenesis, pregnancy and lactation, and pharmacological ovarian suppression.
The prevention of osteoporosis starts with the onset of the menarche. A
combination of exercise, appropriate nutrition and a healthy lifestyle all
maximize bone mineral accrual and result in optimal peak bone mass; normal
ovarian function is essential to this process. Unfortunately, many women
actually become aware of the need for osteoporosis prevention much later in
life, usually after they have already become menopausal. HRT, however, has
important limitations for prevention of fractures in post-menopausal women.
Future perspectives for treatment of osteoporosis include androgen therapy and
anabolic agents. Specifically, synthetic ligands of the estrogen receptor that
can evoke the non-genotrophic but not the genotrophic signal of the receptor may
be bone anabolic agents, as opposed to natural estrogens or selective estrogen
receptor modulators that are anti-resorptive agents. The same ligands may
circumvent the side effects associated with conventional HRT.
Publication Types:
Review
Review, Tutorial
PMID: 12859043 [PubMed]
116: Am J Addict. 2003;12 Suppl 2:S48-54.
Steroid and nutritional supplement use in professional athletes.
Millman RB, Ross EJ.
Department of Psychiatry and Public Health, Weill Medical College, Cornell
University, New York, NY. rbm2002@med.cornell.edu
The use of performance-enhancing substances by athletes is nearly as old as
sport itself. There are two primary categories of substances available to modern
athletes: anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) and nutritional supplements. All
AAS and many of the nutritional supplements are used to increase testosterone
levels in the body, thereby enhancing the athlete's ability to build lean muscle
mass. Other nutritional supplements are used to increase the amount of energy
available for workouts or competition. Although steroids are available in the US
via physician prescription, nutritional supplements are widely available to all
consumers with relatively scant regulation. Steroids are associated with a
variety of side effects that can lead to physical changes, psychological
disturbances, morbidity, and even mortality. The side effects of nutritional
supplements are not as well studied but are presumed to be similarly dangerous.
However, for many athletes at all levels facing pressure to excel, the potential
benefits of taking these substances appear to be outweighing the associated
risks. Increased testing at all levels is recommended.
Publication Types:
Historical Article
Review
Review, Tutorial
PMID: 12857663 [PubMed]
117: J Anim Sci. 2003 Jul;81(7):1728-35.
Protein turnover and sensory traits of longissimus muscle from implanted and
nonimplanted heifers.
Kerth CR, Montgomery JL, Morrow KJ, Galyean ML, Miller MF.
Animal and Dairy Science Department, Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36830, USA.
ckerth@acesag.auburn.edu
Primary bovine muscle cell culture studies were conducted to determine whether
implanting heifers had a direct effect on in vitro protein synthesis and
degradation and to determine the effect of implanting heifers on longissimus
muscle palatability. Feedlot heifers (n = 96) were administered one of six
implant regimens to characterize their effect on in vitro amino acid uptake and
protein degradation. Treatments consisted of: 1) a nonimplanted control (NI/NI);
2) no implant on d 1 and Revalor-H administered on d 84 of the experiment
(NI/Rev); 3) Revalor-H on d 1, but no implant given at d 84 (Rev/NI); 4)
Revalor-H administered on d 1 and d 84 (Rev/Rev); 5) Revalor-IH administered on
d 1 and Revalor-H at d 84 (RIH/Rev); and 6) Synovex-H given at d 1 and Revalor-H
administered at d 84 (Syn/Rev). Blood and longissimus lumborum muscle were
collected 20 min postmortem, and serum and muscle extracts were incubated with
primary bovine muscle cells. Implant treatments had minimal effects on shear
force and sensory traits; however, steaks from Rev/Rev heifers were 0.31 kg more
tender (P < 0.05) than steaks from NI/NI heifers. Serum protein synthesis and
degradation were not affected (P > 0.10) by any implant treatment. When primary
bovine muscle cells were treated with muscle extract, amino acid uptake was
greater for heifers implanted with Rev/ Rev than for the average of all other
treatments (P < 0.01). The Rev/Rev implant regimen also increased (P < 0.05)
amino acid uptake compared with heifers treated with RIH/Rev, Syn/Rev, NI/NI,
NI/Rev, or Rev/NI. Cellular protein degradation of the muscle cell culture
treated with muscle extract tended (P < 0.10) to be higher in NI/NI-treated
cells compared with the average of all implant treatments. In addition, cells
treated with muscle extract from heifers implanted with Rev/Rev had lower (P <
0.05) protein degradation than the NI/NI control heifers. These results indicate
that anabolic implant strategies can directly affect both muscle protein
synthesis and degradation via effects that seem to be more autocrine than
paracrine in nature.
PMID: 12854809 [PubMed]
118: Chest. 2003 Jul;124(1):83-9.
Comment in:
Chest. 2003 Jul;124(1):1-4.
Catabolic/anabolic balance and muscle wasting in patients with COPD.
Debigare R, Marquis K, Cote CH, Tremblay RR, Michaud A, LeBlanc P, Maltais F.
Centre de Recherche, Hopital Laval, Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de
Pneumologie, Universite Laval, Sainte-Foy, QC, Canada.
BACKGROUND: The mechanisms leading to muscle wasting in patients with COPD are
still uncertain. This study was undertaken to evaluate the relationships among
circulating levels of catabolic factors (ie, interleukin [IL]-6 and cortisol),
anabolic factors (ie, bioavailable testosterone [Tbio], dehydroepiandrosterone
sulfate [DHEAS], and insulin-like growth factor [IGF]-I), and mid-thigh muscle
cross-sectional area (MTCSA) in patients with COPD. METHODS: Serum levels of the
above factors were measured in 45 men with COPD (mean [+/- SEM] FEV(1), 43 +/-
3% predicted; mean age, 67 +/- 1 years) and 16 sedentary healthy men of similar
age. MTCSA was quantified using CT scanning. Patients with COPD were subdivided
into two groups according to the MTCSA (< 70 or >or= 70 cm(2)). RESULTS: There
was a greater prevalence of hypogonadism (ie, Tbio, < 2 nmol/L) in patients with
COPD compared to control subjects (22% vs 0%, respectively). Patients with an
MTCSA of < 70 cm(2) had significantly reduced levels of DHEAS compared to those
in healthy subjects (p < 0.01). IL-6 levels were significantly higher in both
subgroups of COPD patients compared to those in control subjects (p < 0.005).
The cortisol/DHEAS, IL-6/DHEAS, IL-6/Tbio, and IL-6/IGF-I ratios were
significantly greater in COPD patients with an MTCSA of < 70 cm(2) compared to
those in control subjects (p < 0.05). The cortisol/DHEAS and IL-6/DHEAS ratios
were also significantly greater in COPD patients with an MTCSA of < 70 cm(2)
than in COPD patients with an MTCSA of >or= 70 cm(2) (p < 0.05). In a stepwise
multiple regression analysis, the IL-6/DHEAS ratio explained 20% of the variance
in MTCSA (p < 0.005). CONCLUSION: Catabolic/anabolic disturbances were found in
COPD patients leading to a shift toward catabolism and possibly to the
development of peripheral muscle wasting.
PMID: 12853506 [PubMed]
119: Brain Res. 2003 Jul 25;979(1-2):37-42.
Chronic administration with nandrolone decanoate induces alterations in the
gene-transcript content of dopamine D(1)- and D(2)-receptors in the rat brain.
Kindlundh AM, Lindblom J, Nyberg F.
Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Biological Research on
Drug Dependence, S-751-24, Uppsala, Sweden. anna.kindlundh@farmbio.uu.se
Some adolescent and young males are engaged in misuse of anabolic-androgenic
steroids (AASs) in connection with multiple drug use, in order to become
intoxicated and brave, apart from currently known motives connected to sports
performance and physical appearance. Recent studies suggest that alterations in
neurobiological circuits implicated in the regulation of reward-related
learning, aggression and motoric behavior underlie the behavioral changes
associated with AAS misuse. We have previously shown that AASs induce
alterations in dopamine receptor densities. The aim of the present study was to
investigate if these effects could be attributed to altered mRNA content for
tyrosine hydroxylase, L-amino acid decarboxylase, dopamine D(1)- and dopamine
D(2)-receptor as measured by in situ hybridisation. Male Sprague-Dawley rats
were subjected to 2 weeks of treatment with daily intramuscular injections of
the AAS nandrolone decanoate at three different doses (1, 5 and 15 mg/kg/day).
Results of the in situ hybridization showed that the mRNA content of the
dopamine D(1)-receptor subtype was significantly reduced at all doses in the
caudate putamen and at the highest doses in the nucleus accumbens shell. The
mRNA expression of the dopamine D(2)-receptor was significantly increased at the
two lowest doses in the caudate putamen and the nucleus accumbens shell. In
conclusion, nandrolone has been shown to affect the expression of gene
transcripts of dopaminergic receptors possibly implicated in underlying
mechanisms of reward-related behavioral changes among AAS misusers.
PMID: 12850568 [PubMed]
120: Rapid Commun Mass Spectrom. 2003;17(14):1633-41.
Identification of an unknown beta-agonist in feed by liquid
chromatography/bioassay/quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry with
accurate mass measurement.
Nielen MW, Elliott CT, Boyd SA, Courtheyn D, Essers ML, Hooijerink HH, van
Bennekom EO, Fuchs RE.
RIKILT Institute of Food Safety, P.O. Box 230, 6700 AE Wageningen, The
Netherlands. michel.nielen@wur.nl
A new approach to the search for residues of unknown growth promoting agents
such as anabolic steroids and beta-agonists in feed is presented. Following
primary extraction and clean-up, samples are separated using gradient liquid
chromatography (LC). The effluent is split towards two identical 96-well
fraction collectors and an optional electrospray quadrupole time-of-flight mass
spectrometry (QTOFMS) system for accurate mass measurement. One 96-well plate is
used for a bioassay (enzyme-immuno assay, receptor assay) and will detect the
bioactivity and position of the relevant peak in the chromatogram. The positive
well in the second 96-well plate is used for identification by LC/QTOFMS/MS. The
value of this LC/bioassay/QTOFMS/MS methodology is highlighted by the finding
and structure elucidation of a new beta-agonist in a feed extract. Copyright
2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
PMID: 12845590 [PubMed]
121: Exp Clin Endocrinol Diabetes. 2003 Jun;111(4):203-8.
Testosterone undecanoate: a useful tool for testosterone administration in rats.
Callies F, Kollenkirchen U, von zur Muhlen C, Tomaszewski M, Beer S, Allolio B.
Department of Endocrinology, Medical University Hospital Wuerzburg, Wuerzburg,
Germany. Callies_F@medizin.uni-wuerzburg.de
A major obstacle of testosterone (T) treatment in experimental animals is the
difficulty of maintaining long-term physiologic/anabolic steady serum levels
after exogenous T administration. In two complementary studies we investigated
the pharmacokinetic properties of different T formulations in male rats. Study
I. Mature male Wistar rats (> 380 g, n = 4 - 7/group) were divided into four
treatment groups: (1) sham-operated non orchiectomised (non-ORX) and placebo;
(2) orchiectomised (ORX) and subcutaneous testosterone pellets (TP) (15, 25, 75
mg/60 days release or placebo pellets); (3) ORX and a single injection of
testosterone undecanoate (TUD) (31, 62.5 or 125 mg/kg body weight subcutaneously
(s.c.) or vehicle; (4) ORX and testosterone propionate (Tprop) (10, 20, 40
mg/month) or vehicle as a single injection s.c. Serum T was measured at baseline
and in weekly intervals for 4 weeks. Study II. Mature male Wistar rats (180 -
200 g) were randomly assigned to one of 5 experimental groups (n = 5 - 6/group):
(1) normal untreated rats (controls); (2) ORX untreated rats, and non-ORX rats
receiving one of three treatment options; (3) 250 mg/kg body weight TUD i.m.
(TUD 250); (4) 500 mg/kg body weight TUD i.m. (TUD 500); (5) 100-mg testosterone
pellet/90 days release s.c. (TP 100). Serum T was measured at baseline and in
intervals for 6 weeks after T administration. In both studies, the kinetic
profile of TUD showed favourable continuous steady state levels over several
weeks. In contrast, testosterone release by subcutaneous pellets resulted in a
shorter than expected duration of elevated serum T levels with high
inter-individual variability. Tprop administration led to only a short-lasting
serum T increase with low serum T levels already 14 days after injection. In
conclusion, a single injection of TUD (100 mg/kg body weight s.c.) is effective
in inducing physiological testosterone levels in ORX rats for a minimum of four
weeks. High dose TUD (500 mg/kg body weight i.m.) given as a single injection
results in supraphysiological anabolic testosterone concentrations for up to six
weeks in non-ORX rats. TUD was superior to other T release preparations and
represents a convenient and effective tool for T administration in experimental
animals.
PMID: 12845558 [PubMed]
122: J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2003 Jul;88(7):3167-76.
Randomized placebo-controlled trial of androgen effects on muscle and bone in
men requiring long-term systemic glucocorticoid treatment.
Crawford BA, Liu PY, Kean MT, Bleasel JF, Handelsman DJ.
Department of Endocrinology, ANZAC Research Institute, Royal Prince Alfred
Hospital and University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.
brcrawfo@mail.usyd.edu.au
Long-term glucocorticoid therapy in men is associated with loss of bone and
muscle mass as well as a decrease in serum testosterone. We tested the effect of
two androgens, testosterone and its minimally aromatizable analog nandrolone, on
muscle mass (dual x-ray absorptiometry), muscle strength (knee flexion and
extension by isokinetic dynamometry), bone mineral density (BMD), and quality of
life (Qualeffo-41 questionnaire) in 51 men on a mean daily prednisone dose of
12.6 +/- 2.2 mg. Men were randomized, double blind, to testosterone (200 mg
mixed esters), nandrolone decanoate (200 mg), or placebo given every fortnight
by im injection for 12 months. At 12 months, both androgens increased muscle
mass (mean change from baseline +3.5%, +5.8%, and -0.9% in testosterone,
nandrolone, and placebo groups, respectively, P < 0.0001) and muscle strength (P
< 0.05). Lumbar spine BMD increased significantly only in men treated with
testosterone (4.7 +/- 1.1%, P < 0.01). There was no significant change in hip or
total body BMD. Testosterone, but not nandrolone or placebo, improved overall
quality of life (P < 0.001). These results suggest that androgen therapy may
have a role in ameliorating adverse effects of glucocorticoid therapy such as
muscle and bone loss and aromatization is necessary for androgen action on bone
but not on muscle.
Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
Randomized Controlled Trial
PMID: 12843161 [PubMed]
123: J Tongji Med Univ. 1999;19(1):63-5.
Growth-promoting effect of recombinant human growth hormone and stanozolol in
girls with Turner syndrome.
Fang J, Ning C, Shu D, Wei H, Lin H, Wang M.
Department of Pediatrics, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical University, Wuhan
430030.
Ten girls with Turner syndrome were treated with a combination therapy of
recombinant human growth hormone (R-hGH) and low dose stanozolol for a period of
8 to 36 months. The results showed that when compared with the growth rate
before the treatment, the growth rates after treatment with R-hGH and stanozolol
showed a sustained increase, reaching 9.0 +/- 1.9 cm/year during the first year
of treatment; the height age increase by 2.5 +/- 0.8 years while the bone age
increase were 1.0 +/- 0.7 years; and the predicted final adult height at the end
of the first year of the treatment increased to 149.4 +/- 6.1 cm compared to
their original mean of 142.8 +/- 4.2 cm. We are led to conclude that therapy
with R-hGH in combination with stanozolol can increase the growth velocity and
significantly increase the predicted adult height of children with Turner
syndrome.
PMID: 12840880 [PubMed]
124: Curr Sports Med Rep. 2002 Aug;1(4):246-52.
Anabolic-androgenic steroids and related substances.
Yesalis CE, Bahrke MS.
Pennsylvania State University, 114 Henderson Building, University Park, PA
16802, USA. cey2@psu.edu
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone, and anabolic-androgenic steroids
are synthetic derivatives of testosterone. Anabolic steroids are used to enhance
athletic performance and appearance. Adverse effects include those on the liver,
serum lipids, psyche/behavior, and the reproductive system. Androstenedione is
an anabolic-androgenic steroid used to increase blood testosterone levels for
the purposes of increasing strength, lean body mass, and sexual performance.
However, there is no research indicating androstenedione or its related
compounds, significantly increases strength and/or lean body mass by increasing
testosterone levels. The long-term health effects of prolonged androstenedione
supplementation are unknown. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a weak androgen
also used to elevate testosterone levels. DHEA is also advertised as an
antiobesity and antiaging supplement capable of improving libido, vitality, and
immunity levels. However, research demonstrates that DHEA supplementation does
not increase serum testosterone concentrations or increase strength in men, and
it may have virilizing effects on women.
Publication Types:
Review
Review, Tutorial
PMID: 12831702 [PubMed]
125: Curr Sports Med Rep. 2002 Aug;1(4):239-45.
Creatine and other nonsteroidal strength-enhancing aids.
Bohn AM, Betts S, Schwenk TL.
Department of Family Medicine, University of Michigan Health System, L2003
Womens, Box 0239, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
Although most discussions of ergogenic supplements to enhance strength focus on
anabolic steroids, there are several nonsteroidal supplements of importance.
These agents, including creatine, beta-hydroxy-beta-methylbutyrate (HMB),
chromium, human growth hormone, and insulin-like growth factor are popular,
easily accessible, sometimes impossible to detect, and (in some cases, ie,
creatine) not banned by official sports organizations. They are purported to be
natural and safe because they are not anabolic steroids, have at least a
theoretic basis for potential benefit, and in some cases, have data suggesting
athletic improvement in certain controlled conditions. They also have a
significant potential for causing at least bothersome if not dangerous adverse
effects. Studies to date have generally addressed efficacy, with little data to
support effectiveness in unmonitored, uncontrolled use. Human growth hormone is
officially banned. In general, none of these agents can be recommended at
present.
Publication Types:
Review
Review, Tutorial
PMID: 12831701 [PubMed]
126: Curr Sports Med Rep. 2002 Dec;1(6):369-73.
Supplement use in the adolescent athlete.
DesJardins M.
The University of Utah, The Orthopedic Specialty Hospital, 5848 South 300 East,
Salt Lake City, UT 84107, USA. mtdmd@hotmail.com
Use of dietary supplements has become common practice among adolescent athletes
in the United States. Concern has arisen regarding safety in adolescents in
light of the fact that supplements are not required to meet usual US Food and
Drug Administration requirements for standard pharmaceuticals. Furthermore,
advertised ergogenic gains are based on little or no scientific evidence.
Creatine, anabolic steroids, androstenedione, dehydroepiandrosterone, caffeine,
ephedrine-type alkaloids, calcium b-hydroxy-b-methybutyrate, and human growth
hormone are reviewed. Although some studies have indicated performance benefit
in particular athletic situations, there are few available data in adolescents.
Furthermore, the few safety studies of these supplements do not include
adolescents. Adolescents may be at particular risk when using anabolic steroids
and caffeine-ephedra combinations. Research has demonstrated effective education
programs can reduce adolescents' intentions to use dietary supplements.
PMID: 12831686 [PubMed]
127: Med Arh. 2003;57(2):115-7.
How to evaluate the risks of illnesses when there is a disorder of embroidery
and supporting tissues.
Hrgovic Z, Bukovic D, Curzik D, Becarevic R.
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Hospital from Osijek.
For the gynecologist it is not the priority activity of investigation the skin,
bones and tissues, but we have the great relation and connection across the
endocrinological ways. The main point is estrogen, gestagen and androgen, but
also the condition of embroidery and supporting tissues have influence through
the anabolic effects. If sexual steroids in anabolic activity are missing, the
skin will dehydrate based on weither of corium, the risk of fracture of bones is
bigger, the yielding of hardness of embroidery apparatus can cause deep pains in
small of the back and we have a great number of cardiovascular illness. The
function of skin, bones and blood vessels is mostly based on special
characteristics of extracellular matrix. This can be defined again through the
collagen. In spite of the coristant building and demolishing rise through the
control of sexual steroids. At the same time, the mineralization of osteoids in
the skeleton has influence of estradiol. A deficit of sexual steroids, unhealthy
living and other factors can influence the degenerative changes of skin bones
and blood vessels. To evaluate, obliged risk of illness and risks of accidents
there are different procedures: the contents of collagen in skin and the fatness
of blood vessels can be measured only by a high frequent ultrasound.
Nevertheless we can confirm the condition of bones with radiological and
ultrasound methods. In truth, the controversies about the prognostic values in
consideration of risks of fractures exist which measured in the different cases
trend in diagnosis of osteopenia/osteoporosis.
PMID: 12822386 [PubMed]
128: Drug Alcohol Depend. 2003 Jul 20;71(1):77-86.
Risk factors for anabolic-androgenic steroid use among weightlifters: a
case-control study.
Kanayama G, Pope HG, Cohane G, Hudson JI.
Biological Psychiatry Laboratory, McLean Hospital, 115 Mill Street, Belmont, MA
02478, USA.
Anabolic-androgenic steroid (AAS) use represents a major public health problem
in the United States, but the risk factors for this form of drug use are little
studied. We evaluated 48 men who had used AAS for at least 2 months and 45 men
who had never used AAS, using a verbal interview and a battery of questionnaires
covering hypothesized demographic, familial, and psychosocial risk factors for
AAS use. All subjects in both groups were experienced weightlifters; thus,
differences between groups were likely to be associated specifically with AAS
use, rather than with weightlifting in general. The AAS users and non-users
generally described similar childhood and family experiences, but users reported
significantly poorer relationships with their fathers and greater childhood
conduct disorder than non-users. At the time that they first started lifting
weights, AAS users and non-users were similar in their perceived physical,
social, and sexual status, but users were significantly less confident about
their body appearance. AAS users displayed much higher rates of other illicit
substance use, abuse, or dependence than non-users, with use of other illicit
substances almost always preceding first use of AAS. These findings suggest that
AAS use may be most likely to occur in men with high levels of antisocial traits
and low levels of body esteem.
PMID: 12821208 [PubMed]
129: HIV Clin Trials. 2003 May-Jun;4(3):150-63.
Oxymetholone for the treatment of HIV-wasting: a double-blind, randomized,
placebo-controlled phase III trial in eugonadal men and women.
Hengge UR, Stocks K, Faulkner S, Wiehler H, Lorenz C, Jentzen W, Hengge D,
Ringham G.
Department of Dermatology, University of Dusseldorf, Dusseldorf, Germany.
ulrich.hengge@uni-duesseldorf.de
BACKGROUND: Despite highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), chronic
involuntary weight loss still remains a serious problem in the care of HIV
patients due to various alterations in energy metabolism and endocrine
regulation. Previous studies in HIV-positive men undergoing androgen replacement
therapy or treatment with recombinant growth hormone (rGH) have shown partial
restoration of lean body mass (LBM), but these treatments have largely not been
sufficiently studied in eugonadal individuals. METHOD: A double-blind,
randomized, placebo-controlled trial of 89 HIV-positive eugonadal women and men
with wasting assigned to the anabolic steroid oxymetholone (50 mg bid or tid) or
placebo for 16 weeks was performed. Body weight, bioimpedance measurements,
quality of life parameters, and appetite were analyzed. RESULTS: Oxymetholone
led to a significant weight gain of 3.0 +/- 0.5 and 3.5 +/- 0.7 kg in the tid
and bid groups, respectively (p <.05 for each treatment versus placebo), while
individuals in the placebo group gained an average of 1.0 +/- 0.7 kg. Body cell
mass (BCM) increased in the oxymetholone bid group (3.8 +/- 0.4 kg; p <.0001)
and in the oxymetholone tid group (2.1 +/- 0.6 kg; p <.005). Significant
improvements were noted in appetite and food intake, increased wellbeing, and
reduced weakness by self-examination. The most important adverse event was
liver-associated toxicity. Overall, 43% of patients in the tid group, 25% of
patients in the bid oxymetholone group, and 8% in the placebo group had a
greater than 5 times baseline increase for ALT, AST, or gamma GT, while other
adverse events were not increased over placebo. CONCLUSION: Oxymetholone can be
considered an effective anabolic steroid in eugonadal male and female patients
with AIDS-associated wasting. The bid (100 mg/day) regimen appeared to be
equally effective to the tid (150 mg/day) regimen in terms of weight gain, LBM,
and BCM and was associated with less liver toxicity.
Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
Clinical Trial, Phase III
Randomized Controlled Trial
PMID: 12815555 [PubMed]
130: Acta Pharm Hung. 2002;72(4):231-44.
[Doping agents and their analytical control]
[Article in Hungarian]
Szokan G.
Eotvos Lorand Tudomanyegyetem Szerves Kemia Tanszek, Nagyhatekonysagu
folyadekkromatografias laboratorium, Budapest 112, Pf.32.-1518.
Doping is defined as the use of substances and/or forbidden methods for the
artificial performance-enforcement of an athlete during competition or in the
preparation period. A survey is given on the misuse of doping agents in recent
years, with special emphasis on stimulants, beta blockers, diuretics, exogenous
and endogenous steroids and peptide hormones. The introduction of new doping
substances including perfluorocarbons, ecdysteroids, synthetic hemoglobin and
peptide hormones (e.g. growth-hormone) precursors is described. Hyphenated
separation techniques achieved great progress in doping analysis and control, of
which some of the recent methods such as LC-MS, GC-MS CE-MS are briefly reviewed
here.
Publication Types:
Review
Review, Tutorial
PMID: 12812043 [PubMed]
131: Acta Orthop Scand Suppl. 2003 Apr;74(309):1-42.
Quality of life and femoral neck fractures.
Tidermark J.
Department of Orthopedics, Stockholm Soder Hospital, Karolinska Institutet,
Stockholm, Sweden.
The worldwide increase in hip fractures is a major challenge to the health care
system and society. The proper treatment of femoral neck fractures in the
elderly is still controversial, and even more so from an international
perspective. Optimising the treatment for improved outcomes and a reduced need
for secondary surgery is mandatory for humanitarian and economical reasons. The
importance of incorporating the patient's perspective of the outcome in clinical
trials has been acknowledged and there are now numerous instruments for
assessing the quality of life. We evaluated two quality of life instruments, the
EQ-5D and the SF-36, in patients with femoral neck fractures and also measured
the quality of life two years after different interventions. The EQ-5D was
validated in two prospective studies and it appeared to be an appropriate
quality of life instrument in elderly patients with femoral neck fractures.
There was a good correlation between the quality of life (EQ-5Dindexscores) and
other outcome measures such as pain, mobility and independence in activities of
daily living (ADL). The results also showed high responsiveness, i.e., ability
to capture clinically important changes, for both the EQ-5D and the SF-36. The
questionnaire response rate for both instruments was high. The rated prefracture
EQ-5Dindexscores showed good correspondence with the scores of an age-matched
Swedish reference population. The quality of life in patients with femoral neck
fractures treated with internal fixation (IF) decreased, particularly in
patients with fracture healing complications. The fracture healing complications
rate at two years in patients with displaced femoral neck fractures treated with
IF was 36% compared with 7% in patients with undisplaced fractures. The quality
of life of patients with uneventfully healed fractures at two year was lower in
patients with primary displaced fractures than in patients with primary
undisplaced fractures. In a prospective randomised trial, patients with
displaced femoral neck fractures were randomised to IF or total hip replacement
(THR). IF resulted in more complications than THR, 36% versus 4%, and
necessitated more reoperations, 42% versus 4%. Hip function and quality of life
(EQ-5D) were generally better in the THR group. In summary, THR yielded a better
outcome than IF for an elderly, relatively healthy, lucid patient with a
displaced femoral neck fracture. In a study of elderly women with femoral neck
fractures, nearly half of the patients displayed signs of protein-energy
malnutrition. Underweight was associated with muscle fatigue, cognitive
dysfunction and a low quality of life (Nottingham Health Profile). In a
prospective randomised trial, protein-rich liquid supplementation in combination
with an anabolic steroid given for 6 months to lean elderly women after a
femoral neck fracture was shown to positively affect lean body mass, ADL and
quality of life (EQ-5D). Fracture healing complications had a negative impact on
body weight, lean body mass and quality of life.
Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
Randomized Controlled Trial
PMID: 12811943 [PubMed]
132: Pflugers Arch. 2003 Sep;446(6):728-34. Epub 2003 Jun 17.
Nandrolone decanoate treatment affects sarcoplasmic reticulum Ca(2+) ATPase
function in skinned rat slow- and fast-twitch fibres.
Bouhlel A, Joumaa WH, Leoty C.
Laboratoire de Physiologie Generale, UMR CNRS 6018, Faculte des Sciences et des
Techniques, Universite de Nantes, 2 rue de la Houssiniere, BP 92208, 44322,
Nantes Cedex 3, France.
The effects of anabolic-androgenic steroid administration on the function of the
sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) pump were investigated in chemically skinned fibres
from the extensor digitorum longus (EDL) and soleus muscles of sedentary rats.
Twenty male rats were divided into two groups, one group received an
intramuscular injection of nandrolone decanoate (15 mg x kg(-1)) weekly for 8
weeks, the second received similar weekly doses of vehicle (sterile peanut oil).
Compared with control muscles, nandrolone decanoate treatment reduced SR Ca(2+)
loading in EDL and soleus fibres by 49% and 29%, respectively. In control and
treated muscles, the rate of Ca(2+) leakage depended on the quantity of Ca(2+)
loaded. Furthermore, for similar SR Ca(2+) contents, the Ca(2+) leakage rate was
not significantly modified by nandrolone decanoate treatment. Nandrolone
decanoate treatment thus affects Ca (2+) uptake by the SR in a fibre-type
dependent manner.
PMID: 12811564 [PubMed]
133: Exp Anim. 2003 Apr;52(2):99-107.
Physiological difference between dietary obesity-susceptible and
obesity-resistant Sprague Dawley rats in response to moderate high fat diet.
Jang I, Hwang D, Lee J, Chae K, Kim Y, Kang T, Kim C, Shin D, Hwang J, Huh Y,
Cho J.
Department of Animal Science & Biotechnology, RAIRC, Jinju National University,
150 Chilam-Dong, Jinju, KyeongNam, 660-758, Korea.
The primary aim of the present study was to define central and peripheral
physiological differences between dietary obesity-susceptible (DOS) and
obesity-resistant (DOR) outbred Sprague Dawley (SD) rats when given a moderate
high fat diet containing 32.34% of energy as a fat. After a 9-week feeding
period, the DOS-SD rats consumed significantly more feed (11.1%) and had higher
abdominal (39.9%) and epididymal (27.5%) fat pads than the DOR-SD rats. In
addition, serum leptin and insulin levels were significantly increased in the
DOS-SD rats compared with those in the DOR-SD rats. However, we did not observe
significant differences in serum triglyceride, cholesterol and glucose. No
differences in hypothalamic OB-Ra and Rb mRNA expressions were found between the
two groups. In contrast, arcuate NPY immunohistochemical expression was much
higher in the DOS-SD rats than in the DOR-SD rats, though NPY expression in the
supraoptic and paraventricular nuclei was not different between the two
phenotypes. In peripheral tissues, the DOS-SD rats showed noticeably increased
acetyl CoA carboxylase (ACC) mRNA expression in the liver, not epididymal fat.
However, Western blot of peroxisomal proliferator activated factor gamma (PPAR
gamma) in the liver and epididymal fat was not different between the two
phenotypes of SD rats. It was concluded that different body weight phenotypes
within outbred SD population responded differently to the development of dietary
induced obesity via altered anabolic features in the hypothalamus and liver.
PMID: 12806884 [PubMed]
134: Fertil Steril. 2003 Jun;79 Suppl 3:1659-61.
Comment in:
Fertil Steril. 2004 Jan;81(1):226.
Successful treatment of anabolic steroid-induced azoospermia with human chorionic
gonadotropin and human menopausal gonadotropin.
Menon DK.
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Malaya Medical Centre, Kuala
Lumpur, Malaysia. drmenon2000@yahoo.co.uk
OBJECTIVE: To document for the first time the successful treatment using human
chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) and human menopausal gonadotropins (hMG) of
anabolic steroid-induced azoospermia that was persistent despite 1 year of
cessation from steroid use. DESIGN: Clinical case report. SETTINGS: Tertiary
referral center for infertility. PATIENT(S): A married couple with primary
subfertility secondary to azoospermia and male hypogonadotropic hypogonadism.
The husband was a bodybuilder who admitted to have used the anabolic steroids
testosterone cypionate, methandrostenolone, oxandrolone, testosterone
propionate, oxymetholone, nandrolone decanoate, and methenolone enanthate.
INTERVENTION(S): Twice-weekly injections of 10,000 IU of hCG (Profasi; Serono)
and daily injections of 75 IU of hMG (Humegon; Organon) for 3 months. MAIN
OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Semen analyses, pregnancy. RESULT(S): Semen analyses
returned to normal after 3 months of treatment. The couple conceived
spontaneously 7 months later. CONCLUSION(S): Steroid-induced azoospermia that is
persistent after cessation of steroid use can be treated successfully with hCG
and hMG.
Publication Types:
Case Reports
PMID: 12801577 [PubMed]
135: Ann Surg. 2003 Jun;237(6):801-10; discussion 810-1.
Improved net protein balance, lean mass, and gene expression changes with
oxandrolone treatment in the severely burned.
Wolf SE, Thomas SJ, Dasu MR, Ferrando AA, Chinkes DL, Wolfe RR, Herndon DN.
Department of Surgery, Shriners Burns Hospital, University of Texas Medical
Branch, 815 Market, Galveston, TX 77550, USA. swolf@utmb.edu
OBJECTIVE: To determine the effects of the anabolic agent oxandrolone on muscle
protein and gene expression in severely burned children. SUMMARY BACKGROUND
DATA: The authors previously showed that oxandrolone increased net muscle
protein synthesis in emaciated burned patients receiving delayed treatment for
severe burns. They hypothesized that similar effects would be seen in those
treated early after burn. METHODS: Thirty-two severely burned children were
enrolled in a prospective randomized trial. Subjects underwent studies to assess
leg protein net balance 5 days after the first excision and grafting procedure.
Immediately after these studies, treatment with placebo (n = 18) or 0.1 mg/kg
oxandrolone (n = 14) twice a day was started. One week after this, another net
balance study was performed in each subject. Body weights and total body
potassium counting were used to determine body compositional changes. Muscle
biopsies were taken 1 week after treatment in oxandrolone subjects to examine
gene expression changes with gene array (12,600 genes). RESULTS: Protein net
balance did not change in the placebo group, while oxandrolone-treated subjects
had a significant improvement. Body weights and fat free mass significantly
decreased in the placebo group, while no changes were found in the
oxandrolone-treated subjects. Expression changes were seen in 14 genes in the
oxandrolone group compared to placebo. Some of these included myosin light chain
(+2.7-fold change), tubulin (+2.3), calmodulin (-2.3), and protein phosphatase I
inhibitor (-2.8). CONCLUSIONS: Oxandrolone improves protein net balance and lean
mass in the severely burned. These changes are associated with increased gene
expression for functional muscle proteins.
Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
Randomized Controlled Trial
PMID: 12796576 [PubMed]
136: J Acquir Immune Defic Syndr. 2003 Jun 1;33(2):267-73.
AIDS wasting syndrome: trends, influence on opportunistic infections, and
survival.
Dworkin MS, Williamson JM; Adult/Adolescent Spectrum of HIV Disease Project.
Division of HIV/Aids Prevention-Surveillance and Epidemiology, National Center
for HIV, STD and TB Prevention, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
Atlanta, GA 30333, USA. mdworkin@idph.state.il.us
The authors examined data from a large cohort of HIV-infected persons to
demonstrate recent trends in wasting syndrome, to examine the influence of
wasting syndrome on the incidence of other opportunistic illnesses, and to
explore if any of the commonly prescribed treatments for wasting are associated
with improved survival. Kaplan-Meier analysis and multivariate left-truncated
Cox models were used to estimate time to death after the first diagnosis of
wasting syndrome and to quantify the association between the covariate and
mortality, respectively. The incidence of wasting declined during 1992 through
1999, with the most marked rate of decline occurring after 1995. The incidence
of AIDS- and non-AIDS-defining illnesses was generally high at or after a
diagnosis of wasting syndrome. Factors significantly associated with improved
survival include having a CD4+ count of > or =200 cells/L during the interval of
the wasting syndrome diagnosis and antiretroviral therapy with two or more drugs
at or after the diagnosis of wasting syndrome. Prescription of oxandrolone was
associated with improved survival, but the results did not quite reach
statistical significance. The authors' study provides supportive information
that treatment of wasting syndrome may have a favorable impact on survival.
Publication Types:
Multicenter Study
PMID: 12794565 [PubMed]
137: J Neuroendocrinol. 2003 Jul;15(7):633-7.
Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal responses to centrally administered orexin-A are
suppressed in pregnant rats.
Brunton PJ, Russell JA.
Laboratory of Neuroendocrinology, School of Biomedical and Clinical Laboratory
Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK. p.j.brunton@ed.ac.uk
Orexins are hypothalamic neuropeptides that stimulate arousal and food intake
but also activate the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. During late
pregnancy in the rat, the responsiveness of the HPA axis to stressors is
attenuated, and thus we investigated HPA axis responses to centrally
administered orexin-A during pregnancy. Intracerebroventricular injection of
orexin-A (0.5 micro g, 140 pmol) significantly increased plasma
adrenocorticotropic hormone and corticosterone concentration within 10 min in
virgin female Sprague-Dawley rats, but had no effect in day 21 pregnant rats.
Orexin-A significantly increased corticotropin-releasing hormone (CRH) mRNA
expression, measured by in situ hybridization, in the paraventricular nucleus
(PVN) of the virgin group but not in the pregnant group. Thus, the
responsiveness of PVN CRH neurones to orexin-A, and hence the pituitary-adrenal
axis, is markedly reduced in pregnancy. This may favour anabolic adaptations in
pregnancy.
PMID: 12787047 [PubMed]
138: Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2003 Jun;35(6):937-43.
Hormonal responses from concentric and eccentric muscle contractions.
Durand RJ, Castracane VD, Hollander DB, Tryniecki JL, Bamman MM, O'Neal S,
Hebert EP, Kraemer RR.
Department of Kinesiology and Health Studies, Southeastern Louisiana University,
Hammond, USA. Durandrj@pbrc.edu
Intense resistance exercise can acutely increase testosterone (T), free
testosterone (FT), and growth hormone (GH) concentrations, but there are few
investigations concerning acute endocrine responses to concentric (CON) and
eccentric (ECC) contractile actions. PURPOSE: The purpose of the study was to
compare acute anabolic hormonal responses to bouts of dynamic CON and ECC
contractions from multiple exercises at the same absolute load. METHODS: Ten
young men (age: 24.7 +/- 1.2 yr, weight: 85.45 +/- 24.2 kg, and height: 178 +/-
0.2 cm) completed two trials in counterbalanced fashion consisting of only CON
or ECC contractions at the same absolute workload. Subjects performed four sets
of 12 repetitions of bench press, leg extension, military press, and leg curl at
80% of a 10-repetition maximum with 90-s rest periods. Blood samples were
collected pre-, post-, and 15-min postexercise. RESULTS: There were significant
increases in GH, T, and FT and lactate for both trials, but only GH and lactate
were greater for the CON trial. CONCLUSION: CON exercise increases GH
concentrations to a much greater extent than ECC exercise at the same absolute
load, and it is likely that greater GH responses were related to intensity
rather than mode of contraction. Also, CON and ECC dynamic contraction trials at
the same absolute workload elicited similar small but significant increases in T
and FT, indicating that the greater metabolic stress produced by during the CON
trial did not affect these hormone responses.
PMID: 12783041 [PubMed]
139: Rheumatology (Oxford). 2003 Jun;42(6):797-8.
Cryofibrinogenaemia complicated by amyloidosis: a new association.
Ong SG, Harrow C, Devgun MS, Field M.
Publication Types:
Case Reports
Letter
PMID: 12771437 [PubMed]
140: Arch Gynecol Obstet. 2003 Jun;268(2):85-7. Epub 2002 Aug 21.
Effects of short-time (3 months) tibolone treatment on bone turnover in
postmenopausal women.
Fenkci V, Yilmazer M, Fenkci S.
M.Sait C. No:12 D:9, Dumlupinar M. Afyon, Turkey. iffenkci@ttnet.net.tr
This study was planned to elucidate the effects of tibolone on bone biochemistry
parameters in postmenopausal women at 3 month intervals. There were 56 healthy
postmenopausal women enrolled in the study. The women had not received hormone
replacement therapy (HRT) previously. Tibolone (2.5 mg/day) was prescribed for 3
months. Serum osteocalcin, calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase, creatinine
and urine calcium, phosphorus creatinine, deoxypyridinoline were measured, and
physical examinations were performed at the onset and at the end of the study.
The mean serum osteocalcin level and deoxypyridinoline/creatinine (DPD/cr) ratio
both decreased significantly (50.3% and 22.9%; P=0.012 and P=0.001,
respectively). The slight decreases in serum alkaline phosphatase (4.5%) and
urine calcium (13.6%) levels were not statistically significant. There was a
positive correlation between DPD/cr and urine calcium ( r=0.66, P=0.001). We
conclude that bone formation may be increased early by tibolone after short-term
administration.
PMID: 12768295 [PubMed]
141: Osteoporos Int. 2003 Jun;14(5):374-82. Epub 2003 May 24.
Basic fibroblast growth factor forms new trabeculae that physically connect with
pre-existing trabeculae, and this new bone is maintained with an anti-resorptive
agent and enhanced with an anabolic agent in an osteopenic rat model.
Lane NE, Kumer J, Yao W, Breunig T, Wronski T, Modin G, Kinney JH.
Division of Rheumatology, Department of Medicine, University of California at
San Francisco, Box 0868, San Francisco, California 94143, USA.
nelane@itsa.ucsf.edu
Osteoporosis is a disease of excess bone fragility that results from both the
loss of bone mass and trabecular bone microarchitecture, thereby creating a very
fragile skeleton. The purpose of this study was to determine whether treatment
of ovariectomized (OVX) osteopenic rats with basic fibroblast growth factor
(bFGF) would stimulate the production of new trabeculae, and whether the newly
formed trabeculae would make physical connections with the pre-existing
trabeculae after prolonged estrogen deficiency. Six-month-old Sprague Dawley
rats were OVXed or sham-operated and were left untreated until day 60 post-OVX.
A high resolution microscopic scan (XTM) of the right proximal tibia was
performed on groups 1 and 2 on day 1 post-OVX, and was repeated in all animals
on day 60 post-OVX. At day 60 groups 1 and 2 were treated with vehicle and
groups 3 to 6 were injected with bFGF 200 microg/kg/d intravenously for 15 days.
At day 82, all animals obtained another in vivo XTM scan of the right tibia;
then group 4 were treated with 17B estradiol 10 microg/kg/3x a week, group 5
were treated with hPTH (1-34) at 80 microg/kg/d for 35 days, group 6 were
sacrificed, and groups 1 and 2 were treated with vehicle injections for 35 days.
At day 110, all remaining animals were sacrificed, and repeat ex vivo XTM scans
of the right proximal tibia were performed. Trabecular bone structural
variables-including trabecular bone volume, connectivity, number, and
thickness-were obtained from all XTM scans. Biochemical markers of bone turnover
were also obtained 24 hours before each XTM scan (osteocalcin and
deoxypyridinoline), and analyzed by ELISA. Animals OVXed and treated with
vehicle had decreased trabecular bone volume, connectivity and number compared
to sham-operated animals at both day 60 and day 110. Animals treated with bFGF
from day 60-75 post-OVX had evidence of new trabeculae that physically connected
with pre-existing trabeculae and also of increased trabecular bone volume seven
days after the injections were discontinued. Biochemical markers of bone
formation had a small and insignificant increase over baseline levels during the
bFGF injections. Bone resorption markers were significantly reduced during the
injection period, but returned to baseline levels after the injections were
stopped. In addition, we also demonstrated that these newly formed trabecular
connections could be maintained or added to with either estrogen or hPTH (1-34)
treatments. Thirty-five days after ending the bFGF treatment, trabecular bone
volume and connectivity was 25-80% higher in the estrogen and hPTH (1-34)
treated animals compared to the untreated animals ( p<0.01). These results
support continued development of bFGF as a potential treatment for severely
osteoporotic individuals.
PMID: 12768279 [PubMed]
142: Diabetes. 2003 Jun;52(6):1377-85.
Differential regulation of protein dynamics in splanchnic and skeletal muscle
beds by insulin and amino acids in healthy human subjects.
Nygren J, Nair KS.
Division of Endocrinology, Mayo Clinic and Foundation, Joseph 5-194, 200 First
Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905, USA.
To determine the in vivo effect of amino acids (AAs) alone or in combination
with insulin on splanchnic and muscle protein dynamics, we infused stable
isotope tracers of AAs in 36 healthy subjects and sampled from femoral artery
and vein and hepatic vein. The subjects were randomized into six groups and were
studied at baseline and during infusions of saline (group 1), insulin (0.5 mU.
kg(-1). min(-1)) (group 2), insulin plus replacement of AAs (group 3) insulin
plus high-dose AAs (group 4), or somatostatin and baseline replacement doses of
insulin, glucagon and GH plus high dose of AAs (group 5) or saline (group 6).
Insulin reduced muscle release of AAs mainly by inhibition of protein breakdown.
Insulin also enhanced AA-induced muscle protein synthesis (PS) and reduced
leucine transamination. The main effect of AAs on muscle was the enhancement of
PS. Insulin had no effect on protein dynamics or leucine transamination in
splanchnic bed. However, AAs reduced protein breakdown and increased synthesis
in splanchnic bed in a dose-dependent manner. AAs also enhanced leucine
transamination in both splanchnic and muscle beds. Thus insulin's anabolic
effect was mostly on muscle, whereas AAs acted on muscle as well as on
splanchnic bed. Insulin achieved anabolic effect in muscle by inhibition of
protein breakdown, enhancing AA-induced PS, and reducing leucine transamination.
AAs largely determined protein anabolism in splanchnic bed by stimulating PS and
decreasing protein breakdown.
PMID: 12765947 [PubMed]
143: Neuroscience. 2003;119(1):113-20.
The anabolic-androgenic steroid nandrolone induces alterations in the density of
serotonergic 5HT1B and 5HT2 receptors in the male rat brain.
Kindlundh AM, Lindblom J, Bergstrom L, Nyberg F.
Department of Pharmaceutical Biosciences, Division of Biological Research on
Drug Dependence, Box 591, S-751-24 Uppsala, Sweden. anna.kindlundh@farmbio.uu.se
Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) are partly misused by males in order to
become brave and intoxicated and these agents are highly associated with
psychosis, disinhibition, aggression and acts of violence. Since such behavioral
states have been related to an imbalanced serotonergic system and the
involvement of the serotonergic 5HT(1B) and the 5HT(2) receptors, it was
important to discern the impact of AAS on these receptors. The objective of our
study was to investigate the effects of 2 weeks of treatment with the AAS
nandrolone decanoate at three different doses (1, 5, 15 mg/kg/day) on the total
specific binding of the radioligands
[(125)I]-(+/-)-1-(2,5-dimethoxy-4-iodophenyl)-2-aminopropane (DOI) (5HT(2)
receptors) by autoradiography. All doses caused a significant down-regulation of
the 5HT(1B) receptor density in the hippocampal CA(1) and in the medial globus
pallidus and a significant up-regulation of the 5HT(2) receptor density in the
nucleus accumbens shell. Alterations in receptor density were also observed in
the lateral globus pallidus, ventromedial hypothalamus, the amygdala and in the
intermediate layers of various cortex regions. In conclusion, serotonergic
5HT(1B) or 5HT(2) receptors are likely to play important roles in mediating
observed emotional states and behavioral changes among AAS abusers.
PMID: 12763073 [PubMed]
144: J Forensic Sci. 2003 May;48(3):646-51.
Measures of aggression and mood changes in male weightlifters with and without
androgenic anabolic steroid use.
Perry PJ, Kutscher EC, Lund BC, Yates WR, Holman TL, Demers L.
Clinical and Administrative Pharmacy Division, College of Pharmacy, University
of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52246, USA.
Supraphysiologic doses of testosterone are associated with increased aggression
that is hypothesized to be a function of testosterone serum concentrations,
mood, and personality. The study attempted to characterize this relationship
among weightlifters who were users (n = 10) and nonusers (n = 18) of anabolic
steroids. Participants were interviewed using the Modified Mania Rating Scale
and Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression to assess mood, the Buss-Durkee
Hostility Inventory (BDHI) and Point Subtraction Aggression Paradigm (PSAP) to
assess aggression, and the Personality Disorder Questionnaire (PDQ-R) to assess
personality. Blood samples were obtained for the determination of total, free,
and weakly bound testosterone. Comparisons of continuous variables between
testosterone users and non-users were performed with a parametric (unpaired
t-test) or non-parametric (Mann-Whitney) test where appropriate. Correlations
with testosterone were examined separately for testosterone users and non-users,
using Spearman rank correlation. The subjective (BDHI) and objective (PSAP)
assessments of aggression found that supranormal testosterone concentrations
were associated with increased aggression. However, the PDQ-R results suggest
that this finding was confounded by the personality disorder profile of the
steroid users, because steroid users demonstrated Cluster B personality disorder
traits for antisocial, borderline, and histrionic personality disorder.
PMID: 12762541 [PubMed]
145: Thromb Res. 2003 Feb 15;109(4):195-201.
Testosterone and cocaine: vascular toxicity of their concomitant abuse.
Togna GI, Togna AR, Graziani M, Franconi M.
Dipartimento di Fisiologia Umana e Farmacologia, Istituto di Farmacologia
Medica, Universita di Roma La Sapienza, P.le A. Moro, 5-00185 Rome, Italy.
giuseppina.togna@uniroma1.it
Over the last few years, several studies have described an increase in the use
of anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS). More important, frequency of AAS use was
significantly associated with frequency of psychotropic drug use, such as
cocaine. Since information is not available on the effects of their concomitant
abuse, and taking into account that cocaine and testosterone, when singly
abused, are known to induce severe adverse effects on vascular system, our
purpose was to evaluate in vitro the combined effect of these drugs on platelet
and endothelial functions. Results show that testosterone, at concentrations not
exerting any appreciably acute effects on their own, is capable of potentiating
the cocaine effect on endothelial and platelet functions, indicating that
concomitant use of testosterone and cocaine could result in enhancement of the
thrombotic risk ascribed to these drugs.
PMID: 12757774 [PubMed]
146: J Am Geriatr Soc. 2003 Jun;51(6):890-1.
Relationship between body composition and cytokines in cachectic patients with
chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.
Yeh SS, Hafner A, Schuster MW, Mantovani G, Levine DM, Parker TS.
Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
Letter
Multicenter Study
PMID: 12757590 [PubMed]
147: Cas Lek Cesk. 2003 Mar;142(3):157-63.
[Hormones and quality of life in aging men]
[Article in Czech]
Hanus M, Matouskova M, Starka L, Hill M.
hanus@bon.cz
BACKGROUND: Aging men suffer from a decrease of androgen-anabolic steroids known
as "Partial Androgen Decline in the Aging Male" (PADAM) that is sometimes
compensated by the use of androgen replacement therapy. METHODS AND RESULTS: To
decide whether androgen therapy should be considered, hormonal serum levels are
commonly tested. In addition, the St. Louis questionnaire is used as and
indication. Accordingly, serum levels of testosterone, androstendione,
dihydrotestosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone, its sulphate, epimers of
7-hydroxy-dehydroepiandrosterone, epitestosterone, lutropin, follitropin,
prolactin and sex hormone binding globulin were measured in 216 men over 50
years of age. Further, the Sr. Louis questionnaire was applied and the extent of
the relations among the data was evaluated. RIA and IRMA kits from Immunotech
and Orion-Diagnostica were used for measurement of the hormones except
epitestosterone and 7-hydroxy-dehydroepiandrosterone epimers, which were
determined using specific radioimmunoassays. CONCLUSIONS: The decline in the
index of free testosterone, given by the increase of SHBG levels, as well as the
decrease in the levels of DHEA and its derivates were the most prominent. No
correlation was found between the levels of hormones and the individual items of
the questionnaire or with the total score calculated from the questionnaire
data. In conclusion, the University of Saint Louis questionnaire did not give a
reliable indication of an androgen deficit. However, the found values and their
changes can still be helpful during the decision process concerning indication
and initiation of hormone replacement.
PMID: 12756844 [PubMed]
148: Fertil Steril. 2003 Apr;79(4):947-55.
Hyperandrogenicity is an alternative mechanism underlying oligomenorrhea or
amenorrhea in female athletes and may improve physical performance.
Rickenlund A, Carlstrom K, Ekblom B, Brismar TB, von Schoultz B, Hirschberg AL.
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Karolinska Hospital and Huddinge
University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden. anette.rickenlund@ks.se
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate endocrine mechanisms underlying oligomenorrhea or
amenorrhea in female athletes. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. SETTING: Women's
health clinical research unit at a university hospital. PATIENT(S): Age- and
BMI-matched groups of athletes active in endurance sports with and without
menstrual disturbances and regularly cycling sedentary controls.
INTERVENTION(S): Groups were compared with respect to endocrine status, body
composition, and physical performance. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Identification
of a subgroup of oligomenorrheic or amenorrheic athletes with increased androgen
levels and anabolic body composition. RESULT(S): A subgroup of 8 of 25 athletes
with menstrual disturbances had significantly higher serum levels of free and
total testosterone, androstenedione, LH-FSH ratio, and lower SHBG levels than
did all other groups. Other oligomenorrheic or amenorrheic athletes had normal
values comparable to those in regularly menstruating athletes and controls. The
hyperandrogenic subgroup showed a more anabolic body composition, with higher
total bone mineral density and upper-lower fat mass ratio than did
oligomenorrheic or amenorrheic athletes with normal androgen levels. The
hyperandrogenic subgroup had the highest VO2 max and the highest performance
values in general. CONCLUSION(S): Menstrual disturbances in female athletes are
often explained as a consequence of hypothalamic inhibition and caloric
deficiency. We suggest that essential hyperandrogenism is an alternative
mechanism underlying oligomenorrhea or amenorrhea in some female athletes and
may imply an advantage for physical performance.
PMID: 12749436 [PubMed]
149: Domest Anim Endocrinol. 2003 May;24(4):265-85.
Dietary 135-fold cholecalciferol supplementation severely disturbs the
endochondral ossification in growing dogs.
Tryfonidou MA, Holl MS, Stevenhagen JJ, Buurman CJ, Deluca HF,
Oosterlaken-Dijksterhuis MA, van den Brom WE, van Leeuwen JP, Hazewinkel HA.
Department of Clinical Sciences of Companion Animals, Faculty of Veterinary
Medicine, Utrecht University, Yalelaan 8, 3584 CM, Utrecht, The Netherlands.
M.A.Tryfonidouvet.uu.nl
The effects of excessive non-toxic dietary Vitamin D(3) supplementation on Ca
homeostasis with specific effects on endochondral ossification and skeletal
remodeling were investigated in a group of growing Great Dane dogs supplemented
with cholecalciferol (Vitamin D(3); HVitD) versus a control group (CVitD) (1350
microg versus 11.4 microg Vitamin D(3) per kilogram diet) from 6 to 21 weeks of
age. There were no differences between groups in plasma concentrations of total
Ca, inorganic phosphate, growth hormone, and insulin-like growth factor I and no
signs of Vitamin D(3) intoxication in HVitD. For the duration of the study in
HVitD compared to CVitD, plasma levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH) decreased,
calcitonin (CT) increased, 25-hydroxycholecalciferol [25(OH)D(3)] increased 30-
to 75-fold, 24,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol [24,25(OH)(2)D(3)] increased 12- to
16-fold, and 1,25-dihydroxycholecalciferol [1,25(OH)(2)D(3)] decreased by
approximately 40%. The latter was attributed to the two-fold increased metabolic
clearance rate in the HVitD versus CVitD accompanied by the absence of the
anabolic effect of PTH on the production of 1,25(OH)(2)D(3). Fractional Ca
absorption (alpha) did not differ between groups at 8 and 14 weeks of age,
whereas at 20 weeks of age alpha increased by only 16.4% in HVitD compared to
CVitD. Excessive non-toxic Vitamin D(3) supplementation resulted in decreased
bone remodeling and focal enlargement of the growth plate with morphology
resembling those induced by administration of CT. Hypercalcitoninemia and the
imbalanced relationship between 1,25(OH)(2)D(3) and 24,25(OH)(2)D(3) are potent
candidates for the disturbed endochondral ossification.
PMID: 12742547 [PubMed]
150: Analyst. 2003 Apr;128(4):363-8.
Quantitative measurement of male steroid hormones using automated on-line solid
phase extraction-liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry and comparison
with radioimmunoassay.
Chang YC, Li CM, Li LA, Jong SB, Liao PC, Chang LW.
Division of Environmental Health and Occupational Medicine, National Health
Research Institutes, Taiwan.
A specific and sensitive method using high-performance liquid
chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS-MS) equipped with automatic
on-line solid-phase extraction device for the quantitative measurement of
anabolic hormone residues, 4-androstene-3,17-dione, testosterone and
dihydrotestosterone in cell culture medium was developed. Steroid content in
cell culture medium was determined directly without an additional sample
preparation step. Separation of analytes from polar endogenous compounds was
carried out on an automatic column-switching device coupled with a C4-alkyl-diol
silica restricted-access solid-phase extraction column. The lipophilic fraction
containing anabolic hormone residues were back-flushed on to a conventional C-18
reversed-phase column for the final chromatography. The analyte was ionized in
an ElectroSpray interface under positive ion mode before entering a quadrupole
mass analyzer. The lowest points of calibration curves were 0.05 ng ml(-1) for
4-androstene-3,17-dione and testosterone, and 1 ng ml(-1) dihydrotestosterone,
respectively. A comparison with results from radioimmunoassay (RIA) is also
presented.
PMID: 12741642 [PubMed]
151: Int J Sports Med. 2003 Apr;24(3):195-6.
Androgenic anabolic steroid use and severe hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction: a
case study.
van Breda E, Keizer HA, Kuipers H, Wolffenbuttel BH.
Department of Movement Sciences, Nutrition and Toxicology Research Institute
Maastricht (NUTRIM), University, PO Box 616, 6200 MD Maastricht, the
Netherlands. eric.vanbreda@bw.unimaas.nl
The data of the present case demonstrate that the abuse of androgenic anabolic
steroids (AAS) may lead to serious health effects. Although most clinical
attention is usually directed towards peripheral side effects, the most serious
central side effect, hypothalamic-pituitary-dysfunction, is often overlooked in
severe cases. Although this latter central side-effect usually recovers
spontaneously when AAS intake is discontinued, the present case shows that
spontaneous recovery does not always take place. We suggest that
hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction should always be considered in the
differential diagnosis in athletes seen with typical presentation of anabolic
steroid use. In order to regain normal hypothalamic-pituitary function,
supraphysiological doses of 200 microg LH-RH should be considered when the
physiological challenge test with LH-RH (50 microg) fails to show an acceptable
response.
Publication Types:
Case Reports
PMID: 12740738 [PubMed]
152: Obstet Gynecol. 2003 May;101(5 Pt 2):1073-5.
Reversible azoospermia: anabolic steroids may profoundly affect human
immunodeficiency virus-seropositive men undergoing assisted reproduction.
Pena JE, Thornton MH Jr, Sauer MV.
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Columbia-Presbyterian Medical Center,
College of Physicians & Surgeons, Columbia University, New York, New York 10032,
USA.
BACKGROUND: In vitro fertilization (IVF) with intracytoplasmic sperm injection
(ICSI) has recently been offered to human immunodeficiency virus
(HIV)-serodiscordant couples where the man is seropositive and the woman
seronegative to achieve pregnancy while minimizing the risk of HIV transmission.
Anabolic steroids are commonly prescribed medications for adjunctive treatment
of HIV disease to prevent muscle wasting. CASE: An HIV-serodiscordant couple
presented for fertility care and evaluation. The man was found to be
azoospermic. Further evaluation attributed his azoospermia to his treatment with
testosterone and oxandrolone. After these agents were discontinued, his
azoospermia resolved within 3 months. Normal sperm were then cryopreserved for
future use, and his medications were resumed. Later the couple conceived by
IVF-ICSI using the cryopreserved sperm. CONCLUSION: The popular use of anabolic
steroids in HIV-infected men may predispose them to abnormal sperm production.
Publication Types:
Case Reports
PMID: 12738106 [PubMed]
153: AIDS Read. 1999 Sep;9(6):398, 401-2, 407.
Appetite stimulants and anabolic steroid therapy for AIDS wasting.
Saseen J, MacLaughlin EJ.
School of Pharmacy, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Denver,
Colorado, USA.
PMID: 12737131 [PubMed]
154: J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab. 2003 Mar;16 Suppl 2:307-15.
Growth and puberty in Turner's syndrome.
Bertelloni S, Baroncelli GI, Fruzzetti F, Spinelli C, Simi P, Saggese G.
Pediatric Endocrinology and Adolescent Medicine, Division of Paediatrics,
University of Pisa, Santa Chiara Hospital, Pisa, Italy.
s.bertelloni@clp.med.unipi.it
Turner's syndrome is the commonest sex chromosome abnormality in females,
resulting from the absence of an X chromosome or the presence of a structurally
abnormal X chromosome. Short stature and ovarian failure are the most consistent
clinical features and require specific and co-ordinated medical approaches in
order to improve final height and well-being in adulthood. High doses of growth
hormone (GH) are able to improve adult height in comparison with untreated
patients. GH therapy should be started during childhood as soon as the growth
curve declines below the 5th percentile and doses adjusted according to clinical
response. Some studies reported that combined therapy with GH and an anabolic
steroid--oxandrolone--is also beneficial at lower GH doses. Ovarian failure
should be treated by appropriate substitutive estrogen therapy. Since estrogen
administration may impair growth of patients with Turner's syndrome, the age at
beginning of therapy should be individualized taking into consideration
potential growth, the need for feminization, bone mineral density and the
psychological well-being of each patient. Well co-ordinated endocrine
interventions can permit better long-term outcome in adulthood.
Publication Types:
Review
Review, Tutorial
PMID: 12729409 [PubMed]
155: Biomed Sci Instrum. 2003;39:511-6.
The analysis of the dorsal aorta and renal vessels exposed to sustained delivery
of AED, T, and DHT using a rat model.
Credit SL, Benghuzzi HA, Tucci M, Farah I, Cameron JA.
Jackson State University, Jackson, MS 39204, USA.
Studies have shown that endogenous estrogen minimized cellular injury at the
organ level; however, very little research was done to determine the effects of
endogenous androgens such as Testosterone (T), Dihydrotestosterone, (DHT), and
Androstenedione (AED) on the cardiovascular system at the cellular level.
Studies targeted at establishing such effects will broaden our understanding of
the roles played by these male steroid hormones on the cardiovascular system.
Our objective therefore was to (1) Use a Rat model and sustained delivery of
physiological levels of these hormones to and (2) evaluate pathophysiological
effects on the dorsal aorta and renal vessels. Sprague Dawley rats equally
divided into four groups (n = 4) were included in the study. Group 1 animals
served as control, groups II, III, and IV were treated with TCPL drug delivery
devices containing 40 mg each of T, DHT, and AED, respectively. Animals were
sacrificed after 90 days of exposure. Aorta and renal vessels were stained with
hemotoxylin and eosin for histopathological evaluation. Results showed that TCPL
drug delivery systems released 5 ng/ml/day of T, and 2 ng/ml/day of DHT and AED.
After 90 days and evaluating each group, the renal arteries showed that groups
exposed to T, DHT and AED showed an increase in the width of the measured
arteries compared to the control group. The renal arteries exposed to AED showed
the most significant increase in width. Compared to the dorsal aorta of the
control group, T treated animals had decreased dorsal aorta width. The results
revealed the following: (i) the exposure of sustained levels of androgenic
hormones exhibited increased width of the renal arteries compared to the control
animals; (ii) animals treated with sustained delivery of T had a decreased
aortic width when compared to control animals; and (iii) anabolic receptors may
be differentially expressed in the dorsal aorta and renal vessels of adult male
rats.
PMID: 12724944 [PubMed]
156: Orv Hetil. 2003 Mar 23;144(12):563-8.
[Optimizing estrogen treatment in Turner syndrome]
[Article in Hungarian]
Sagodi L, Solyom E.
Borsod-Abauj-Zemplen Megyei Korhaz, Gyermekegeszsegugyi Kozpont, III. Csecsemo
es Gyermekosztaly, Miskolc.
INTRODUCTION AND AIM: Authors deducibled from retrospective analysis of patients
data with Turner syndrome, who reached near adult height and from results of
many multicentre study, that induction of puberty should be designed
individually. They show, that estrogen therapy used in their earlier practice
for growth promoting did not improve final height of patients. METHODS: The
patients were assigned into three groups. The group 1. consisted of untreated
patients, who had spontaneous puberty (n = 10). The group 2. consisted of
patients, who received oxandrolone and estrogen (n = 18). The group 3. consisted
of patients treated with growth hormone (n = 17). In those patients received
growth hormone estrogen treatment was started at the age of 14.7 +/- 1.97 years.
RESULTS: The final height or near adult height was 144.0 +/- 4.6 cm, 143.5 +/-
1.8 cm, and 154.2 +/- 7.0 cm in group 1, 2 and 3 respectively. The final height
was not greater in the group 2. compared to that found in patients who developed
spontaneous puberty (group 1.). CONCLUSION: The individual estrogen therapy in
patients treated with growth hormone allows feminization, as well as the best
adult height, without the occurrence of the more serious mental disturbances.
Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
Controlled Clinical Trial
PMID: 12723527 [PubMed]
157: J Anim Sci. 2003 Apr;81(4):965-72.
Growth factor messenger RNA levels in muscle and liver of steroid-implanted and
nonimplanted steers.
White ME, Johnson BJ, Hathaway MR, Dayton WR.
Animal Growth and Development Laboratory, Department of Animal Science,
University of Minnesota, St. Paul 55108, USA.
Ribonuclease protection assays were used to measure steady-state semimembranosus
muscle and/or hepatic levels of IGF-I, IGFBP-3, IGFBP-5, hepatocyte growth
factor (HGF), and myostatin messenger RNA (mRNA) in steers implanted from 32 to
38 d with Revalor-S, a combined trenbolone acetate and estradiol implant.
Insulin-like growth factor-ImRNA levels were 69% higher (P < 0.01, n = 7) in the
livers of implanted steers than in the livers of nonimplanted steers. Similarly,
IGF-I mRNA levels were 50% higher (P < 0.05, n = 7) in the semimembranosus
muscles of implanted steers than in the same muscles from nonimplanted steers.
Hepatic IGFBP-3 mRNA levels were 24% higher (P < 0.07, n = 7) in implanted
steers than in nonimplanted steers. Hepatic HGF and IGFBP-5 mRNA levels did not
differ between implanted and nonimplanted steers. Similarly, muscle IGFBP-3,
IGFBP-5, HGF, and myostatin mRNA levels were not affected by treatment. Previous
data from these same steers have shown that circulating IGF-I and IGFBP-3
concentrations were 30 to 40% higher (P < 0.01, n = 7) in implanted steers than
in nonimplanted, control steers. Additionally, the number of actively
proliferating satellite cells that could be isolated from the semimembranosus
muscle was 45% higher (P < 0.01, n = 7) for implanted steers than for
nonimplanted steers. Viewed together, these data suggest that increased muscle
IGF-I levels stimulate increased satellite cell proliferation, resulting in the
increased muscle growth observed in Revalor-S implanted steers.
PMID: 12723086 [PubMed]
158: Eur Heart J. 2003 May;24(10):909-15.
Acute haemodynamic effects of testosterone in men with chronic heart failure.
Pugh PJ, Jones TH, Channer KS.
Department of Cardiology, Royal Hallamshire Hospital, Glossop Road, S10 2JF,
Sheffield, UK.
AIMS: Anabolic therapy with testosterone may be useful in the treatment of
wasting associated with chronic heart failure but little is known about its
cardiovascular actions. The aim of this study was to determine the acute
haemodynamic effects of testosterone administration in men with heart failure.
METHODS AND RESULTS: Twelve men with stable chronic heart failure were enrolled
in a double-blind, randomised, placebo-controlled, cross-over trial. Subjects
were given testosterone 60 mg or placebo via the buccal route and central
haemodynamics were monitored over 6h, using a pulmonary flotation catheter.
Subjects received the second treatment on day 2 and haemodynamic monitoring was
repeated. Treatment was well tolerated. Compared with placebo, testosterone
treatment resulted in a relative increase in cardiac output (p<0.0001, ANCOVA),
with maximum treatment effect after 180 min (10.3+/-4.6% increase from baseline,
p=0.035; 95% CI 0.8-19.8). This was accompanied by reduction in systemic
vascular resistance compared with baseline (p<0.0001, ANCOVA), with maximum
treatment effect also at 180 min (-17.4+/-9.6% from baseline, p=0.085; 95% CI
-37.3 to +2.6). These maximal changes coincided with the peak elevation in serum
bio-available testosterone. There was no significant change in any other
haemodynamic parameter measured. CONCLUSIONS: Administration of testosterone
increases cardiac output acutely, apparently via reduction of left ventricular
afterload.
Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
Randomized Controlled Trial
PMID: 12714022 [PubMed]
159: J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol. 2003 Feb;84(2-3):369-75.
Reversibility of the effects on blood cells, lipids, liver function and hormones
in former anabolic-androgenic steroid abusers.
Urhausen A, Torsten A, Wilfried K.
Faculty of Clinical Medicine, Institute of Sports and Preventive Medicine,
University of Saarland, Germany. a.urhausen@rz.uni-sb.de
BACKGROUND: In contrast to the acute effects of anabolic-androgenic steroid
(AAS) abuse, the long-term risk profile of former long-term abusers (ExA) is
less clear. METHODS: Blood parameters of 32 male bodybuilders and powerlifters
were studied. Fifteen ExA had not been abusing AAS for at least 12-43 months on
average (mean dosage 700 mg for 26 weeks per year over 9 years), 17 athletes (A)
were still abusing AAS (750 mg for 33 weeks per 8 years). FINDINGS: Hemoglobin
(+5%), leucocytes (+33%) and platelets (+38%) were significantly higher in A.
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) were higher,
cholinesterase activity (CHE) lower in A (65+/-55, 38+/-27 and 3719+/-1528U/l)
compared to ExA (24+/-10, 18+/-11 and 6345+/-975U/l; each P<0.001) with normal
values for gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (gamma-GT) and bilirubin. ALT, AST and
CHE correlated significantly with the extent (duration and weekly dosage,
expressed as a point score) of AAS abuse in A (r=0.68, 0.57 and -0.62; each
P<0.01). Total and LDL-cholesterol were similar, HDL-cholesterol was distinctly
lower in A than in ExA (17+/-11 and 43+/-11 mg/dl; P<0.001) and correlated
negatively with the extent of AAS abuse (r=-0.50; P<0.05). Testosterone and
estradiol were significantly higher, while LH, FSH and the
sexual-hormone-binding (SHB) protein were lower in A than in ExA (each P<0.001).
Two ExA had testosterone levels below the normal range. INTERPRETATION: The
alterations in cell counts, HDL-cholesterol, liver function and most hormones of
the pituitary-testicular axis induced by a long-term abuse of AAS were
reversible after stopping the medication for over 1 year. In some ExA, an
increased ALT activity and a depressed testosterone synthesis were found.
PMID: 12711025 [PubMed]
160: J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol. 2003 Feb;84(2-3):159-66.
The gastrointestinal tract as target of steroid hormone action: quantification
of steroid receptor mRNA expression (AR, ERalpha, ERbeta and PR) in 10 bovine
gastrointestinal tract compartments by kinetic RT-PCR.
Pfaffl MW, Lange IG, Meyer HH.
Institute of Physiology, Research Centre for Milk and Food Weihenstephan,
Weihenstephaner Berg 3, Technische Universitat Munchen, D-85350, Freising,
Germany. pfaffl@wzw.tum.de
We have examined the tissue-specific mRNA expression pattern of androgen
receptor (AR), both estrogen receptor (ER) subtypes ERalpha and ERbeta and
progestin receptor (PR) in 10 bovine gastrointestinal compartments. Goal of this
study was to evaluate the deviating tissue sensitivities and the influence of
the estrogenic active preparation Ralgro on the compartment-specific expression
regulation. Ralgro contains Zeranol which shows strong estrogenic and anabolic
effects. Eight heifers were treated for 8 weeks with Ralgro at different dosages
(0, 1, 3, and 10 times). To quantify the very low abundant steroid receptor mRNA
transcripts sensitive and reliable real-time (kinetic) reverse transcription
(RT)-PCR quantification methods were validated on the LightCycler. Expression
results indicate the existence of AR and both ER subtypes in all 10
gastrointestinal compartments. PR receptor was expressed at very low abundancy.
Gastrointestinal tissues exhibit a specific ERalpha and ERbeta expression
pattern with high expression levels for both subtypes in rectum, colon and
ileum. With increasing Zeranol concentrations a significant down-regulation for
ERalpha and ERbeta was observed in jejunum (P<0.001 and <0.05, respectively).
Significant up-regulations under estrogen treatment could be shown in abomasum
for ERalpha (P<0.05) and in rectum for ERbeta (P<0.001). The authors conclude,
that especially estrogens and the expression of their corresponding receptor
subtypes may play an important role in the modulation and regulation in gastric
as well as gut functions, cell proliferation and possibly in the pathophysiology
of cell cancer. The different expression patterns of ERalpha and ERbeta can be
regarded as support of the hypothesis that the subtype proteins may have
different biological functions in the gastrointestinal tract. AR and PR seem to
be not estrogen dependent.
PMID: 12710999 [PubMed]
161: Z Kardiol. 2003 Apr;92(4):326-31.
[Coronary thrombosis and ectasia of coronary arteries after long-term use of
anabolic steroids]
[Article in German]
Tischer KH, Heyny-von Haussen R, Mall G, Doenecke P.
Klinikum Darmstadt, Medizinische Klinik I, Grafenstrasse 9, 64283 Darmstadt,
Germany.
Chronic abuse of anabolic steroids is widespread. Hypertrophy of skeletal and
heart muscle is a well-known effect of chronic anabolic steroid abuse.
Structural alterations of blood vessels are new side effects. We report a case
of a 32-year-old bodybuilder after long-term use of anabolic steroids who died
of cardiac arrest. Coronary angiography and autopsy findings showed especially a
hypertrophic heart, structural changes of coronary arteries, intracoronary
thrombosis and myocardial infarction, ventricular thrombosis and systemic
embolism
Publication Types:
Case Reports
PMID: 12707792 [PubMed]
162: Cad Saude Publica. 2003 Jan-Feb;19(1):69-79. Epub 2003 Apr 01.
[Drugs and health in the Brazilian press: an analysis of articles published in
newspapers and magazines]
[Article in Portuguese]
Noto AR, Baptista MC, Faria ST, Nappo SA, Galduroz JC, Carlini EA.
Centro Brasileiro de Informa es sobre Drogas Psicotropicas, Departamento de
Psicobiologia, Escola Paulista de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Sao Paulo,
Sao Paulo, SP, 04023-062, Brasil.
This article analyzes information recently published by the Brazilian press on
the use of psychoactive drugs and its implications on health. A sample of 502
newspaper and magazine articles published in 1998 was researched using content
analysis. The drugs most frequently featured in the headlines were tobacco
(18.1%), coca-derived drugs (9.2%), marijuana (9.2%), alcoholic beverages
(8.6%), and anabolic steroids (7.4%). Solvents were featured in only one
article, although they are the most commonly used drug in Brazil, second only to
alcohol and tobacco. These data indicate an imbalance between the journalistic
approach and the epidemiological profile of psychoactive drug consumption in
Brazil. Dependence was the most frequent consequence mentioned in the articles
(46%), followed by violence (9.2%), withdrawal syndrome (8.0%), and AIDS (6.8%).
The focus of the articles varied according to the drug in question. While
articles on marijuana focused on its therapeutic use and legalization, those on
cocaine-related issues discussed both the damage caused by consumption as well
as various interventions (treatment and repression).
PMID: 12700785 [PubMed]
163: Endocrinol Metab Clin North Am. 2003 Mar;32(1):285-307.
New anabolic therapies in osteoporosis.
Rubin MR, Bilezikian JP.
Department of Medicine, College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University,
630 West 168th Street, New York, NY 10032, USA.
Anabolic agents represent an important new advance in the therapy of
osteoporosis. Their potential might be substantially greater than the
anti-resorptives. Because the anti-resorptives and anabolic agents work by
completely distinct mechanisms of action, it is possible that the combination of
agents could be significantly more potent than either agent alone. Recent
evidence suggests that a plateau in BMD might occur after prolonged exposure to
PTH. Anti-resorptive therapy during or after anabolic therapy might prevent this
skeletal adaptation. Protocols to consider anabolic agents as intermittent
recycling therapy would be of interest. Of all the anabolics, PTH is the most
promising. However, there are unanswered questions about PTH. More studies are
needed to document an anabolic effect on cortical bone. More large-scale studies
are needed to further determine the reduction in nonvertebral fractures with
PTH, especially at the hip. In the future, PTH is likely to be modified for
easier and more targeted delivery. Oral or transdermal delivery systems may
become available. Recently, Gowen et al have described an oral calcilytic
molecule that antagonizes the parathyroid cell calcium receptor, thus
stimulating the endogenous release of PTH. This approach could represent a novel
endogenous delivery system for intermittent PTH administration. Rising
expectations that anabolic therapies for osteoporosis will soon play a major
role in treating this disease are likely to fuel further studies and the
development of even more novel approaches to therapy.
Publication Types:
Review
Review, Academic
PMID: 12699304 [PubMed]
164: Aviakosm Ekolog Med. 2003;37(1):24-8.
[Morphofunctional changes in the endocrine system of male rats during
microgravity and suspension]
[Article in Russian]
Kaplanskii AS, Alekseev EI, Loginov VI.
Morphofunctional changes in somatotrophs and gonadotrophs of the adenohypophysis
and Leydig's cells in the testicles were investigated histologically and
hystomorphometrically in male rats following microgravity or tail-suspension.
Deficient loading of the musculoskeletal system in microgravity was shown to
suppress the functional activity of somatotrophs, gonadotrophs and, seemingly,
Leydig's cells. As a consequence, blood levels of the growth hormone and
testosterone reduced in the space-flown rats. Reduction of the production of the
main anabolic hormones is one of the causes for growth inhibition, prevalence of
catabolism and consequent muscular atrophy and osteopenia. Simulation of the
lack of weight loading inherent to the zero-g environment by suspension also
leads to suppression of the somatotrophs activity, whereas the concentration and
functional activity of gonadotrophs make a sharp rise. Proliferation of Leydig's
cells in the testicles was noted to be very high despite desolation of the
seminal canals and disintegration of the testicle epithelium. These findings
drive to the conclusion that suspension affects deeply the spermiogenous and
androgenous functions of the testicle which is not observed in animals exposed
to microgravity. These differences evidence that genesis of the musculoskeletal
atrophy in the suspended and space-flown rats was dissimilar.
PMID: 12696498 [PubMed]
165: Z Gastroenterol. 2003 Apr;41(4):333-42.
[Alcoholic liver disease--established treatment and new therapeutic approaches]
[Article in German]
Stickel F, Seitz HK, Hahn EG, Schuppan D.
Medizinische Klinik I und Poliklinik, Friedrich-Alexander-Universitat
Erlangen-Nurnberg, Erlangen. felix.stickel@med1.imed.uni-erlangen.de
Alcoholic liver disease is the most frequent organ damage encountered in chronic
alcoholics and the annual death rate attributed to alcohol-induced end-stage
liver disease exceeds that of car accidents. Alcoholic liver damage occurs
mainly due to the toxicity of its first metabolite acetaldehyde, and due to
interactions with numerous macro- and micronutrients. Established treatment
options comprise psychotherapy aiming to achieve abstinence, nutritional
therapy, management of hepatological complications, and liver transplantation in
selected individuals. Since these therapeutic approaches are unsuccessful in
many patients, pharmacological therapies of alcoholic liver disease are being
investigated. Many drugs failed to be beneficial or have even shown toxicity.
However, some agents are promising, such as S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAMe),
pentoxifylline, metadoxin, polyenylphosphatidylcholine or inhibitors of the
cytochrome P450 2E1 isoenzyme. In severely ill patients with alcoholic
hepatitis, drugs with anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha activity are currently
investigated in clinical trials. If and how far corticosteroids are beneficial
remains controversial and their use should be restricted to selected patients.
Anabolic steroids used to enhance the nutritional status may lead to serious
side effects while having a marginal benefit. Silymarin has not been proven
efficacious in alcoholic cirrhosis and clinical trials are ongoing which aim to
elucidate its therapeutic value in less advanced stages of liver disease.
Publication Types:
Review
Review, Academic
PMID: 12695940 [PubMed]
166: Am J Orthod Dentofacial Orthop. 2003 Apr;123(4):435-40.
The effect of anabolic steroids on mandibular growth.
Gebhardt A, Pancherz H.
Department of Orthodontics, University of Giessen, Germany.
The aim of this study was to assess the effect of nandrolone (Deca-Durabolin,
AKZO Nobel, Cambridge, United Kingdom) on mandibular growth in juvenile and
adult rats with radiographic cephalometry and immunoradiology. Juvenile (n = 16)
and adult (n = 16) inbred female Wistar-Kyoto rats were compared. Each group was
divided into 2 subgroups with 8 experimental (E) and 8 control (C) animals in
each subgroup. Lateral headfilms taken before and after the 70-day study period
were analyzed. Body weight and blood serum IGF-I levels were monitored weekly.
The results showed marked mandibular growth changes in both the juvenile and the
adult E rats. Body weight increase was larger in the E than in the C animals.
The IGF-I blood serum levels were similar in the juvenile E and C rats but
higher in the adult E animals than in the adult C animals. It was found that the
anabolic steroid (Deca-Durabolin) had a significant effect on mandibular growth
in both juvenile and adult rats.
PMID: 12695771 [PubMed]
167: Indian J Exp Biol. 2002 Oct;40(10):1206-8.
Influence of steroid hormones on plasma proteins in freshwater tilapia
Oreochromis mossambicus.
Sunny F, Mohan KG, Oommen OV.
Department of Zoology, University College, Trivandrum 695 034, India.
The effect of administration of cortisol, corticosterone, testosterone,
progesterone and a synthetic estrogen, diethylstilbestrol on plasma proteins of
tilapia (Oreochromis mossambicus) was investigated. SDS-PAGE clearly revealed
the appearance of several new bands of protein, which were not present in the
control plasma and were comparable to the known bands of the molecular markers.
Of the different bands appeared in the steroids treated plasma, the most
important ones were the presumed vitellogenin and corticotrophin binding
globulin with a molecular weight of 180 and 17 kDa, respectively. Increase in
protein bands in the steroid treated plasma of O. mossambicus confirmed the
anabolic role of steroids in teleost.
PMID: 12693708 [PubMed]
168: Liver Transpl. 2003 Apr;9(4):360-4.
Long-term effects of liver transplantation on bone mineral density in children
with end-stage liver disease: a 2-year prospective study.
Okajima H, Shigeno C, Inomata Y, Egawa H, Uemoto S, Asonuma K, Kiuchi T, Konishi
J, Tanaka K.
Department of Transplantation and Immunology, Kyoto University, Japan.
hokajima@fc.kuh.kumamoto-u.ac.jp
In children with end-stage liver disease, little is known regarding the
long-term effects of liver transplantation on bone. In this 2-year prospective
study, we evaluated the effects of liver transplantation on bone mineral density
(BMD) and on other parameters of bone metabolism in 30 consecutive children with
biliary atresia who underwent liver transplantation after failed Kasai
operation. Tacrolimus and steroids were used as immunosuppressants. BMD of the
first through fourth lumbar spine (L1-4) was measured by dual-energy
radiographic absorptiometry (QDR-2000, Hologic) and expressed in Z-values.
Before transplantation, Z-values of BMD, height, and weight were low in all
patients (-3.4 +/- 0.34, -2.0 +/- 0.28, and -1.67 +/- O.16 [mean +/- SEM],
respectively). Low BMD states were associated with low levels of serum
25-hydroxyvitamin D and serum levels of insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I),
one of the most potent anabolic skeletal growth factors. Liver transplantation
resulted in marked improvement in BMD values as well as in height and body
weight: 24 months after transplantation, recovery was achieved in each parameter
(0.16 +/- 0.30, -0.29 +/- 0.23, and 0.42 +/- 0.18, respectively). BMD recovery
first was observed 3 months after transplantation. Moreover, these favorable
effects of transplantation were accompanied by increases in serum levels of
25-hydroxyvitamin D and IGF-I. We conclude that liver transplantation
effectively reverses the low bone mass status and growth retardation of children
with end-stage liver disease.
PMID: 12682886 [PubMed]
169: Luminescence. 2003 Mar-Apr;18(2):72-8.
A rapid and sensitive 384-well microtitre format chemiluminescent enzyme
immunoassay for 19-nortestosterone.
Roda A, Manetta AC, Portanti O, Mirasoli M, Guardigli M, Pasini P, Lelli R.
Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Bologna, Via Belmeloro 6,
40126 Bologna, Italy. roda@alma.unibo.it
We developed a competitive chemiluminescent (CL) enzyme immunoassay for rapid,
sensitive analysis of 19-nortestosterone (19-NT) in bovine urine. Anti-19-NT
polyclonal antibodies were raised in rabbits using a 19-NT-hemisuccinate
derivative conjugated with ovalbumin; the derivative was also conjugated with
horseradish peroxidase (HRP) as a label. Antibodies were immobilized on 384-well
black polystyrene microtitre plates and HRP-labelled 19-NT activity was measured
using an efficient chemiluminescent substrate (SuperSignal ELISA Femto) after 3
min incubation. Emitted light was recorded using a conventional,
photomultiplier-tube-based microtitre plate reader or a sensitive
back-illuminated, cooled CCD camera. The developed method fulfils all the
requirements of precision (intra- and inter-assay CV < 10%) and accuracy (mean
recovery 94-112%), with a detection limit of 0.03 ppb (1.1 x 10(-9) mol/L) in a
urine matrix. Chemiluminescence enhances detectability of the HRP-labelled
tracer (thus lowering the limit of detection with respect to colorimetry) and
reduces analysis time. The 384-well microtitre plate cuts the sample/reagent
volume (20 microL), a five-fold reduction with respect to the conventional
96-well microtitre plate. The developed method is suitable for high-throughput
screening of 19-NT in urine samples, with reduced costs as compared with
conventional colorimetric enzyme immunoassays. Copyright 2003 John Wiley & Sons,
Ltd.
PMID: 12687626 [PubMed]
170: Lancet Infect Dis. 2003 Apr;3(4):187-8.
Comment on:
Lancet Infect Dis. 2002 Nov;2(11):692-9.
HIV and testosterone therapy.
Hengge U.
Department of Dermatology, Heinrich-Heine-Universitat Dusseldorf, Dusseldorf,
Germany. ulrich.hengge@uni-duesseldorf.de
Publication Types:
Comment
PMID: 12679258 [PubMed]
171: Gen Comp Endocrinol. 2003 Apr;131(2):106-16.
Effect of embryonic 19-nortestosterone treatment and surgical bursectomy on
plasma concentrations of reproductive hormones, on inhibin content in adrenals
and gonads and on the histological appearance of the gonads in the young
chicken.
Bruggeman V, Room G, Vanmontfort D, Verhoeven G, Decuypere E.
Laboratory for Physiology and Immunology of Domestic Animals, Catholic
University of Leuven, Kasteelpark Arenberg 30, B-3001 Leuven, Belgium.
Four-day-old chick embryos were hormonally treated with 19-nortestosterone in
order to inhibit bursa development. At days 1, 4, 8, 15, 22, 29, and 36 of age,
plasma, adrenals, and gonads from intact and hormonal treated chicks were
collected. In embryonic nortestosterone treated males the appearance of a left
'ovotestis-like' gonad was observed. The occurrence of this ovotestis-like left
gonad in the 19-nortestosterone treated male is probably a secondary effect of
the in ovo treatment since surgically bursectomised chicks did not show the
testicular morphology and histological changes as observed in 19-nortestosterone
treated chicks. Additionally, both male and female hormonally or surgically
treated chicks showed relatively enlarged adrenal glands. Hormonal bursectomy
affected organ inhibin contents and plasma inhibin, testosterone, and FSH levels
in males. Male hormonal treated chicks showed lower levels of plasma inhibin
(p=0.0001), testosterone (p=0.01), and FSH (p=0.004), and a lower total testes
inhibin content (p=0.0003) compared to intact chicks. However, none of these
were significantly different between female intact and hormonal treated chicks,
again indicating that the observed hormonal changes in males are not the result
of the disappearance of the bursa but of the hormonal 19-NT treatment. The total
adrenal inhibin content as well as the adrenal inhibin concentration were
significantly higher in hormonally treated chicks than in intact chicks
(p=0.0001), regardless of the sex.
PMID: 12679087 [PubMed]
172: Vet Hum Toxicol. 2003 Mar;45(2):97-102.
The toxic torch of the modern Olympic Games.
Prendergast HM, Bannen T, Erickson TB, Honore KR.
Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Illinois Medical Center at
Chicago, 800 S Wood Street, Chicago, IL 60612-7354, USA. hprender@uic.edu
One of the most enduring symbols of the Olympics is the torch or flame, an icon
of peace and sportsmanship that has its roots in Ancient Greece. According to
the Creed of the Olympics: "The important thing in the Games is not winning, but
taking part. The essential thing is not conquering. but fighting well." The
modern Olympic Games (1896-2000) have been heavy laden with controversy, as
athletes have abused performance enhancing drugs to thrust themselves into the
limelight in search of gold. It was not until 1967 that the International
Olympic Medical Commission began banning drugs. Full-scale drug testing was
instituted in 1972.: Retrospective review of modern summer and winter Olympics
Game sources (1896-2002) was done for documentation of drug abuse, drug-related
overdoses, and positive drug screens. Data were collected for the type of drug
documented. the athlete's name, their country of origin, and Olympic event.
Seventy cases were identified. The most common class of agents were steroids
(29), followed by stimulants (22), diuretics (7), beta-2 agonists (2), and beta
blockers (1). Alcohol and marijuana, while not historically prohibited, have
been outlawed by several individual sport federations. Toxicities of these 2
agents were most likely under-reported. Countries of origin of individual
athletes included Bulgaria (7), USA (7), Sweden (4), Spain (4), Japan (2),
Poland (2), Greece (2), Canada (2), Hungary (2), Russia (2), Austria (2), and
Great Britain, Norway, Romania, Armenian, and Latvian, each with 1. The most
common Olympic events in which drug abuse was documented were weightlifting
(25), trackand field (12), skiing (5), wrestling (5), volleyball (3), modern
pentathlon (3), cycling (2), swimming (2), gymnastics (1), and rowing (1). As
athletic pressures and financial gains of the Olympic Games heighten, more
toxicities are likely to occur despite attempts at restricting
performance-enhancing drugs.
Publication Types:
Historical Article
PMID: 12678299 [PubMed]
173: J Vet Med A Physiol Pathol Clin Med. 2003 Mar;50(2):79-87.
Influence of cortisol, gonadal steroids and an energy deficit on biochemical
indicators of bone turnover in Swine.
Weiler U, Finsler S, Claus R.
Universitat Hohenheim, Fachgebiet fur Tierhaltung und Leistungsphysiologie
(470), Garbenstr. 17, 70593 Stuttgart, Germany. weiler@uni-hohenheim.de
In the pig a high growth potential seems to favour a disposition for skeletal
problems. Hormones of growth hormone (GH)/insulin-like growth factor (IGF)-I
axis as well as cortisol and gonadal steroids are endocrine determinants of the
anabolic potential but their effects on bone turnover in pigs have not been
described. Thus, key hormones were either infused for 7 days (cortisol,
5alpha-dihydrotestosterone (DHT), oestradiol) or influenced by Metyrapone
(inhibition of cortisol synthesis) or energy deficit (increasing GH). Each
treatment was carried out in six growing barrows/treatment. Bone turnover was
characterized by daily measurements indirect parameter of osteoblastic and
osteoclastic activity, osteocalcin (OC) and tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase
(TRAP) respectively. All treatments except cortisol infusion seemed to favour
bone formation, as they led either to a pronounced increase in OC (Metyrapone:
+14%) or to significantly reduced TRAP (DHT: -9%, E2: -17%, energy deficit:
-25%) followed by significantly higher OC (DHT: +9%, E2: +6%, energy deficit:
+18%). Cortisol infusion affected bone loss mainly by a severe inhibition of
osteoblastic activity (OC: -61%). Some reactions are explained by direct effects
of the infused gonadal steroids on bone cells (inhibition of osteoclasts) or of
the experimentally modified cortisol levels (inhibition of osteoblasts by
cortisol). Other effects seem to be mediated by concomitant changes of IGF-I
(inhibition of osteoclasts after energy deficit or cortisol) and GH-secretion
(increased osteoblastic activity during energy deficit), respectively.
Consequences for co-ordinated bone turnover are discussed.
PMID: 12667198 [PubMed]
174: Expert Opin Investig Drugs. 2003 Apr;12(4):611-21.
Novel therapies for osteoporosis.
Biskobing DM.
Virginia Commonwealth University/Medical College of Virginia, 1101 East Marshall
St., PO Box 980111, Richmond, VA 23298, USA. dmbiskob@hsc.vcu.edu
Osteoporosis remains a significant clinical problem despite effective therapies.
Many patients cannot or will not take currently available therapies. For this
reason research continues in search of more effective and more tolerable agents.
Anabolic agents offer a unique mechanism of action. The anabolic agents
parathyroid hormone and strontium will be discussed. The investigational
bisphosphonates ibandronate, minodronate and zoledronic acid may offer the
advantage of less frequent dosing. Arzoxifene, bazedoxifene, lasofoxifene,
MDL-103,323 and ospemifene are investigational selective oestrogen receptor
modulators shown to be effective in animal studies and are now in clinical
studies. Tibolone is a tissue-specific steroid that is currently used in Europe
for prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. Multiple studies have shown
efficacy in improving bone mineral density, but no fracture studies have been
conducted to date. While studies of the effect of isoflavones on bone mineral
density have been encouraging, a large, multi-centre study in Europe showed no
effect of isoflavones on fractures. The newly described agent osteoprotegerin
has been shown in early studies to inhibit bone turnover. Other agents with
unique mechanisms of action in early development include cathepsin K inhibitors,
integrin receptor inhibitors, nitrosylated non-steroidal anti-inflammatory
agents and Src inhibitors. The efficacy of statins in bone continues to be
debated with no prospective, randomised studies yet to confirm the suggestion of
benefit seen in epidemiological studies.
Publication Types:
Review
Review, Tutorial
PMID: 12665416 [PubMed]
175: Mech Ageing Dev. 2003 Mar;124(3):287-99.
Sarcopenia--consequences, mechanisms, and potential therapies.
Greenlund LJ, Nair KS.
Department of Endocrinology, Mayo Clinic, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN
55905, USA.
Increasingly, the worldwide population is growing older. Sarcopenia occurs with
age and is characterized by loss of muscle mass, strength and endurance.
Mechanisms that underlie this process are beginning to be understood. These
include age-related loss and atrophy of individual muscle fibers, decreased
synthesis of muscle proteins, and reduced mitochondrial function. The role of
decreased anabolic hormone production in causing these changes remains to be
clearly defined. Anabolic hormone replacement is a potential strategy currently
being investigated for treatment of sarcopenia. Combinations of aerobic,
resistance, and stretching exercise programs have well established beneficial
effects. Further understanding of the molecular processes involved in the aging
of muscle both at the level of gene expression and protein modification will be
important for discovering novel treatment strategies.
Publication Types:
Review
Review, Academic
PMID: 12663126 [PubMed]
176: Clin Infect Dis. 2003 Apr 1;36(Suppl 2):S69-78.
Weight loss and wasting in patients infected with human immunodeficiency virus.
Grinspoon S, Mulligan K; Department of Health and Human Services Working Group
on the Prevention and Treatment of Wasting and Weight Loss.
Program in Nutritional Metabolism, Massachusetts General Hospital, Boston,
Massachusetts 02114, USA. sgrinspoon@partners.org
Weight loss and muscle wasting remain significant clinical problems, even in the
era of potent antiretroviral therapy. In patients infected with human
immunodeficiency virus (HIV), wasting, particularly loss of metabolically active
lean tissue, has been associated with increased mortality, accelerated disease
progression, loss of muscle protein mass, and impairment of strength and
functional status. Factors that may contribute to wasting include inadequate
intake, malabsorptive disorders, metabolic alterations, hypogonadism, and
excessive cytokine production. Evidence now demonstrates that nutritional
counseling and support, appetite stimulants, progressive resistance training,
and anabolic hormones can reverse weight loss and increase lean body mass in
HIV-infected patients. Despite a growing body of evidence on the importance of
nutritional intervention to prevent wasting in adults, maintain growth velocity
in children, and promote restoration of weight and lean body mass in stable,
low-weight patients, no therapeutic guidelines currently exist for the
management of weight loss and wasting in HIV-infected patients. Principles and
guidelines for assessment and management of weight loss and wasting in patients
with HIV/AIDS are presented.
PMID: 12652374 [PubMed]
177: Eur J Pharmacol. 2003 Mar 28;465(1-2):69-81.
Effects of nandrolone on acute morphine responses, tolerance and dependence in
mice.
Celerier E, Yazdi MT, Castane A, Ghozland S, Nyberg F, Maldonado R.
Laboratori de Neurofarmacologia, Facultat de Ciences de la Salut i de la Vida,
Universitat Pompeu Fabra, C/Doctor Aiguader 80, 08003 Barcelona, Spain.
Anabolic-androgenic steroid exposure has been proposed to present a risk factor
for the misuse of other drugs of abuse. We now examined whether the exposure to
the anabolic-androgenic steroid, nandrolone, would affect the acute morphine
responses, tolerance and dependence in rodents. For this purpose, mice received
nandrolone using pre-exposure (for 14 days before morphine experiments) or
co-administration (1 h before each morphine injection) procedures. Nandrolone
treatments increased the acute hypothermic effects of morphine without modifying
its acute antinociceptive and locomotor effects. Nandrolone also attenuated the
development of tolerance to morphine antinociception in the hot plate test, but
did not affect tolerance to its hypothermic effects, nor the sensitisation to
morphine locomotor responses. After nandrolone pre-exposure, we observed an
attenuation of morphine-induced place preference and an increase in the somatic
manifestations of naloxone-precipitated morphine withdrawal. These results
indicate that anabolic-androgenic steroid consumption may induce adaptations in
neurobiological systems implicated in the development of morphine dependence.
PMID: 12650835 [PubMed]
178: J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol. 2002 Dec;83(1-5):245-51.
Prohormones and sport.
Delbeke FT, Van Eenoo P, Van Thuyne W, Desmet N.
Doping Control Unit, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ghent University,
Salisburylaan 133, B-9820 Merelbeke, Belgium. frans.delbeke@rug.ac.be
Several precursors of testosterone and nandrolone introduced on the nutritional
supplement market as performance enhancing drugs are banned in sports. Until now
they are legally sold without a prescription in the US. Results of excretion
studies with related compounds including 7-keto-DHEA and 1-androstenediol are
presented. The main metabolites of 7-keto-DHEA are 7-hydroxylated compounds. The
commercial 1-androstenediol preparation was contaminated with several other
anabolic steroids. Oxidation of 1-androstenediol to 1-androstenedione seems to
be the major renal metabolic pathway. Additionally contaminated nutritional
supplements containing banned substances not indicated on the label were
administered. The results of the excretion studies indicate that after the
intake of amounts substantially lower than the recommended dose athletes can
fail a doping test for periods up to 120 h.
PMID: 12650722 [PubMed]
179: AIDS. 2003 Mar 28;17(5):699-710.
Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled phase III trial of oxymetholone for
the treatment of HIV wasting.
Hengge UR, Stocks K, Wiehler H, Faulkner S, Esser S, Lorenz C, Jentzen W, Hengge
D, Goos M, Dudley RE, Ringham G.
STD-Unit, Department of Dermatology and Venerology, University of Essen,
Germany. ulrich.hengge@uni-duesseldorf.de
BACKGROUND: Despite highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART), chronic
involuntary weight loss still remains a serious problem in the care of HIV
patients. Various alterations in energy metabolism and endocrine regulation have
been found to cause loss of lean body mass (LBM) and body cell mass (BCM).
Previous studies in HIV-positive men undergoing androgen replacement therapy or
treatment with recombinant growth hormone (rGH) have shown partial restoration
of LBM, but these treatments have largely been ineffective in eugonadal
individuals. STUDY DESIGN: Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled trial of
89 HIV-positive women and men with wasting assigned to the anabolic steroid
oxymetholone [50 mg twice (BID) or three times daily (TID)] or placebo for 16
weeks followed by open-label treatment. STUDY ENDPOINTS: Body weight,
bioimpedance measurements, quality of life parameters and appetite. RESULTS:
Oxymetholone led to a significant weight gain of 3.0 +/- 0.5 and 3.5 +/- 0.7 kg
in the TID and BID groups, respectively (P < 0.05 for each treatment versus
placebo), whereas individuals in the placebo group gained an average of 1.0 +/-
0.7 kg. Body cell mass increased in the oxymetholone BID group (3.8 +/- 0.4 kg;
P < 0.0001) and in the oxymetholone TID group (2.1 +/- 0.6 kg; P < 0.005),
corresponding to 12.4 and 7.4% of baseline BCM, respectively. Significant
improvements were noted in appetite and food intake, increased well-being and
reduced weakness by self-examination. The most important adverse event was
liver-associated toxicity. Overall, 35% of patients in the TID, 27% of patients
in the BID oxymetholone group and no patients in the placebo group had a greater
than five times baseline increase for alanine aminotransferase during the
double-blind phase of the study. CONCLUSIONS: Oxymetholone can be considered an
effective anabolic steroid in eugonadal male and female patients with
AIDS-associated wasting. The BID (100 mg/day) regimen appeared to be equally
effective as the TID (150 mg/day) regimen in terms of weight gain, LBM and BCM
and was associated with less, but still significant liver toxicity.
Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
Randomized Controlled Trial
PMID: 12646793 [PubMed]
180: Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab. 2003 Jul;285(1):E16-24. Epub 2003 Mar 11.
Androgen therapy improves muscle mass and strength but not muscle quality:
results from two studies.
Schroeder ET, Terk M, Sattler FR.
Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Keck School of
Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles 90033, USA.
The relationship of strength to muscle area was used to assess change in muscle
quality after anabolic interventions. Study 1: asymptomatic human
immunodeficiency virus-positive men (39 +/- 9 yr) were randomized to nandrolone
(600 mg/wk) +/- resistance training (RT). Study 2: older healthy men (72 +/- 5
yr) were randomized to oxandrolone (20 mg/day) or placebo. Maximum voluntary
strength was determined by the 1-repetition maximum (1-RM) method for leg press,
flexion and extension, and cross-sectional area of leg muscles by MRI. From
study week 0 to study week 12, muscle quality was unchanged with nandrolone,
oxandrolone, or oxandrolone placebo, respectively, for total thigh muscles (1.23
+/- 0.012 vs. 1.27 +/- 0.29 kg/cm2; 9.0 +/- 1.1 vs. 8.9 +/- 1.2 N/cm2; 8.9 +/-
1.2 vs. 8.9 +/- 1.9 N/cm2) and hamstrings (0.41 +/- 0.08 vs. 0.43 +/- 0.07
kg/cm2; 0.90 +/- 0.14 vs. 0.95 +/- 0.016 N/cm2; 0.94 +/- 0.23 vs. 0.93 +/- 0.21
N/cm2). Lower-extremity 1-RM strength increased several times greater with
RT+nandrolone (51-63% increases) than with nandrolone alone (4.7-16%), despite
similar increases in muscle area; therefore, muscle quality increased from 1.13
+/- 0.17 to 1.51 +/- 0.18 kg/cm2 (+36 +/- 19%; P < 0.001) for total thigh
muscle, 0.37 +/- 0.10 to 0.53 +/- 0.08 kg/cm2 (+49 +/- 39%; P < 0.001) for
hamstrings, and 0.73 +/- 0.19 to 1.07 +/- 0.16 kg/cm2 (+55 +/- 36%; P < 0.001)
for quadriceps. Thus androgen therapy alone did not improve muscle quality, but
the addition of RT to nandrolone produced substantive improvements.
Publication Types:
Clinical Trial
PMID: 12637255 [PubMed]
181: Heart Fail Monit. 2000;1(2):42-9.
Chronic heart failure as a metabolic disorder.
Anker SD, Al-Nasser FO.
Franz-Volhard-Klinik (Charite Campus Berlin-Buch), Max-Delbruck Centrum, Berlin,
Germany.
Congestive chronic heart failure (CHF) is a progressive disorder in which a
complex interaction of haemodynamic, neurohormonal and metabolic disturbances
leads to subsequent immune activation. The greatest attention has been given to
the concept that the progression of heart failure is due to neurohormonal
abnormalities and this has led to substantial therapeutic benefits for CHF. The
aim of this review is to describe a number of the interactions between
neurohormonal pathways and metabolic problems relevant in CHF. Besides the
renin-angiotensin-aldosterone-system, steroid and thyroid hormones, growth
factors, insulin and inflammatory cytokines (e.g. tumour necrosis factor-alpha
[TNF-alpha]) are considered. TNF-alpha is potentially a key molecule with
enormous interactive opportunities within a regulatory network of energy
metabolism, immune function and neuroendocrine and hormonal function. The most
dramatic metabolic problem in heart failure patients is the development of
cardiac cachexia. Currently, no specific therapy exists and the prognosis is
poor. There are promising approaches (counteracting TNF-alpha or applying
anabolic growth factors) but these are not without risk and are expensive, and
their application may, therefore, be limited to certain subgroups of patients.
In the future, it will not be enough to monitor cardiac function and symptomatic
status in heart failure patients. Rather, the patients' metabolic status may
need to be taken, as well as an assessment of peak oxygen consumption, body
composition and hormonal status.
Publication Types:
Review
Review, Tutorial
PMID: 12634873 [PubMed]
182: J Clin Psychiatry. 2003 Feb;64(2):156-60.
Past anabolic-androgenic steroid use among men admitted for substance abuse
treatment: an underrecognized problem?
Kanayama G, Cohane GH, Weiss RD, Pope HG.
Alcohol and Drug Abuse Research Center, McLean Hospital, Belmont, Mass 02478,
USA.
BACKGROUND: Recent reports suggest that anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) may
cause mood disorders or dependence syndromes and may help to introduce some
individuals to opioid abuse. At present, however, little is known about prior
AAS use among men entering inpatient substance abuse treatment. METHOD: We
assessed lifetime AAS use in 223 male substance abusers admitted to a substance
abuse treatment unit primarily for treatment of alcohol, cocaine, and opioid
dependence. Subjects reporting definite or possible AAS use were then asked to
participate in a detailed semistructured interview that covered demographics,
drug use history, and symptoms experienced during AAS use and withdrawal, and
whether AAS use had helped introduce the subject to other classes of drugs.
RESULTS: Twenty-nine men (13%) reported prior AAS use, but this history was
documented on physicians' admission evaluations in only 4 cases. Among 88 men
listing opioids as their drug of choice, 22 (25%) acknowledged AAS use, versus
only 7 (5%) of the other 135 men (p <.001). Twenty-four (83%) of the 29 AAS
users were interviewed in detail. Seven (29%) of the men interviewed, all with
opioid dependence, reported that they first learned about opioids from friends
at the gym and subsequently first obtained opioids from the same person who had
sold them AAS. Eighteen (75%) of the men interviewed reported that AAS were the
first drugs that they had ever self-administered by injection, 4 (17%) reported
severe aggressiveness or violence during AAS use, 1 (4%) attempted suicide
during AAS withdrawal, and 5 (21%) described a history of AAS dependence.
CONCLUSION: Prior AAS use appears to be common but underrecognized among men
entering inpatient substance abuse treatment, especially those with opioid
dependence. AAS use may serve as a "gateway" to opioid abuse in some cases and
may also cause morbidity in its own right.
PMID: 12633124 [PubMed]
183: Lancet Oncol. 2003 Mar;4(3):135.
Drug increases lean tissue mass in patients with cancer.
Boughton B.
Publication Types:
News
PMID: 12623350 [PubMed]