1. DHEA Dehydroepiandrosterone
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), Prasterone (INN), is the most abundant steroid hormone in humans. Depending on the respective Ellen hormone levels it can behave like an estrogen or an androgen like.
DHEA is the precursor for both the male sex hormones (androgens), as well as female sex
DHEA is produced in men to 100% in the inner layer (zona reticularis) of the adrenal cortex. In women, generating only about 70% the other 30% in the ovaries.
In the biosynthesis of DHEA formed from cholesterol via the intermediate hydroxy-pregnenolone and pregnenolone. Thereafter, the reaction is carried out to 4-androstenedione, which is in a chemical balance of testosterone. In a next step may be formed from testosterone 17β-estradiol. From 4-androstenedione is also possible the synthesis of estrone, which in turn is in equilibrium with 17β-estradiol.
The amount of DHEA formed by the body are dependent on the age and gender, also subject to the DHEA concentration in the blood of a diurnal rhythm.
The adrenal glands produce in the first years of life, only small amounts of DHEA, larger quantities are first detected in the age of six to seven years. The production of DHEA reaches its peak around the age of 25 years and then goes back all the time.
2. At all ages, men have slightly higher DHEA levels than women.
DHEA is in the liver to sulfate DHEA-S metabolism (discovered in 1994).
Studies suggest that the concentration of DHEA could be increased through training on heart rate variability [4] and could cause a corresponding Wirkmuster, as with drugs with anti-depressive effect.
3. DHEA and glandular
DHEA is an abbreviation for dehydroepiandrosterone, is a steroid hormone from the adrenal gland. Hormones are substances that are formed in glands or in other tissues and cells
There Peptide hormone such as: insulin, which is produced by certain cells of the pancreas and lowers blood sugar levels. They consist of chains of amino acids (peptides) or amino acid derivatives. Another group are the steroid hormones, which are derived from cholesterol. These include not only DHEA and sex hormones (androgens, estrogens) and hormones such as aldosterone (regulates the renal function) and cortisone.
DHEA and steroid hormones
Steroid hormones may, because of their lipophilic character (lipid solubility) easily get through the cell membranes and bind to the interior of the cells to a receptor protein. Sun also tells yo that steroid hormones can have such a varied effect.
The hormone-receptor complex enters the nucleus and stimulates the transcription (reading of genes), so that specific proteins (enzymes) can be formed.
DHEA is the most common hormone in the blood (15-20mg/Tag) and is present in higher concentrations in the brain. DHEA was in 1931 by A. Butenandt (German chemist, Nobel laureate) in menschl. Urine discovered. It is produced in the adrenal cortex (zona reticularis), converted by the liver into DHEA sulfate (Discover 1944), so zikuliert relatively stable during the day mainly in the blood and is transformed in the body in the sex hormones testosterone and estrogen. The sexual impact is approximately 10% of that of testosterone. (Data f. Biochem Res Oxford. Publ 1984, p.
4. DHEA and cancer
Between 1972 and 1997, more than 4,000 publications have been published worldwide to DHEA, to 1991, many studies have demonstrated the positive effect against various types of cancer, atherosclerosis, weight reduction and extended life span in animals. From 1994 was mainly investigated the effect in humans and so far yielded comparable results.
5. DHEA and Alzheimer's disease
In the United States and other countries already DHEA is marketed extensively and sometimes referred to as a miracle cure. It is slipping out of the mostly very positive PUBLICATIONS that DHEA improved the gifts Simmung, increase sexual activity and readiness to counteract stress hormones, muscle condition to maintain, strengthen the immune system,
and reduce cancer and heart disease risk. Even against AIDS, osteoporosis and Alzheimer DHEA to be effective.
DHEA is also likely to be closely associated with it to keep brain neurons from age-related degenerative processes such as Alzheimer's. Not only that such degenerative processes most often occur when the DHEA levels are lowest but the concentration of DHEA in the brain is much higher than in blood. Dr E. Roberts is a specialist in this field of research. He found that small amounts of DHEA are sufficient to increase the number of nerve cells, increasing their number of contacts with others and their differentiation in cell cultures anzuregen.DHEA has improved its long-term memory were also found in trained mice. DHEA may play a similar role in the human brain.
One of the major publications is from Mohammed Kalimi and William Regelson 1990: "The biological role of DHEA, present in about 24 chapters in scientists from around the world the results of perhaps the most important neurotransmitter DHEA. These are impressive. In the preface the editor find the following:
"DHEA affects diabetes, cancer, tumor formation, skin integrity, fatigue, depression, memory and immune responses. With this wide range of clinical applications, it is surprising, why are not more books about DHEA have been pebbles!"
Early studies from England [Bulbrook, 1962.1971] showed that DHEA appeared in abnormally low concentrations in women who had breast cancer, even up to nine years before the disease was diagnosed. Of the 5,000 women in the study produced 27 breast cancer. Most of the 27 had extremely low DHEA levels. If low levels of DHEA to promote breast cancer, is also the opposite conclusion acceptable?
6. DHEA and Tumore
Dr. A. Schwartz of Temple University, USA found that premiums retained of DHEA in cell cultures from the toxicity of carcinogenic Carcinogenic factors). Typically, cell cultures react significantly with DNA mutations, changes in cell appearance and a high mortality rate. When DHEA doses, these effects were all significantly reduced. In mice treated with carcinogenic agents were those who did not receive any additional DHEA breast cancer. In other studies, a reduction of the tumor rate up to 80% was observed. [Schwartz 1981, 1984] The DHEA-known researchers noted egelsen W.: "Whenever DHEA was tested in a model environment for the development of cancer and Tumorinduzierung, DHEA had preventive effects."
7. Although DHEA is currently being tested in human tumors is unknown whether the effects in humans are similar.
This must be said that mice and rats were used as test subjects for a long time before the investigations in humans. The results have been generally similar to or identical
DHEA research
Simultaneously with the study of the cancer effects of DHEA, the effect of DHEA has been studied in genetically obese mice. Although the DHEA-treated mice ate normally, they remained thin. And lived longer than control mice. In another experiment, it was found that even middle-aged fat rats lost weight, when combined with DHEA-supplemented diet was fed. Diabetes, a typical consequence of obesity, has also been dramatically reduced
8. DHEA and female hormones
DHEA is the main substance of the sex hormones and is converted into androgens (male hormones)) and estrogens (female hormones. DHEA also affected the production of insulin-like growth factor-like growth factor 1 (IGF 1). IGF 1 is a "translator", which allows the body to recover, for example), the (HGH (see below) can.
9. Positive effects of DHEA
Many studies have shown that DHEA the muscle and bone and promotes youthful skin can be yours. Likewise, it improves neurological function and immune function. There are also indications that DHEA in heart disease, obesity, cancer and autoimmune diseases (lupus, MS, rheumatoid arthritis) and helps protect against osteoporosis. A study reported from California (SSCYen) that after 2 weeks DHEA intake 82% of women and 67% of men felt an increase in general health. Also improved sleep, greater elasticity and improved balance and dealing with stressful situations was one of the positive effects,DHEA and DHEAS are obviously diverse in their metabolic effects. Here are some of them:
10. DHEA and sex hormones
As a precursor of the adrenal steroid hormones, they are converted into the target organs and tissues as a function of the corresponding enzymes in androgens (male sex hormones) and estrogens (female sex hormones). Approx. 50% of total androgens in men are formed from these two precursors in women about 75%. The liver converts DHEA to DHEAS in oral host.
Steroid hormones can easily penetrate the lipid solubility because of your cell membranes, are in the cell bound to a receptor and effect as a hormone-receptor complex on the DNA (genetic information) in the nucleus, where genes which are read and implemented. (Enzyme formation).
11. DHEA and muscles
Several researchers found that DHEA, the enzyme glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PDH) inhibits an enzyme that breaks down glucose. In the so-called Pentose phosphate pathway of glucose include ribulose-5-phosphate (for the nucleotide synthesis) and 3-P-glyceraldehyde is converted, which is re-injected into the glycolysis. Thus, BTS is then formed, which is then converted into AcetylCoA Others the precursor of fatty acids and the fats. The Pentosephosphatzyklus plays, especially in the liver, adipose tissue, adrenal gland, thyroid gland and the erythrocyte (red blood cells) play a role, but not in the muscles. In most tissues, this pathway is associated with, for example, the fatty acid synthesis.
Thus DHEA inhibits fat synthesis.
12. DHEA and antioxidants
Furthermore, DHEA stimulates the activity of the antioxidant enzyme catalase in the liver, an enzyme involved in the chemical degradation resulting H2O2 (hydrogen peroxide, breaks down cytotoxin). Also, the entire maturation (stimulation of the formation of mRNA of enzyme genes) of peroxisomes (cell organelles such as: the liver cells), which is funded containing catalase. [Mol Pharmacol. 50: 67-74 (1996)]
Thus antioxidant processes are encouraged. [Biochem. J. 301: 753-8 (1994)]
DHEA enhanced combat the formation of interferon in activated T cells (white blood cells, the virus-infected cells). Thus DHEA protects against viral infections.
13. DHEA promotes the development of insulin-producing cells and increases insulin sensitivity.
DHEA can significantly reduce the Herzinfarktrisioko. Activation of brain metabolism in the forebrain and other brain parts by
DHEA. It can enhance the differentiation of nerve cells.
DHEA and LIBIDO
The food in the United States approved a substitute DHEA could be used in women with Nebennierenschwäche improve well-being and libido: A German placebo-controlled study of 24 women showed that 50 mg / day DHEA increased libido and sexual Zufriedenheitsignifikant. (New England Journal of Medicine)
DHEA improves obviously the reepithelialization in patients with burns with autologous skin grafts
were treated. In the placebo-controlled trial with 63 patients 10mg/kg DHEA led
one weeks postoperatively. intravenously to a significantly improved reepithelialization
14. DHEA studies in America
The researchers of the National Institute of Mental Health of the United States Rockville, Maryland-treated 46 men and women. They were given either daily for six weeks 90 mg DHEA
As the American journal Archives of General Psychiatry, reported in March 2005, had depressive symptoms only in the DHEA group improved significantly. Side effects that occurred in this time of ingestion of DHEA did not.
In the U.S., DHEA is a the-counter dietary supplements. In Germany, you can have DHEA on prescription through a pharmacy or to import purchased via the mail order business. or a dummy drug (placebo).
DHEA affects health and longevity
Research has shown, dass DHEA many functions in the body that influence health and has logevity. Proponents believe DHEA briniging dass die back to the proportions of young people have levels can dramatically positive effects on the body and mind.
15. DHEA reversed Age
One of the ways DHEA helps to reverse the downward spiral of "age" is by giving us back our youth energy. Energy from fuel economy, our bodies go, and if we do not have enough energy, as do most of us have difficulty affecting the quality of life.
The doctors are prevented by DHEA to Aging
Today, doctors throughtout the United States are requiring DHEA to their patients to treat a variety of ailments and are fully the idea, dass die
A recovery until it is young people levels to prevent a "tonic" to the ravages of aging dass.DHEA Improves sexual performance
DHEA Increases brain function and memory
Stress, soothes and promotes the well-being
DHEA Improves immunity for Infection Research PROTECTION
Lowers blood cholesterol
16. DHEA Improves liver function
DHEA prevents thwart heart disease and cancer
Stabilize blood sugar levels to prevent adult diabetes
But what exactly is DHEA, and how does it work?
DHEA is the most common steroid hormone in the body. It will in particular) from the adrenal glands, and to a lesser extent, elsewhere in the body (including the fat cells. DHEA is metabolized from pregnenolone, the body's "master hormone," even the metabolism of cholesterol is. DHEA is metabolized into other hormones, including testosterone and estrogen, and up to 150 different metabolites.
While there are still important questions to answer, there is no question that young DHEADHEA starts declining (EP Pavlov et al 1986; Nafziger AN et al 1998). Women, tend to have lower levels of DHEA to lose much more quickly than men because they are old. Concentrations remain about 30% higher in men (Orentreich N et al. 1984). DHEA levels also vary by ethnicity (Orentreich N et al. 1984; LaCroix AZ et al. 1992; Hornsby PJ 1995). At age 70, DHEA is only 20% of young adult levels (Belanger A et al 1994). Levels are closely linked with good health, and low levels were at various diseases. Unfortunately, after about 35 years,
Modern hormone replacement therapy seeks to re-balance of the juvenile hormone in the body and that is DHEA, where the value really is. Because it is metabolized into other hormones, supplementation with DHEA is able to allow the body to decide, what the hormone is needed to synthesize it, that hormone from the available DHEA. This can be for the astonishing range of benefits that many researchers attribute to this hormone. DHEA's separate metabolites, including 7-keto DHEA has also shown that some benefits, including lowering cholesterol, fat burning, and to strengthen the immune system.
There are many theories, provocatively, may someday help to explain DHEA's role in specific diseases. For example, many elderly people suffer from high cholesterol levels, which are a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. In this age group, the rate of heart disease is rising much faster among women than men, partly because of the loss of hormones during menopause. Obviously there is a connection between
Heart disease and sex hormones, and this phenomenon raises an interesting possibility. Because the sex hormones are synthesized from cholesterol, may increase cholesterol levels represent the body attempts to supply more of the raw materials for the production of hormones. For one study showed a decrease in cholesterol levels after extensive natural hormone therapy (Dzugan SA et al 2002).
What you learned so far?
DHEA is a hormone from the synthesis of pregnenolone. It may be metabolized into estrogen or testosterone. DHEA is the most prevalent steroid hormone in the body.
17. Low DHEA levels are clearly associated with a number of diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, inflammation, Alzheimer's and others.
DHEA levels drop dramatically as people age. There are marked differences in the average DHEA levels between men and women, with women on average a lower level of DHEA.DHEA replacement therapy may re youthful DHEA levels.
DHEA: The fight against inflammation
Inflammation is an insidious condition, and we are learning more every year about his collaboration with a variety of diseases. Inflammation caused by internal chemicals known as inflammatory cytokines, which responded as part of the immune system. These chemicals, including tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-1 (Beta) [IL are 1 (β)] and / or leukotriene in greater concentrations as we age. Reduce the reduce the concentration of inflammatory cytokines to the risk of serious disease is a target of nutrient and hormonal therapy.
DHEA supplementation has been shown to improve several aspects of the immune system cytokine production and T-cells, B cells, natural killer cells, monocytes and function in postmenopausal women and older men (Khorram O et al 1997). DHEA appears to be especially valuable against IL-6 and TNF, both of which increased in patients with inflammatory arthritis (James K et al 1997, Straub RH et al 1998, Straub RH et al 2002a; Leowattana Watts 2001). Lupus erythematosus is another chronic inflammatory condition affecting approximately 1 in 700 women, usually younger women (KE Sullivan, 1999-2000). The treatment of this type of lupus with DHEA (50 to 200 mg daily) caused clinical improvement and lupus flares dropped by 16% (van Vollenhoven RF et al 1998, Chang DM et al 2002).
18. DHEA production
The production of DHEA in the body comes from approximately 30mg of 20 years to less than 6 mg per day at the age of 80 years. According to Dr. W. Regelson, Medical College Virginia, DHEA is one of the best biochemical marker for chronological age. For some people, DHEA decreases during life by 95%, the biggest decline among the key biochemical substances, which is unknown.
In animal studies, DHEA prolonged the lives of rodents by 50%. The animals were living not only longer, looked younger. The gray-haired animals could easily control the smooth black-DHEA-treated animals can be distinguished.
19. DHEA and Heart
HEAS levels correlate directly with mortality (dying) in humans.12 years in an ongoing study of 240 men aged 50 to 79 years, researchers found that DHEAS level is inversely related to mortality, heart attack or whether other factors have resulted in death. 1mg/Liter-Anstieg in DHEAS concentrations corresponded to a 48% reduction in mortality from heart attack. Those with higher blood levels of DHEAS lived longer and had a lower risk of heart disease. These results lead to the conclusion, DHEAS use as a diagnostic standard,
DHEA und LIBIDO
The food in the United States approved a substitute DHEA could be used in women with Nebennierenschwäche improve well-being and libido: A German placebo-controlled study of 24 women showed that 50 mg / day DHEA increased libido and sexual Zufriedenheitsignifikant. (New England Journal of Medicine)
20. Dhea Literatur
1.Araghiniknam J, Chung S, Nelson-White T, et al. Antioxidant activity of dioscorea and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in older humans. Life Sci 1996;59:147–57.
2. Morales AJ, Haubrich RH, Hwang JY, et al. The effect of six months treatment with a 100 mg daily dose of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) on circulating sex steroids, body composition and muscle strength in age-advanced men and women. Clin Endocrinol (Oxf) 1998;49:421–32.
5. Brown GA, Vukovich MD, Sharp RL. Effect of oral DHEA on serum Testosterone and adaptations to resistance training in young men. J Appl Physiol 1999;87:2274–83.
10. Morales AJ, Nolan JJ, Nelson JC, Yen SSC. Effects of replacement dose of DHEA in men and women of advancing age. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 1994;78:1360.
13. McNeil C. Potential drug DHEA hits snags on way to clinic. J Natl Cancer Inst 1997;89:681–3.
14. Jones JA, Nguyen A, Strab M, et al. Use of DHEA in a patient with advanced prostate cancer: a case report and review. Urology 1997;50:784–8.
• Coleman DL, Schweizer RW and Leiter EH. Effect of genetic background on the therapeutic effects of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in diabetes-obesity mutants and in aged normal mice. Diabetes 33: 26-32, 1984.
Kahn, Carol. Beyond the Double Helix: DNA and the Quest for Longevity , Times Books, 1985, page 143. A thorough and highly readable "inside" account of DHEA research.
Coleman DL, Leiter EH and Schweizer RW. Therapeutic effects of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in diabetic mice. Diabetes 31: 830-33, 1982.
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What Is DHEA?
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a steroid hormone that's produced naturally by the adrenal glands. The body converts DHEA into male and female sex hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone. DHEA is also available in supplement form.
DHEA supplements are made from a substance called diosgenin, which is found in soy and wild yams. Wild yam cream and supplements are often touted as natural sources of DHEA, but the body can't convert wild yam to DHEA on its own—it must be done in a laboratory.
5-Dehydroepiandrosterone (5-DHEA) is a 19-carbon endogenous steroid hormone. It is the major secretory steroidal product of the adrenal glands and is also produced by the gonads and the brain.[3] DHEA is the most abundant circulating steroid in humans.
DHEA has been implicated in a broad range of biological effects in humans and other mammals. It acts on the androgen receptor both directly and through its metabolites, which include androstenediol and androstenedione, which can undergo further conversion to produce the androgen testosterone and the estrogens, including estrone, estradiol, and estriol.[5] DHEA is also a potent sigma-1 agonist. It is considered a neurosteroid.
DHEA and Memory:
DHEA supplementation has been studied as a treatment for Alzheimer's disease, but was not found to be effective. Some small placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial studies have found long-term supplementation to improve mood and relieve depression[9] found that a 7-day course of DHEA (150 mg twice daily) improved episodic memory in healthy young men. In this study, DHEA was also shown to improve subjective mood and decrease evening cortisol concentration, which is known to be elevated in depression.[10] The effect of DHEA on memory appeared to be related to an early activation of the anterior cingulate cortex (ACC) and this was suggested to be due to neuronal recruitment of the steroid-sensitive ACC that may be involved in prehippocampal memory processing.
Consistent with this hypothesis are DHEAS data from several studies of military special operations units. In these studies, warfighters who exhibited higher levels of DHEA and higher DHEA/cortisol ratios during extreme stress were those who also exhibited superior hippocampal and prefrontal dependent cognitive abilities during stress
DHEA and Physical performance:
DHEA supplements are sometimes used as muscle-building or performance-enhancing drugs by athletes. Some studies have shown supplementation using DHEA have increased the ability to increase muscle mass while decreasing fat. In addition these studies have shown increased muscular strength as a result of DHEA supplementation However, a randomized placebo-controlled trial found that DHEA supplementation had no (statistically significant) effect on lean body mass, strength, or testosterone levels.
DHEA and Infertility and reproduction:
Since 2000, DHEA supplementation has been used in reproductive medicine in combination with gonadotropins as a way to treat female infertility. The hormone is believed to act on the chromosomal integrity of eggs, creating healthier embryos and increasing the chances of a successful pregnancy. A study released in 2010 from Tel Aviv University showed that women who took DHEA supplements prior to an infertility treatment were three times more likely to conceive than those who did not. [18] Additionally, studies conducted by the Center for Human Reproduction in New York found that women with poor ovarian reserve who were supplemented with DHEA four to 12 weeks prior to an IVF cycle had a 22% reduction in number of chromosomally abnormal embryos and a 50-80% reduction in miscarriages. Cardiovascular disease and risk of death.
A 1986 study found that a higher level of endogenous DHEA, as determined by a single measurement, correlated with a lower risk of death or cardiovascular disease. However, a more recent 2006 study found no correlation between DHEA levels and risk of cardiovascular disease or death in men. A 2007 study found the DHEA restored oxidative balance in diabetic patients, reducing tissue levels of pentosidine—a biomarker for advanced glycation endproducts. Diabetes and carotid atherosclerosis
A 2005 study, measured serum DHEA in 206 men with type-2 diabetes, and found an inverse relationship between serum DHEA and carotid atherosclerosis in men. The authors say the study "supports the notion that DHEA, which is sold in increasing amount as a food supplement, is atheroprotective in humans, and that androgen replacement therapy should be considered for men with hypogonadism.
DHEA and Men over 65:
A 2006 study supplemented DHEA to men of average 65 years of age, and found that the men experienced significant increases in testosterone and cGMP (Cyclic guanosine monophosphate), and significant decreases in low-density lipoprotein (LDL). The authors say that the "findings...suggest that chronic DHEA supplementation would exert antiatherogenic effects, particularly in elderly subjects who display low circulating levels of this hormone.
DHEA and Longevity
A 2008 study in the Journal of the American Geriatrics Society, June 2008, measured serum DHEA in 940 men and women ranging from age 21 to 88, following them from 1978 until 2005. The researches found that low levels of DHEA-s showed a significant association with shorter lifespan and that higher DHEA-s levels are a "strong predictor" of longevity in men, even after adjusting for age, blood pressure, and plasma glucose. No relationship was found between serum DHEA and longevity for women during the study period. The study did not find a significant difference in longevity until the 15-year follow-up point, which the researchers note may explain why some past research that followed men for less duration found no relationship.
Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate:
Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) is the sulfated version of DHEA. This conversion is reversibly catalyzed by sulfotransferase (SULT2A1) primarily in the adrenals, the liver, and small intestine. In the blood, most DHEA is found as DHEAS with levels that are about 300 times higher than those of free DHEA. Orally ingested DHEA is converted to its sulfate when passing through intestines and liver. Whereas DHEA levels naturally reach their peak in the early morning hours, DHEAS levels show no diurnal variation. From a practical point of view, measurement of DHEAS is preferable to DHEA, as levels are more stable.
Dhea Production:
DHEA is produced from cholesterol through two cytochrome P450 enzymes. Cholesterol is converted to pregnenolone by the enzyme P450 scc (side chain cleavage); then another enzyme, CYP17A1, converts pregnenolone to 17a-Hydroxypregnenolone and then to DHEA.
DHEA and Mechanism of action:
DHEA can be understood as a prohormone for the sex steroids. DHEAS may be viewed as buffer and reservoir. As most DHEA is produced by the zona reticularis of the adrenal cortex, it is argued that there is a role in the immune and stress response.
As almost all DHEA is derived from the adrenal glands, blood measurements of DHEAS/DHEA are useful to detect excess adrenal activity as seen in adrenal cancer or hyperplasia, including certain forms of congenital adrenal hyperplasia. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome tend to have elevated levels of DHEAS.
DHEA and Increasing endogenous production:
Regular exercise is known to increase DHEA production in the body. Calorie restriction has also been shown to increase DHEA in primates. Some theorize that the increase in endogenous DHEA brought about by calorie restriction is partially responsible for the longer life expectancy known to be associated with calorie restriction.
Beyond Aging With DHEA Supplements:
DHEA supplements show some promise for alleviating non-major depression, though more research is needed. In a small, six-week study, researchers from the National Institute of Mental Health found that treatment with DHEA supplements helped relieve middle-age-onset mild-to-moderate depression.
Depression symptoms fell 50% in half of the study participants, researchers report, and the treatment also improved subjects' scores of sexual function. Other research finds that the supplement may help reduce symptoms of mild depression in patients with HIV/AIDS.
As for heart disease, one study, of 24 middle-aged men with high cholesterol, suggested that the hormone may aid in preventing it. Subjects who took the supplement for 12 weeks experienced improved blood-vessel function and insulin sensitivity, researchers found. But a later study contradicted these findings. When Australian researchers exposed human cells to DHEA, the cells reacted by accumulating cholesterol, an important step in the development of heart disease.
DHEA is frequently used by those with arthritis, multiple sclerosis, lupus, and chronic fatigue syndrome, Braverman says. Research on DHEA's ability to ease the symptoms of lupus shows that an artificial version of the hormone may have the power to improve or stabilize symptoms in women with active flare-ups.
DHEA and Osteoporosis:
Taking DHEA by mouth daily seems to improve bone mineral density in older women and men with osteoporosis or osteopenia, according to the NIH. Indeed, a 2002 study from the Chinese Medical Journal deemed DHEA safe and effective in the treatment of osteoporosis. After six months of treatment with DHEA, 44 male osteoporosis patients experienced a significant increase in bone mineral density (compared to 42 male osteoporosis patients assigned to a control group for the same time period).
DHEA and Lupus:
Studies indicate that DHEA may enhance mental function and increase bone mass in women with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), an autoimmune disease affecting connective tissue. Many of those studies focused on the use of a form of synthetic DHEA called prasterone (Prestara).
For example, a 2004 study in Arthritis and Rheumatism found that daily intake of prasterone improved or stabilized symptoms among patients with SLE. The study involved 381 women with SLE, each of whom received 200 mg of prasterone or a placebo each day (in addition to their standard treatments) for up to 12 months. Although some members of the prasterone group developed acne and/or hirsutism (excess facial and body hair), most cases were mild and did not require the patients to discontinue their use of prasterone.
For a 2007 report in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, scientists analyzed seven clinical trials (with a total of 842 participants) that tested the use of DHEA in treating SLE. The report's authors concluded that DHEA may have a "modest but clinically significant impact" on health-related quality of life in the short-term for people with SLE.
DHEA and Schizophrenia:
Increasing DHEA levels may help lessen anxiety and depressive symptoms in people with schizophrenia, according to a 2003 study from the Archives of General Psychiatry. The study involved 30 people with schizophrenia, each of whom received either DHEA or a placebo for six weeks (in addition to their regular antipsychotic medication).
DHEA may also help improve mood, enhance well being and boost energy in people with schizophrenia, according to the study's authors. It's important to note that DHEA appeared to be more effective in women than in men.
DHEA and Erectile Dysfunction:
For people with sexual dysfunction, DHEA may improve the ability to achieve an erection. However, DHEA does not appear to benefit men whose erectile dysfunction is caused by diabetes or nerve disorders.
Some research shows that decreased DHEA levels may be common among men with erectile dysfunction. In a 2000 study from Urology, for example, researchers examined 442 men (including 309 patients with erectile dysfunction and 133 healthy volunteers) and found that DHEA levels were lower in those with erectile dysfunction until age 60.
Although few trials have tested the effects of DHEA supplementation on patients with erectile dysfunction, there's some evidence that increasing DHEA levels may treat this condition. For instance, in a 1999 study of 40 erectile dysfunction patients, men who received a daily dose of DHEA for six months experienced significant improvement in their ability achieve or maintain an erection sufficient for satisfactory sexual performance. Published in Urology, the study found that the 20 participants who received a placebo for the same time period had no improvement in their erectile dysfunction.
DHEA References:
• The NIH National Library of Medicine — Dehydroepiandrosterone http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/natural/patient-dhea.html
• Schulman, Robert, Dean, Carolyn, M.D. DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) is a common hormone produced in the adrenal glands, the gonads, and the brain.
• William F Ganong MD, (DHEA) 'Review of Medical Physiology', 22nd Ed, McGraw Hill, 2005, page 362.
• Simon NG, (DHEA) "Dehydroepiandrosterone and its metabolites: differential effects on androgen receptor trafficking and transcriptional activity".
• Baker, WL; Karan, S, Kenny, AM (2011 Jun). "Effect of (DHEA) dehydroepiandrosterone on muscle strength and physical function in older adults:
• Wolkowitz, O. M.; Kramer, J. H.; Reus, (2003). "DHEA treatment of Alzheimer's disease: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study.
• Wolkowitz, O. M.; Reus, Keebler, (2006). "Double-blind treatment of major depression with (DHEA) dehydroepiandrosterone".
• Young, E. Haskett, Grunhaus, A; Weinberg, VM; Watson, SJ; Akil, H (1994). (DHEA) "Increased evening activation.
• Morgan, Hazlett, Rasmusson, Hoyt, Zimolo, Charney, D (2004). "Relationships Among Plasma (DHEA) Dehydroepiandrosteron Sulfate and Cortisol Levels.
• Morgan, Rasmusson, Pitrzak, Coric, Southwick, S. M. (2009). "Relationships among Plasma (DHEA) and Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate.
• Morales, A.J;Haubric, Hwang, Asakura, Yen, "The effect of six months treatment with a 100 mg daily dose of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA).
• Yen, S.S.; Morales, A.J; Khorram, O. (1995). "Replacement of DHEA in aging men and women. Potential remedial effects".
• Wallace, M. B.; Lim, J.; Cutler, A.; Bucci, L. (1999). "Effects of (DHEA) dehydroepiandrosterone vs androstenedione supplementation in men".
• Casson PR, et al. (DHEA) Dehydroepiandrosterone supplementation augments ovarian stimulation in poor responders.
• DHEA: Anti Aging Treatment for Infertility".
• Gleicher N, Ryan, Weghofer, Blanco-Mejia, and Barad, D.H. (2009). "Miscarriage rates after dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) supplementation in women.
• Gleicher N, Weghofer, Barad, "Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) reduces embryo aneuploidy: direct evidence from preimplantation genetic screening.
• Barrett-Connor, E.; Khaw, Yen, "A prospective study of (DHEA) dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, mortality, and cardiovascular disease.
• Arnlöv, Pencina, Amin, (2006). (DHEA)"Endogenous sex hormones and cardiovascular disease incidence in men.
• Boggs, Will. "DHEA Restores Oxidative Balance in Type 2 Diabetes". Medscape. Archived from the original on 2008.
• Fukui, Kitagawa, Nakamura, Kadono, Yoshida, M.; Hirata, Wada, Hasegawa, Yoshikawa (2005). "Serum (DHEA) dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate concentration.
• Martina, V.; Benso, A.; Gigliardi, V. R. et al. (2006). "Short-term (DHEA) dehydroepiandrosterone tereatment.
• See also Symposium On Role of Prasterone In DHEA Aging, Annals of the New York Academy of Science vol.
• Enomoto, Mika; Adachi, Fukami, Furuki, Satoh, "Serum (DHEA) Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate Levels Predict Longevity in Men:
• DHEA: the last elixir". Prescrire international 11 (60):
• Calfee, R.; Fadale, P. (March 2006). (DHEA) "Popular ergogenic drugs and supplements in young athletes".
• Medline Plus. "DHEA". Drugs and Supplements Information. National Library of Medicine. Retrieved 18 February 2010.
• Medscape (2010). "DHEA Oral". Drug Reference. WebMD LLC.. Retrieved 18 February 2010.
• Sahelian, M.D., Ray (2005). "Honest DHEA Supplement Information". DHEA: A Practical Guide, Mind Boosters, and Natural Sex Boosters.
• Tissandier, Péres, Fiet, Piette, F. (2001). "Testosterone, (DHEA) dehydroepiandrosterone, insulin-like growth factor 1, and insulin.
• Roberts, E. (1999). "The importance of (DHEA) dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate in the blood of primates: a longer and healthier life?".
• A bill to include dehydroepiandrosterone as an anabolic steroid, from http://thomas.loc.gov/cgi-bin/thomas. Accessed Sept. 9, 2009.
• Dehydroepiandrosterone Abuse Reduction Act of 2007 (GovTrack.us)
• Dr. Michael Colgin. The Deal With D.H.E.A. Vista Magazine Online. www.vistamag.com
• Yang, Jeng, (2002). "ATP depletion is an important factor in DHEA-induced growth inhibition and apoptosis in BV-2 cells".
• Schulz, Klann, "Mechanisms of cell growth inhibition and cell cycle arrest in human colonic adenocarcinoma cells by (DHEA) dehydroepiandrosterone:
• Tworoger, Missmer, S. A.; Eliassen, "The association of plasma DHEA and DHEA sulfate with breast cancer risk in predominantly premenopausal women".
• Key, Appleby, Barnes, I.Reeves, "Endogenous sex hormones and breast cancer in postmenopausal women: reanalysis of nine prospective studies".
