Related Experiment Videos
Behavioral and physiological responses to anabolic-androgenic steroids
Ann S Clark1, Leslie P Henderson
1Department of Psychological and Brain Sciences, Dartmouth College, 6207 Moore Hall, Hanover, NH 03755, USA. ann.s.clark@dartmouth.edu
Neuroscience and Biobehavioral Reviews
|September 25, 2003
Summary
Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) abuse, even in animal models, significantly impacts behavior and neural circuits. This review synthesizes nonclinical studies on AAS effects on aggression, anxiety, and other behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Pharmacology
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) are synthetic testosterone derivatives.
- Therapeutic AAS doses offer benefits, but supraphysiological doses pose health risks.
- Previous reviews focused on clinical populations; nonclinical studies are synthesized here.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review nonclinical studies on supraphysiological AAS doses in animal models.
- To examine AAS effects on behaviors like aggression, anxiety, and locomotion.
- To explore AAS impact on neural circuitry and neurotransmitter systems.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of nonclinical studies, primarily in rodents.
- Focus on studies using AAS doses mimicking human abuse.
- Analysis of behavioral and neurobiological outcomes.
Main Results:
- Supraphysiological AAS doses alter aggression, sexual behaviors, anxiety, reward, learning, and locomotion in animal models.
- AAS affect neurotransmitter systems and signaling molecules underlying these behaviors.
- Animal models reveal neural circuit alterations due to AAS abuse.
Conclusions:
- Nonclinical studies demonstrate significant behavioral and neurobiological effects of AAS abuse.
- Animal models provide valuable insights into AAS-induced changes.
- Further research is needed to understand AAS long-term neurological consequences.