Related Experiment Videos
Adrenal androgens and the immune system.
Chi Chiung Grace Chen1, C Richard Parker
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, Alabama 35294-7333, USA.
Seminars in Reproductive Medicine
|January 7, 2005
Summary
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulfate (DHEAS) are key adrenal androgens. Their production can decrease during immune activation, independent of corticosteroid levels, suggesting a role in immune function.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Immunology
- Androgen Biology
Background:
- Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) are the primary human adrenal androgens (AAs).
- AA production is regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, but other factors influence their secretion.
- Divergent AA levels from corticosteroids occur during immune system activation or dysfunction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the relationship between adrenal androgen production and immune system status.
- To investigate the mechanisms behind altered AA levels during immune challenges.
- To understand the role of DHEA and DHEAS in immune competence.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of circulating levels of DHEA and DHEAS in various physiological and pathological conditions.
- Comparison of AA levels with corticosteroid levels.
- Review of existing literature on immune system modulation of adrenal androgens.
Main Results:
- Reduced DHEA and DHEAS levels are observed in conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, HIV/AIDS, sepsis, and trauma.
- These reductions occur even without suppressed corticosteroid secretion.
- Evidence suggests DHEA and DHEAS have immunosuppressive effects, opposing those of corticosteroids.
Conclusions:
- Adrenal androgen production is influenced by immune system activity.
- Cytokines or local mediators may impair AA production during immune activation.
- DHEA and DHEAS play a significant role in regulating immune responses.