Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 14, 2026
06:43
Quantitative Analysis and Characterization of Atherosclerotic Lesions in the Murine Aortic Sinus
Published on: December 7, 2013
[Atherosclerosis and androgen levels in elderly males]
Yun-mei Yang1, Zhe-rong Xu, Ling-jiao Wu
1The First Affiliated Hospital, College of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China.
Summary
In elderly males, normal free testosterone (FT) levels are linked to reduced atherosclerosis (AS) risk. Low FT may be an independent risk factor for AS development.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Cardiovascular Medicine
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Atherosclerosis (AS) is a significant health concern in elderly males.
- Androgen levels, particularly testosterone, may play a role in AS development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between androgen levels and atherosclerosis in elderly males.
- To determine if specific androgen levels are associated with the presence and severity of AS.
Main Methods:
- Doppler ultrasonography was used to assess carotid and lower extremity arteries.
- Radioimmunoassay, colorimetry, and ELISA were employed to measure hormone and biomarker levels.
- Participants were categorized into case (arteriosclerosis/plaque) and control (normal) groups.
Main Results:
- Free testosterone (FT) was significantly lower in the AS group compared to controls.
- HDL-C was higher, while TC and TG were lower in the control group.
- Elevated VEGF, TNF-alpha, and IL-6 were observed in the AS group, with negative correlations to FT.
Conclusions:
- Normal androgen levels, especially FT, appear protective against AS development in elderly males.
- Low FT levels may serve as an independent risk factor for atherosclerosis in this population.
Related Concept Videos
01:30Atherosclerosis I: Introduction
Atherosclerosis is a progressive disorder characterized by the buildup of plaques on the arterial inner wall, causing them to narrow and harden over time. These plaques comprise lipids, calcium, blood components, carbohydrates, and fibrous tissue. The process primarily affects the intima of large and medium-sized arteries, reducing blood flow in any artery.Etiology and risk factorsThe cause of atherosclerosis is multifactorial, involving a complex interplay among endothelial injury, lipid...
01:26Atherosclerosis III: Management
Management of atherosclerosis involves an integrated strategy encompassing pharmacological treatment, surgical interventions, lifestyle changes, and nutrition therapy to address the multifactorial nature of the disease.Pharmacological TherapyA cornerstone of atherosclerosis management is the use of pharmacological agents. Statins, such as atorvastatin, are pivotal in inhibiting HMG-CoA reductase, an enzyme that catalyzes an initial step in cholesterol synthesis in the liver. This reduction in...
01:27Atherosclerosis II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Tests
Atherosclerosis is a progressive disorder that leads to the thickening and narrowing of arterial walls due to plaque buildup. This condition can cause various symptoms depending on the arteries affected:Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): This condition affects the coronary arteries and may lead to chest pain (angina), shortness of breath (dyspnea), heart attacks, and other heart disease symptoms.Cerebrovascular Disease: This affects blood flow to the brain, causing transient ischemic attacks (TIAs)...
01:29Bone Disorders
Aging and its effect on bone remodeling is the most common cause of bone disorders. In young and healthy people, bone deposition and resorption happen at an equal rate to maintain optimal bone health.
Bone deposition is also affected by the levels of sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone that promote osteoblast activity and bone matrix synthesis. When the level of these hormones decreases due to aging, it causes a reduction in bone deposition. As a result, bone resorption by osteoclasts...
Bone deposition is also affected by the levels of sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone that promote osteoblast activity and bone matrix synthesis. When the level of these hormones decreases due to aging, it causes a reduction in bone deposition. As a result, bone resorption by osteoclasts...
01:19The Effect of Aging on Tissues
Several body functions deteriorate with age. The external signs of aging are easily identifiable. For example, the skin becomes dry, less elastic, and thins out, forming wrinkles. The skin of the face begins to appear looser due to a decrease in the levels of elastic and collagen fibers in the connective tissue. Additionally, melanin production in the hair follicle decreases with age, resulting in gray hair. Moreover, the senses of sight and hearing decline, so glasses and hearing aids may...
01:20Disorders of the Male Reproductive System
Men's health issues are increasingly recognized as significant, with several conditions posing common threats. Among these, testicular cancer is especially prevalent in younger men, particularly those aged 20 to 35 years. The disease often manifests as a painless mass in the testicles, sometimes accompanied by a sensation of heaviness or a dull ache.
Prostate disorders are another major concern. These conditions can impair urinary flow due to the prostate's location around the urethra. Symptoms...
Prostate disorders are another major concern. These conditions can impair urinary flow due to the prostate's location around the urethra. Symptoms...