Nandrolone inhibits VEGF mRNA in rat muscle

Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a key compound for induction of angiogenesis in both physiological and pathological conditions. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of androgenic-anabolic steroids (AAS) administration on VEGF mRNA expression in the rat soleus muscle after jumping training. Wistar rats were grouped into: sedentary (S); nandrolone decanoate-treated sedentary (AAS); trained without AAS (T) and trained and treated with AAS (AAST). Exercised groups performed a 7-weeks water-jumping program. Animals killed immediately after the last exercise bout showed significantly increased VEGF mRNA expression; however, the AAS treatment completely inhibited this effect. These results suggest that the AAS may be strongly prejudicial to muscle remodeling and performance at least partially due to an impaired angiogenesis.