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Renal heat shock proteins over-expression due to anabolic androgenic steroids abuse

S D'Errico1, B Di Battista, M Di Paolo

  • 1Department of Forensic Pathology, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy.

Mini Reviews in Medicinal Chemistry
|March 30, 2011
PubMed

Insights

Chronic anabolic androgenic steroid (AAS) use causes kidney damage, but the exact mechanisms remain unclear. Further research is needed to understand the role of heat shock proteins (HSPs) in AAS toxicity and organ protection.

Area of Science:

  • Nephrology
  • Toxicology
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are linked to serious adverse health effects.
  • While cardiovascular toxicity is well-documented, AAS effects on other organs, particularly the kidneys, are less understood.
  • A dose-related nephrotoxic effect of AAS is suspected, with observed morpho-functional damages, yet the precise pathophysiological mechanisms are unknown.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the current literature on AAS-induced organ toxicity, focusing on nephrotoxicity.
  • To highlight knowledge gaps regarding the pathophysiological mechanisms of AAS nephrotoxicity.
  • To explore the potential role of heat shock proteins (HSPs) in mediating AAS toxicity and organ response.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and analysis of pertinent scientific publications.
  • Examination of documented morpho-functional damages related to AAS use.
  • Discussion of heat shock proteins (HSPs) and their potential involvement in AAS toxicity.

Main Results:

  • A dose-related nephrotoxic effect of AAS has been proposed, with diverse observed damages.
  • The exact pathophysiological mechanisms underlying AAS-induced nephrotoxicity require further elucidation.
  • Overexpression of heat shock proteins (HSPs) may represent a protective response against AAS abuse.

Conclusions:

  • Comprehensive studies on HSP/chaperone expression across all organs following long-term AAS use are necessary.
  • Further research is crucial to fully understand the mechanisms of AAS nephrotoxicity and potential protective strategies.
  • Clarifying the role of HSPs could offer insights into mitigating AAS-related organ damage.

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