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Role of 5α-reductase inhibitors in prostate cancer prevention and treatment

Faris Azzouni1, James Mohler

  • 1Department of Urology, Roswell Park Cancer Institute, Buffalo, New York 14263, USA. faris.azzouni@roswellpark.org

Urology
|March 27, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a key prostate androgen. Inhibiting its production via 5α-reductase (5α-R) is a promising strategy for preventing and treating prostate cancer, with two inhibitors currently approved.

Area of Science:

  • Andrology
  • Urologic Oncology
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is the primary androgen in the prostate gland.
  • DHT is synthesized from testosterone by the enzyme 5α-reductase (5α-R).
  • DHT is implicated in the pathogenesis of benign prostate enlargement and prostate cancer.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the role of 5α-reductase inhibitors in prostate cancer.
  • To discuss clinical trials evaluating 5α-R inhibitors for prostate cancer prevention and treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies on 5α-reductase inhibitors.
  • Analysis of clinical trial data regarding efficacy and safety.

Main Results:

  • The enzyme 5α-reductase (5α-R) converts testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
  • Males with 5α-R 2 deficiency show no incidence of prostate cancer, highlighting 5α-R's role.
  • Two 5α-R inhibitors are approved for clinical use.

Conclusions:

  • 5α-reductase inhibitors represent a significant therapeutic avenue for prostate cancer.
  • Further research and clinical application of these inhibitors are warranted.

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