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Genotoxic and cytotoxic effects of testosterone cypionate (deposteron(®))

José Roberto C Meireles1, Susie V Oliveira, Antônio O Costa-Neto

  • 1Department of Biological Sciences, Feira de Santana State University, Feira de Santana, Bahia, Brazil. jrcmeireles@gmail.com

Mutation Research
|March 12, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Testosterone cypionate (deposteron) demonstrates genotoxic and cytotoxic effects in mice. This study found increased micronuclei and decreased erythrocyte production following deposteron administration, highlighting potential risks associated with its use.

Area of Science:

  • Toxicology
  • Genetics
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are frequently misused, prompting research into their mutagenic potential.
  • Understanding the genotoxic effects of specific AAS is crucial for public health and safety.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the genotoxic and cytotoxic potential of testosterone cypionate (deposteron) using an in vivo mouse model.
  • To assess the dose-dependent effects of deposteron on bone marrow cells.

Main Methods:

  • The mouse bone marrow micronucleus test was employed to assess genotoxicity.
  • Male Swiss mice were administered intramuscular injections of deposteron at varying doses.
  • Micronuclei counts in polychromatic erythrocytes (PCE) and the PCE/NCE ratio were analyzed at 24, 48, and 72 hours post-treatment.

Main Results:

  • A significant increase in micronuclei formation was observed in animals treated with the highest dose of deposteron.
  • The highest dose of deposteron induced a decrease in the PCE/NCE ratio, indicating cytotoxic effects on bone marrow.
  • Dose-dependent genotoxic and cytotoxic effects were evident.

Conclusions:

  • Testosterone cypionate (deposteron) exhibits genotoxic activity in mice.
  • Deposteron also demonstrates cytotoxic effects, impacting bone marrow cell proliferation.
  • The findings suggest that deposteron poses risks associated with its indiscriminate use.

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