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The hamster flank organ model: is it relevant to man?
T J Franz1, P A Lehman, P Pochi
1Department of Dermatology, University of Washington, Seattle.
The Journal of Investigative Dermatology
|October 1, 1989
Summary
Topical 17-alpha-propyltestosterone (17-PT) did not effectively treat acne or reduce sebum in clinical trials. The hamster model may not accurately predict antiandrogen efficacy in humans due to differing sebaceous gland sensitivity.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Androgens contribute to acne development, prompting research into topical antiandrogens.
- The golden Syrian hamster flank organ is a common model for evaluating antiandrogenic compounds.
Purpose of the Study:
- To clinically evaluate 17-alpha-propyltestosterone (17-PT) for its anti-acne and sebosuppressive effects.
- To assess the percutaneous absorption of 17-PT in humans and animal models.
Main Methods:
- Two double-blind, placebo-controlled studies assessed 17-PT efficacy in subjects with mild to moderate acne and its sebosuppressive activity.
- In vitro and in vivo studies measured 17-PT percutaneous absorption through animal and human skin.
Main Results:
- 17-PT showed no significant reduction in sebum excretion rate or inflammatory acne lesions.
- Percutaneous absorption was adequate in humans (7.7%) but low in hamsters (1.0%).
Conclusions:
- Topical 17-PT is ineffective for treating acne and reducing sebum production in humans.
- The hamster flank organ model's sebaceous gland sensitivity to antiandrogens differs from human skin, limiting its predictive value.