Low testosterone in men predicts impaired arterial elasticity and microvascular function

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Cardiovascular Health
• Men's Health

Background:

• Low serum testosterone in men is associated with metabolic issues like obesity and insulin resistance.
• The relationship between low testosterone and vascular dysfunction (arterial stiffness, endothelial, and microvascular function) is not well understood.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between serum testosterone levels and vascular function in healthy men.
• To determine if low testosterone is linked to arterial stiffness and endothelial/microvascular dysfunction.

Main Methods:

• Serum testosterone levels were measured in 237 healthy men (mean age 50).
• Vascular function was assessed using brachial artery flow-mediated dilation (endothelial function) and digital reactive hyperemia index (microvascular function).
• Arterial stiffness was evaluated by pulse wave velocity and augmentation index.

Main Results:

• 25% of men had low testosterone levels (<12.0 nmol/L).
• Lower testosterone was associated with poorer microvascular function (lower RHI) and arterial elasticity (higher AIX).
• Testosterone remained an independent predictor of microvascular function and arterial elasticity after adjustments.

Conclusions:

• In men with few comorbidities, lower testosterone is associated with microvascular dysfunction and increased arterial pulse wave reflections.
• These vascular changes may contribute to the increased cardiovascular risk observed with low testosterone.
• Further studies are required to ascertain if normalizing low testosterone levels can enhance vascular function.