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Anabolic androgenic steroids and carcinogenicity focusing on Leydig cell: a literature review

Monica Salerno1, Orazio Cascio2, Giuseppe Bertozzi1

  • 1University of Foggia, Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Foggia, Italy.

Oncotarget
|May 4, 2018
PubMed

Insights

Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) can cause cancer by affecting DNA transcription through androgen and estrogen receptors. AAS abuse also impairs testosterone synthesis, potentially contributing to carcinogenic mechanisms and public health concerns.

Area of Science:

  • Endocrinology
  • Oncology
  • Toxicology

Background:

  • Anabolic androgenic steroids (AAS) are widely used by athletes for performance enhancement and aesthetic purposes.
  • Numerous studies highlight the detrimental effects of AAS on various organs and tissues.
  • AAS abuse is a growing public health issue due to severe health consequences.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review and analyze the mechanisms of AAS-mediated carcinogenicity, with a specific focus on Leydig cell tumors.
  • To understand how AAS influence DNA transcription and cellular proliferation pathways.
  • To highlight the link between AAS abuse, impaired testosterone biosynthesis, and potential carcinogenic effects.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of scientific reports on anabolic androgenic steroids and their effects.
  • Analysis of AAS-mediated carcinogenicity pathways, including direct and indirect mechanisms.
  • Examination of the role of androgen and estrogen receptors, and signaling pathways like PI3K/AKT and PLC/PKC.

Main Results:

  • AAS can induce carcinogenicity by affecting DNA transcription via androgen receptor (dihydrotestosterone) and estrogen receptor (estradiol).
  • Specific AAS like nandrolone and stanozolol can activate PI3K/AKT and PLC/PKC pathways via IGF-1, promoting cell proliferation in Leydig cell cancer and breast tissue.
  • Supraphysiological doses of AAS impair enzymes involved in testosterone biosynthesis, negatively affecting hormonal regulation and potentially contributing to cancer.

Conclusions:

  • AAS abuse poses significant health risks, including carcinogenicity and impaired male fertility.
  • Understanding the molecular mechanisms of AAS-induced cancer is crucial for public health.
  • Strengthened information campaigns in gyms and schools are recommended to prevent AAS-related tissue damage and fertility issues.
Keywords:
abuseanabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS)carcinogenicityinsulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1)molecular mechanisms

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