Experimental studies on androgen administration in animal models: current and future perspectives

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology and Pharmacology
• Toxicology
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Anabolic-androgenic steroids (AAS) are synthetic derivatives of testosterone.
• AAS abuse is prevalent in sports and for performance enhancement.
• Understanding the adverse effects of AAS is crucial for public health.

Approach:

• Systematic review of experimental studies on animal models published between January 2020 and July 2022.
• Analysis of 41 selected studies investigating various AAS, including nandrolone decanoate, boldenone, testosterone, and stanozolol.
• Focus on identifying and summarizing reported adverse effects on multiple organ systems.

Key Points:

• Androgen administration significantly increases inflammatory mediators and alters biochemical parameters.
• Adverse effects were observed across cardiovascular, neurological, renal, hepatic, reproductive, and musculoskeletal systems.
• Nandrolone decanoate was the most frequently studied androgen in the reviewed literature.

Conclusions:

• The reversibility of AAS-induced adverse effects is debated, with evidence suggesting potential for irreversible organ damage.
• Animal models are essential for elucidating the mechanisms and consequences of AAS abuse.
• Further well-organized animal studies are needed to address knowledge gaps regarding androgen abuse and its health implications.