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Bone density is normal in male rats treated with finasteride
H N Rosen1, S Tollin, R Balena
1Charles A. Dana Research Institute, Beth Israel Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts 02215.
Endocrinology
|April 1, 1995
Summary
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is not essential for normal male bone growth. Studies show finasteride, which inhibits DHT synthesis, did not negatively impact bone density or development in male rats.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Bone Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Bone is an androgen-dependent tissue in males.
- The specific roles of testosterone and its metabolite, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), in male bone health are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the necessity of dihydrotestosterone (DHT) for normal bone growth and mineralization in male rats.
- To determine the effects of inhibiting DHT synthesis on the male rat skeleton.
Main Methods:
- Male rats were administered placebo, finasteride (a DHT synthesis inhibitor), or underwent orchidectomy.
- Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured using dual x-ray absorptiometry and ex vivo analysis.
- Histomorphometric analysis of tibial bone was performed.
Main Results:
- Finasteride treatment did not alter spine, whole body, femur, or tibia bone mineral density compared to controls.
- Orchidectomy significantly reduced bone mineral density in all measured sites.
- Cancellous bone volume in the proximal tibia remained normal in finasteride-treated rats.
Conclusions:
- Selective dihydrotestosterone (DHT) deficiency does not impair bone development or density in male rats.
- Testosterone, independent of its conversion to DHT, appears sufficient for maintaining male skeletal integrity.