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Published on: August 28, 2013
Plasma protein changes induced by two orally administered androgen derivatives
G Rannevik1, K Carlström, A Doeberl
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Lund University, Malmö General Hospital, Sweden.
Summary
Epostane, a synthetic steroid, alters plasma protein levels similarly to danazol, despite lacking androgenic activity. These changes appear linked to its chemical structure, not hormonal effects.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Pharmacology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Epostane is a synthetic 17 alpha-alkylated 5 beta-androstane derivative.
- It is orally active and lacks apparent androgenic, estrogenic, or antiestrogenic activity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of epostane on circulating plasma protein concentrations.
- To compare these effects with those of danazol, a known androgenic steroid.
Main Methods:
- Eight women received 600 mg of epostane orally daily for 4 weeks.
- Concentrations of 13 plasma proteins were measured before and after treatment.
- Results were compared to previous danazol administration data.
Main Results:
- Epostane significantly suppressed sex hormone-binding globulin, pregnancy zone protein, and thyroxin-binding globulin.
- Epostane increased transthyretin levels.
- Changes in other proteins were minor or unaffected; the overall pattern mimicked danazol's effects, though weaker.
Conclusions:
- Epostane induces significant changes in steroid-sensitive plasma proteins in an androgen-like manner.
- These effects occur despite epostane's lack of intrinsic androgenic activity.
- The capacity of steroids to alter plasma protein patterns may depend more on chemical structure than hormonal potency.
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