Effect of DHEA on Bone in Young Adults

摘要

Peak bone mass is achieved during young adulthood, accompanying marked rises in gonadal and adrenal steroids E.G., DEHYDROEPIANDROSTERONE- SULPHATE, (DHEAS) and insulin-like growth factors (IGF-1). In these studies, we will test the hypothesis that DHEA increases bone mass through anabolic (e.g., IGF-1), and antiosteolytic (e.g., interleukins) mechanisms as follows: *Specific Aim I--to measure the effects of DHEA on bone and the regulation of androgens, lGF-1, and cytokines in anorexic women who have increased fracture risk. Data in 36 women enrolled in year 1 showed subnormal serum levels of DHEAS, lGF-I, and bone formation markers, and elevated urinary bone resorption markers. Low levels of DHEA-S were associated with elevated bone resorption markers. * Specific Aim II--to measure the effects of DHEA on bone, cytokines, and growth factors in women with accelerated bone loss from treatment with gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist (GnRH); assays are being pooled for measurement in subsequent years. * Specific Aim III-to determine whether cytokine production and/or osteoclastogenesis is downregulated by DHEA and/or gonadal steroids. The studies from human marrow cultures revealed that testosterone and DHEA suppress production of lL-6. These clinical and basic studies will provide new information on the mechanisms whereby DHEA and sex steroids affect bone.