DHT

[BBB]

Doc,

At this point I'm a bit confused about the role of DHT in the body. I have read some studies that show DHT to be an estrogen antagonist. Since e2 has been shown to be a major player in prostate issues it would seem that DHT could be of benefit in this area. However, I have read other studies that indicate that DHT may actually cause or aggravate prostate issues. Can you provide some clarification in this area?

 

[dinoiii]

DHT has been wrongfully accused of being the genesis of all things, prostate and hair related, gone wrong.

I am going to simplify things (hopefully not over-simplify)...

Many things are required for upregulation of DHT receptors - perhaps most important in the aformentioned pathologies is the combined product of IGF-1 and Estradiol (E2) at the level of prostatic and hair follicular membranes. Low levels of IGF-1 or E2, low DHT receptor concentration, little effect.

Feed the system DHT (either exogenously or through the amplification pathway), you will get downregulation of said receptors. Come at it from the opposite direction and, like virtually everything else in endocrinology and metabolism, and you get a sort-of negative feedback (the same thing happens with androgens, though the theories have been heatedly contested).

What we do know is that emphasis has since shifted in prostate/follicular therapeutics with greater success with the use of Aromatase Inhibitors (Letrozole) than 5-Alpha Reductase Inhibitors (Fina, Saw Palmetto). Both items will help, however, attacking estrogen is continually more effective or more complete than with blockade of DHT.


D_

 

[Whacked]

Great question as I've wondered the same. Thanks for the explanation DrD