Dehydroepiandrosterone: Biological Effects and Clinical Significance

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a steroid hormone secreted in greater quantity by the adrenal glands than any other adrenal steroid. For many years, scientists assumed that DHEA merely functioned as a reservoir upon which the body could draw to produce other hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone. However, the recent identification of DHEA receptors in the liver, kidney and testes of rats strongly suggests that DHEA may have specific physiologic actions of its own. Circulating levels of DHEA decline progressively with age; this age-related decline does not occur with any of the other adrenal steroids. Epidemiologic evidence indicates that higher DHEA levels are associated with increased longevity and prevention of heart disease and cancer, suggesting that some of the manifestations of aging may be caused by DHEA deficiency. Animal and laboratory data indicate that administration of DHEA may prevent obesity, diabetes, cancer (breast, colon and liver), and heart disease; enhance the functioning of the immune system; and prolong life. In humans, evidence exists that DHEA might be associated with autoimmune diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis; chronic fatigue syndrome; acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS); allergic disorders; osteoporosis; and Alzheimer’s disease. Although administration of DHEA appears to be safe, its long-term effects are unknown, and it is possible that adverse consequences will become evident with chronic use. It is therefore important that this hormone be used with care and that practitioners err on the side of caution when contemplating DHEA supplementation. (Alt Med Rev 1996;1(2):60-69.)