Effects of Oleoyl-DHEA on DHEA Availability in Rats
Author Information
Author(s): Marta Serrano, Maria del Mar Grasa, José Antonio Fernández-López, María Alemany
Primary Institution: Department of Nutrition and Food Science, Faculty of Biology, University of Barcelona
Hypothesis
Does the administration of oleoyl-DHEA extend the pharmacologic availability of DHEA by maintaining high circulating levels?
Conclusion
The oral administration of oleoyl-DHEA does not effectively extend DHEA plasma availability, as it is rapidly hydrolysed and converted to DHEA-sulfate.
Supporting Evidence
- Both male and female rats showed similar plasma label patterns after gavage.
- DHEA-sulfate levels peaked more in females than in males.
- Most of the label in plasma was found in the hydrophilic zone, indicating high levels of DHEA-sulfate.
- Intestinal esterase activity was highest at pH 8, suggesting optimal conditions for hydrolysis.
- Label distribution in tissues showed significant differences between male and female rats.
Takeaway
When rats were given oleoyl-DHEA, it quickly turned into another form and didn't stay in their blood for long, so it didn't work as hoped.
Methodology
Wistar rats were given tritium-labelled oleoyl-DHEA or DHEA by oral gavage, and plasma levels were measured over time.
Limitations
The study was conducted only in rats, which may not fully represent human metabolism of DHEA.
Participant Demographics
Wistar male and female rats, aged 290-350g for males and 200-230g for females.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website