De Novo and Depot-Specific Androgen Production in Human Adipose Tissue: A Source of Hyperandrogenism in Women with Obesity.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Obesity in women is often associated with hyperandrogenism, but the role of adipose tissue (AT) in androgen synthesis remains unclear. Therefore, we studied whether AT could be a source of androgens promoting hyperandrogenism.

Methods

Subcutaneous and visceral (visc) AT was collected from lean and obese women. Androgen levels were evaluated in serum, AT, and cell-culture supernatant. Gene and protein expression of steroidogenic enzymes were determined.

Results

Obese subjects had elevated serum androgen levels, which reduced after weight loss. Androgens were measurable in AT and in cell-culture supernatants of adipocytes. Steroids were higher in AT from obese women, with the highest difference for testosterone in visc AT (+7.9-fold, p = 0.032). Steroidogen

SUBMITTER: Wagner IV 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9021649 | biostudies-literature | 2022

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature