Target intelligence / Profile preview

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)

Target: DHT
Molecular classification: Steroid hormone, Androgen

Overview

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a potent androgen synthesized from testosterone by the enzyme 5α-reductase. It plays a crucial role in male sexual development, prostate growth, and hair growth. While not directly targeted by drugs, its synthesis is often inhibited to treat conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia and androgenic alopecia. DHT exerts its effects primarily by binding to and activating the androgen receptor.

Other names: 5α-Dihydrotestosterone5-alpha-DihydrotestosteroneAndrostanolone

Mechanism of action

DHT itself is not directly targeted by drugs, but its synthesis is inhibited, or its receptor is blocked

Biological functions

Male sexual differentiationDevelopment of secondary sexual characteristicsRegulation of hair growthProstate growth and functionAndrogen receptor activationNeurosteroid activity

Disease associations

Benign prostatic hyperplasiaProstate cancerAndrogenic alopeciaAcneHirsutism

Safety considerations

Potential for sexual dysfunction with 5α-reductase inhibitorsIncreased risk of high-grade prostate cancer with long-term 5α-reductase inhibitor useTeratogenic effects (if exposed during pregnancy)

Interacting drugs

Finasteride

3 more in the full profile.

Biomarkers

Serum DHT levels (diagnostic/prognostic)DHT levels in prostate tissue (prognostic)AR expression (indirectly related)

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