Dehydroepiandrosterone 3-acetate is a testosterone/estrogen precursor and known modulator of vertebrate aggression.
Dehydroisoandrosterone implants increases aggression in a laboratory-based simulated territorial intrusion. Brains of Dehydroisoandrosterone-implanted birds show higher aromatase mRNA expression in the preoptic area (POA) and higher androgen receptor mRNA expression in the periventricular nucleus of the medial striatum (pvMSt) and ventromedial nucleus of the hypothalamus (VMH). The Dehydroisoandrosterone-induced increases in aromatase expression in the POA and androgen receptor expression in the pvMSt are consistent with previously reported seasonal increases in these markers associated with naturally elevated Dehydroisoandrosterone levels[1]. Dehydroisoandrosterone supplementation (10.2 mg/kg) alone significantly increases mice body weight (BW), muscle weight, testosterone level, and glycogen contents (liver and muscle) when compared with SC group[2].
[1]. Wacker DW, et al. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) heightens aggression and increases androgen receptor and aromatase mRNA expression in the brain of a male songbird. J Neuroendocrinol. 2016 Nov 2. [2]. Chen WC, et al. Dehydroepiandrosterone Supplementation Combined with Whole-Body Vibration Training Affects Testosterone Level and Body Composition in Mice. Int J Med Sci. 2016 Sep 16;13(10):730-740.