An Investigation into the Effect of Testosterone on Plasma Triglyceride and Cholesterol Levels.

Abstract

Studies have shown that in the male, tissue fat storage increases with age and the accompanying decrease in testosterone level. It is also widely accepted that elevated plasma levels of triglycerides and cholesterol are important risk factors for the development of cardiovascular diseases. The present work was therefore designed to study the effect of testosterone on plasma triglyceride and cholesterol levels.





Experiments were carried out on 30 intact adult male rats weighing 200-300gm. The rats were divided randomly into six groups that received different treatments of testosterone, adrenaline, and propranolol. Blood samples were obtained from all the rats by cardiac puncture and plasma samples were assayed for triglyceride and cholesterol.





Results of the study showed that testosterone caused a significant elevation of plasma triglyceride, and also enhanced an adrenaline-induced increase in plasma triglyceride. Propranolol treatment inhibited the increase in plasma triglyceride induced by testosterone. Plasma cholesterol level did not change with testosterone treatment although a combined treatment of testosterone and adrenaline caused a significant increase in cholesterol level, suggesting a synergistic action.


Nig. Qt. J. Hosp. Med. Vol.12(1-4) 2002: 48-51