Excessive sex hormones in vertebrates can lead to adverse effects such as male pattern baldness, benign prostatic hyperplasia, prostate cancer, and polycystic ovary syndrome in women. Current treatments for hyperandrogenism primarily involve medication and surgery, which may have side effects. A research team led by Dr. Yin-Ru Chiang at the Biodiversity Research Center of Academia Sinica has discovered that gut microbiota can metabolize androgens, offering a potential new approach to treating hyperandrogenism.

Gut Microbiota Reduces Androgen Levels in Mice

Vertebrates, including humans, produce sex hormones, but the body cannot completely metabolize these substances. Excess sex hormones are transported to the liver via the bloodstream and then into the intestines. Most (90-95%) sex hormones are reabsorbed in the distal small intestine (in humans) or cecum (in mice), completing the enterohepatic circulation to regulate hormone levels. The research team isolated several strains of lactic acid bacteria capable of metabolizing androgens and analyzed their metabolic mechanisms. These strains can convert androgens into carbon dioxide and acetic acid or into structurally different androgens that lose their activity. Mouse experiments confirmed that these strains effectively reduce serum androgen levels, improving hair growth delayed by dihydrotestosterone.

Key Implications of the Study

1. New Treatment Avenue: The discovery that gut microbiota can metabolize androgens opens a new direction for treating hyperandrogenism.
2. Foundation for Novel Probiotics: This research provides a basis for developing innovative functional probiotics.
3. Enhanced Understanding of Gut-Health Interactions: It deepens the understanding of the relationship between gut microbiota and human health.

Innovative Advantages and Future Potential

Dr. Chiang stated that the team's discovery of the androgen-metabolizing capability of gut microbiota offers a novel approach for treating hyperandrogenism. Utilizing probiotics with this ability can help reduce androgen levels in the body, alleviating symptoms of hyperandrogenism.

Currently, this research is in the animal testing phase. Clinical trials are necessary to confirm its safety and efficacy in humans. The study has broad application prospects and holds promise for providing new treatment options for patients with hyperandrogenism. The research team will continue to develop high-function medical-grade gut microbiota, aiming to create more effective treatment solutions.

Resource (mandarin) : 

雄性禿、攝護腺肥大有解！中研院發現腸道菌代謝雄性素新機轉！