Testosterone Metabolites Profile

The Testosterone Metabolites Profile is a cutting-edge laboratory test for the evaluation of prostate cancer risk.

Testosterone gives rise to important downstream metabolites. While 5α-dihydrotestosterone is well known for its role in exacerbating prostate problems, there is another metabolite that is emerging as a key influencer on prostate health. That metabolite is known as 5α-Androstane-3β, 17β-diol, or 3β-Adiol.

3β-Adiol is created from 5α-DHT, catalyzed by the enzyme 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. 3β-Adiol does not bind to androgen receptors; rather 3β-Adiol is a potent stimulator of Estrogen Receptor-β. In the prostate, 3β-Adiol’s stimulation of ERβ prevents excess cell proliferation and stimulates apoptosis and re-differentiation. ERβ stimulation via compounded 3β-Adiol is an emerging therapy in the treatment of aggressive prostate cancer.

3β-Adiol is commonly deficient in men taking 5α-reductase inhibiting drugs for the treatment of BPH or male pattern hair loss.