Dehydroepiandrosterone, commonly abbreviated as DHEA, is the most abundant circulating steroid hormone in the human body, primarily produced by the adrenal glands. This steroid acts as a key metabolic intermediate, serving as a prohormone for the synthesis of both androgens and estrogens in peripheral tissues. Circulating levels of DHEA peak in early adulthood and progressively decline with age, a pattern often associated with various aspects of longevity and well-being.
Origin
The term is a chemical designation derived from its molecular structure, indicating a dehydro- (loss of hydrogen) and an epi- (epimer or stereoisomer) form of androsterone, a metabolite of testosterone. Its clinical significance was established through endocrinology research focusing on the adrenal cortex and the pathways of steroidogenesis.
Mechanism
DHEA is synthesized from cholesterol via pregnenolone in the zona reticularis of the adrenal cortex, a process regulated by ACTH. Upon secretion, DHEA is largely sulfated to DHEA-S, which acts as a circulating reservoir. In target cells, DHEA-S is converted back to DHEA, which then enters the complex steroidogenesis pathway, converting into androstenedione, and subsequently into potent androgens like testosterone or estrogens like estradiol, depending on the tissue-specific enzyme availability, such as 3-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase and aromatase.
Assessing the HPA axis markers, specifically the Cortisol-to-DHEA-S ratio, provides the clearest biochemical blueprint for reclaiming systemic vitality and metabolic function.
DHEA supplementation in women requires careful consideration of long-term androgenic and estrogenic effects, especially concerning hormone-sensitive tissues.
Intermittent fasting influences male and female hormones distinctly, generally improving insulin sensitivity and growth hormone while affecting sex steroids differently based on gender and metabolic state.
Hormonal protocols optimize brain function by restoring balance, supporting neuronal health, and reducing neuroinflammation for lasting cognitive vitality.
We use cookies to personalize content and marketing, and to analyze our traffic. This helps us maintain the quality of our free resources. manage your preferences below.
Detailed Cookie Preferences
This helps support our free resources through personalized marketing efforts and promotions.
Analytics cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our website, improving user experience and website performance.
Personalization cookies enable us to customize the content and features of our site based on your interactions, offering a more tailored experience.