Influence of testosterone on purine metabolism and gout

Abstract

Many different factors are involved in the regulation of purine metabolism. An important role is played by the level of sex hormones: high concentrations of androgens lead to a higher, and estrogen – to a lower level of uric acid. However, according to the results of numerous studies, it has been shown that the effect of sex hormones is not limited only to the uric acid concentration. Sex hormones affect inflammatory processes in the body by modulating the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and regulating the corresponding signaling pathways. Androgen deficiency can lead to obesity and metabolic disorders, which can contribute to the development and course of gout. This review examines the effect of testosterone, as well as the effect of changes in its concentration on the dynamics of purine metabolism and gout.

Keywords

• gout
• hyperuricemia
• uric acid
• testosterone
• androgens
• hypogonadism
• obesity
• cytokines