Human studies are lacking partly because the measurement of cytokines in bone cells in vivo is difficult. Moreover, the processes leading to bone accumulation and resorption are complex, and subject to the slightest variation in experimental conditions. Despite these problems in tracking DHEA s effect on cytokines in human bone, there is ample evidence that DHEA can modulate bone resorption through its effects on cytokines. If DHEA behaves in bone cells as it does in immune cells, it will stop age-related osteoporosis by inhibiting cytokines like TNF that provoke free radicals and cause bone resorption. Although osteoporosis is usually associated with postmenopausal women, it is being recognized that it is a problem for men as well.
Back pain is frequently the main complaint of men with the condition.
A mouse study in the Journal of Clinical Investigation in 1995 showed that testosterone replacement stops bone loss in males, as estrogen replacement does in females. Since DHEA is the precursor to both testosterone and estrogen, all indications are that it will prove to be an important treatment for osteoporosis in both men and women. The Life Extension Buyers Club offers DHEA in 25-mg. Regulation of interleukin-6, osteoclastogenesis, and bone mass by androgens. The role of the androgen receptor.