NCIt definition : A dehydroepiandrosterone metabolite and a precursor of testosterone and estradiol
with hypolipidemic and anabolic property. Epiandrosterone, a potential neurosteroid,
appears to bind to the gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA)/benzodiazepine-receptor complex
(GABA-RC), acting as a negative non-competitive modulator of GABA-RC as well as signal
through the N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor. In addition this agent inhibits the pentose
phosphate pathway (PPP) thereby dilating blood vessels pre-contracted by partial depolarization.
Also, epiandrosterone inhibits the synthesis of thromboxane A2 in activated platelets,
reduces plasma plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 and tissue plasminogen activator
antigen, increases serum levels of insulin-like growth factor 1 and increases cyclic
guanosine monophosphate and nitric oxide synthesis. These effects may improve circulation
in the microvasculature.;