Society for Endocrinology | Special Interest Groups

Andrology Special Interest Group

Background

There has recently been a significant increase in the publication of original papers in the field of androgens throughout the world. This has been paralleled by a rise in interest from the media and public in general. The main areas that have driven this are the clinical use of testosterone replacement therapy and the abuse of anabolic steroids.

Peer reviewed publications at basic science and clinical levels are clearly defining important roles of testosterone on metabolism, bone health, muscle function, the immune system, cardiovascular and nervous systems. Clinical research have identified links between testosterone deficiency with osteoporosis, frailty, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cognitive function, Alzheimer’s disease and HIV in addition to the classical effects on reproductive function. The development of basic science research is key in the field to progress our understanding of androgen actions. Importantly four recent studies have found that a low testosterone is associated with an increase in all-cause mortality.

Some of the areas of effects of testosterone are in common with the Society’s other special interest groups e.g. Bone and Mineral, Obesity, PCOS and Metabolic syndrome, Pituitary and Steroids. There is a potential for joint meetings between these SIG’s.

There has over the last ten years been an increase in pharmaceutical company interest in the field of testosterone replacement therapy. Currently in development and in early clinical trials are a new class of drugs which affect the androgen receptor. These are the SARM’s (Selective Androgen Receptor Modulators). There is a potential for collaborative research with the pharmaceutical industry where appropriate.

The convenor for this SIG is Professor Hugh Jones (Barnsley Hospital NHS Foundation Trust).

Actions

to promote research in the field
to encourage collaborations between research groups
to create a register of members
to organise meeting for the group and advise on symposia related to androgens for the BES and other meetings
to be able through the Society for Endocrinology to advise the public and media on issues related to androgens
to consider providing society input to patient support groups