Testosterone Exposure in the Womb may Determine Risk of Serious Illnesses in Men

First Posted: Apr 22, 2014 11:57 PM EDT
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A recent study shows that low exposure to testosterone in the womb could increase men's risk for certain health conditions, including obesity, diabetes and even heart disease.

According to researchers from the Medical Research Council (MRC) Center for Reproductive Health at the University of Edinburgh, they discovered low levels of the hormones could create weakened Levdig cells. These stem cells, which are found in developing testes, do not typically develop until puberty. However, through the study of babies, mice, rats and marmosets in the womb, researchers found that those exposed to lower levels of testosterone in the womb exhibited signs of weakened cell function.  

This is the first study to examine how what happens in the womb could affect male health in the future. It was led by scientists from the Medical Research Council (MRC) Centre for Reproductive Health at the University of Edinburgh. 

"There is increasing evidence that a mother's diet, lifestyle and exposure to drugs and chemicals can have a significant impact on testosterone levels in the womb. We need a better grasp of these factors so that we can give reliable advice to pregnant women to protect the health of her unborn child," said researcher Professor Richard Sharpe, via Medical Xpress.

More information regarding the findings can be seen via the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

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