ABSTRACT
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a steroid mainly synthesized in the adrenal cortex and gonads (Matsuzaki and Honda 2006). DHEA and its sulfated form (DHEAS) are the most abundant circulating hormones in humans, and their plasma levels decline with age and vary with sex, ethnicity, and environmental factors (Orentreich et al. 1984). Although DHEA’s effects are very controversial, numerous animal studies have demonstrated the bene‰cial effects of DHEA in preventing obesity, diabetes, cancer, and heart disease; in enhancing the immune system; and even in prolonging life spans.
