Does Dihydrotestosterone Affect Physical Performance, Or Parameters Known To Affect Physical Performance Capacity Independently From The Effect Of Testosterone?

A Protocol For A Systematic Review.

Abstract

Background: The role of hormones in human physical performance has been a subject of extensive research. Testosterone has been widely studied for its significant impact on muscle mass and muscle protein synthesis, strength, and physical performance. However, the role of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a more potent androgen derived from testosterone in physical performance needs to be clarified, leading to a gap in the literature and creating an opportunity for a systematic review. Aim: To systematically review the existing literature to elucidate the independent effects of DHT on physical performance in humans and animal models, separate from the effects of testosterone. Methods: Studies published up to 31/07/2024 will be retrieved from three electronic sources (PubMed, Embase, SportDiscus). Keywords relevant to all searches will include “dihydrotestosterone or DHT", “performance", “human", and “animal”. This study will adhere to PRISMA guidelines. The primary a priori outcome measures will include changes in human performance, such as any laboratory or field assessment involving exercise (e.g., power, VȮ_2max, force, torque, time, etc.) Secondary a priori outcomes in animal and human models will include parameters affecting physical performance capacity (e.g., [Hb], HCt, body composition and other anthropometric measurements including muscle mass, overall, regionally, stroke volume, hormones, gene expression, etc.).