Effect of Androgens on Human Fascia

Androgens are emerging as important regulators of connective tissue remodeling, but their role in human fascia remains unexplored. This study examined the expression of the androgen receptor (AR) in human deep fascia and investigated the effects of dihydrotes-tosterone (DHT) on collagen production by fascial fibroblasts. Fascia lata and thoracolumbar fascia samples were collected from four adult donors (2 male, 2 female). AR expression was assessed by immunohistochemistry and immunocy-tochemistry. Fascial fibroblasts were treated in vitro with DHT at concentrations reflecting physiological levels: 0.4 ng/mL (female), 4 ng/mL (male average), and 10 ng/mL (high male dose). Collagen content was quantified using Picrosirius Red staining, and Colla-gen-I and III were evaluated by immunocytochemistry and image analysis. AR was detected in all samples. Low-dose DHT (0.4 ng/mL) significantly increased Collagen-I (4.80±1.75%) and decreased Collagen-III (3.32±0.46%) compared to controls (2.09±0.91% and 10.46±0.53%, respectively; p< 0.05). Higher DHT doses induced smaller or no significant changes in collagen subtype expression (e.g., 10 ng/mL: 2.03±0.81% for Collagen-I, 8.49±1.85% for Collagen-III). The results demonstrated that human fascia is hormonally responsive via AR, with DHT modulating matrix composition in a dose-dependent manner. The distinct effects at male and female levels may help explain gender differences in fascial stiffness and pain.