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Anabolic androgenic steroids reverse the beneficial effect of exercise on tendon biomechanics: an experimental study.

Authors :
Tsitsilonis S
Chatzistergos PE
Mitousoudis AS
Kourkoulis SK
Vlachos IS
Agrogiannis G
Fasseas K
Perrea DN
Zoubos AB
Source :
Foot and ankle surgery : official journal of the European Society of Foot and Ankle Surgeons [Foot Ankle Surg] 2014 Jun; Vol. 20 (2), pp. 94-9. Date of Electronic Publication: 2013 Dec 14.
Publication Year :
2014

Abstract

Background: The effect of anabolic androgenic steroids on tendons has not yet been fully elucidated. Aim of the present study was the evaluation of the impact of anabolic androgenic steroids on the biomechanical and histological characteristics of Achilles tendons.<br />Methods: Twenty-four male Wistar rats were randomized into four groups with exercise and anabolic steroids (nandrolone decanoate) serving as variables. Protocol duration was 12 weeks. Following euthanasia, tendons' biomechanical properties were tested with the use of a modified clamping configuration. Histological examination with light and electron microscopy were also performed.<br />Results: In the group of anabolic steroids and exercise the lowest fracture stress values were observed, while in the exercise group the highest ones. Histological examination by light and electron microscopy revealed areas of collagen dysplasia and an increased epitendon in the groups receiving anabolic steroids and exercise.<br />Conclusions: These findings suggest that anabolic androgenic steroids reverse the beneficial effect of exercise, thus resulting in inferior maximal stress values.<br /> (Copyright © 2013 European Foot and Ankle Society. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1460-9584
Volume :
20
Issue :
2
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Foot and ankle surgery : official journal of the European Society of Foot and Ankle Surgeons
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
24796826
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.fas.2013.12.001