5aR1 | SRD5A1
5aR1 (also known as SRD5A1) is an enzyme responsible for converting T into DHT mostly in tissue outside of the prostate such as the adrenal glands, brain, skin, digestive tract, liver, kidney, and thyroid. For this reason, 5aR1 is thought to be involved in circulating (serum) DHT levels. High DHT drives hair growth and eventually loss, enlargement of the prostate gland, bladder, and urinary problems and even certain cancers. As a result, the 5aR enzymes are the target of anti-androgen drug, Dutasteride, prescribed to reduce hair loss and enlarged prostate gland. 5aR enzyme activity is reportedly naturally lower in Asian populations than African and Caucasians.
The C result in the reported 5aR1 variant (rs1691053) is associated with increased serum DHT levels.
The TC genotype is associated with increased 5aR1 activity and higher serum DHT levels. This is negative because high DHT levels have been associated with androgen-linked conditions such as hair loss and enlarged prostate gland. Risk increases with a high-activity androgen receptor (AR) result.
Smoking, high caffeine intake, and high insulin levels increase 5aR activity further. Specific substances that naturally reduce 5aR activity include pumpkin seed oil, green tea, saw palmetto, nettle, and zinc.
