ABSTRACT
To determine whether the similarity of biologic effects of two antiandrogens, cyproterone acetate (Cyp A) and edogesterone (PH-218), could be related to one or more common biochemical effects, we have compared the effects of both drugs on 3H testosterone (3HT) entry into cells, binding to specific cytosol and nuclear androphiles, and conversion to dihydrotestosterone (DHT). In chronic in vivo studies, both Cyp A and PH-218 reduced rat prostate weights by approximately 50% and specific cytosol steroid-protein complex formation by approximately 60 %. At the same time, Cyp A decreased the formation of nuclear steroid-protein complex to 10% of control values, compared with 40% for PH-218. In addition, Cyp A, but not PH-218, significantly decreased total 3HT uptake by the prostate. Similar effects of Cyp A on 3HT uptake, binding, and metabolism were noted in acute in vivo and in vitro experiments. PH-218 effects on these same parameters were reduced in acute, compared to chronic, studies. Neither drug significantly affected the conversion of T to DHT. Despite quantitative differences between Cyp A and PH-218, these studies support the concept that the biochemical common denominator for the biologic effects of anti-androgens is inhibition of specific steroid-protein complex formation in both cytosol and nucleus.