The Effects of Testosterone Propionate on Prostate-Specific Antigen (psa) Levels in Male Wistar Rats

Student: FAVOUR Wai-ogosu (Project, 2025)
Department of Biochemistry
University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, Port Harcourt , River State


Abstract

ABSTRACT
Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels serve as a critical biomarker for assessing prostate health, with elevated levels often associated with androgen activity. This study investigates how testosterone propionate administration affects PSA levels in male Wistar rats. Six rats were divided into two groups: a negative control group receiving only feed and water, and a positive group induced with 6 mg of testosterone propionate dissolved in olive oil. The PSA level in the control group averaged 2.79 ± 1.19 ng/mL, while the testosterone-induced group showed a significant elevation, averaging 12.95 ± 5.64 ng/mL. This fourfold increase suggests that testosterone propionate substantially stimulates PSA production, likely by upregulating androgen receptors within the prostate. The high standard deviation in the induced group also indicates individual variability in response to testosterone exposure. These findings underline the potent impact of exogenous testosterone on PSA levels and reinforce the androgen-PSA link in prostate function. The study demonstrates testosterone’s role in modulating prostate biomarkers and emphasizes the importance of PSA monitoring in testosterone therapy to mitigate potential risks to prostate health. These results provide a model for further research on androgen-induced prostate changes, guiding clinical practice in balancing therapeutic benefits with prostate health considerations.

Keywords
effects testosterone propionate prostate-specific antigen levels wistar