Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate, DHEA sulfate or DHEA-S or DHEAS or androstenolone sulfate, is an endogenous androstane steroid that is produced by the adrenal cortex. It is hormonally inert and may serve as storage for DHEA. Although DHEAS has minimal hormonal activity, it has been thought that it can be converted back into DHEA, which in turn can be transformed into androgens like testosterone and dihydrotestosterone as well as estrogens like estrone and estradiol.
DHEAS is a steroid hormone primarily produced by the adrenal glands, with minor contributions from the gonads and brain. It’s the sulfated form of DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone), which makes it more stable and longer-lasting in the bloodstream.
DHEAS Associated Diseases and Disorders
Here’s a breakdown of its physiological functions:
🧬 1. Precursor for Sex Hormones
- Main function: Acts as a prohormone—a precursor to androgens (like testosterone) and estrogens (like estradiol).
- This conversion mainly happens in peripheral tissues like the skin, liver, and adipose tissue.
🧒 2. Role in Adrenarche (Early Puberty)
- In children, a rise in DHEAS between ages 6–8 triggers adrenarche.
- Leads to the appearance of pubic and axillary hair, body odor, and mild acne—before true puberty begins.
🧠 3. Neuroprotective Effects
- DHEAS is produced in the brain and is considered a neurosteroid.
- Supports mood regulation, memory, cognition, and neuroprotection against stress-related damage.
🛡️ 4. Immune Modulation
- Modulates immune responses and has anti-inflammatory and immune-enhancing effects.
- Balances the activity of cortisol, which is an immunosuppressive hormone.
💪 5. Metabolic Effects
- May help in fat metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and muscle maintenance.
- Its exact role is still being studied, but low levels are linked to metabolic syndrome and obesity.
❤️ 6. Cardiovascular Function (Possible Role)
- Some studies suggest DHEAS may have cardioprotective effects, possibly by:
- Improving endothelial function
- Lowering vascular inflammation
- Reducing atherosclerosis risk