Testosterone deficiency promotes the development of pulmonary emphysema in orchiectomized mice exposed to elastase

Testosterone deficiency is commonly observed in male patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which characterized by inflammation of the airways and emphysema. Although clinical trials have indicated that testosterone replacement therapy can improve respiratory function COPD, role pathogenesis COPD remains unclear. The aim this study was to explore effect on development emphysema orchiectomized (ORX) mice exposed porcine pancreatic elastase (PPE). ORX developed more severe emphysematous changes 21 d after PPE inhalation than non-ORX mice. propionate supplementation significantly reduced PPE-induced exposure also increased number neutrophils T cells bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) had undergone sham surgery. cell counts were higher BALF infiltration into alleviated lungs Our findings suggest testosterone, a male-specific hormone, may suppress through regulation cell-mediated immunity.