Men wanted for Blacktown Hospital testosterone study

How does testosterone work in the liver to increase muscle mass?

That’s the question researchers from Blacktown Hospital are currently exploring – but they need help from local men to continue their work.

The research team is on the hunt again for healthy men, aged 60 – 75 years, with normal weight and proven low testosterone levels to participate in the study.

Clinical trials manager Navneeta Ready said the study, led by Dr Vita Birzniece, was exploring the effect of small doses of testosterone on protein in the body.

“We want to investigate whether liver-targeted testosterone can increase muscle protein production, leading to an increase in muscle mass and function,” she said.

“The results may help us to develop a novel, safe therapy to increase muscle mass in frail, elderly men and women.”

Men willing to participate in the research would need to take a low-dose oral testosterone for two weeks and attend the Western Sydney University Research Centre at Blacktown Hospital twice over a two-week period.

Interested participants must also attend an initial screening visit.

The screening, which lasts only an hour, involves a thorough explanation of the trial, along with routine blood work to check a person’s suitability.

If men are suitable, they will then need to attend the centre for the two sessions.

Parking and meal vouchers will be provided.

For more information about recruitment, contact Navneeta Reddy on 9851 6152 or email Navneeta.Reddy@health.nsw.gov.au