The following extract from a research paper outlines some of the issues. We are currently looking for information, suitable for the non-medical professional, that gives some greater detail. Have you seen any articles which explore the problem in greater depth?

Testosterone as a protective factor against atherosclerosis-immunomodulation and influence upon plaque development and stability

C J Malkin, P J Pugh, R D Jones1, T Hugh Jones1 and K S Channer

Both oestrogens and testosterone have been shown to have immune-modulating effects; testosterone in particular appears to suppress activation of pro-inflammatory cytokines. Men with low testosterone levels are at increased risk of coronary artery disease. An anti-inflammatory effect of normal physiological levels of sex hormones may therefore be important in athero-protection. In this article, we discuss some of the mechanisms involved in atherosclerotic coronary artery disease and the putative link between testosterone deficiency and atheroma formation. We present the hypothesis that the immune-modulating properties of testosterone may be important in inhibiting atheroma formation and progression to acute coronary syndrome.

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