Male hypogonadism is a condition affecting almost a third of the elderly male population. The most common treatment option is testosterone replacement therapy, but the practice can have significant side effects. A new development in stem cell research suggests an alternative treatment for hypogonadism may soon become available.

Share on Pinterest Stem cell research may provide an alternative to hormone replacement therapy.

Testosterone is a key hormone for the sexual, cognitive, and bodily growth and development of males during puberty.

With age, testosterone levels naturally decline, but male hypogonadism is a condition in which the body produces abnormally low levels of testosterone.

Such reduced levels can lead to mood disturbances, a decline in sex drive, and a decrease in muscle and bone strength.

The low testosterone levels associated with hypogonadism are sometimes due to dysfunctions in the testicles, pituitary gland, or the hypothalamus. Approximately 30 percent of older men are reportedly affected by the condition.

The common clinical approach to hypogonadism is testosterone replacement therapy. However, a significant amount of research points to the various side effects of hormone replacement therapy, including a risk of venous thromboembolism and deep vein thrombosis.

In fact, in 2014, the United States Food and Drug Administration, in collaboration with Health Canada, mandated that manufacturers add a warning of these risks on all testosterone products.

New stem cell research suggests that there may be an alternative type of treatment, which would involve transforming adult skin cells straight into testosterone-producing cells.