Steroid 5α-reductase inhibitors in androgen-dependent disorders

Inhibition of the steroid 5 alpha-reductases shows promise in the treatment of a number of androgen-dependent disorders, such as benign prostatic hyperplasia, male pattern baldness, and acne, The design of potent and isozyme-selective inhibitors has provided biologists and clinicians with important tools for elucidating complex androgen physiology, and has already resulted in the development of one marketed drug. (C) Current Biology Ltd ISSN 1367-5931.