1. Indirect Upregulation of Testosterone Production
3-AD (Dehydroandrosterol) does not directly convert into testosterone, but it may still influence androgenic activity in ways that stimulate natural testosterone production:
• Reduced Cortisol → Increased Testosterone
• 3-AD is known to have anti-catabolic properties, meaning it may reduce cortisol levels.
• Lower cortisol levels allow for higher testosterone production, as cortisol and testosterone have an inverse relationship.
• Increased Androgen Receptor Sensitivity
• If 3-AD binds to androgen receptors, it may cause the body to upregulate testosterone production to compensate.
• This is a common adaptive response seen with milder androgenic compounds.
• Inhibition of Aromatase or SHBG Modulation
• If 3-AD affects aromatase or Sex Hormone Binding Globulin (SHBG) levels, it could lead to higher free testosterone levels without increasing total testosterone directly.
• Lower SHBG = More bioavailable testosterone in the bloodstream.
2. Potential Influence on Precursor Hormones
Since 3-AD is structurally related to DHEA, it is possible that it enhances precursor activity that contributes to testosterone levels:
• 3-AD May Influence Other Steroidogenic Pathways
• DHEA naturally contributes to testosterone production via metabolic intermediates.
• While 3-AD does not convert to testosterone, it may support the body’s natural DHEA pathways, leading to an indirect increase in testosterone.
• Upregulation of Steroidogenesis
• If 3-AD stimulates androgenic activity, the body may increase testosterone production in response to maintain hormonal balance.
3. Individual Physiological Response
• Some users may have naturally suppressed testosterone production before using 3-AD, and the supplement may have acted as a mild hormonal regulator.
• Genetics play a role—some individuals may be more sensitive to testosterone upregulation from androgen receptor activity.
Final Verdict: 3-AD’s Testosterone Boost is Indirect, Not a Conversion
• 3-AD itself does NOT convert into testosterone.
• The increase in testosterone levels could be due to:
✅ Reduced cortisol leading to better testosterone retention
✅ Increased androgen receptor sensitivity stimulating testosterone production
✅ Modulation of SHBG or aromatase activity affecting free testosterone levels
✅ A mild upregulation of steroidogenesis via DHEA-related pathways
