Description of Research Expertise
The Testosterone Trial
The Testosterone Trial is a multicenter study of seven coordinated trials of the effects of testosterone in elderly men with low testosterone on physical function, vitality, sexual function, cognitive function, anemia, bone and cardiovascular risk. Eight hundred men ≥65 years whose serum testosterone is <250 ng/dL are being randomized to receive testosterone or placebo double blindly for one year. The primary end points for each trial are distance walked in 6 minutes, fatigue-vitality, sexual activity, delayed verbal memory, hemoglobin, and coronary artery plaque burden. There are also several secondary end points for each trial.
The Effects of Hormones on Bone Structure
Dr. Snyder collaborates with Dr. Felix Wehrli to study the effects of hormones and other agents on bone structure as determined by magnetic resonance microimaging (µMRI). By this technique, individual trabeculae can be discerned and the topological parameters of bone can be quantitated. In addition, these data can be used to calculate bone strength by finite element analysis. Currently, the effects of testosterone, growth hormone, estradiol, teriparatide and zoledronic acid are being studied.
Pituitary Adenomas
Past studies have characterized the clinical and biochemical characteristics of gonadotroph adenomas. Currently the effect of the somatostatin analog pasireotide on gonadotroph adenoma size and secretion is being studied.
Academic Contact Information
Translational Research Center, 12-135
3400 Civic Center Boulevard
Philadelphia,
PA
19104-5160
Phone: 215-898-0208
Patient appointments: 800-789-7366