Grant Amount: $10,856.83

Dr. Kellie A. Fecteau, PhD, University of Tennessee

October 1, 2006 - September 30, 2007

Breed(s): -All Dogs

Abstract

The University of Tennessee Clinical Endocrinology Service is a recognized center of excellence in adrenocortical disease in dogs and receives diagnostic samples from all 50 states and several foreign countries. It has been observed that approximately 10 percent of dogs suspected of having adrenal disease only have elevated estrogen concentrations; this is known as hyperestrinism. Dogs with hyperestrinism suffer from liver disease, increased thirst, increased urination, panting, and hair coat problems. Medications to treat hyperestrinism can be expensive or are ""hit and miss"" on their effectiveness in lowering estrogen. Phytoestrogens are natural constituents of plants such as soybeans, wheat, and flaxseed, and have weak estrogen-like activity. It has been suggested that phytoestrogens may protect against certain estrogen related cancers and decrease estrogen production by certain cells. In this proposed work, we will use purchased human adrenal cancer cells which produce estrogen, and treat them with phytoestrogens. We will analyze the cells for estrogen concentration and determine if phytoestrogens affect the enzyme that controls estrogen production in the body. Results of this study will help to better realize if phytoestrogens may be effective in decreasing elevated estrogen levels in dogs with suspected adrenal disease.