What is ACP-105?
ACP-105 is a novel non-steroidal selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM), with tissue-specific agonist effect. This means that the drug activates the androgen receptor, producing a similar effect as if a testosterone molecule was bound to the receptor. ACP-105 belongs to a class of drugs that have similar effects to androgens (male hormones with anabolic properties), which aim to reduce the side effects of traditional androgen therapy.
The side effects of traditional androgen therapy are the body's response to the overload of testosterone, namely:
- balding,
- acne,
- gynecomastia,
- changes in sex drive,
- mood swings.
The unique aspect of ACP-105 is that it does not have these side effects [1]. Furthermore, ACP-105 is tissue-specific, meaning it exerts a greater effect in some tissues than others [1].
In a study conducted on castrated male rats, ACP-105 showed an improvement in anabolic parameters.
Uses of ACP-105
ACP-105 is currently being researched for potential medical applications, following the trend of investigating SARMs as a potential replacement for traditional androgen therapies due to the better safety profile and fewer side effects. To date, ACP-105 has not been approved for medical use [1, 2].
Animal studies showed a potent anabolic effect of ACP-105 - in a study on castrated (therefore testosterone-defficient) rats demonstated a potent effect on muscle growth and increase in bone density [2]. Similar studies can pave the way for ACP-105 to be used to treat diseases such as anaemias and HIV-associated muscle wasting syndromes, where androgen therapy is indicated.
In the context of fitness, the anabolic potential of ACP-105 has been noted, and the molecule is available for purchase as a supplement. However, it is important to note that the use of ACP-105 is currently prohibited in sport as it is classified as a performance-enhancing drug [2, 3]. However, ACP-105 has been detected in doping control samples, indicating that it is being used despite lack of approval [1, 3].
Benefits of ACP-105
ACP-105 is an androgen receptor agonist, meaning that it exerts anabolic effects such as increase in muscle mass, bone density and strength. This is the principal benefit of ACP-105 treatment, and the drug has been used in humans, as well as racehorses [1] to improve exercise outcomes.
Additionally, ACP-105 was studied as a neuroprotective drug in a mouse model of ischemic (loss of blood supply) stroke. Mice that received ACP-105 showed improved survival, improved functional outcomes and reduced infarct volume. The study suggests that ACP-105 reduces activation of pro-inflammatory pathways and lowers oxidative stress, making it a potential candidate for clinical translation in the treatment of ischemic stroke [4].
Side Effects of ACP-105
SARMs, including ACP-105, are being investigated due to the better safety profile than conventional androgen therapy. The aim of developing SARMs is to preserve the androgenic / anabolic effects, while minimising the side effects which may include gynecomastia, mood swing disorders, sex drive alterations, balding or excessive hair growth and infertility, which are associated with conventional androgen therapy.
ACP-105 is still early in its development, and the side effects are not comprehensively understood. Some potential effects on the nervous systems have been established in studies on mice, with implications for immunoreactivity towards certain proteins [5]. In humans, there have been no adverse effects reported, however, it is important to note that these reports are not results of comprehensively-monitored, large-scale clinical trials, but rather self-reports from recreational users and therefore may lack accuracy.
Additionally, it is known that ACP-105 can lead to the production of 19 different metabolites in the body after oral administration [1]. This suggests that the drug undergoes extensive metabolism, which could potentially lead to unexpected side effects. However, the study did not directly report any adverse effects in the subjects.
Summary
In summary, ACP-105 is a novel SARM which has androgenic and anabolic effects. ACP-105 treatment has been shown to increase exercise performance and increase muscle mass, and the drug also may have neuroprotective effects. However, a comprehensive safety profile has not been established yet, and the drug produces many metabolites the action of which in the body is yet unknown. The drug is not approved for human use, and its use in sports is also banned. More research is needed to understand ACP-105, and its role in medicine.