Module 6: Steroids and Athletes: Genes Work Overtime

The use of steroids by athletes (and body builders) is common and it presents serious health risks. Despite the potential disqualification of athletes for using steroids before or during competition, athletes continue to use them. They must feel that the advantage of enhanced performance is worth the risk of being disqualified. In this module we explore the mechanism by which steroids promote muscle growth. They are notorious regulators of gene transcription, resulting in the synthesis of muscle proteins. Athletes who use steroids try to outwit the drug-testing “police,” but, often, they fail the drug test. In this module, we highlight why steroids can persist in the body long after the person stops using the drug.