Sexual Dimorphism of COVID-19 Inspires Drug Repositioning and Host-Targeting Immunotherapy for Viral Pneumonia

This study examines the role of testosterone in COVID-19 outcomes using a hamster model, revealing that both low and high doses of testosterone worsen illness in male hamsters, while low doses benefit females. The testosterone inhibitor finasteride effectively prevents severe pneumonia and death in male hamsters infected with various SARS-CoV-2 strains by reducing inflammatory markers and lung injury. The study involved 6 hamsters per group and highlights the potential of targeting testosterone pathways as a therapeutic strategy for viral pneumonia. It suggests that balancing sex hormones could reduce COVID-19 severity, though further research is needed to explore detailed mechanisms and potential side effects.