Transformation of steroids by axillary coryneform bacteria

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Abstract
The contribution made by the apocrine gland to body odour has been discussed. In particular, the role of odorous steroids, such as 5.alpha.-androst-16-en-3-one (5.alpha.-A), and their formation by axillary bacteria, has been explored. Isotopically labelled testosterone was incubated (21 days at 37.degree. C) with strains of axillary bacteria, both separately and in mixtures, and the products characterized by capillary gas chromatography (GC) and GC-mass spectrometry. In many cases testosterone was converted into large yields of 5.beta.-dihydrotestosterone and 4-androstenedione, although 5.alpha.-dihydrotestosterone, 5.beta.-androstanedione and androstanediols were also produced. Mixing certain corneform bacteria appeared to cause some additive and some inhibitory effects. A non-polar steroid, with polarity similar to that of 5.alpha.-A, was formed in some incubations, but identification could not be confirmed. Nevertheless, preliminary experiments have indicated that 5.alpha.-A is present in axillary hair of men, and the possible reasons why we have failed to prove the biosynthesis of this odorous steroid are discussed.