20-Hydroxyecdysone (20-HE) is known as the insect moulting hormone. It is part of the ecdysteroids family. Combined with the juvenile hormone (JH), 20-HE plays a key role in the growth, development, metamorphosis, and reproduction of arthropods (i.e. invertebrates such as insects, crustaceans, arachnids, etc.).
Little is known about the function of ecdysteroids in vertebrates. There are several reports which indicate an effect of 20-HE on muscle growth and fat loss in mammals. Some dietary supplements based on 20-HE are marketed to enhance physical performances of athletes, and particularly of bodybuilders. Besides, researchers are also studying the effect of 20-HE in the treatment of obesity and diabetes. Finally, there are on-going investigations on the possible interest of 20-HE in the prevention and the treatment of diseases such as osteoporosis and osteoarthritis.
With the Bertin Bioreagent 20-hydroxyecdysone ELISA kit, researchers can obtain reliable results for the concentration of 20-hydroecdysone in your biological samples.
Learn more in this brochure!