Distinct Clusters of Testosterone Levels, Symptoms, and Serum Trace Elements in Young Men: A Cross-Sectional Analysis.

Plain-language summary

This study set out to explore how trace elements in the blood might relate to testosterone levels and symptoms like low energy, mood issues, and sexual health in young men. It looked at 225 young men in Japan who were seeking fertility help, measuring their testosterone levels, symptoms, and 20 different trace elements in their blood. The men fell into three groups: those with the lowest testosterone and worst symptoms, those with mid-range testosterone but few symptoms, and those with high testosterone and minimal symptoms. The study found that certain trace elements, like iron, sulfur, and zinc, were linked to better testosterone levels, while others, like phosphorus and molybdenum, were tied to worse outcomes.

Key findings

• Three clusters emerged: lowest testosterone with highest symptoms, intermediate testosterone with minimal symptoms, and highest testosterone with minimal symptoms.
• Eleven trace elements were identified as potential contributors to testosterone dynamics.
• Iron, sulfur, and zinc were linked to better testosterone outcomes.
• Phosphorus, strontium, and molybdenum were linked to worse testosterone outcomes.