DHEA is an endogenous steroid. It is the most abundant steroid in human beings. It acts on the androgen receptor directly and through its metabolites (androstenediol and androstenedione). These metabolities can undergo further conversion to produce the androgen testosterone and the estrogens estrone and estradiol. It is produced synthetically and used as a supplement because studies show that it can decrease cholesterol and other serum lipids. DHEA is used by muscle builders and athletes because it is believed to increase strength, lean body mass and testosterone levels, however, some researchers don’t agree with these claims.