TLDR Androgens like testosterone are important hormones for both men and women, made differently in each sex and affecting the body by regulating genes and quick interactions with cell components.
Androgens, including testosterone (T), are critical sex hormones for both males and females, with males having significantly higher concentrations. Testosterone is primarily produced in men's testicular Leydig cells, while in women, it is synthesized from precursors in the adrenal cortex and ovaries and then converted in peripheral tissues. Dihydrotestosterone, a more potent androgen, can be synthesized from testosterone through the classic pathway, but alternative pathways also exist. Androgens exert their effects through the androgen receptor, which regulates gene transcription in the nucleus, but they can also have rapid effects by interacting directly with membrane proteins or signaling molecules. This review provides an overview of androgen biosynthesis, action mechanisms, and their role in human biology, including their involvement in various congenital and acquired disorders.
30 citations
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August 2019 in “Medical Sciences” Androgens play a key role in causing PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome).
120 citations
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April 2019 in “The Journal of clinical investigation/The journal of clinical investigation” Both estrogens and androgens are important for health in both males and females.
257 citations
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July 2018 in “Obstetrics & Gynecology” PCOS is a complex disorder in women that can lead to various health risks and requires personalized treatment.
82 citations
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May 2016 in “Best Practice & Research in Clinical Obstetrics & Gynaecology” The conclusion is that managing androgen excess requires long-term treatment, including hormonal contraceptives and androgen blockers, with follow-up after six months.
70 citations
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April 2014 in “Annales d'endocrinologie” New genes and pathways are important for testosterone production and male sexual development.
5 citations
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January 2017 in “Endocrinology” Genetic defects in testosterone production can cause hormonal and developmental disorders, and more research is needed to understand androgen regulation and develop safer treatments.
May 2023 in “IntechOpen eBooks” More research is needed to understand how testosterone is maintained in adult males.
3 citations
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January 2021 in “touchREVIEWS in Endocrinology” Surgery removed an ovarian tumor, improving her symptoms and normalizing testosterone levels.
January 2004 in “Online Publication Service of Würzburg University (Würzburg University)” Women with PCOS have higher 5alpha-reductase activity, affecting steroid levels.
January 2021 in “touchREVIEWS in Endocrinology” Surgery successfully treated a hidden ovarian tumor causing hair loss and excess hair growth in a postmenopausal woman.
