Androgens: An androgen, or male sex hormone, is defined as a substance capable of developing and maintaining masculine characteristics in reproductive tissues (notably the genital tract, secondary sexual characteristics, and fertility) and contributing to the anabolic status of somatic tissues.

• It help people enter puberty and mature physically.
• Females with high androgen levels may develop acne, facial hair and other issues.
• Males with too little androgen may have low sex drives and develop breasts (gynecomastia).
• Adrenal gland tumors and other conditions can affect androgen levels.

Types of Androgens

Testosterone is the predominant androgen in all genders. Other androgens include:

• Androstenedione.
• Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA).
• DHEA sulfate (DHEA-S).
• Dihydrotestosterone (DHT).

Role of Androgens

• Bone density
• Muscle development
• Puberty
• Red blood cell production
• Sexual desire and function

Role of Androgens in men

• Deep voice (vocal cord lengthening).
• Hair growth on the face, scalp, chest, underarms and genitals.
• Sperm development.

Role of Androgens in women

• Regulates menstruation
• Aids conception and pregnancy
• Minimizes bone loss (osteoporosis)
• Stimulates pubic and underarm hair growth

Functions of Androgen

• They generate anabolic effects on carbohydrate metabolism and protein.
• These play a critical stimulatory role in the phenomena of spermatogenesis.
• They act on the central neural system, influencing male sexual behaviour.
• Secretion of growth hormones at the time of puberty.
• These trigger the growth of muscles, facial and axillary hair, low pitch of voice, aggressiveness, etc.
• Checks the maturation, development and functions of the male accessory sex organs such as vas deferens, epididymis, seminal vesicles, urethra, prostate gland, etc.

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By Team Learning Mantras