Androgens
Androgens
Androgens (/ˈændrədʒənz/), from the Greek andro meaning "man" and genes meaning "born", are a group of hormones that play a role in male traits and reproductive activity. They are also known as steroid hormones and are primarily produced in the male testes and female ovaries.
Etymology
The term "androgen" is derived from the Greek words andro (man) and genes (born). It refers to the group of hormones that contribute to the development of male characteristics.
Function
Androgens are responsible for the development of male sex organs and secondary sex characteristics. They regulate the function and growth of the male reproductive system, including the testes and prostate gland. In females, androgens are converted into female hormones called estrogens.
Types of Androgens
There are several types of androgens, including:
- Testosterone: This is the primary male sex hormone. It is responsible for the development of male secondary sexual characteristics.
- Dihydrotestosterone (DHT): This hormone is derived from testosterone and is responsible for many of the same functions.
- Androstenedione: This is a precursor to testosterone and estrogens.
Related Terms
- Hormones: Chemical messengers that are transported by the bloodstream to target cells or organs for physiological regulation and behavioral activities.
- Steroid hormones: A type of hormone that is fat-soluble and can pass through cell membranes.
- Estrogens: The primary female sex hormones.
- Endocrinology: The study of hormones and the endocrine system.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Androgens
- Wikipedia's article - Androgens
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