What are Androgenic Hormones?
Androgenic hormones are a group of steroid hormones that play a fundamental role in the development and functioning of the male reproductive system. These hormones are produced primarily by the testes, although they are also produced in smaller quantities by the adrenal glands. The best-known androgenic hormones are testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT).
Functions of Androgenic Hormones
Androgenic hormones play several important roles in the male body. They are responsible for the development of male sexual organs during pregnancy and male puberty. Furthermore, androgenic hormones are essential for sperm production, muscle growth, body fat distribution, and the regulation of sexual desire.
Production of Androgenic Hormones
The production of androgenic hormones is controlled by the endocrine system. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) is secreted by the hypothalamus and stimulates the pituitary gland to release luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). These hormones, in turn, stimulate the testes to produce testosterone. Androgenic hormone production is regulated by negative feedback; that is, when testosterone levels are high, the hypothalamus and pituitary gland decrease the production of GnRH, LH, and FSH.
Importance of Testosterone
Testosterone is the primary androgenic hormone and plays a crucial role in the development and maintenance of male sexual characteristics. Furthermore, testosterone also affects other body systems, such as the muscular, skeletal, and cardiovascular systems. Low testosterone levels can lead to health problems such as erectile dysfunction, loss of muscle mass, decreased bone density, and an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Functions of Dihydrotestosterone (DHT)
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a testosterone derivative that has a higher affinity for androgen receptors. It plays an important role in the development of male sexual organs during pregnancy and puberty. Additionally, DHT is also involved in regulating prostate growth and development, as well as in male pattern hair loss.
Androgenic Hormone-Related Disorders
Disorders related to androgen hormones can occur due to excessive or insufficient production of these hormones. Hyperandrogenemia is characterized by elevated levels of androgen hormones, which can lead to symptoms such as acne, excessive hair growth, male pattern baldness, and menstrual irregularities in women. On the other hand, hypogonadism is characterized by low levels of androgen hormones, which can result in fertility problems, erectile dysfunction, and decreased libido.
Treatments for Androgenic Hormone Disorders
Androgen-related disorders can be treated in different ways, depending on the cause and symptoms. For cases of hyperandrogenemia, medications that block the action of androgen hormones or reduce their production may be prescribed. For cases of hypogonadism, hormone replacement therapy, which consists of administering synthetic androgenic hormones, may be recommended.
Final considerations
Androgenic hormones play a fundamental role in the development and functioning of the male reproductive system. Testosterone and dihydrotestosterone are the main androgenic hormones, responsible for various functions in the male body. Disorders related to androgenic hormones can affect health and well-being, but treatments are available to help balance hormone levels and minimize the symptoms associated with these disorders.
