The group of male sex hormones that stimulate the development of the male sex organs and other male characteristics. Androgen hormones are produced by the testicles and the adrenal cortex (the outer layer of the adrenal glands). Testosterone, the most powerful of the male hormones, is produced by the testicles. Small quantities of weaker androgen hormones, as well as small amounts of testosterone, are produced in the adrenal glands and ovaries of women.
A cluster of hormonal agents, specifically the androgens, which initiate virilization, a process encompassing the maturation of male secondary sexual traits like the proliferation of facial hair, deepening of vocal tone, and augmentation of muscular mass.
Specialized cells in the testes of males and the adrenal glands in both males and females are responsible for the production of androgens. In females, the ovaries secrete minimal amounts of androgens until the onset of menopause. Among the androgens, testosterone is the most potent and is primarily produced in the testes. The production of androgens in the testes is regulated by specific pituitary hormones known as gonadotrophins. Meanwhile, adrenal androgens are under the control of ACTH, another pituitary hormone.
Androgens play a crucial role in triggering the emergence of male secondary sexual characteristics during puberty, such as the deepening of the voice and the development of facial hair. Additionally, they exhibit anabolic properties by enhancing the rate of protein synthesis and reducing its breakdown, leading to increased muscle mass and accelerated growth. Towards the end of puberty, androgens contribute to the cessation of growth in the long bones. Furthermore, they stimulate the production of sebum, and if excessive, this can result in acne. In early adulthood, androgens also contribute to the onset of male-pattern baldness.
A deficiency in androgens can occur when the testes are affected by disease or when the pituitary gland fails to release gonadotrophins. This condition manifests in various ways, including a high-pitched voice, diminished body and facial hair, underdeveloped genitalia, decreased sexual drive, and inadequate muscle development.
Excessive production of androgens can arise from adrenal disorders such as adrenal tumors, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, testicular tumors, or, in rare cases, ovarian tumors that secrete androgens.
In males, an excess of androgens intensifies male physical traits, while in boys, it can lead to premature sexual development. In females, an excess of androgens results in virilization, characterized by increased body hair, deepening of the voice, enlargement of the clitoris, and amenorrhea (the absence of menstruation).