Androgen

An androgen is a steroid hormone that activates androgen receptors and promotes development and maintenance of male-typical traits and reproductive function.

Androgen receptor: A nuclear receptor that binds androgens and regulates gene expression. Androgens produce many effects by binding this receptor and altering transcription.
Steroid hormone: A hormone synthesized from cholesterol that can cross cell membranes and bind intracellular receptors. Androgens belong to this broader hormone class.
Puberty: The developmental transition in which reproductive capacity and secondary sexual characteristics emerge. Androgen signaling drives many characteristic changes during male puberty.
Hypogonadism: A condition in which the gonads produce insufficient sex hormones, gametes, or both. Low androgen production is one form, but diagnosis depends on symptoms and testing.
Steroidogenesis: The cellular synthesis of steroid hormones from cholesterol. Androgens are produced through steroidogenesis in the gonads and adrenal glands.
Endocrine system: A network of glands and tissues that release hormones to regulate bodily functions. Androgen production and signaling are regulated within this system.
Spermatogenesis: The production of sperm cells from germ cells in the testes. Androgens support the testicular environment required for sperm production.
Free testosterone: The fraction of circulating testosterone not bound to blood proteins. Its measurement can help interpret androgen availability when binding-protein levels vary.
Testosterone: A principal androgen produced mainly by the testes, with smaller amounts from other tissues. It is the major circulating androgen in most adult men.
Gonad: A reproductive organ that produces gametes and sex hormones. Testes and ovaries are major sources of androgen production.

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