RESEARCH STARTER

Androgen

Androgens are a group of hormones that play a crucial role in the development and regulation of male reproductive characteristics, with testosterone being the most prominent androgen. Although often associated with males, androgens are also present in females and are essential for various bodily functions, including libido, bone density, and muscle mass regulation. Produced mainly in the testes and adrenal glands, androgens are derived from cholesterol and influence multiple physiological processes beyond reproduction, such as metabolism and mood.

There are five major androgens: testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), androstenedione (A4), and androstenediol (A5). An imbalance in androgen levels can lead to health issues for both men and women, including androgen deficiency, which can result in symptoms like fatigue, mood changes, and reduced sexual function. Treatment options vary, with testosterone replacement therapy available for those with low levels and anti-androgens prescribed to manage excess androgen effects, particularly in certain medical or gender-affirming contexts. Understanding androgens can provide insight into their significant impact on both male and female health and development.

Full Article

Androgens are a group of hormones that are primarily responsible for regulating the growth and development of the male reproductive system. The main androgen is testosterone, a hormone produced by the testes that plays a critical role in male reproductive abilities. While testosterone and other androgens are often viewed specifically as male hormones, they are present in women as well. Regardless of one's biological sex, androgens are necessary for proper reproductive development. The importance of androgens is not limited to reproduction, however. Androgens additionally play a role in metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and body composition. They may also influence bone density, brain function, mood, and libido. In women, androgens are believed to have an effect on the endometrium, the lining of the uterus, and may help ensure that it is ready to support a potential pregnancy. Abnormally high or low androgen levels can be problematic for men and women alike.

Background

Hormones are molecules that are created in and released by glands in the endocrine system. These molecules send messages to various parts of the body that help to regulate key life processes like hunger, libido, and blood pressure. While hormones travel throughout the body, they only interact with cells that are specifically made to receive the messages they carry. The locations on cells that bind hormones are called hormone receptor sites. The arrival of a given hormone at the appropriate receptor site triggers a reaction that controls some aspect of bodily function. For example, the pancreas produces a hormone known as insulin when blood glucose levels rise after eating. Upon reaching the correct receptor sites, insulin helps regulate blood sugar.

A variety of hormones are produced by different endocrine glands. The hypothalamus produces hormones that regulate body temperature, hunger, mood, sleep, and libido. The parathyroid produces hormones that regulate calcium. The thyroid produces hormones that regulate heart function and the use of calories. The adrenal glands produce stress hormones. The pineal gland produces melatonin, a hormone that regulates the body clock. The ovaries and testes produce hormones that are involved in reproduction. The pituitary gland produces growth hormone and controls other parts of the endocrine system. Some of the major hormones include adrenaline and cortisol. Adrenaline regulates energy and cortisol regulates stress.

Hormone imbalances are a common occurrence that can interfere with normal body function. Such imbalances are often tied to health conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, and other problems related to endocrine glands. Various problems can arise when the body produces too little or too much of a certain hormone or group of hormones. Some potential problems include weight gain or loss, sexual dysfunction, and weakened bones. A hormone imbalance can be a serious condition and requires medical attention. Those who exhibit signs of a hormone imbalance should seek help from their family doctor or another qualified healthcare provider. Patients diagnosed with a hormone imbalance may need to see an endocrinologist. Endocrinologists are hormone specialists who can help patients get their hormones into the proper balance.

Overview

Androgens are a group of human hormones that are primarily associated with the creation of male sexual characteristics. Despite being so closely tied to the male reproductive system, androgens are present in the female body as well. For women, these hormones play a key role in the regulation of libido, bone density, and muscle mass. In men and women alike, androgens are derived from cholesterol through steroidogenesis. Although these molecules, which mostly enter the body through the consumption of fatty foods, can have dangerous, artery-clogging effects on the cardiovascular system, they are critical to the production of hormones in the various glands of the endocrine system. Androgens, in particular, are produced by the testes and the adrenal glands. The ovaries also produce androgens.

There are five major androgens, including testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), androstenedione (A4), and androstenediol (A5). Testosterone is the most important androgen in men. It contributes to libido, erectile function, sperm production, the maintenance of bone density and muscle mass, red blood cell production, facial and body hair growth, and mood regulation. Men are estimated to have at least twenty times more testosterone in their systems than women. Testosterone and its derivative dihydrotestosterone (DHT), produced by the fetal testes, play a critical role in the development of the penis, scrotum, and prostate in male babies. These hormones are also closely tied to the changes young men experience during puberty, as well as conditions like male pattern baldness and prostate enlargement that commonly affect older men. DHEA is a precursor to testosterone and, as a result, most of its androgen effects happen only after it has been turned into A4 or A5 and, ultimately, testosterone. It also has effects on the central nervous system, including protective and anti-inflammatory properties on the brain. A4 is produced from DHEA in the adrenal glands and testes and is eventually turned into testosterone. It is believed that A4 encourages aggression and competition in boys and is frequently taken as a muscle-building supplement, although evidence of performance benefits is limited, and its use is banned in many sports. A5 is also produced from DHEA and turned into testosterone. It is known to indirectly boost blood cell levels.

The testes and adrenal glands can sometimes under-produce or over-produce androgens. Underproduction of androgens can lead to a condition known as androgen deficiency. Officially, androgen deficiency occurs when androgen levels fall below normal age-specific levels. Some of the symptoms of androgen deficiency include irritability, tiredness, loss of motivation, short-term memory problems, lowered self-esteem, depression, decreased energy levels, loss of muscle strength, decline or loss of libido, poor erections, reduced semen volume, diminished muscle mass, hair loss, and abdominal obesity. Often tied to underlying conditions like Klinefelter syndrome or varicocele, androgen deficiency can be treated with testosterone replacement therapy. Patients who have unusually elevated androgen levels or who simply wish to reduce the effects of these hormones may be prescribed anti-androgens, which are drugs that block the effects of androgens. Anti-androgens are often taken by men with prostate cancer and individuals who want to reduce unwanted body hair (e.g., women with polycystic ovary syndrome). Research presented at the ASCO Genitourinary Cancers Symposium in 2025 found that patients with high-risk prostate cancer whose testosterone levels returned to normal after androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) had significantly better overall survival, suggesting that monitoring testosterone recovery may help guide treatment duration. A randomized clinical study validated a genomic test that can predict which prostate cancer patients will benefit from adding androgen-targeting hormone therapy to radiation treatment, helping doctors tailor treatment more precisely. Many transgender and non-binary people also take anti-androgens to help suppress physical traits typically viewed as masculine.

Researchers have used an innovative epigenetic marker, the "androgen clock," to assess the impact of cumulative exposure to androgens over time on human aging and health, primarily demonstrated in animal models and under investigation for human applications. Using DNA methylation markers, scientists can estimate biological age and a predisposition to specific health conditions. This can help inform the development of therapeutic interventions and preventative medicine across the medical field.


Bibliography

Alemany, Marià. “The Roles of Androgens in Humans: Biology, Metabolic Regulation and Health.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences, vol. 23, no. 19, 2022, doi:10.3390/ijms231911952. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

"Androgens: Function, Levels & Related Disorders." Cleveland Clinic, 12 Dec. 2024, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22002-androgens. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

Boutot, Maegan. “Androgens 101.” Clue, 4 June 2019, helloclue.com/articles/cycle-a-z/androgens-101. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

Doyle, Chase. “Testosterone Recovery After Androgen-Deprivation Therapy Linked to Improved Survival in High-Risk Prostate Cancer.” The ASCO Post, 25 Mar. 2025, ascopost.com/issues/march-25-2025/testosterone-recovery-after-androgen-deprivation-therapy-linked-to-improved-survival-in-high-risk-prostate-cancer. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

“First-of-Its-Kind Genomic Test Predicts Benefit from Hormone Therapy Added to Radiation for Recurrent Prostate Cancer.” American Society for Radiation Oncology, 28 Sept. 2025, www.astro.org/news-and-publications/news-and-media-center/news-releases/2025/first-genomic-test-predicts-benefit-from-hormone-therapy-added-to-radiation-for-prostate-cancer. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

"Genital - Male Development." Embryology, UNSW Embryology, 5 Mar. 2026, embryology.med.unsw.edu.au/embryology/index.php/Genital_-_Male_Development. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

Gurevich, Rachel. “Androgens & PCOS: Excess Levels & What It Means.” VeryWell Health, 26 Apr. 2024, www.verywellhealth.com/androgens-and-pcos-excess-levels-what-it-means-4156771. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

“Low Testosterone (Male Hypogonadism).” Cleveland Clinic, 23 Feb. 2026, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16734-androgen-deficiency. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

Miller, Walter L. "Androgen Biosynthesis from Cholesterol to DHEA." Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology, vol. 198, no. 1-2, 30 Dec. 2002, pp. 7-14, doi:10.1016/s0303-7207(02)00363-5. PubMed, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12573809/. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

O'Keefe Osborn, Corinne. “Your Guide to Anti-Androgens.” Healthline, 27 Sept. 2024, www.healthline.com/health/anti-androgen. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

Sidharthan, Chinta. "Androgen Clock Reveals How Hormones Shape Aging and Health." News-Medical.Net, 16 Jan. 2025, www.news-medical.net/news/20250116/Androgen-clock-reveals-how-hormones-shape-aging-and-health.aspx. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

Simon, James. “Androgen.” Healthy Women, www.healthywomen.org/condition/androgen. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

Toler, Sarah. “What You Should Know about Hormones.” Clue, helloclue.com/articles/cycle-a-z/what-you-should-know-about-hormones. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

“What Are Androgens?” Roman, 22 Mar. 2022, ro.co/erectile-dysfunction/androgens-testosterone-explained. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

Full Article

Androgens are a group of hormones that are primarily responsible for regulating the growth and development of the male reproductive system. The main androgen is testosterone, a hormone produced by the testes that plays a critical role in male reproductive abilities. While testosterone and other androgens are often viewed specifically as male hormones, they are present in women as well. Regardless of one's biological sex, androgens are necessary for proper reproductive development. The importance of androgens is not limited to reproduction, however. Androgens additionally play a role in metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and body composition. They may also influence bone density, brain function, mood, and libido. In women, androgens are believed to have an effect on the endometrium, the lining of the uterus, and may help ensure that it is ready to support a potential pregnancy. Abnormally high or low androgen levels can be problematic for men and women alike.

Background

Hormones are molecules that are created in and released by glands in the endocrine system. These molecules send messages to various parts of the body that help to regulate key life processes like hunger, libido, and blood pressure. While hormones travel throughout the body, they only interact with cells that are specifically made to receive the messages they carry. The locations on cells that bind hormones are called hormone receptor sites. The arrival of a given hormone at the appropriate receptor site triggers a reaction that controls some aspect of bodily function. For example, the pancreas produces a hormone known as insulin when blood glucose levels rise after eating. Upon reaching the correct receptor sites, insulin helps regulate blood sugar.

A variety of hormones are produced by different endocrine glands. The hypothalamus produces hormones that regulate body temperature, hunger, mood, sleep, and libido. The parathyroid produces hormones that regulate calcium. The thyroid produces hormones that regulate heart function and the use of calories. The adrenal glands produce stress hormones. The pineal gland produces melatonin, a hormone that regulates the body clock. The ovaries and testes produce hormones that are involved in reproduction. The pituitary gland produces growth hormone and controls other parts of the endocrine system. Some of the major hormones include adrenaline and cortisol. Adrenaline regulates energy and cortisol regulates stress.

Hormone imbalances are a common occurrence that can interfere with normal body function. Such imbalances are often tied to health conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, and other problems related to endocrine glands. Various problems can arise when the body produces too little or too much of a certain hormone or group of hormones. Some potential problems include weight gain or loss, sexual dysfunction, and weakened bones. A hormone imbalance can be a serious condition and requires medical attention. Those who exhibit signs of a hormone imbalance should seek help from their family doctor or another qualified healthcare provider. Patients diagnosed with a hormone imbalance may need to see an endocrinologist. Endocrinologists are hormone specialists who can help patients get their hormones into the proper balance.

Overview

Androgens are a group of human hormones that are primarily associated with the creation of male sexual characteristics. Despite being so closely tied to the male reproductive system, androgens are present in the female body as well. For women, these hormones play a key role in the regulation of libido, bone density, and muscle mass. In men and women alike, androgens are derived from cholesterol through steroidogenesis. Although these molecules, which mostly enter the body through the consumption of fatty foods, can have dangerous, artery-clogging effects on the cardiovascular system, they are critical to the production of hormones in the various glands of the endocrine system. Androgens, in particular, are produced by the testes and the adrenal glands. The ovaries also produce androgens.

There are five major androgens, including testosterone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT), dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), androstenedione (A4), and androstenediol (A5). Testosterone is the most important androgen in men. It contributes to libido, erectile function, sperm production, the maintenance of bone density and muscle mass, red blood cell production, facial and body hair growth, and mood regulation. Men are estimated to have at least twenty times more testosterone in their systems than women. Testosterone and its derivative dihydrotestosterone (DHT), produced by the fetal testes, play a critical role in the development of the penis, scrotum, and prostate in male babies. These hormones are also closely tied to the changes young men experience during puberty, as well as conditions like male pattern baldness and prostate enlargement that commonly affect older men. DHEA is a precursor to testosterone and, as a result, most of its androgen effects happen only after it has been turned into A4 or A5 and, ultimately, testosterone. It also has effects on the central nervous system, including protective and anti-inflammatory properties on the brain. A4 is produced from DHEA in the adrenal glands and testes and is eventually turned into testosterone. It is believed that A4 encourages aggression and competition in boys and is frequently taken as a muscle-building supplement, although evidence of performance benefits is limited, and its use is banned in many sports. A5 is also produced from DHEA and turned into testosterone. It is known to indirectly boost blood cell levels.

The testes and adrenal glands can sometimes under-produce or over-produce androgens. Underproduction of androgens can lead to a condition known as androgen deficiency. Officially, androgen deficiency occurs when androgen levels fall below normal age-specific levels. Some of the symptoms of androgen deficiency include irritability, tiredness, loss of motivation, short-term memory problems, lowered self-esteem, depression, decreased energy levels, loss of muscle strength, decline or loss of libido, poor erections, reduced semen volume, diminished muscle mass, hair loss, and abdominal obesity. Often tied to underlying conditions like Klinefelter syndrome or varicocele, androgen deficiency can be treated with testosterone replacement therapy. Patients who have unusually elevated androgen levels or who simply wish to reduce the effects of these hormones may be prescribed anti-androgens, which are drugs that block the effects of androgens. Anti-androgens are often taken by men with prostate cancer and individuals who want to reduce unwanted body hair (e.g., women with polycystic ovary syndrome). Research presented at the ASCO Genitourinary Cancers Symposium in 2025 found that patients with high-risk prostate cancer whose testosterone levels returned to normal after androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) had significantly better overall survival, suggesting that monitoring testosterone recovery may help guide treatment duration. A randomized clinical study validated a genomic test that can predict which prostate cancer patients will benefit from adding androgen-targeting hormone therapy to radiation treatment, helping doctors tailor treatment more precisely. Many transgender and non-binary people also take anti-androgens to help suppress physical traits typically viewed as masculine.

Researchers have used an innovative epigenetic marker, the "androgen clock," to assess the impact of cumulative exposure to androgens over time on human aging and health, primarily demonstrated in animal models and under investigation for human applications. Using DNA methylation markers, scientists can estimate biological age and a predisposition to specific health conditions. This can help inform the development of therapeutic interventions and preventative medicine across the medical field.


Bibliography

Alemany, Marià. “The Roles of Androgens in Humans: Biology, Metabolic Regulation and Health.” International Journal of Molecular Sciences, vol. 23, no. 19, 2022, doi:10.3390/ijms231911952. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

"Androgens: Function, Levels & Related Disorders." Cleveland Clinic, 12 Dec. 2024, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22002-androgens. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

Boutot, Maegan. “Androgens 101.” Clue, 4 June 2019, helloclue.com/articles/cycle-a-z/androgens-101. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

Doyle, Chase. “Testosterone Recovery After Androgen-Deprivation Therapy Linked to Improved Survival in High-Risk Prostate Cancer.” The ASCO Post, 25 Mar. 2025, ascopost.com/issues/march-25-2025/testosterone-recovery-after-androgen-deprivation-therapy-linked-to-improved-survival-in-high-risk-prostate-cancer. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

“First-of-Its-Kind Genomic Test Predicts Benefit from Hormone Therapy Added to Radiation for Recurrent Prostate Cancer.” American Society for Radiation Oncology, 28 Sept. 2025, www.astro.org/news-and-publications/news-and-media-center/news-releases/2025/first-genomic-test-predicts-benefit-from-hormone-therapy-added-to-radiation-for-prostate-cancer. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

"Genital - Male Development." Embryology, UNSW Embryology, 5 Mar. 2026, embryology.med.unsw.edu.au/embryology/index.php/Genital_-_Male_Development. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

Gurevich, Rachel. “Androgens & PCOS: Excess Levels & What It Means.” VeryWell Health, 26 Apr. 2024, www.verywellhealth.com/androgens-and-pcos-excess-levels-what-it-means-4156771. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

“Low Testosterone (Male Hypogonadism).” Cleveland Clinic, 23 Feb. 2026, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16734-androgen-deficiency. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

Miller, Walter L. "Androgen Biosynthesis from Cholesterol to DHEA." Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology, vol. 198, no. 1-2, 30 Dec. 2002, pp. 7-14, doi:10.1016/s0303-7207(02)00363-5. PubMed, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12573809/. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

O'Keefe Osborn, Corinne. “Your Guide to Anti-Androgens.” Healthline, 27 Sept. 2024, www.healthline.com/health/anti-androgen. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

Sidharthan, Chinta. "Androgen Clock Reveals How Hormones Shape Aging and Health." News-Medical.Net, 16 Jan. 2025, www.news-medical.net/news/20250116/Androgen-clock-reveals-how-hormones-shape-aging-and-health.aspx. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

Simon, James. “Androgen.” Healthy Women, www.healthywomen.org/condition/androgen. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

Toler, Sarah. “What You Should Know about Hormones.” Clue, helloclue.com/articles/cycle-a-z/what-you-should-know-about-hormones. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

“What Are Androgens?” Roman, 22 Mar. 2022, ro.co/erectile-dysfunction/androgens-testosterone-explained. Accessed 5 Mar. 2026.

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