Androgeneiden

Androgeneiden are a class of steroid hormones that bind to and activate the androgen receptor, influencing a range of developmental and physiological processes. The best known androgeneiden are testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), but the group also includes precursors such as androstenedione and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) as well as their metabolites. These compounds are produced primarily in the testes of males, with contributions from the adrenal glands and, in women, the ovaries and adrenal glands.

Endogenous production and metabolism occur mainly in the gonads and adrenal cortex. Testosterone is released by the testes and circulated in the bloodstream, where it can be converted into the more potent DHT in target tissues by the enzyme 5-alpha-reductase. Some androgeneiden act as circulating precursors that can be converted into more active forms in peripheral tissues. Sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG) and albumin influence the availability of circulating androgeneiden for tissues.

The primary mechanism of action is through the androgen receptor (AR), a nuclear receptor. Upon binding an androgeneide, AR translocates to the nucleus, binds to androgen response elements in DNA, and regulates the transcription of target genes. This genomic pathway is complemented by rapid, non-genomic signaling in some cells, contributing to diverse tissue responses.

Physiological roles include support of male fetal development, onset of puberty, spermatogenesis, maintenance of muscle mass and bone density, and regulation of secondary sexual characteristics. Androgeneiden also affect mood, metabolism, and sexual function in both sexes, with levels tightly regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis. Clinically, disorders range from hypogonadism and androgen excess to androgen insensitivity syndrome, and therapeutic use includes hormone replacement and, in some cases, antiandrogen strategies for disease management.