androgenicity

Androgenicity refers to the biological effects produced by androgens through activation of the androgen receptor. The principal endogenous androgens are testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Through AR-mediated signaling, androgens promote the development and maintenance of male secondary sexual characteristics, regulate libido and spermatogenesis, and influence certain aspects of muscle and bone metabolism. The overall androgenic outcome is tissue dependent, reflecting the distribution of androgen receptors, local enzyme activity such as 5-alpha-reductase, and the presence of co-regulators.

Mechanisms: Androgenicity begins when androgens bind the androgen receptor, which then translocates to the nucleus and modulates target gene transcription. DHT, formed from testosterone by 5-alpha-reductase, has higher receptor affinity and tissue-specific potency. Some effects may also involve non-genomic signaling pathways independent of direct DNA binding.

In pharmacology and sport, androgenicity describes the degree to which a compound produces androgenic effects relative to its other actions, notably anabolic effects. Compounds with high androgenicity promote masculine traits and reproductive function but also carry risks of virilization. Anabolic steroids often have varying anabolic/androgenic ratios, influencing therapeutic use and adverse effects.

Clinical context: Disorders of androgenicity include hypogonadism, which reduces androgenic effects; precocious puberty due to early androgen exposure; and androgen insensitivity syndrome, where receptor dysfunction blunts androgenic outcomes. Treatments may involve testosterone replacement, antiandrogens, or receptor modulators, depending on the condition.