Question

Function of testosterone
A. Controls sperm production
B. Contracts the smooth muscles
C. Controls blood glucose levels
D. Controls general metabolism and growth in the body

Answer 1

Testosterone is a primary androgen or male sex hormone which is secreted in testes. It is involved in the primary as well as secondary growth of sexual characters in males. The male gamete formation is aided by testosterone as it stimulates genes of Sertoli cells to induce spermatogonia division.

Complete answer: Testosterone is an essential male hormone that is required for the proper development and functioning of sexual characters in males. It is secreted in testes which are primary male sex organs. The luteinizing hormone or LH acts on the Leydig cells of the testes, which further stimulates testosterone production. Testosterone then acts on Sertoli cells of testes. Certain genes involved in the stimulation of spermatogonia get activated by testosterone. This results in spermatogonia mother cells to divide and form male gametes called sperms. Thus, testosterone is important for the production of sperms in the testes. Also, testosterone is needed for various other sexual functions. Deepness of voice, muscular gain, hair growth, penis, and scrotum development, etc. is regulated by testosterone. Testosterone acts along with Follicle stimulating hormone secreted by the pituitary gland in the brain. Together they act on the seminiferous tubules that are also called sperm-producing tubes. This eventually makes sperms. So, testosterone has several important roles in males and its deficiency can lead to various disabilities. Decreased levels of testosterone hamper sperm production and thus reduce the viability of sperms.
Hence, option A is the right answer.

Note: Testosterone is used as a supplement in some athletes to increase their muscle mass. It is also used to treat sterility in males. Breast cancer treatments also use testosterone. Testosterone is also present in females in very minute quantities.