Question

Give examples of androgens and estrogens.

Answer 1

Androgens and estrogens are sex hormones that regulate the development of male and female sexual characters. Each hormone has various examples that are designated to carry out specific functions.

Complete step by step answer:
- Androgens are steroid hormones that regulate the development and maintenance of male characteristics in vertebrates. The characteristics include the development of primary male sex organs and the development of secondary sexual characteristics during puberty.
- The primary androgen is testosterone. It has a role in the development of the testes and prostate, as well as secondary sexual characteristics. Other important hormones are dihydrotestosterone and androstenedione.
- Other androgens include dehydroepiandrosterone, androstenediol, and androsterone.
- Estrogens are the primary female sex hormones. They are responsible for the development and regulation of the female reproductive system as well as the development of secondary sexual characteristics. The four estrogens that occur naturally in the female body are estrone, estradiol, estriol, and estetrol.
- Estradiol is the most predominant estrogen. It is produced primarily by the ovaries, and during pregnancy, the placenta.
- They are mainly responsible for the development of female secondary sexual characteristics during puberty. Other functions include stimulation of endometrial growth, increase in uterine growth, increase in vaginal lubrication, thickening of the vaginal wall, etc.
- Androgens are precursors to estrogens both in the male and female sexes.
- The androgens are produced in the testes, adrenal cortex, and ovaries. They are synthesized from cholesterol.
- Estrogens are produced in all vertebrates and also in some insects.
- Estetrol is produced only during pregnancy.

Note:
- Male sex hormones are present in females at low levels, they regulate libido and sexual arousal.
- Estrogens are used as medication in menopausal hormone therapy to deal with the symptoms of menopause and hormone-based birth control.
- Estrogens are also present in males and have roles in the maturation of sperm and may contribute to a healthy libido.