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Semin Reprod Med 2006; 24(2): 071-077
DOI: 10.1055/s-2006-939565
Copyright © 2006 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Androgen Physiology

Sonia Louise Davison1 , 2 , Robin Bell1
  • 1Women's Health Program, Department of Medicine, Monash Medical School, Alfred Hospital, Prahran, Victoria, Australia
  • 2Department of Biochemistry, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
24 April 2006 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Androgen receptors are present in numerous tissues throughout the female body, and knowledge of the specific actions of androgens at different sites is increasing, along with the understanding of their contribution to various pathophysiological states. This article reviews the physiology of androgens (testosterone and dihydrotestosterone) and immediate androgen precursors (dehydroepiandrosterone [DHEA], dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate [DHEAS], and androstenedione), with specific reference to the androgen receptor, production and metabolism of C-19 steroids, circulating androgen concentrations, and androgen actions. In addition, the evidence for physiological modulation of androgens including circadian variation, cyclical variation, age, and natural menopause is reviewed.

KEYWORDS

Women - androgens - physiology - testosterone

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Dr. Sonia DavisonM.B.B.S. FRACP 

Women's Health Program, Monash Medical School

Alfred Hospital, Commercial Road, Prahran, Victoria, 3181, Australia

Email: Sonia.Davison@med.monash.edu.au

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