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The main subset of androgens, known as adrenal androgens, is composed of 19-carbon steroids synthesized in the zona reticularis, the innermost layer of the adrenal cortex. Adrenal androgens function as weak steroids (though some are precursors), and the subset includes dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S ...
During midgestation, the fetal zone occupies most of the cortical volume and produces 100–200 mg/day of DHEA-S, an androgen and precursor of both androgens and estrogens (female sex hormones). [41] Adrenal hormones, especially glucocorticoids such as cortisol, are essential for prenatal development of organs, particularly for the maturation ...
Androgens that bind to and activate the androgen receptor have numerous physiological functions which can broadly divided into androgenic (male sexual development) and anabolic (building muscle and bone). The anabolic effects are important in both males and females, although females have lower circulating levels of androgens.
Adrenal glands of female fetuses with CAH begin producing excess androgens [192] by the 9th week of gestation. [ 193 ] [ 194 ] The most important aspects of virilization (urogenital closure and phallic urethra) occur between 8 and 12 weeks. [ 195 ]
In humans, the reticularis layer does contain 17α-hydroxylase; this hydroxylates pregnenolone, which is then converted to cortisol by a mixed function oxidase. Deficiency of 17α-hydroxylase results in low blood levels of estrogens, androgens, and cortisol, and the resultant compensatory increases in adrenocorticotrophic hormone stimulates the ...
Congenital adrenal hyperplasia is a condition in which the adrenal glands produce too little cortisol and an excess of androgens. In women, this can lead to symptoms such as a deeper voice, acne ...
Adrenocortical hormones are divided into three classes by function: mineralocorticoids, glucocorticoids, and androgens. Mineralocorticoid hormones are synthesized in the outermost layer of the adrenal cortex known as the zona glomerulosa. [2] Their function is to regulate the concentration of electrolytes circulating in the blood. [1]
Adrenal steroids such as glucocorticoids and mineralocorticoids are commonly used as treatments in diseases such as Congenital adrenal hyperplasia. [2] CAH commonly causes overproduction of androgens, glucocorticoid treatment is used to reduce Adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) and reduce the production of androgens allowing for symptoms of CAH to be managed though treatment is required to be ...