Testosterone (Testosterone)

Testosterone is the main male sex hormone (see Androgen). Testosterone is responsible for the development and maintenance of male sexual characteristics. It stimulates the development of male reproductive organs such as the testes and prostate gland. Testosterone is also responsible for the development of secondary male sexual characteristics during puberty, such as facial and body hair growth, increased muscle mass, deepening of the voice, and others.

In addition to reproductive functions, testosterone plays an important role in metabolism, bone and muscle systems. It stimulates protein synthesis and muscle growth. Testosterone is also necessary for normal growth and strong bones.

Testosterone levels are regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary system. Decreased testosterone production can lead to the development of conditions such as hypogonadism, infertility, osteoporosis, decreased libido and depression.

Testosterone is widely used in medicine to treat various conditions associated with deficiency of this hormone. However, its use must be justified and controlled to avoid side effects.

Hormones are biologically active compounds that are produced in the organs and tissues of the body and take an active part in regulating its functions. The life cycle of any hormone is measured in several days. Produced in some organs, it enters the blood or lymph and enters other organs and tissues. Ultimately, the hormone reaches the target organ, where its main action occurs. Some of a certain hormone can be returned to the body, but for this it must pass through the liver, which destroys most of the hormones. For example, about 20% of testosterone that enters the liver is destroyed. The rest goes further and is redistributed. Testosterone is produced by the gonads in small quantities and by other organs - the adrenal glands, the pituitary gland, and the placenta in women during pregnancy.