An androgen is which type of hormone?

An androgen is which type of hormone?

• A. Steroid hormone that enhances male characteristics
• B. Peptide hormone that enhances female traits
• C. A mineral
• D. A neurotransmitter

Answer: (A)

An androgen is a steroid hormone that promotes male characteristics. These hormones are derived from cholesterol, so they easily cross cell membranes and bind to intracellular androgen receptors. The receptor-hormone complex then regulates gene expression in the nucleus, guiding the development and maintenance of male reproductive tissues and secondary sexual traits like facial/body hair, a deeper voice, and increased muscle mass. This mechanism distinguishes androgens from peptide hormones (which act on surface receptors) and from minerals or neurotransmitters. Testosterone is the classic example of an androgen.

An androgen is a steroid hormone that promotes male characteristics. These hormones are derived from cholesterol, so they easily cross cell membranes and bind to intracellular androgen receptors. The receptor-hormone complex then regulates gene expression in the nucleus, guiding the development and maintenance of male reproductive tissues and secondary sexual traits like facial/body hair, a deeper voice, and increased muscle mass. This mechanism distinguishes androgens from peptide hormones (which act on surface receptors) and from minerals or neurotransmitters. Testosterone is the classic example of an androgen.