Testosterone

Testosterone, a steroid hormone in the androgen group, is mainly produced in the testes, adrenal glands, and ovaries. It develops male sexual organs, induces secondary sexual characteristics, and regulates spermatogenesis and sexual behavior. Testosterone also influences nitrogen and phosphorus metabolism. Its biological effects are most pronounced in the seminiferous tubules, epididymis, prostate gland, seminal vesicles, bulbourethral glands, uterus, and ovarian follicles. Luteinizing hormone and follicle-stimulating hormone from the pituitary gland regulate testosterone production and secretion. Androgenic effects appear in the 12th week of pregnancy. In men, the testes synthesize about 5 mg of testosterone daily. In women, the ovaries produce testosterone, converting it into estrogens in follicular cells, which promotes mammary gland formation and increases concentration during pregnancy. Excessive testosterone suppresses ovarian function in women.