Androstenedione (disambiguation)

Androstenedione (disambiguation) refers to several topics related to androstenedione, a naturally occurring steroid hormone. It plays a key role in the biosynthesis of estrogens and androgens. This disambiguation page lists articles associated with the title Androstenedione.

Androstenedione

Androstenedione is a steroid hormone used by the body to make testosterone and estrogen. It is produced in the adrenal glands, the gonads (specifically the testes in men and the ovaries in women), and the brain. Androstenedione levels are highest in the morning and vary throughout the day. It is considered a weak androgen and can be converted into more potent androgens like testosterone or into estrogen.

Related Compounds

• Testosterone - A potent androgen hormone that plays a key role in the development of male reproductive tissues, as well as promoting secondary sexual characteristics such as increased muscle and bone mass, and the growth of body hair.
• Estrogen - A group of hormones that play an important role in the development and regulation of the female reproductive system and secondary sexual characteristics.

Health and Medical Implications

• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) - Androstenedione may be involved in the treatment strategies for hormone replacement therapy, particularly in postmenopausal women.
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) - Elevated levels of androstenedione have been associated with PCOS, a condition that affects how a woman's ovaries work.
• Adrenal Hyperplasia - Androstenedione levels can be affected in congenital adrenal hyperplasia, a group of genetic conditions limiting hormone production in the adrenal glands.

Sports and Doping

• Doping in sports - Androstenedione has been used as a performance-enhancing drug, but it is banned by most major sports organizations.

Regulation and Legal Status

• The legal status of androstenedione varies by country, with some jurisdictions classifying it as a controlled substance.

See also

• Steroid hormone
• Anabolic steroid
• Endocrinology