Testosterone and the Androgen Receptor

Testosterone is a steroid hormone that is responsible for the development of normal male sexual characteristics and function as well as the maintenance of homeostasis among multiple organ systems throughout life. Testosterone production is regulated by the hypothalamic-pituitary axis under the direction of gonadotropin-releasing hormone and luteinizing hormone. The testosterone-bound androgen receptor (AR) is a potent regulator of gene expression and may regulate a significant proportion of genes in prostate cells. Therapeutic modulation of testosterone levels and AR signaling activity can be achieved by several different approaches, with distinct consequences and side effects.