The relationship between estrogen and androgen

Hormones are very important substances in our body. The body's metabolism, growth, development, sexual desire, etc. are all regulated by hormones, which shows their powerful functions. Hormones are divided into two types: estrogen and androgen, each with different functions. There are differences between the two hormones of different natures, but they are also closely related. So, what is the relationship between estrogen and androgen? Let’s take a look below.

The relationship between estrogen and androgen

The ovaries of female animals mainly secrete two sex hormones - estrogen and progesterone, while the testicles of male animals mainly secrete androgens, mainly testosterone.

Estrogen is a type of hormone that promotes the maturation of female reproductive organs and the development of secondary sexual characteristics and maintains their normal functions. Mainly secreted by the ovaries of animals. It is a steroid compound and includes two types: estrogen and progesterone. Estrogen is mainly produced by follicles and corpus luteum. Its main function is to stimulate the development and growth of the external genitalia, vagina, fallopian tubes and uterus of adolescent girls, stimulate the appearance of female secondary sexual characteristics, affect metabolic function, and promote adolescent development and growth. It can be used clinically to treat uterine hypoplasia and functional uterine bleeding caused by estrogen deficiency.

Androgens are mainly synthesized and secreted by the testicles, and small amounts are also secreted by the adrenal glands and ovaries. The natural male hormone is testosterone, which has androgenic activity and a certain protein assimilation effect. The androgens used in clinical practice are mainly derivatives of testosterone, and commonly used varieties include methyltestosterone, testosterone propionate, etc. The danazol used is also a testosterone derivative with weak androgenic activity and has become the drug of choice for the treatment of endometriosis.

Differences between estrogen and androgen

1. Different chemical structures

2. The production sites are different. Androgens are produced by the interstitial cells of the testicles. In addition, the zona reticularis cells of the adrenal cortex can also produce a small amount of androgens. Estrogen is produced by the follicles and the corpus luteum. The placenta can also produce estrogen, but the chemical composition of estradiol and estrogen produced by the corpus luteum is different.

3. The effects are different. Androgens can promote hair growth, promote the development and maturation of male testicles, and promote red blood cell production. Estrogen can promote the development of follicles, the proliferation of endometrium, maintain women's physiological cycle, etc.