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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Androgen and Estrogen?

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Androgens and estrogens are hormones that play crucial roles in the development and functioning of the human body. They share similar structures, but their functions and effects on the body differ significantly. Here are the main differences between androgens and estrogens:

  1. Production: Androgens are produced in greater amounts in males, while estrogens are produced in greater amounts in females. However, both hormones are present in both sexes, albeit in different quantities.
  2. Functions: Androgens, such as testosterone, are responsible for male sexual development and growth, while estrogens, such as estradiol, are responsible for female sexual development and regulation of the menstrual cycle. Both hormones also play important roles in bone health, muscle mass, and physical function in both sexes.
  3. Derivation: Estrogens are derived from androgens via the enzyme aromatase.
  4. Receptors: Androgens and estrogens have unique receptors that mediate their specific functions in the body.
  5. Aging and Decline: Both men and women experience a decline in sex hormone levels as they age. In men, this is known as andropause, and in women, it is called menopause.

In summary, androgens and estrogens are essential hormones that regulate various physiological processes in the human body. They are produced in different quantities in males and females and have distinct functions and effects on the body.

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  • What is the Difference Between Androgen and Estrogen?
  • Comparative Table: Androgen vs Estrogen

    • Comparative Table: Androgen vs Estrogen

    Here is a table comparing the differences between androgens and estrogens:

    Feature Androgens Estrogens
    Definition Androgens are a group of sex hormones found in higher levels in males and are responsible for male characteristics and reproduction. Estrogens are sex hormones found in higher levels in females and are responsible for female characteristics and reproduction.
    Hormone Levels Distributed in higher levels in males. Distributed in higher levels in females.
    Function Responsible for male characteristics, such as the development of reproductive organs, muscle mass, and facial hair. Responsible for female characteristics, such as the development of breasts, pubic hair, hips, and menstrual cycle maintenance.
    Hormone Examples Testosterone is the primary circulating androgen. Estradiol (E2) is the primary circulating estrogen.
    Biosynthesis Testosterone is made by the Leydig cells of the testicles. Estradiol is made primarily in the granulosa and theca cells of the ovarian follicles.
    Conversion Testosterone can be converted to estradiol by the aromatase (CYP19A1) enzyme. Estradiol and other estrogens can be synthesized from androgens in various tissues.
    Role in Skeletal Physiology Androgens influence the growth and maintenance of the mammalian skeleton in males. Estrogens influence the growth and maintenance of the mammalian skeleton in both males and females.
    Role in Aging Aging is associated with a loss of sex hormones in both men (andropause) and women (menopause). Aging is associated with a loss of sex hormones in both men (andropause) and women (menopause).

    Both androgens and estrogens are steroid hormones present in males and females, and deficiency in either can lead to altered sexual characteristics.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.