Testosterone metabolism - active metabolites (DHT, oestradiol) and Leydig cell production
Core concept
- Testosterone produced by Leydig cells (testis interstitium), under LH stimulation (Sertoli cells, by contrast, are FSH-driven and support spermatogenesis, not steroidogenesis)
- Testosterone is a prohormone as much as an active hormone -- peripherally converted to two more potent/distinct-acting metabolites
- 5-alpha-reductase -> dihydrotestosterone (DHT) -- more potent at the androgen receptor, drives external genitalia virilisation, prostate growth, male pattern hair
- Aromatase -> oestradiol -- mediates bone maturation/epiphyseal closure and part of the negative feedback on LH/FSH in males
3 more sections, plus exam facts
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