What is the Origin of Androgen Imbalance?

The term combines 'androgen,' derived from the Greek andr- meaning 'man' and -gen meaning 'producing,' referring to the hormones responsible for male characteristics, with 'imbalance,' indicating a lack of proper proportion or equilibrium. Clinical endocrinology established this concept by recognizing the critical role of these steroids in sexual differentiation, metabolism, and overall vitality.

What is the Mechanism of Androgen Imbalance?

Imbalance can stem from dysregulation at multiple points within the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis or peripheral tissues. Potential causes include impaired steroidogenesis in the gonads or adrenal glands, altered peripheral conversion by enzymes like 5-alpha reductase or aromatase, or changes in receptor sensitivity and circulating transport proteins like SHBG. These molecular and systemic disturbances disrupt the tightly controlled feedback loops necessary for hormonal homeostasis, leading to clinical consequences.

Androgen Imbalance

Meaning

Androgen imbalance signifies a state where the levels or activity of androgen hormones, such as testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), are either excessively high or pathologically low relative to physiological norms. This disruption can occur in both males and females, manifesting as distinct clinical syndromes depending on the direction and magnitude of the hormonal deviation. In women, hyperandrogenism is a hallmark of conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), while hypogonadism in men represents the most common presentation of androgen deficiency.

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Can Epigenetic Changes Induced by Lifestyle Be Fully Reversed in Androgen Imbalance?

Epigenetic shifts in androgen imbalance, influenced by lifestyle, can be significantly guided toward optimal function through sustained, personalized interventions.

∞ Histone Acetylation
∞ Testosterone Replacement Therapy
∞ Androgen Imbalance