What is the Origin of Androgen Receptor Signalling?

The term is rooted in the foundational discovery of steroid hormone action, specifically tracing the pathway from circulating ligand to genomic effect in target tissues. "Signalling" denotes the transmission of information across cellular compartments to elicit a specific physiological response, which can be rapid or delayed. Its clinical importance is evident in conditions ranging from hypogonadism to androgen-dependent pathologies.

What is the Mechanism of Androgen Receptor Signalling?

Upon ligand binding, the AR undergoes a conformational change, dissociates from inhibitory chaperone proteins, and dimerizes within the nucleus to exert its effect. These activated dimers then bind to specific DNA sequences known as Androgen Response Elements (AREs) located near regulated genes. This binding recruits necessary coactivators or corepressors, ultimately modulating the rate of mRNA synthesis for proteins governing androgenic physiological effects.

Androgen Receptor Signalling ∞ Area

Androgen Receptor Signalling

Meaning

This describes the intracellular cascade initiated when androgens, such as testosterone or dihydrotestosterone, bind to the androgen receptor (AR) protein within target cells. Successful binding leads to the activation of the receptor, allowing it to translocate to the nucleus and influence specific gene transcription related to anabolic or reproductive functions. This process is fundamental to male sexual development and overall metabolic regulation.