Sex Steroid Depletion is the physiological state characterized by abnormally low circulating concentrations of the primary gonadal hormones, including testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone. This depletion can be age-related, as seen in menopause and andropause, or pathologically induced by disease, surgery, or pharmacological intervention. Clinically, it results in a cascade of systemic effects, including loss of bone density, muscle atrophy, sexual dysfunction, and neurocognitive decline.
Origin
The concept is fundamental to reproductive endocrinology and aging research, directly linked to the understanding of gonadal senescence. The term ‘sex steroid’ refers to the class of hormones derived from cholesterol that mediate sexual differentiation and reproductive function. ‘Depletion’ signifies the quantitative reduction below the level required for optimal physiological function.
Mechanism
Depletion is typically caused by the functional decline of the gonads, which leads to reduced biosynthesis of these hormones. This decline often results from reduced stimulation by pituitary gonadotropins or primary gonadal failure. The low circulating levels result in insufficient activation of intracellular and membrane-bound steroid receptors in target tissues, leading to the systemic symptoms of deficiency across bone, muscle, brain, and cardiovascular systems.
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