Testosterone gene expression refers to the molecular process by which the presence of testosterone, or its potent metabolite dihydrotestosterone (DHT), influences the transcription of specific genes within target cells. This action is mediated by the intracellular androgen receptor (AR), which, upon binding the hormone, translocates to the nucleus and modulates DNA transcription. The resulting change in protein synthesis drives the hormone’s profound effects on muscle growth, bone density, and the maintenance of male secondary characteristics.
Origin
This concept is foundational to molecular endocrinology, established with the discovery of steroid hormone action through intracellular receptors that function as ligand-activated transcription factors. The term emphasizes the hormone’s critical role as a direct, powerful modulator of the cellular genome and its protein output. Understanding gene expression is key to discerning the long-term, systemic effects of androgen signaling on health and longevity.
Mechanism
Testosterone diffuses into the target cell and binds to the cytosolic or nuclear androgen receptor, forming a complex. This binding event causes a crucial conformational change in the receptor, allowing it to dimerize and bind to specific DNA sequences known as Androgen Response Elements (AREs) located in the promoter regions of target genes. This specific binding initiates or represses the transcription of messenger RNA (mRNA), ultimately altering the cell’s proteome and its physiological function, such as increasing myocyte protein synthesis.
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