Video Transcript
What is the primary function of the androgens in the human body? (A) To regulate digestion and metabolism of fats, proteins, and carbohydrates. (B) To promote the development of male secondary sexual characteristics, for example,
facial hair growth. (C) To regulate the activities of all other endocrine glands in the body. (D) To regulate calcium levels in the blood.
This question asks about the male sex hormones androgens. Let’s look at a few examples of androgens and the effects they have on the human body
in order to answer this question.
Here’s a diagram showing the male reproductive system. The testes, or testis as singular, is where androgens are produced and secreted into
the bloodstream to travel to different parts of the body to have their effect. The main androgen secreted from males is called testosterone. This hormone can contribute to the development of secondary sexual characteristics,
such as the development of facial and body hair, increased muscle mass, and the
deepening of the voice.
Another androgen, called androsterone, can be produced by the breakdown of
testosterone. Androsterone has similar effects as testosterone but isn’t as potent.
Now that we have reviewed some of the effects of androgens on the body, we can return
to our question. The primary function of androgens in the human body is given by answer choice (B): to
promote the development of male secondary sexual characteristics, for example,
facial hair growth.
