1-Androstenedione

1-Androstenedione (pronounced as: one-an-dros-ten-di-own) is a steroid and precursor hormone that can be metabolically converted to testosterone and other androgens.

Etymology

The term "1-Androstenedione" is derived from the chemical structure of the compound. The prefix "1-" refers to the position of a double bond in the steroid nucleus, while "Androstene" is a common root in the nomenclature of steroids, derived from "andros", the Greek word for man, signifying its role in male sexual development. "Dione" indicates the presence of two keto groups at positions 3 and 17.

Biochemical Role

1-Androstenedione is a direct precursor in the biosynthesis of testosterone. It is produced in the adrenal glands, ovaries, and testes, and its production is controlled by the hypothalamus and pituitary gland. It can also be converted into other androgens, such as dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which have more potent effects on male sexual characteristics.

Medical Significance

In medicine, measurements of 1-Androstenedione are used as a marker for adrenal hyperplasia or adrenal carcinoma. Elevated levels can indicate an overactive adrenal gland or a tumor. It is also used in the diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), as women with PCOS often have elevated levels of 1-Androstenedione.

Related Terms

• Steroid
• Androgen
• Testosterone
• Dihydrotestosterone
• Adrenal glands
• Ovaries
• Testes
• Hypothalamus
• Pituitary gland
• Adrenal hyperplasia
• Adrenal carcinoma
• Polycystic ovary syndrome

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on 1-Androstenedione
• Wikipedia's article - 1-Androstenedione

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