Sex steroid
Sex Steroid
Sex Steroids (pronunciation: /sɛks ˈstɛrɔɪd/), also known as sex hormones, are a subset of steroids that play key roles in the development and regulation of sexual characteristics in both males and females.
Etymology
The term "steroid" is derived from "sterol", a compound found in many types of tissues, and the suffix "-oid", meaning "resembling". The prefix "sex" refers to the hormones' role in sexual development and function.
Types of Sex Steroids
Sex steroids can be classified into three main types:
- Androgens (e.g., testosterone): These are primarily male sex hormones, but they also exist in females to a lesser extent.
- Estrogens (e.g., estradiol): These are primarily female sex hormones, but they also exist in males to a lesser extent.
- Progestogens (e.g., progesterone): These hormones are involved in the menstrual cycle and pregnancy.
Function
Sex steroids are produced in the gonads (ovaries in females, testes in males) and the adrenal glands. They regulate a variety of functions, including:
- Development of secondary sexual characteristics during puberty
- Regulation of the menstrual cycle in females
- Sperm production in males
- Maintenance of pregnancy
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Sex steroid
- Wikipedia's article - Sex steroid
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