Dihydrotestosterone

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a potent androgen sex steroid and hormone, primarily produced in the prostate, testes, hair follicles, and adrenal glands. It's an active metabolite of testosterone, meaning it's created from testosterone through the action of the enzyme 5α-reductase. DHT is significantly more potent than testosterone in binding to androgen receptors. Its biological role includes promoting the development of male secondary sexual characteristics, such as facial and body hair, prostate growth, and male pattern baldness. It also contributes to muscle growth and increased libido. Elevated DHT levels can contribute to certain health conditions such as androgenetic alopecia.

Dihydrotestosterone meaning with examples

• In males, DHT is crucial for the development of secondary sexual characteristics. Studies show that during puberty the increase in DHT causes the enlargement of the penis and scrotum, and also triggers the growth of pubic hair and deepening of the voice. Low DHT can cause a delay or absence of some of these physical changes, pointing to DHT's vital role.
• Androgenetic alopecia, or male pattern baldness, is often linked to DHT. The hormone binds to androgen receptors in hair follicles, shrinking them over time. This process, increasingly sensitive follicles, leads to shorter and finer hairs, eventually resulting in hair loss. Treatments often target DHT production or its interaction with hair follicles.
• Research suggests that DHT plays a role in prostate health. The prostate gland is particularly sensitive to DHT, and excessive DHT can lead to its enlargement (benign prostatic hyperplasia, BPH) or even increase the risk of prostate cancer. Therefore, drugs that reduce DHT production are often prescribed to manage these conditions.
• DHT contributes to the anabolic effects associated with testosterone, although it is less responsible for muscle development. However, due to its higher binding affinity to androgen receptors, DHT can have significant effects on muscular development. This is considered because it is more difficult to control.