Testosterone: Functions (Nursing)

00:01 So what exactly does testosterone affect? First testosterone is synthesized from cholesterol and is transformed at certain target cells.

00:13 There it is converted to DHT or dihydrotestosterone in the prostate, and also to estradiol in the brain neurons.

00:24 It also prompts spermatogenesis and targets all accessory organs.

00:30 These include the ducts, the glands, and also the penis, causing them to grow to adult size and adult function.

00:41 The testosterone also has multiple anabolic effects throughout the body by targeting specific genes that will produce certain proteins and target cells.

00:54 A deficiency in testosterone leads to atrophy of accessory organs.

01:00 Also the semen volume will decline and erection and ejaculation are impaired.

01:08 Usually this is treated by testosterone replacement.

01:14 So testosterone also is going to affect male secondary sex characteristics.

01:21 These features are induced in non-reproductive organs by testosterone.

01:27 These include things like the appearance of: pubic, axillary and facial hair.

01:34 Enhance growth of the chest hair, and the deepening of the male voice.

01:39 The thickening of the skin and also the skin can sometimes become more oily, which usually predisposes a postpubescent male to acne and things like that.

01:52 Also, the bones are going to grow in length and also increase in density.

01:59 Skeletal muscle will increase in size and mass.

02:04 Also, testosterone can lead to a boost in the basal metabolic rate or your metabolism.

02:13 And also testosterone can be the basis of the sex drive or libido in males.

02:21 So as we can see, testosterone masculinizes the embryonic brain and continues to exert that effect well into adulthood.

02:32 And the testes are not the only place where testosterone is going to be produced.

02:38 For example, it's also produced by the adrenal gland.

02:43 But although the adrenal gland has the ability to produce androgens in small amounts, the production in the adrenal gland is not sufficient enough to maintain normal testosterone mediated functions.