Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 5, 2026

Establishment of Rat Models Mimicking Gender-affirming Hormone Therapies
Published on: January 10, 2025
Androgen receptor functions in male and female physiology
Takahiro Matsumoto1, Hiroko Shiina, Hirotaka Kawano
1Institute of Molecular and Cellular Biosciences, University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi, Tokyo 113-0032, Japan.
Abstract:
The biological actions of androgens are mediated by transcriptional control of target genes through binding to the androgen receptor (AR). The AR belongs to the nuclear receptor superfamily and acts as a ligand-inducible transcriptional factor. Androgens/AR system is thought to be central to male physiology and behaviors to the development of clinical pathology. The physiological importance of AR function currently recognized in female reproduction also has been verified in mouse genetic model. Here we review functions of AR in male and female physiology as revealed by mice lacking AR.
Related Concept Videos
Testosterone: Functions and Regulation
Intracellular Hormone Receptors
Gonadal and Placental Hormones
In males, testosterone is the primary gonadal androgen. It plays a central role in the maturation of male reproductive organs — the penis and testes. Additionally, testosterone is instrumental in the development of secondary sexual characteristics — a deep voice as well as facial and pubic hair growth — and...
The Y Chromosome Determines Maleness
Evolution
Around 300 million years ago, the two sex chromosomes diverged from two identical autosomal chromosomes. Over time, the Y chromosome has lost most of its genes, shrinking in size. Today,...
Development of the Sexual Organs in the Embryo and Fetus
Near the gonadal ridges, two duct systems are present: the mesonephric ducts (Wolffian ducts) and paramesonephric ducts (Müllerian ducts). These ducts form the basis for the male...
Transducer Mechanism: Nuclear Receptors
About 48 different soluble family members of nuclear receptors are identified that can be divided into two main classes:

