Androgens, progestagens and agonistic behaviour: a review

Area of Science:

• Neuroendocrinology
• Behavioral Endocrinology

Background:

• Limited research exists on hormonal influences on fear, with most studies focusing on aggression.
• Gender differences in aggression may stem from variations in motivation influenced by androgen and progestagen levels.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the relationship between androgens, progestagens, and agonistic behavior.
• To explore the hormonal underpinnings of aggression and fear, particularly gender-related differences.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on androgens, progestagens, and behavior.
• Analysis of hormonal metabolism, including 5 alpha-reductase and aromatisation in the brain.
• Examination of the interplay between hormone levels and social/environmental factors.

Main Results:

• Androgens and progestagens are metabolized in target organs and the brain, with metabolites potentially having organizing and activating effects.
• Testosterone secretion can be influenced by social and environmental variables, and plasma androgen levels affect behavior.
• Dominant and aggressive individuals often exhibit higher plasma testosterone levels compared to submissive ones.

Conclusions:

• Androgens and progestagens play a significant role in regulating agonistic behavior and motivation.
• Hormonal metabolites, not just testosterone itself, are crucial for brain development and function related to behavior.
• Progestagens may act as antagonists to androgens centrally, modulating aggressive behavior.