Revisiting the role of testosterone: Are we missing something?

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Human Physiology

Background:

• Testosterone, a pleiotropic hormone, traditionally linked to male development.
• Emerging research highlights testosterone's systemic roles beyond androgenesis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the historical and current understanding of testosterone's physiology.
• To explore testosterone's lesser-known effects, particularly in women's health.
• To discuss the potential clinical applications and associated risks of testosterone therapy.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of historical and contemporary research on testosterone.
• Analysis of molecular, cellular, and systemic effects of testosterone.
• Examination of evidence for testosterone's role in pain, well-being, cardiovascular function, bone health, and mood.

Main Results:

• Testosterone influences bone density through conversion to estrogen.
• Systemic effects of testosterone on pain, mood, and cardiovascular health are increasingly recognized in both sexes.
• Evidence supports testosterone's anabolic role in muscle and bone.

Conclusions:

• Testosterone has diverse physiological roles beyond traditional androgenesis.
• Further investigation into testosterone's clinical applications for mood, cognition, and other conditions is warranted.
• A balanced consideration of testosterone's benefits and risks is crucial for clinical practice.