Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 4, 2025

Establishment of Rat Models Mimicking Gender-affirming Hormone Therapies
Published on: January 10, 2025
The role of androgens in transgender medicine
Anastasia Dimakopoulou1, Ophelia D Millar2, Dimitrios Moschonas3
1Department of Endocrinology, University College Hospital London, NW1 2BU, UK.
Abstract:
Androgen therapy is the mainstay of treatment in female to male (FtM) transgender persons to increase testosterone levels, suppress oestrogens and treat gender dysphoria. Testosterone is widely used for male hypogonadism, but is comparatively under-investigated in FtM transgender persons. The aim of our study was to identify treatment and safety outcomes associated with testosterone use in transgender medicine. Androgens in FtM transgender persons are effective to lower voice frequency, increase facial hair-growth, and increase hematocrit and hemoglobin levels to adult male reference ranges. A 1.2-fold-3.7-fold higher rate of myocardial infarction has been reported retrospectively, compared to cisgender women. Blood pressure, glycaemic control and body mass index remained unchanged in FtM transgender persons. Androgens in FtM transgender persons have important cardio-metabolic implications. Randomised control trials, longer follow-up periods and studies involving older persons may further improve the management of FtM transgender persons.
Related Concept Videos
Testosterone: Functions and Regulation
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...
Signs of Puberty
Major Hormones and Their Functions
Oxytocin, produced in the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland, plays a role in social bonding, childbirth, and...
Hormones of the Adrenal Glands
The adrenal cortex, a powerhouse of hormone synthesis, generates over two dozen corticosteroid hormones. The zona glomerulosa produces mineralocorticoids, exemplified by aldosterone, influencing the electrolyte composition of body fluids. The synthesis of glucocorticoids such as cortisol and...
Disorders of the Male Reproductive System
Prostate disorders are another major concern. These conditions can impair urinary flow due to the prostate's location around the urethra....

