Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 18, 2025

In Vitro Method to Study Sex-Based Differences in Conjunctival Goblet Cells
Published on: July 28, 2023
The Impact of Sex Hormones on Keratoconus
Konstantinos Droutsas1, Iasonas Makrypoulias1, Irini Chatziralli2
11st Department of Ophthalmology, Geniko Nosokomeio Athenon Giorgos Gennematas, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece.
Abstract:
Keratoconus (KC) is a progressive non-inflammatory disorder characterized by significant changes in the corneal structure, leading to severe vision loss. Risk factors include eye rubbing, a positive family history, and allergic reactions. There is growing evidence suggesting that sex hormones may influence the development and progression of KC, but the exact mechanisms and extent of their impact remain unclear and controversial. This review aims to examine the current literature on the association between KC and sex hormones and to evaluate the potential of these hormones as clinical markers for diagnosing, prognosticating, and managing KC.
Related Concept Videos
Target Cell Response to Hormones
Notably, the cellular response can be regulated by altering the number of receptors expressed in the cell. For example, prolonged exposure to elevated hormone levels results in a gradual decline or down-regulation in the number of receptors for that specific hormone on the cell surface. Conversely, in response to low hormone levels, cells may use up-regulation, producing an...
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 and Bone Tissue
Hormones That Influence Osteoblasts and/or Maintain the Matrix
Several hormones are necessary for controlling bone growth and maintaining the bone matrix. The pituitary gland secretes growth hormone (GH), which, as its name implies, controls bone growth. This happens in several ways: first, it triggers chondrocyte...
Spermatogenesis

