Problem 81 - Objective Biology for NEET

Question

Androgenic steroids are also secreted by adrenal cortex which causes (a) Growth of axial hair (b) Growth of pubic hair (c) Growth of facial hair (d) All of these

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The correct answer is (d) All of these.

Step 1: Understanding Androgenic Steroids

Androgenic Steroids can be defined as the hormones responsible for secondary sexual characters. They are also responsible for the growth of various types of body hair such as axial, pubic and facial hair in humans, particularly in males.

Step 2: Match the Options with the Effects of Androgenic Steroids

Based on the understanding of androgenic steroids, examine each option: (a) Growth of axial hair, (b) Growth of pubic hair, (c) Growth of facial hair, are all expected to be impacts of androgenic steroids.

Step 3: Compose the Answer

Given that androgenic steroids can foster the growth of axial, pubic, and facial hair, select the option that includes all of these. That is option (d) All of these.

Key Concepts

Adrenal Cortex

The adrenal cortex is a significant part of the adrenal gland, which sits atop the kidneys. It is essential for producing various steroid hormones, including androgenic steroids. These hormones play a crucial role in regulating numerous body processes.

• The adrenal cortex has three zones, each responsible for producing different hormones. For instance:
• The outer zone (zona glomerulosa) produces mineralocorticoids, which help control blood pressure.
• The middle zone (zona fasciculata) produces glucocorticoids, which manage stress and inflammation.
• The inner zone (zona reticularis) is responsible for the production of androgens, contributing to the body's androgen levels.

Although the adrenal cortex produces a relatively small amount of androgens compared to the gonads, it still significantly influences the development of certain characteristics.

Secondary Sexual Characteristics

Secondary sexual characteristics are features that appear during puberty, which distinguish the two sexes but are not directly related to reproduction. These characteristics develop under the influence of hormones, including the androgenic steroids produced by the adrenal cortex.

• In males, androgens stimulate the deepening of the voice, growth of facial and body hair, and increased muscle mass.
• In females, although androgen levels are lower, they still play a role in influencing hair growth and libido.
• These characteristics help differentiate between male and female physiologies beyond the primary reproductive organs. Understanding these changes is crucial for grasping how bodies mature and the physiological roles hormones play during adolescence.

Body Hair Growth

Body hair growth is one of the prominent secondary sexual characteristics, heavily influenced by androgenic steroids such as testosterone. This process is crucial in signaling the transition from childhood to adulthood, marking the onset of puberty.

• The types of hair typically include:
• Axial hair, which refers to the hair found in the armpits, starting to grow during puberty.
• Pubic hair, which develops in the genital area, is another key marker of puberty.
• Facial hair, primarily seen in males, contributes to the mature look and can vary widely in thickness and distribution among individuals.

The role of these hairs extends beyond mere aesthetics; they can also provide protection and play roles in pheromone dispersal, contributing to social and sexual communication.