Problem 94 - Objective Biology for NEET

Question

Androgens from the following are (a) Oestrogens (b) Progesterone (c) Testosterone (d) Relaxin

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

The correct answer is (c) Testosterone. This is the hormone that belongs to the androgen category.

Step 1: Understanding the term Androgen

Androgens can be described as those hormones that contribute to the development and maintenance of male characteristics. They are generally present in higher quantities in males than females, although females do have them. The primary and most well-known androgen is testosterone.

Step 2: Analyzing the options

(a) Oestrogens are a group of hormones that play a big role in the menstrual cycle and in the promotion of female secondary sexual characteristics such as the breasts. Thus, they are not considered androgens. (b) Progesterone is a female hormone produced mainly in the ovary. It helps prepare the body for conception and pregnancy and regulates the menstrual cycle. Thus, it is not an androgen. (c) Testosterone is primarily produced in the testes and is the hormone responsible for the development of male sexual characteristics. Thus, it is considered an androgen. (d) Relaxin is a hormone produced by the ovary and the placenta with important effects in the female reproductive system and during pregnancy. Thus, it is not an androgen.

Step 3: Selecting the correct answer

Among the given options, Testosterone is clearly the hormone that belongs to the category of Androgens. The other options, Oestrogens, Progesterone, and Relaxin, are hormones but do not fall within the category of Androgens.

Key Concepts

Testosterone

Testosterone is a key androgen, a type of hormone more prevalent in males. It plays a crucial role in developing several primary and secondary male characteristics, such as deeper voice, facial hair, and increased muscle mass. This hormone is primarily produced in the testes and is integral to male reproductive function.
Besides influencing physical characteristics, testosterone impacts mood and energy levels as well.
Understanding testosterone is important because it highlights how hormones can greatly influence physiological and behavioral traits.

• Primary male sex hormone.
• Involved in both physical and emotional aspects.
• Vital throughout male adolescence and adulthood.

Male characteristics

Male characteristics are those traits typically associated with the male sex, influenced heavily by testosterone.
These include traits such as a deeper voice, broader shoulders, and an increase in body hair. Testosterone induces differentiation of these features during puberty.
But it's not just about physical traits; testosterone also promotes a competitive nature and aggression, traits often linked to male behavior.

• Work hand-in-hand with androgens like testosterone.
• Include both physical and psychological aspects.
• Develop primarily during puberty.

Hormones

Hormones are chemical messengers produced by glands in the body that travel through the bloodstream to tissues and organs, guiding them on their functions. They regulate almost every significant process, including growth, metabolism, and mood.
Whereas testosterone is specific to developing male characteristics, other hormones like progesterone and estrogen shape feminine traits and reproductive functions.
Maintaining hormonal balance is crucial as it ensures that each bodily function can proceed smoothly.

• Produced by endocrine glands.
• Control different bodily processes.
• Influence both physical and emotional aspects.