Q. 15.55 - An Introduction to General, Organic, and Biological Chemistry

Question

What are the similarities and differences between the steroid hormones estradiol and testosterone?

Step-by-Step Solution

Answer

Both estradiol and testosterone have the "steroid nucleus" and a hydroxyl group in their structures.

Apart from estradiol, testosterone has a double bond, a ketone, and two methyl groups. In place of ketone, estradiol contains a hydroxyl group, an aromatic ring, and a methyl group.

Step1: Introduction.

Steroids lack a fatty acid chain and have a steroidal ring. The steroidal nucleus is a fused ring made up of three six-membered rings and one five-membered ring.

Steroid molecules include cholesterol and steroidal hormones like estrogen (estradiol), progesterone, and testosterone.

Step2: Given Information.

Learn about the similarities and differences between the steroid hormones estradiol and testosterone.

Step3: Explanation.

Both estradiol and testosterone have the "steroid nucleus" and a hydroxyl group in their structures.

Apart from estradiol, testosterone has a double bond, a ketone, and two methyl groups. In place of ketone, estradiol contains a hydroxyl group, an aromatic ring, and a methyl group.