Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a hormone that plays a crucial role in the sexual development of individuals assigned male at birth (AMAB). It is an androgen, which is a hormone that stimulates the development of male characteristics. DHT is essential for the formation of male external genitalia, including the penis and scrotum, during fetal development. It also contributes to the development of male secondary sexual characteristics such as body hair, facial hair, and prostate growth during adolescence and adulthood. However, unlike testosterone, DHT does not play a significant role in maintaining male physiology in adulthood.
High or low levels of DHT can lead to various issues depending on the age and stage of sexual development. In adulthood, elevated DHT levels are associated with prostate enlargement and male pattern hair loss. DHT is derived from testosterone and can bind to receptors on hair follicles in the scalp, causing them to shrink and become less capable of supporting healthy hair growth. Additionally, abnormally high levels of DHT have been linked to slow healing of skin after an injury and enlarged prostate.
The effects of DHT are mediated through the intracellular androgen receptor, which initiates a cascade leading to the alteration of gene expression. Control of DHT levels in the body is achieved through the regulation of testosterone production, which is controlled by the hypothalamus and the pituitary gland. In response to decreasing levels of testosterone, the hypothalamus releases gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH), stimulating the pituitary gland to produce and release luteinising hormone into the bloodstream. This hormone then travels to the testes in men and stimulates them to produce more testosterone, leading to higher levels of DHT as well.
In summary, DHT is a hormone that is essential for the development of male sexual characteristics and plays a significant role in sexual differentiation, prostate growth, and the development of male pattern hair. It is important to maintain balanced levels of DHT for overall health and well-being.
