What is dihydrotestosterone's role?

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a derivative of testosterone that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. It is created from testosterone by an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase. DHT is considered the most potent androgen, binding to androgen receptors with a five times higher affinity than testosterone. Its functions include:

1. Developmental Role: In male embryos, DHT is responsible for the development of male genitalia. It is also crucial during puberty, activating further growth of the genitalia, increasing musculature, bone growth, and libido 1.

2. Hair Growth Regulation: DHT has a significant impact on hair follicles. It shortens the hair growth phase and miniaturizes the follicle, which is one of the primary reasons for hair loss (androgenetic alopecia) as people age 2.

3. Mental and Physical Vigor: DHT is associated with attributes such as mental and physical vigor, strength, healing capacity, and drive. It plays a role in maintaining these attributes across the lifespan, influencing development from conception to adulthood 1.

4. Influence on Libido and Cognition: DHT is crucial for libido and has cognitive effects such as fear suppression and enhancing the feeling of effort, making it psychologically significant 3.

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     1

     Finasteride and Development

     01:53:18
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     2

     Hormones and Hair Loss

     01:09:24
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     3

     DHT and Testosterone

     01:52:37

These diverse roles illustrate DHT's importance in both physical development and maintaining various physiological functions.