Physiological effects of testosterone: a modern view

Testosterone is one of the major male sex hormones related to androgens. Its adequate concentrations are extremely important at all stages of development, formation and maintenance of vital activity of the male body. Testosterone has a wide range of physiological functions, affecting various systems of organs, including the brain, peripheral nerves, muscles, fat and bone tissue, cardiovascular system, as well as male genital organs and the reproductive system (sperm maturation), contributes to libido. Failure at any stage of its synthesis leads to a number of negative consequences that adversely affect the functions and condition of the male body. In this article, the main physiological principles and aspects of the effect of testosterone on the male body, testosterone-deficient states, the causes of their appearance and methods of correction are examined. The decrease in testosterone can be observed due to genetic, anatomical disorders. These conditions can also be due to hereditary or acquired diseases, and also to develop as a result of such harmful habits as alcoholism and smoking. According to the latest data available in the literature, testosterone may decrease with surgical methods of treatment. Timely diagnosis of such conditions allows for early treatment, which positively affects not only the physiological, but also the psychological state of the man.