93 - Consequences of Mutations in Androgen Receptor Genes: Molecular Biology and Behavior

Abstract

This chapter reveals the consequences of mutations in androgen receptor genes. Androgens have effects on almost every tissue in the body. Receptors for androgens are highly conserved, and are found in organisms from yeast to humans. The importance of androgens and androgen receptors is well known with regard to the sexual differentiation of the brain and behavior during development. During adulthood, androgen receptors influence many essential functions ranging from sebaceous secretions of the skin to muscle mass. One of the most vital functions of androgen receptors is to mediate all aspects of sexual reproduction in males. Androgens act at receptor sites in target tissues, such as the testes and penis, as well as male accessory organs, such as the seminal vesicles and prostate, to effectuate sexual reproduction.