Expression of androgen receptors in the structures of vulvovaginal tissue.

Abstract

Little is known about the role of androgens in the female genital tract, specifically in the vulvovaginal area. The abundance of androgen receptors in this area could help us to explain their role. The main objective of the present article is to review current data on androgen receptors in the different structures of vulvovaginal tissues. A review of the literature using data from PubMed was carried out on androgen receptors in the vulva, labia majora and minora, vestibule, clitoris, and vagina. The effects of androgens and regulation of androgen receptors both in the embryo and in premenopausal and postmenopausal women were also reviewed. Given the characteristics of this review, we also analyzed animal studies and animal models of human disease. There were no filters or restrictions with respect to the date of publication. Androgen receptors have been detected throughout the genitourinary tract by means of Western blot, immunohistochemistry, ligand binding, and gene expression. They are present in the labia majora and minora, the clitoris, the vestibule, and in the three layers of the vaginal mucosa (epithelium, lamina propria, and muscularis). More specifically, studies on the labia majora have shown that androgen receptors seem to be particularly abundant in epidermal keratinocytes and in dermal fibroblasts. Androgen receptors are also abundant in the epidermis, especially in the keratinocytes, and in the dermis of the labia minora and vestibule, where they are more numerous than in the vagina. Androgen receptors have also been found in the Bartholin glands. Estrogens play a major role in the maintenance of vaginal physiology. Although little is known about the role of androgens in the genital apparatus of women, specifically in the vulvovaginal area, the abundance of androgen receptors could enable us to explain their role. Androgens and estrogens play a major role in the maintenance of vaginal physiology. Better knowledge of the role of androgens and their receptors in vulvovaginal tissue would make it possible to discern their effects on female genitalia and help us to understand new therapeutic strategies.