Testosterone is a male sex hormone (androgen) that is principally produced by the testes. Testosterone is an important component the normal development of male sexual organs and prostate. Elevated levels of testosterone during puberty cause the development of secondary sexual characteristics (broadening of shoulders, beard development, etc.). Testosterone plays an important role in the growth and development of bone and muscle, and in the maintenance of muscle strength.

It is important to note that although testosterone is an androgen, it is also manufactured (secreted) and found in much lower levels in females. Elevated levels of testosterone in females may lead to the development of male-like secondary sexual characteristics (masculinization).

Teststosterone and other steroid hormones (e.g., estrogen, cortisone, etc) are derived from cholesterol. At the molecular level, steroid hormones such as testosterone consist of four interlocking rings of carbon atoms (three of the rings contain six carbon atoms...