Question

Puberty is preceded by

• A. Increased levels of androgen.
• B. Increased levels of thyroxine.
• C. Increased levels of insulin.
• D. None of the above.

Answer 1

Answer: (A)

Increased levels of androgen.

Androgens are a group of hormones that primarily influence the growth and development of the male reproductive system. The predominant and most active androgen is testosterone, which is produced by the male testes. The other androgens, which support the functions of testosterone, are produced mainly by the adrenal cortex—the outer portion of the adrenal glands—and only in relatively small quantities.

Puberty is associated with an increasing production of androgenic steroids. Adrenal androgen formation, termed adrenarche, may precede gonadal testosterone synthesis. Androgens play a major role in the initiation and maintenance of spermatogenesis(process of production of male gametes named sperms). Thus, different androgenic steroids play an important role in the process of puberty.

So,the correct answer is "Increased levels of androgen".