The hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is stronger than testosterone.
Understanding Hormone Potency
Hormones, such as testosterone and DHT, play crucial roles in the body. Their potency refers to how strongly they bind to receptors and elicit a biological response. When comparing testosterone and DHT, it is found that DHT is significantly more potent.
DHT's Superior Strength
- Bioassay Results: According to bioassays, DHT has been found to be 2.5- to 10-fold more potent than testosterone. This means that DHT can produce a biological effect at a much lower concentration than testosterone.
DHT vs. Testosterone: Key Differences
| Feature | Testosterone | Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) |
|---|---|---|
| Potency | Lower | Higher (2.5-10x more potent) |
| Receptor Affinity | Lower | Higher |
| Primary Functions | Muscle growth, bone density, libido, secondary sexual characteristics | Secondary sexual characteristics, prostate development, hair growth |
| Conversion | Can be converted to DHT | Cannot be converted to testosterone |
Factors Contributing to DHT's Strength
- Receptor Binding: DHT binds more strongly to androgen receptors compared to testosterone, resulting in a stronger biological signal.
- Metabolic Stability: DHT is not readily converted to other hormones, ensuring it remains active for a longer period.
Practical Implications
The higher potency of DHT is relevant in various biological processes, including:
- Prostate Health: DHT plays a key role in prostate growth and is a significant factor in conditions such as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
- Hair Growth: DHT is associated with both hair growth and hair loss. It can stimulate hair growth in certain areas (like the beard) but can also cause male pattern baldness.
- Secondary Sexual Characteristics: DHT contributes significantly to the development and maintenance of secondary sexual characteristics in males.
In summary, while both testosterone and DHT are crucial androgens, DHT's higher receptor affinity and potency make it significantly stronger than testosterone in biological effects.
