Androsterone
Androsterone is a natural steroid hormone produced in the human body. It is classified as an androgen, which is a type of male sex hormone, though it is also present in females in smaller quantities. Androsterone is derived from the hormone dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and is typically found in the adrenal glands and the testes in males, as well as in the ovaries in females.
While androsterone is considered an androgen, its androgenic effects are relatively weak compared to other hormones like testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT). As a result, it doesn't exert significant masculinizing effects on the body.
Androsterone's precise functions in the body are not fully understood, but it is believed to play a role in influencing mood and behavior. Some studies suggest that it may have pheromone-like properties, potentially affecting social interactions and attraction between individuals. However, the exact mechanisms and significance of these effects are still subjects of ongoing research.