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Testosterone
Definition
Testosterone is a hormone that is responsible for the development and maintenance of masculine characteristics. Testosterone is released into the bloodstream by the testes (testicles) in males and to a lesser extent, by the adrenal cortex and ovaries in females. Not only does testosterone influence the growth and development of masculine physical characteristics, such as the penis and the beard, but testosterone is also related to masculine psychological characteristics and social behaviors, including aggression, power, sexual behavior, and social dominance. In addition, social experiences such as competition can cause testosterone levels to rise or fall.
Background and History
The history of testosterone research dates back to ancient times, when farmers observed that castrated animals (animals whose testes had been removed) were not very aggressive and had ...
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