Structure:
Dehydroepiandrosterone is a gonadosteroid, a weak androgen or male hormone,
secreted by the reticularis zone of the adrenal gland. It is secreted in
response to ACTH, in proportion to body weight, actually skin surface area.
Function:
Dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate is a secreted prohormone for further metabolism
to sex hormones; the male gonad uses DHEA-S
as a substrate for testosterone, and the
female uses it for the synthesis of androstenedione
in the ovarian stroma. DHEA-S, probably
after removal of the sulfate binding group, also has a weak anabolic effect
on bone, cartilage, muscle,
and skin.
