The major androgens produced by the adrenal cortex are DHEA- sulphate, androstenedione, DHEA, 11b-hydroxy-androstenedione, and small amounts of testosterone (Fig. 7.15). Androstenedione and testosterone are also secreted by the ovary and the testis, and a small amount of DHEA arises from the ovary. Androgen metabolism is therefore complex because of these dual sources and also because androgens undergo extensive interconversion and metabolism.
