Principles of endocrinology

Abstract

The endocrine system plays a major role in human survival. Endocrine glands secrete chemical messengers or hormones that affect every tissue of the body, including the periodontium, during the life of the individual. As the endocrine system influences a broad assortment of biological activities necessary for life, a general understanding of the principal components and functions of this system is essential. A fundamental assessment of hormone structure, mechanism of action and hormone transport, as well as influence on homeostasis is reviewed. A concise evaluation of the functions of the central endocrine glands, the functions of the major peripheral endocrine glands (other than gonadal tissues) and the known relationships of these hormones to the periodontium is examined.

Role of testosterone and androgen receptor in periodontal disease progression in female rats

“…Androstenedione (ANDRO) is the main precursor for the synthesis of TES and estradiol (E2) in gonadal and extra‐gonadal sites in women . The conversion of ANDRO into TES and E2, mediated by 17β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β‐HSD) and aromatase enzymes, respectively, provides protective effects against the depletion of sex hormones below the physiological levels, particularly in postmenopausal women .…”

The role of androgens on periodontal repair in female rats

“…Androgens, estrogens, and progestins are sex hormones that exert their actions through different receptors. [1][2][3] While men produce significantly higher levels of androgens, androgen hormones have been linked to important functions in women. [4][5][6][7] The most abundant androgen in women is androstenedione, which can be secreted into blood stream or be converted into testosterone (TES) or estradiol (E2) in the ovaries.…”

“…[4][5][6][7] The most abundant androgen in women is androstenedione, which can be secreted into blood stream or be converted into testosterone (TES) or estradiol (E2) in the ovaries. 3 On the other hand, the most powerful androgens are testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), which are known to induce anabolic response on skeletal muscles, 8,9 and antiresorptive effects on bone mass. 10,11 In premenopausal women, the levels of total and free TES and androstenedione reach a peak in the middle third of menstrual cycle, falling to lower values during menstruation.…”

Effect of Menopause on Periodontium - Is There A Link?

“…1 Hormones are specific regulatory molecules that modulate reproduction, growth and development, maintenance of the internal environment, as well as energy production, utilization, and storage. 2 In woman goes through mainly four stages in her life cycle where hormonal imbalance found are: Puberty, Menstrual cycle, Pregnancy, and Menopause. As women approach menopause, the levels of estrogen begin to drop mainly during the late follicular and luteal phase of the menstrual cycle.…”