The Question is from neet-zoology human-reproduction , and it was created by the author BALASOURY

Question

Which specific cell type within the testes is primarily responsible for the conversion of testosterone to dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and what enzyme facilitates this conversion?

BALASOURY · Accepted Answer

## CORE INFORMATION
✓ **Answer**: D
## CONCEPT FRAMEWORK
 **Primary Concept**: Steroid hormone metabolism in the testes
 **Related Topics**: Endocrinology, reproductive physiology, enzyme function
 **Prerequisites**: Understanding of testosterone and dihydrotestosterone (DHT), types of testicular cells and their functions.
## SOLUTION PATHWAY
**Given Information**:
  The question asks about the cell type and enzyme responsible for converting testosterone to DHT in the testes.
  The options provide Leydig cells and Sertoli cells as possible cell types and Aromatase and 5α-reductase as possible enzymes.
**Method & Steps**:
 1. Identify the cell type responsible for testosterone to DHT conversion.
  Reasoning:  Sertoli cells primarily support spermatogenesis, while Leydig cells are the main producers of testosterone. However, both cell types express enzymes that metabolize steroids.  DHT is a more potent androgen than testosterone.
  Formula/Rule: None directly applicable, but understanding of cell function is crucial.
 2. Identify the enzyme responsible for the conversion.
  Working: The conversion of testosterone to DHT involves the reduction of the keto group at carbon 4 of the A ring of testosterone. This reaction is catalyzed by 5α-reductase.
  Key Point: Aromatase is responsible for the conversion of androgens (like testosterone) to estrogens.
 3. Combine the cell type and enzyme.
  Result: Sertoli cells express 5α-reductase and are therefore primarily responsible for the local conversion of testosterone to DHT in the testes.
  Verification: This aligns with established knowledge in reproductive endocrinology.
 ## OPTION ANALYSIS
[A] :x: Leydig cells are the primary producers of testosterone, but they don't primarily convert it to DHT. Aromatase converts androgens to estrogens, not testosterone to DHT.
[B] :x: Sertoli cells are involved, but Aromatase is the wrong enzyme.
[C] :x: Leydig cells are the main testosterone producers, but the conversion to DHT primarily happens in Sertoli cells.
[D] ✓: Sertoli cells express 5α-reductase, the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone to DHT. This is the correct answer.
 ## LEARNING AIDS
 **Common Mistakes**:
  1.Confusing the roles of Leydig and Sertoli cells: Remember Leydig cells produce testosterone, while Sertoli cells support spermatogenesis and also metabolize steroids.
  2.Confusing 5α-reductase with Aromatase: Understand their distinct functions in steroid metabolism.
 **Quick Tips**:
  1.Remember that DHT is a more potent androgen than testosterone and its production is crucial for several aspects of male reproductive function.
  2.Associate 5α-reductase with DHT production and Aromatase with estrogen production.

BALASOURY · Answer

Leydig cells; Aromatase

BALASOURY · Answer

Sertoli cells; Aromatase

BALASOURY · Answer

Leydig cells; 5α-reductase

BALASOURY · Answer

The correct Option is "Sertoli cells; 5α-reductase"

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