What do adrenal androgens serve as in the body?

Adrenal androgens are primarily precursor hormones produced by the adrenal glands. These hormones, such as dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulfate (DHEA-S), can be converted into more active hormonal forms, including androgens like testosterone and estrogens like estradiol. This conversion occurs in various tissues throughout the body, which can utilize these precursors depending on physiological needs.

Understanding the role of adrenal androgens is crucial, especially during menopause when ovarian function declines, and the body increasingly relies on these adrenal hormones for maintaining hormonal balance. While they do not serve as direct sources of estrogen alone, their ability to be converted into both androgens and estrogens makes them significant in the hormonal landscape.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately describe the primary function of adrenal androgens. They are not synthesized solely through the ovarian cycle, nor do they inhibit FSH production directly. Additionally, they are not exclusively sources of estrogen; rather, they serve a broader role as precursors to various hormones.