MICROANATOMY

Detailed explanation-1: -The steroid hormones are synthesized in the adrenal cortex, the gonads, and the placenta; are all derived from cholesterol and many are of clinical importance. Steroid hormones are synthesized in the mitochondria and smooth endoplasmic reticulum.

Detailed explanation-2: -Steroid hormones are produced through de novo steroidogenesis in the adrenal cortex, the gonads and the placenta. In addition, a range of neurosteroids are produced in the brain [1], however these are beyond the scope of this review.

Detailed explanation-3: -The male sex steroid, testosterone (T), is synthesized from cholesterol in the testicular Leydig cell under control of the pituitary gonadotropin LH.

Detailed explanation-4: -All steroid hormones are derived from cholesterol. They are transported through the bloodstream to the cells of various target organs where they carry out the regulation of a wide range of physiological functions.

Detailed explanation-5: -Cholesterol is a component of the phospholipid bilayer and plays a role in the structure and function of membranes. Steroids are found in the brain and alter electrical activity in the brain.