Androsten refers to a group of naturally occurring steroid compounds found in humans and many other mammals. These biochemicals belong to the class of androstene steroids, defined by their specific nineteen-carbon framework. They are produced naturally within the body, primarily in the adrenal glands and the gonads. The term “Androsten” is often encountered in discussions about performance-enhancing supplements or products marketed for social attraction. Research focuses on these compounds because they act both as internal signaling molecules and as potential external communicators.
The Dual Identity: Steroid Precursor vs. Pheromone
The confusion surrounding Androsten stems from the term describing two distinct families of compounds. The first is Androstenedione, a steroid precursor structurally related to sex hormones that functions internally. The second group is the 16-androstenes, specifically Androstenone and Androstenol, which are odorous steroids often discussed as human pheromones.
Androstenedione primarily influences internal metabolic pathways and hormone levels, functioning as a building block for more potent hormones. Conversely, Androstenone and Androstenol are molecules expelled from the body that are theorized to impact external social communication. This dual identity requires separate consideration of the compounds’ actions, one metabolic and the other chemosensory.
Metabolic Conversion and Athletic Use
Androstenedione, often called “Andro,” is classified as a prohormone because it serves as an immediate precursor to testosterone and estrogen. The body metabolizes it through enzymatic reactions, primarily involving 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase to form testosterone. Another enzyme, aromatase, can convert Androstenedione directly into estrone, a form of estrogen. This conversion occurs in various tissues, including the liver, fat cells, and muscle tissue.
The compound gained significant public attention in the late 1990s as a dietary supplement marketed to athletes. Proponents claimed supplementation would elevate testosterone levels, enhancing muscle mass and athletic performance. However, scientific studies often revealed a complex metabolic outcome that did not match these claims. Research showed that oral intake did not reliably increase testosterone concentrations in healthy young men. Instead, surplus Androstenedione was often shunted toward the estrogen pathway, resulting in elevated levels of circulating estrogenic compounds.
The Science of Social Signaling
Androstenone and Androstenol are 16-androstene steroids that have been the focus of research into human social signaling. These molecules are produced by bacteria on the skin, particularly in the underarm area, and are excreted in sweat and other bodily fluids. Androstenone typically has a musky, sometimes unpleasant odor, while Androstenol is often perceived as having a more pleasant, sandalwood-like scent.
In many mammals, these compounds function as true pheromones, triggering clear behavioral responses. For humans, the evidence is far more ambiguous, as the specialized vomeronasal organ, which detects pheromones in many animals, is thought to be vestigial and non-functional in adult humans. Perception relies on the main olfactory system, and a significant portion of the population possesses a specific anosmia, meaning they cannot smell Androstenone at all.
Studies have explored their effect on mood and social perception, despite the lack of robust evidence for them being true pheromones. Exposure to these compounds has been shown in some small-scale experiments to influence how people rate the attractiveness or dominance of others in photographs. For example, Androstenol exposure has been linked to women rating men’s faces as more attractive and dominant. These observed effects suggest a subtle, chemosensory influence on emotional or cognitive processing.
Regulatory Status and Health Considerations
The regulatory status of the Androsten compounds differs dramatically. Androstenedione was reclassified in the United States by the Anabolic Steroid Control Act of 2004, designating it as a Schedule III controlled substance. This action effectively banned its over-the-counter sale as a dietary supplement due to its potential for abuse and its classification as an anabolic steroid precursor. Androstenedione is also prohibited in amateur and professional sports by organizations like the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).
The health risks associated with Androstenedione are linked to the supra-physiological levels of sex hormones it can create. Side effects stem from hormonal imbalance and conversion to androgens:
- For men, risks include gynecomastia, testicular atrophy, and poor cholesterol profiles.
- For women, virilizing effects can occur, such as increased facial hair growth, voice deepening, and menstrual cycle disruption.
- Performance enhancement use can also pose serious risks to the cardiovascular system and liver function.
In contrast, products containing Androstenone and Androstenol are marketed as social attraction enhancers and categorized as cosmetics or fragrances. This classification subjects them to much lighter regulation than the hormonal precursors. While these products do not carry the same severe hormonal manipulation risks as Androstenedione, their efficacy claims remain scientifically unsubstantiated. Buyers should be aware that the claims of guaranteed attraction are not supported by the current body of scientific evidence.