IGCSE Biology glossary
Testosterone
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Definition
A hormone produced by the testes that controls the development of male secondary sexual characteristics during puberty, including deepening of the voice, growth of facial and body hair, increased muscle mass and sperm production.
What to include in an exam answer
Testosterone is produced by the testes, not the brain. It controls male puberty changes and stimulates sperm production. It is the male equivalent of oestrogen in terms of triggering puberty changes.
Example in context
Name the hormone responsible for male secondary sexual characteristics and state where it is produced (2 marks): Testosterone, produced by the testes.
Related syllabus topic
Reproduction