An androgen is a hormone that promotes development and maintenance of male sex characteristics. Endogenous examples include testosterone and dihydrotestosterone. The term identifies a class of biological signals, while each member has its own chemical structure and metabolic transformations.[ref][ref]
Classifying a hormone by an important function does not specify every location where it is made: testosterone is produced prominently by the testis and also in smaller amounts by the ovary.[ref]
Two conversions illustrate why the individual compound still matters. Reduction of testosterone produces the androgen dihydrotestosterone; aromatase instead can convert testosterone into the estrogen estradiol.[ref]
Improved FSH sensitisation and aromatase assay in human granulosa-lutein cells by A. Lambert and others. Abstract, substrate challenge and estradiol production
Following total steroid material would not distinguish those outcomes. A useful assay names the precursor, product and relevant response, rather than treating every related steroid as the same hormonal signal. New to topics? Read the docs here!