What are adrenal androgens responsible for?

Adrenal androgens are primarily responsible for contributing to the development and maintenance of male and female secondary sexual characteristics. These hormones, such as dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and androstenedione, are secreted by the adrenal glands and play a key role in sexual differentiation and reproductive functions. In males, while testosterone is the predominant androgen produced by the testes, adrenal androgens can supplement testosterone levels and influence traits such as body hair and muscle mass. In females, these hormones can also contribute to libido and influence the menstrual cycle.

The other options focus on different functions of the adrenal glands. The balance of electrolytes is generally more related to aldosterone, another hormone produced by the adrenal cortex. While cortisol is indeed produced by the adrenal glands, it specifically plays a role in stress response and metabolism, rather than directly relating to sexual traits. Metabolism regulation involves several hormones and is not solely attributed to adrenal androgens.