The role of androgen under normal and pathological conditions in sebaceous glands: The possibility of target therapy

The androgen receptor plays a pivotal role in the sebaceous glands. Its primary function is to stimulate cell proliferation and differentiation in the sebaceous and its associate with acne. Previous studies have demonstrated expression of AR and steroidogenic enzymes in normal sebaceous glands and in all sebaceous disorders present evidence that androgen receptor may be a sensitive marker of sebaceous differentiation. It has been previously suggested that AR and steroidogenic enzymes immunohistochemistry may be useful particularly in identifying poorly sebaceous carcinoma. This review will provide an overview of the AR functions in the sebaceous glands and discussion of the therapeutic targets in acne and carcinoma.