Which hormone is responsible for sexual changes in males during puberty?

Testosterone is the hormone responsible for sexual changes in males during puberty, and its effects are crucial for the development of male secondary sexual characteristics. At puberty, the levels of testosterone significantly increase due to stimulation by luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). This surge in testosterone leads to a variety of changes, including the development of facial and body hair, deepening of the voice, increased muscle mass, and changes in fat distribution.

The role of testosterone in stimulating spermatogenesis, libido, and overall male reproductive function is also critical during this developmental period. This hormone not only influences physical changes but also plays a role in the psychological and emotional changes often experienced during adolescence.

Other hormones listed have vital roles in various bodily processes but do not primarily govern male sexual development during puberty. For example, oestrogen is more associated with female sexual development, progesterone has a significant role in regulating the menstrual cycle and pregnancy, and insulin primarily regulates glucose metabolism and energy storage. Thus, testosterone stands out as the key hormone for driving the male-specific changes observed during puberty.