Androgen insensitivity syndrome is caused by the lack of which receptor?

• A. Clotting factor VIII
• B. Dystrophin
• C. Androgen receptor
• D. Insulin receptor

Answer: (C)

Androgen insensitivity syndrome (AIS) results from a mutation in the androgen receptor gene. The androgen receptor is crucial for the normal functioning of androgens, which are male sex hormones like testosterone. In individuals with AIS, the body produces androgens, but the cells cannot respond to these hormones due to the dysfunctional or absent androgen receptors. As a result, despite having male XY chromosomes, individuals develop female external characteristics and secondary sexual traits. This condition illustrates the importance of the androgen receptor in sexual development and differentiation.

The other choices relate to different bodily functions and disorders unrelated to the mechanisms of androgen insensitivity syndrome. Clotting factor VIII is involved in blood coagulation, dystrophin is important for muscle function, and the insulin receptor facilitates glucose uptake and metabolism. None of these are implicated in androgen insensitivity syndrome, focusing on how the lack of a functional androgen receptor leads to the syndrome's symptoms.