A model has been devised for the molecular action of androgens within target cells which proposes that the interaction and retention of androgens within target cells is  an integrated sequence of molecular events.8 The model is based on the premise that the naturally secreted hormone is further metabolized to active metabolites within the cell. The subsequent events  have been identified. An androgen  receptor  protein complex is  formed between DHT and a high-affinity specific cytoplas  mic receptor protein. 2 The activated  androgen receptor protein complex is translocated in the nucleus. 3 In the nucleus it stimulates many biochemical events  for which DNA is a mandatory template and thereby initiates the spectrum of processes responsible for the manifestation of the androgen response. 

The androgen receptor protein complex breaks down finally or is displaced from the nucleus. The demonstration of the cytoplasmic receptors for active metabolites other  than 5 a-dihydrotestosterone and  the  demonstration  that  'multi-metabolites' are necessary  for the full expression  of the androgen response do not invalidate this model.9 This latter observation  may be  one explanation  of why some  antiandrogens fail to inhibit all the processes mediated by testosterone.