Hydroxypregnenolone
Hydroxypregnenolone is a steroid that is synthesized from cholesterol. It is a precursor to many other important hormones, including progesterone, cortisol, and aldosterone.
Synthesis[edit | edit source]
The synthesis of hydroxypregnenolone begins with the conversion of cholesterol to pregnenolone by the enzyme cholesterol side-chain cleavage enzyme (also known as P450scc). Pregnenolone is then converted to hydroxypregnenolone by the enzyme 17α-hydroxylase/C17-20 lyase.
Function[edit | edit source]
Hydroxypregnenolone serves as a critical intermediate in the biosynthesis of several steroid hormones. It is converted to dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) by the enzyme 17,20-lyase, and to progesterone by the enzyme 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase/Δ5-4 isomerase. DHEA and progesterone are then further metabolized to produce a variety of other hormones, including cortisol, aldosterone, and the sex steroids estrogen and testosterone.
Clinical significance[edit | edit source]
Abnormal levels of hydroxypregnenolone can be indicative of several medical conditions. Elevated levels may be seen in congenital adrenal hyperplasia, a group of genetic disorders that affect the adrenal glands. Reduced levels may be associated with Addison's disease, a condition characterized by insufficient production of steroid hormones by the adrenal glands.
See also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
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