17α-Hydroxypregnenolone
Chemical compound
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
17α-Hydroxypregnenolone is a pregnane (C21) steroid that is obtained by hydroxylation of pregnenolone at the C17α position. This step is performed by the mitochondrial cytochrome P450 enzyme 17α-hydroxylase (CYP17A1) that is present in the adrenal and gonads. Peak levels are reached in humans at the end of puberty and then decline.[1] High levels are also achieved during pregnancy. It is also a known neuromodulator.
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| Pharmacokinetic data | |
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| Metabolism | Adrenal, Gonads |
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| ECHA InfoCard | 100.006.239 |
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| Formula | C21H32O3 |
| Molar mass | 332.484 g·molâ1 |
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| Melting point | 268 °C (514 °F) |
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Prohormone
17α-Hydroxypregnenolone is considered a prohormone in the formation of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), itself a prohormone of the sex steroids.
This conversion is mediated by the enzyme 17,20 lyase. As such 17α-hydroxypregnenolone represents an intermediary in the Î5 pathway that leads from pregnenolone to DHEA. 17α-Hydroxypregnenolone is also converted to 17α-hydroxyprogesterone, a prohormone for glucocorticosteroids and androstenedione through the activity of 3α-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase.
Clinical use
Measurements of 17α-hydroxypregnenolone are useful in the diagnosis of certain forms of congenital adrenal hyperplasia.[2] In patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase deficiency 17α-hydroxypregnenolone is increased, while in patients with congenital adrenal hyperplasia due to 17α-hydroxylase deficiency levels are low to absent.
Neurosteroid
17α-hydroxypregnenolone is a known neuromodulator as its acts in the central nervous system. Specifically, it is known to modulate locomotion.[3]
See also
- Congenital adrenal hyperplasia
- Narave pig, intersex pigs that have low levels of 17α-Hydroxypregnenolone
