1-androstenedione

1-Androstenedione (1-AD) is a steroid hormone. It is a metabolite of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and a precursor to testosterone.

Chemical Structure and Function

1-Androstenedione is a 19-carbon steroid that is produced in the adrenal glands and gonads as an intermediate step in the biochemical pathway that produces the androgen testosterone and the estrogens estrone and estradiol.

Biosynthesis

The production of 1-Androstenedione involves the conversion of DHEA into androstenedione by the enzyme 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD), followed by the conversion of androstenedione into 1-Androstenedione by the enzyme 17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (17β-HSD).

Physiological Effects

1-Androstenedione has been shown to have several effects in the body. It is a weak androgen, meaning it has the ability to stimulate the development of male characteristics. It is also a weak estrogen, meaning it can stimulate the development of female characteristics. However, its primary role in the body is as a precursor to the more potent hormones testosterone and estradiol.

Clinical Significance

Abnormal levels of 1-Androstenedione in the body can be indicative of a number of medical conditions. Elevated levels can be seen in conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH), and adrenal tumors. Lower than normal levels can be indicative of conditions such as Addison's disease or hypopituitarism.

See Also

• Androstenedione
• Dehydroepiandrosterone
• Testosterone
• Estrone
• Estradiol