11-Dehydroprogesterone

11-Dehydroprogesterone.svg

11-Dehydroprogesterone is a steroid hormone and a derivative of progesterone. It is structurally similar to progesterone but lacks the 11β-hydroxyl group. This compound is part of the pregnane class of steroids and is involved in various biochemical processes within the body.

Structure and Properties

11-Dehydroprogesterone has the IUPAC name (8S,9S,10R,13S,14S,17S)-17-acetyl-10,13-dimethyl-2,6,7,8,9,11,12,14,15,16-decahydro-1H-cyclopenta[a]phenanthren-3-one. Its molecular formula is C21H30O2, and it has a molecular weight of 314.46 g/mol. The compound is characterized by the absence of a hydroxyl group at the 11th position, differentiating it from progesterone.

Biological Role

As a steroid hormone, 11-Dehydroprogesterone plays a role in the endocrine system. It is involved in the regulation of various physiological processes, including reproductive health, menstrual cycle, and pregnancy. The hormone interacts with progesterone receptors in target tissues to exert its effects.

Synthesis and Metabolism

11-Dehydroprogesterone is synthesized from progesterone through enzymatic reactions that remove the 11β-hydroxyl group. It is metabolized in the liver and other tissues, where it undergoes further transformations to produce other biologically active or inactive metabolites.

Clinical Significance

The study of 11-Dehydroprogesterone is important in understanding the broader spectrum of progesterone derivatives and their roles in health and disease. Abnormal levels of this hormone may be associated with certain endocrine disorders and can be a focus of clinical research.

See Also

• Progesterone
• Steroid hormone
• Endocrine system
• Pregnane