16α-Hydroxy-DHEA
From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia
16α-Hydroxy-DHEA is a steroid and a metabolite of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). It is formed from DHEA in the body by the action of the enzyme 16α-hydroxylase. 16α-Hydroxy-DHEA is a precursor of estriol, and is also a precursor of 16α-hydroxyestrone, a metabolite of estrone.
Metabolism[edit | edit source]
16α-Hydroxy-DHEA is formed from DHEA in the body by the action of the enzyme 16α-hydroxylase, which is expressed in the liver and the adrenal glands. The conversion of DHEA to 16α-Hydroxy-DHEA is a step in the biosynthesis of estriol and 16α-hydroxyestrone.
Biological activity[edit | edit source]
16α-Hydroxy-DHEA has been found to possess estrogenic activity. It is less potent than estrone and other natural estrogens, but is still capable of inducing estrogenic effects.
Clinical significance[edit | edit source]
16α-Hydroxy-DHEA is a marker for the activity of the enzyme 16α-hydroxylase. Increased levels of 16α-Hydroxy-DHEA can be indicative of an overactive 16α-hydroxylase, which can be seen in certain diseases such as Cushing's syndrome and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
See also[edit | edit source]
16α-Hydroxy-DHEA Resources | ||
---|---|---|
|
|
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.