3β-Dihydroprogesterone

3β-Dihydroprogesterone (3β-DHP) is a steroid and progestogen that is derived from progesterone. It is a naturally occurring hormone in the body and is involved in the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and embryogenesis of humans and other species.

Chemistry

3β-DHP is a C21 steroid and is also known as pregn-4-ene-3,20-dione. It is structurally related to progesterone, with the difference being the position of the double bond in the A ring of the steroid nucleus.

Biosynthesis

3β-DHP is synthesized from progesterone in the body by the enzyme 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase. This enzyme catalyzes the reduction of the Δ4-3-keto group of progesterone to produce 3β-DHP.

Biological activity

3β-DHP has been found to possess progestogenic activity, similar to that of progesterone. It is thought to play a role in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and in the maintenance of pregnancy.

Pharmacology

3β-DHP is not currently used in medicine, but it has been studied for potential use in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and as a potential treatment for premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and postpartum depression.

See also

• Progesterone
• 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase
• Steroidogenesis
• Hormone replacement therapy
• Premenstrual syndrome
• Postpartum depression