7-Dehydrodesmosterol

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

7-Dehydrodesmosterol[edit | edit source]

7-Dehydrodesmosterol is a sterol intermediate in the biosynthesis of cholesterol. It is a crucial compound in the mevalonate pathway, which is the metabolic pathway that produces isoprenoids, including cholesterol and other sterols. Understanding the role of 7-Dehydrodesmosterol is important for comprehending the complex processes involved in cholesterol synthesis and regulation.

Structure and Properties[edit | edit source]

7-Dehydrodesmosterol is a sterol with the chemical formula C27H42O. It is characterized by a double bond in the sterol ring structure, which is a common feature in sterol intermediates. The presence of this double bond distinguishes it from other sterols such as desmosterol and cholesterol.

Biosynthesis[edit | edit source]

7-Dehydrodesmosterol is synthesized from lanosterol through a series of enzymatic reactions. The conversion involves multiple steps, including the removal of methyl groups and the introduction of double bonds. This process is part of the larger mevalonate pathway, which is responsible for the production of cholesterol and other essential sterols.

Biological Role[edit | edit source]

In the body, 7-Dehydrodesmosterol serves as a precursor to cholesterol. Cholesterol is a vital component of cell membranes, where it modulates fluidity and permeability. It is also a precursor for the synthesis of steroid hormones, bile acids, and vitamin D. The regulation of cholesterol synthesis, including the conversion of 7-Dehydrodesmosterol, is tightly controlled by feedback mechanisms to maintain homeostasis.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Abnormalities in the metabolism of 7-Dehydrodesmosterol can lead to disorders in cholesterol synthesis. For example, defects in the enzymes involved in its conversion can result in conditions such as desmosterolosis, a rare genetic disorder characterized by elevated levels of desmosterol and related sterol intermediates. Understanding these pathways is crucial for developing treatments for such metabolic disorders.

Also see[edit | edit source]

Template:Cholesterol biosynthesis Template:Sterol metabolism

WikiMD
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's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD