Pregnanediol glucuronide
Pregnanediol glucuronide (PDG) is a metabolite of progesterone, a steroid hormone that plays a crucial role in the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and embryogenesis. PDG is produced in the liver and excreted in the urine.
Structure and Synthesis[edit | edit source]
Pregnanediol glucuronide is a glucuronide conjugate, meaning it is formed by the combination of a substance with glucuronic acid. The synthesis of PDG involves the reduction of progesterone to pregnanediol by the enzyme 5α-reductase, followed by the addition of two glucuronic acid molecules by the enzyme UDP-glucuronosyltransferase.
Function[edit | edit source]
The primary function of PDG is to facilitate the excretion of progesterone metabolites from the body. However, it also serves as a useful biomarker for assessing progesterone levels, particularly in the context of fertility studies and ovulation tracking.
Measurement[edit | edit source]
The levels of PDG in the urine can be measured using various methods, including enzyme immunoassays, liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry, and radioimmunoassay. These measurements can provide valuable information about a woman's menstrual cycle and fertility status.
Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]
Abnormal levels of PDG can indicate various health conditions. Low levels may suggest luteal phase defect, a condition that can cause infertility and miscarriage. High levels can be associated with conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome and endometriosis.
See Also[edit | edit source]
- Progesterone
- Glucuronidation
- 5α-reductase
- UDP-glucuronosyltransferase
- Luteal phase defect
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
- Endometriosis
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) 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.Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD