Pregnenolone 16α-carbonitrile

Pregnenolone 16α-carbonitrile (PCN) is a synthetic steroid that is primarily used in scientific research. It is a potent inducer of the enzyme cytochrome P450 3A (CYP3A), which is involved in the metabolism of a wide range of substances in the body.

History[edit | edit source]

PCN was first synthesized in the 1950s as part of a series of compounds designed to study the structure-activity relationships of glucocorticoids. It was found to have potent glucocorticoid activity, but its most notable property was its ability to induce the expression of CYP3A enzymes.

Pharmacology[edit | edit source]

PCN is a potent inducer of CYP3A enzymes, which are involved in the metabolism of a wide range of substances in the body. This includes many drugs, as well as endogenous substances such as steroid hormones. By inducing the expression of these enzymes, PCN can increase the rate at which these substances are metabolized, potentially affecting their activity and half-life in the body.

PCN is also a potent agonist of the pregnane X receptor (PXR), a nuclear receptor that regulates the expression of CYP3A and other enzymes involved in drug metabolism and transport. By activating PXR, PCN can induce the expression of these enzymes, further enhancing its ability to influence drug metabolism.

Use in Research[edit | edit source]

Due to its potent inducing effects on CYP3A and PXR, PCN is widely used in scientific research to study the regulation of drug metabolism and transport. It is also used as a tool to investigate the role of PXR in various physiological and pathological processes, including inflammation, cancer, and drug resistance.

Safety and Toxicity[edit | edit source]

Like other steroids, PCN can have a range of side effects, particularly with prolonged use. These can include endocrine disruption, liver damage, and adrenal insufficiency. However, these effects are generally only seen with high doses or long-term use, and PCN is generally considered safe for use in research settings.