Steroid 11β-hydroxylase

Steroid 11β-hydroxylase is an enzyme that catalyzes the hydroxylation of steroids at the 11-beta position. This enzyme is primarily found in the adrenal gland and is a key player in the production of cortisol and aldosterone, two important hormones in the human body.

Function

Steroid 11β-hydroxylase is a member of the cytochrome P450 family of enzymes, which are involved in the metabolism of a wide variety of substances, including drugs, toxins, and endogenous compounds such as steroids. Specifically, this enzyme catalyzes the conversion of 11-deoxycortisol to cortisol and 11-deoxycorticosterone to aldosterone.

Cortisol is a hormone that plays a crucial role in the body's response to stress, while aldosterone is involved in regulating the balance of salt and water in the body.

Clinical significance

Mutations in the CYP11B1 gene, which encodes the steroid 11β-hydroxylase enzyme, can lead to congenital adrenal hyperplasia, a group of inherited disorders that affect the adrenal glands. These disorders can cause a variety of symptoms, including abnormal growth and development, and problems with the body's ability to respond to stress.

See also

• Cytochrome P450
• Cortisol
• Aldosterone
• Congenital adrenal hyperplasia

References

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