21-Deoxycortisol

21-Deoxycortisol (pronounced as twenty-one deoxy-cortisol) is a steroid hormone produced in the adrenal gland. It is a precursor molecule in the production of the hormone cortisol, which is involved in the body's response to stress.

Etymology

The term "21-Deoxycortisol" is derived from its chemical structure, which lacks an oxygen atom at the 21st carbon position that is usually present in cortisol. The prefix "deoxy-" comes from the Greek word meaning "lacking oxygen".

Production

21-Deoxycortisol is produced in the adrenal cortex, the outer layer of the adrenal gland. It is synthesized from progesterone through a series of enzymatic reactions involving the enzymes 21-hydroxylase and 11β-hydroxylase. The production of 21-deoxycortisol is a key step in the biosynthesis of cortisol.

Function

While 21-deoxycortisol itself has no known hormonal activity, it serves as a crucial intermediate in the biosynthesis of cortisol. Cortisol is a vital hormone that helps the body respond to stress, regulate metabolism, and maintain blood pressure.

Clinical significance

Abnormal levels of 21-deoxycortisol can indicate problems with adrenal function. Elevated levels may be seen in conditions such as congenital adrenal hyperplasia, a group of genetic disorders that affect the adrenal glands.

Related terms

• Cortisol
• Adrenal gland
• Steroid
• 21-hydroxylase
• 11β-hydroxylase
• Congenital adrenal hyperplasia

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on 21-Deoxycortisol
• Wikipedia's article - 21-Deoxycortisol

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