5-alpha reductase
5-alpha reductase
5-alpha reductase (pronounced: five alpha re-dukt-ase) is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the metabolism of steroids in the human body.
Etymology
The term "5-alpha reductase" is derived from its function. The "5-alpha" refers to the specific location in the steroid molecule that is acted upon by the enzyme, while "reductase" refers to the type of reaction it catalyzes - a reduction.
Function
5-alpha reductase is responsible for the conversion of testosterone, the primary male sex hormone, into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a more potent form of the hormone. This conversion is essential for the development of male sexual characteristics during puberty.
Types
There are three known types of 5-alpha reductase: Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3. Each type is encoded by a different gene and has a different distribution in the body. Type 2 is the most well-known, as it is primarily found in the prostate gland and is the target of drugs used to treat benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer.
Related Terms
- Androgen: A type of hormone that promotes the development and maintenance of male sex characteristics. Testosterone and DHT are both androgens.
- Enzyme: A protein that catalyzes chemical reactions in the body.
- Steroid: A type of organic molecule that includes many hormones, alkaloids, and vitamins.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on 5-alpha reductase
- Wikipedia's article - 5-alpha reductase
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