Aromatase
Aromatase
Aromatase (pronounced: a-ro-ma-tase) is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in the production of estrogen, a primary female sex hormone. It is encoded by the CYP19A1 gene in humans.
Etymology
The term 'Aromatase' is derived from the word 'aroma', which refers to the aromatic compounds that the enzyme helps to form. The '-tase' suffix is commonly used in biochemistry to denote enzymes.
Function
Aromatase is responsible for a key step in the biosynthesis of estrogens. It converts androgens, specifically androstenedione and testosterone, into the estrogens estrone and estradiol respectively. This process is known as aromatization.
Clinical Significance
Aromatase is a target for treatment in certain types of breast cancer and ovarian cancer, as these cancers are often sensitive to estrogen levels. Aromatase inhibitors are drugs that block the action of aromatase, thereby reducing the production of estrogen.
Related Terms
- Aromatase deficiency: A rare genetic disorder characterized by a decrease or absence of aromatase activity.
- Aromatase excess syndrome: A condition caused by an overproduction of aromatase, leading to an excess of estrogen.
- Aromatase inhibitor: A class of drugs used to treat certain types of breast and ovarian cancer.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Aromatase
- Wikipedia's article - Aromatase
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