Pregnanediol
Pregnanediol (pronunciation: preɪɡnəˈdiːɒl) is a natural steroid metabolite of progesterone, a type of hormone that plays a significant role in the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and embryogenesis of humans and other species.
Etymology
The term "Pregnanediol" is derived from the words "pregnane", a type of steroid, and "diol", a chemical term referring to a molecule containing two hydroxyl groups.
Chemical Structure and Metabolism
Pregnanediol is a metabolite of progesterone, which means it is produced when progesterone is broken down in the body. This process occurs primarily in the liver, where enzymes convert progesterone into pregnanediol. The compound is then excreted in the urine.
Clinical Significance
In a clinical setting, the measurement of pregnanediol levels in urine can be used as an indicator of ovulation. High levels of pregnanediol in the urine typically indicate that ovulation has occurred. This can be particularly useful in fertility treatments and for tracking the menstrual cycle.
Related Terms
- Progesterone: A steroid hormone involved in the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and embryogenesis.
- Steroid: A type of organic molecule that has a specific structure of four rings of carbon atoms.
- Ovulation: The release of eggs from the ovaries.
- Menstrual cycle: The regular natural change that occurs in the female reproductive system.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Pregnanediol
- Wikipedia's article - Pregnanediol
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