16α-Hydroxy-DHEA

16α-Hydroxy-DHEA is a steroid and a metabolite of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). It is formed from DHEA in the body by the action of the enzyme 16α-hydroxylase. 16α-Hydroxy-DHEA is a precursor of estriol, and is also a precursor of 16α-hydroxyestrone, a metabolite of estrone.

Metabolism

16α-Hydroxy-DHEA is formed from DHEA in the body by the action of the enzyme 16α-hydroxylase, which is expressed in the liver and the adrenal glands. The conversion of DHEA to 16α-Hydroxy-DHEA is a step in the biosynthesis of estriol and 16α-hydroxyestrone.

Biological activity

16α-Hydroxy-DHEA has been found to possess estrogenic activity. It is less potent than estrone and other natural estrogens, but is still capable of inducing estrogenic effects.

Clinical significance

16α-Hydroxy-DHEA is a marker for the activity of the enzyme 16α-hydroxylase. Increased levels of 16α-Hydroxy-DHEA can be indicative of an overactive 16α-hydroxylase, which can be seen in certain diseases such as Cushing's syndrome and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

See also

• 16α-Hydroxyestrone
• Estriol
• Dehydroepiandrosterone

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