Y Morel, F Mébarki, E Rhéaume, R Sanchez, M G Forest, J Simard
The transformation of delta 5-3 beta-hydroxysteroids into the corresponding delta 4-3-keto-steroids is an essential step for the biosynthesis of all classes of active steroids: progesterone, mineralocorticoids, glucocorticoids, androgens, and estrogens. These steroid hormones play a crucial role in the differentiation, development, growth, and physiological function of most human tissues. The structures of several cDNAs encoding 3 beta-HSD isoenzymes have been characterized in human and several other vertebrate species: human types I and II; macaque; bovine; rat types I, II, III, and IV; mouse types I, II, III, IV, V and VI; hamster types I, II, and III; and rainbow trout...
January 1997: Steroids