Anti-Cytochrome P450 17A1/CYP17A1 antibody

Supplementary info

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Activity summary

Cytochrome P450 17A1 also known as CYP17A1 is an essential enzyme in the steroidogenic pathway. Its molecular mass is approximately 57 kDa. It is part of the cytochrome P450 family and shows expression primarily in the adrenal glands and gonads. This enzyme catalyzes two key reactions: the 17α-hydroxylation of pregnenolone and progesterone and the subsequent 1720-lyase reaction. These reactions are critical for the production of steroid hormones such as glucocorticoids and sex steroids.

Biological function summary

CYP17A1 plays a central role in hormone biosynthesis. The enzyme exists as a single protein and does not form part of a larger complex. By facilitating the conversion of progestogens into androgens it directly impacts the balance and levels of steroid hormones in the body. This function supports vital processes like the development of secondary sexual characteristics and the regulation of metabolism therefore affecting multiple physiological functions.

Pathways

CYP17A1 integrates into both the steroidogenesis and biosynthesis pathways of adrenal and sex hormones. It links directly with proteins such as steroidogenic acute regulatory protein (StAR) and cytochrome P450 oxidoreductase (POR) which assist in enabling its enzymatic function. These pathways regulate the levels of hormones influencing biological processes including stress responses and reproductive functions.

Associated diseases and disorders

CYP17A1 is associated with conditions like congenital adrenal hyperplasia and prostate cancer. In congenital adrenal hyperplasia CYP17A1 mutations disrupt the steroidogenesis pathway leading to cortisol production deficiency. In prostate cancer CYP17A1 is often upregulated contributing to increased androgen levels that fuel cancer progression. Proteins such as 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) and androgen receptor (AR) interact with CYP17A1 in these disorders demonstrating its importance in disease mechanisms.