The CYP21A2 gene provides instructions for making an enzyme called 21-hydroxylase, which is part of the cytochrome P450 family of enzymes. Cytochrome P450 enzymes are involved in many processes in the body, such as assisting with reactions that break down drugs and helping to produce cholesterol, certain hormones, and fats (lipids).
Steroid 21-hydroxylase enables the adrenal glands, which are located on top of the kidneys, to convert cholesterol into other steroid hormones, specifically cortisol and aldosterone. Cortisol helps maintain blood sugar levels, protects the body from stress, and suppresses inflammation.
Aldosterone, sometimes called the salt-retaining hormone, acts on the kidneys to regulate the levels of salt and water in the body, which affect blood pressure. Precursor molecules that are formed in the pathway leading to these two steroid hormones can be converted into male hormones called androgens. Androgens are normally responsible for the appearance of secondary sex characteristics in males("CYP21A2," 2010)
Steroid 21-hydroxylase enables the adrenal glands, which are located on top of the kidneys, to convert cholesterol into other steroid hormones, specifically cortisol and aldosterone. Cortisol helps maintain blood sugar levels, protects the body from stress, and suppresses inflammation.
Aldosterone, sometimes called the salt-retaining hormone, acts on the kidneys to regulate the levels of salt and water in the body, which affect blood pressure. Precursor molecules that are formed in the pathway leading to these two steroid hormones can be converted into male hormones called androgens. Androgens are normally responsible for the appearance of secondary sex characteristics in males("CYP21A2," 2010)
