Steroid biosynthesis in adipose tissue
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Updated: Apr 15, 2026
Author Spotlight: Semi-Automated Isolation of the Stromal Vascular Fraction from Murine White Adipose Tissue Using a Tissue Dissociator
Published on: May 19, 2023
Jiehan Li1, Vassilios Papadopoulos1, Veera Vihma2
1Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, McGill University, Montreal, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, McGill University, Montreal, Canada; Department of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Canada; Department of Biochemistry, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.
Abstract:
Tissue-specific expression of steroidogenic enzymes allows the modulation of active steroid levels in a local manner. Thus, the measurement of local steroid concentrations, rather than the circulating levels, has been recognized as a more accurate indicator of the steroid action within a specific tissue. Adipose tissue, one of the largest endocrine tissues in the human body, has been established as an important site for steroid storage and metabolism. Locally produced steroids, through the enzymatic conversion from steroid precursors delivered to adipose tissue, have been proven to either functionally regulate adipose tissue metabolism, or quantitatively contribute to the whole body's steroid levels. Most recently, it has been suggested that adipose tissue may contain the steroidogenic machinery necessary for the initiation of steroid biosynthesis de novo from cholesterol. This review summarizes the evidence indicating the presence of the entire steroidogenic apparatus in adipose tissue and discusses the potential roles of local steroid products in modulating adipose tissue activity and other metabolic parameters.
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