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5 alpha-reductase isozymes in the central nervous system
A Poletti1, A Coscarella, P Negri-Cesi
1Istituto di Endocrinologia, Università di Milano, Italy.
Steroids
|June 10, 1998
Summary
The enzyme 5 alpha-reductase (5α-R) activates steroids into potent derivatives. This review explores the distinct roles of 5α-R type 1 and type 2 in the central nervous system (CNS).
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Neuroendocrinology
- Enzymology
Background:
- 5 alpha-reductase (5α-R) transforms delta 4-3-keto steroids into biologically active derivatives.
- Key products include dihydrotestosterone (DHT) from testosterone and dihydroprogesterone (DHP) from progesterone.
- Two isoforms, 5α-R type 1 and type 2, exhibit distinct properties and tissue distribution.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review experimental data on the functional roles of 5α-reduction in the central nervous system (CNS).
- To investigate the specific roles of 5α-R type 1 and type 5α-R type 2 in the CNS.
Main Methods:
- The review summarizes experimental findings from the authors' laboratory.
- Focuses on assigning functional roles to 5α-reduction and its isoforms within the CNS.
Main Results:
- 5α-R type 2 is crucial for DHT formation in androgen-dependent tissues.
- 5α-R type 1 is prevalent in the liver, potentially involved in steroid catabolism.
- The precise functions of both 5α-R isoforms in the brain remain largely undetermined.
Conclusions:
- The study aims to elucidate the specific contributions of 5α-R isoforms to CNS function.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the neurobiological implications of 5α-reduction.