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Glucocorticoid actions and metabolism in pregnancy: implications for placental function and fetal cardiovascular
1Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Abstract:
The isoforms of the enzyme 11beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (11betaHSD) are expressed in placental tissue and fetal membranes. The two major isoforms, 11betaHSD-1 and 11betaHSD-2, are compartmentalized discretely, and regulated differentially by steroids (oestrogen, progesterone), activators of cAMP pathway, and nitric oxide. 11BetaHSD-2 appears important in human pregnancy in regulating the amount of maternal cortisol that crosses the placenta to reach the fetal compartment. On the other hand, 11betaHSD-1 may allow the local conversion of biologically inactive cortisone to biologically active cortisol, particularly within chorion trophoblasts. The localization, regulation, and importance of these isozymes are examined.