CYP17 is a gene that encodes for an enzyme involved in steroid hormone synthesis. The spelling of CYP17 follows the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) and is pronounced as "sī-wī-pī-sev-en-teen". The "CYP" stands for "cytochrome P450", a family of enzymes that play a crucial role in drug metabolism and hormone synthesis. The number "17" refers to the specific gene within the family. This spelling system is widely used in biology and medical research to ensure accurate communication of complex scientific terms.
CYP17, also known as Cytochrome P450 17A1, is an enzyme that plays a crucial role in steroidogenesis. It is primarily expressed in the adrenal glands, gonads, and placenta. CYP17 is involved in the conversion of pregnenolone and progesterone into various sex hormones, including estrogen and androgen.
The enzyme is classified as a member of the cytochrome P450 superfamily, which comprises a group of heme-containing enzymes involved in the metabolism of a wide range of endogenous and exogenous compounds. CYP17 is particularly essential in the biosynthesis of androgens such as testosterone, serving as a key regulator of androgen production.
CYP17 catalyzes two distinct reactions: 17α-hydroxylase activity and 17,20-lyase activity. The 17α-hydroxylase function involves the addition of a hydroxyl group to the 17th carbon of steroids, while the 17,20-lyase activity facilitates the cleavage of the C17-C20 bond, leading to the formation of androgens.
Mutations in the CYP17 gene have been associated with various disorders related to abnormal hormone production, including congenital adrenal hyperplasia and certain forms of polycystic ovary syndrome. Inhibition of CYP17 activity has also been targeted in the treatment of hormone-dependent diseases such as prostate cancer and breast cancer.
In summary, CYP17 is an enzyme involved in steroid hormone biosynthesis, particularly in the synthesis of androgens. It plays a vital role in the regulation of sex hormone production and is implicated in several hormonal disorders and therapeutic interventions.
The term "CYP17" is an abbreviation used in the field of biochemistry and molecular biology. It refers to the enzyme cytochrome P450 17A1, also known as steroid 17α-monooxygenase or 17α-hydroxylase. The etymology of "CYP17" can be traced back to its naming conventions and scientific classification.
The "CYP" in "CYP17" stands for cytochrome P450, which is a family of enzymes involved in the oxidative metabolism of various compounds in organisms. Cytochrome P450 enzymes are named after the absorption peak of light at 450 nm, observed when the enzyme is complexed with carbon monoxide.
The number "17" in "CYP17" represents the specific position in the steroid molecule (carbon 17) where the enzyme acts to perform hydroxylation and cleavage reactions.