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HSD11B1

Meaning

HSD11B1 is the biochemical abbreviation for the enzyme 11-beta hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 1, a key enzyme involved in the regulation of glucocorticoid action within peripheral tissues. This enzyme is crucial because it controls the local availability of the active stress hormone, cortisol, by converting its inactive precursor, cortisone, into its potent form. HSD11B1 is highly expressed in metabolically active tissues such as the liver, adipose tissue, and the central nervous system. Dysregulation of this enzyme is strongly implicated in metabolic disorders and chronic stress-related conditions.