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Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenases (HSDH)

Meaning

Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenases (HSDHs) are a critical family of enzymes responsible for catalyzing the interconversion of active and inactive forms of various steroid hormones, including androgens, estrogens, and glucocorticoids. These enzymes play a pivotal role in regulating the local concentration of active steroids within target tissues, essentially acting as metabolic gatekeepers. The most clinically relevant forms, such as 11-beta HSDH and 17-beta HSDH, are crucial for modulating cortisol action and testosterone/estradiol potency, respectively. Genetic variations or pharmacological inhibition of HSDHs can significantly impact hormonal balance and subsequent clinical presentation.