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Intestinal Sulfatase

Meaning

Intestinal Sulfatase refers to a class of enzymes primarily produced by the gut microbiota and, to a lesser extent, by the intestinal lining cells, which catalyze the hydrolysis of sulfate groups from various compounds. This enzymatic activity is critically important in hormonal health because it can de-conjugate sulfated steroid hormones, such as DHEA-S and estrone sulfate, back into their biologically active, unconjugated forms. The activity level of this enzyme is a key determinant of the enterohepatic recirculation of hormones, significantly influencing systemic hormone bioavailability.