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Pregnenolone Steal Pathway

Meaning

The Pregnenolone Steal Pathway describes a metabolic phenomenon where the steroid hormone precursor, pregnenolone, is preferentially diverted towards the synthesis of stress hormones, primarily cortisol, at the expense of other vital steroid hormones such as DHEA, progesterone, estrogen, and testosterone. This diversion occurs when the body perceives a need for increased cortisol production, often in response to sustained physiological or psychological stressors.