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Steroid Hormone Precursors

Meaning

Steroid hormone precursors are a class of cholesterol-derived molecules that serve as the biochemical building blocks for all endogenous steroid hormones, including glucocorticoids, mineralocorticoids, and sex steroids like testosterone and estradiol. Cholesterol is first converted to pregnenolone, which acts as the foundational precursor, with subsequent enzymatic modifications leading to the synthesis of the diverse range of biologically active hormones. The availability and efficient conversion of these precursors are crucial determinants of overall endocrine function and hormonal output.