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Steroidogenesis Cofactors

Meaning

Non-protein chemical compounds, including specific vitamins, minerals, and enzymes, that are essential for the proper function of the enzymatic machinery responsible for the biosynthesis of steroid hormones from cholesterol. These cofactors are not consumed in the reaction but are necessary for the activity of key steroidogenic enzymes, such as cytochrome P450 enzymes and hydroxylases. Deficiencies in these nutritional elements can directly impair the production of hormones like cortisol, testosterone, and estrogen.