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Steroidogenesis

Meaning

Steroidogenesis is the complex, multi-step biochemical process by which the body synthesizes steroid hormones from cholesterol precursors. This essential pathway occurs primarily in the adrenal cortex, gonads (testes and ovaries), and placenta, and to a lesser extent in the brain and adipose tissue. The process yields all classes of steroid hormones, including glucocorticoids (like cortisol), mineralocorticoids (like aldosterone), and sex steroids (like testosterone and estrogen). Proper regulation of steroidogenesis is vital for maintaining metabolic, reproductive, and stress-response homeostasis.