The HSD3B2 gene provides instructions for making the 3-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) enzyme. This enzyme is found in the gonads, which are the ovaries in females and testes in males, and in the adrenal glands, which are located on top of the kidneys. Within these hormone-producing tissues, the 3β-HSD enzyme is necessary for the production of many hormones, including cortisol, aldosterone, androgens, and estrogen. Cortisol has numerous functions such as maintaining energy and blood sugar (glucose) levels, protecting the body from stress, and suppressing inflammation. Aldosterone is sometimes called the salt-retaining hormone because it regulates the amount of salt retained by the kidney. The retention of salt affects fluid levels and blood pressure. Androgens and estrogen are essential for normal sexual development and reproduction.
Other Names
3 beta-HSD type II; 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2; 3 beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type II, delta 5-delta 4-isomerase type II, 3 beta-HSD type II; 3 beta-ol dehydrogenase; 3-beta-hydroxy-5-ene steroid dehydrogenase; 3-beta-hydroxy-delta(5)-steroid dehydrogenase; 3BHS2_HUMAN; delta 5-delta 4-isomerase type II; HSD3B; HSDB
Related Genetics Topics
Identifiers
- NCBI Gene: 3284
- OMIM: 201810
Source: MedlinePlus Genetics, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
